Question

A researcher examining a root tip observes a plant cell with condensed sister chromatids, kinetochores with attached microtubules, and individual chromosomes that are aligned at the equatorial plate of the cell. Which of the following best describes what the next process will be in the cell?1. Homologous chromosomes (each with two sister chromatids) will move toward opposite poles of the cell.2. Paired chromatids will separate, and the new daughter chromosomes will move toward opposite poles of the cell.3. The nuclear envelope will break down, and the spindle will begin to form.4. The chromatin will decondense, and the daughter cell will enter interphase.

Answer 1

Answer:

The statement 2 best describes the next process taking place within the cell.

Explanation:

A kind of cell division, which is characterized by the differentiation of a single parent cell into two daughter cells that comprise equivalent chromosomes number is termed as mitosis or reductional division. In the given case, the arrangement of chromosomes at the equatorial plate indicates that the cell is currently in the metaphase stage of mitosis.  

After going through the stage of metaphase, the cell moves into the anaphase stage. In the anaphase stage, the sister chromatids begin to segregate and move towards the opposite pole of the cell. Thus, statement 2 correctly illustrates the next stage of the cell.