me
ta
phase
Plural
metaphases
1
the stage of mitosis where chromosomes align along the center (equator) of the cell, preparing for their separation into daughter cells
- During metaphase, chromosomes are attached to spindle fibers and align at the cell's equator.
- The metaphase plate forms as chromosomes line up in a single row across the center of the cell.
- Microtubules of the spindle apparatus ensure each chromosome is correctly positioned during metaphase.
- Metaphase ensures that each daughter cell will receive an equal and complete set of chromosomes.
- Metaphase marks a critical checkpoint before chromosomes are pulled apart in anaphase during mitosis.
2
the stage of meiosis where homologous chromosomes align in pairs along the equator of the cell, preparing for their separation into haploid daughter cells
- During metaphase I of meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair up and align at the metaphase plate.
- The spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of each homologous chromosome pair during metaphase I.
- Crossing over between homologous chromosomes occurs during prophase I and influences their alignment in metaphase I.
- Metaphase I ensures that each daughter cell receives a unique combination of chromosomes from each parent.
- Metaphase II in meiosis follows after the first division, aligning chromatids at the metaphase plate for separation into individual chromosomes.