1. Mitosis
Although mitosis is a continuous process, biologists traditionally divide it into four stages:
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2. Prophase Chromosomes become visible Nuclear envelope dissolves
Spindle Forms
 Image Sources:
Unit 4 Transparency 32 –Gateway to Biology

3. Metaphase Chromosomes line up along the middle
Where are the Centrioles?
Image Sources:
Microscope Images – Gateway to Biology
Unit 4 Transparency 32 – Gateway to Biology

4. Anaphase Centromeres divide
Chromatids (now called chromosomes move toward opposite poles; pulled apart)
Image Sources:
Microscope Images – Gateway to Biology
Unit 4 Transparency 32 – Gateway to Biology

5. Telophase Nuclear envelope forms at each pole Chromosomes uncoil
Spindle dissolves
Cytokinesis begins
Image Sources:
Microscope Images – Gateway to Biology
Unit 4 Transparency 32 – Gateway to Biology

6. Summary
Mitosis is the process by which a cell splits into two daughter cells.
The four phases include: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.