Standard Sequence of Mitosis Stages

Steps:

• Identify stage 2 as prophase, where chromosomes condense and nuclear envelope breaks down.
• Recognize stage 1 as metaphase, with chromosomes aligned at the equatorial plate.
• Note stage 4 as anaphase, where sister chromatids separate and move to poles.
• Label stage 5 as telophase, where nuclear envelopes reform around separated chromosomes.
• Assign stage 3 as cytokinesis, completing cell division after telophase.

Why C is correct:

• Mitosis follows the defined order prophase → metaphase → anaphase → telophase → cytokinesis, directly matching sequence 2→1→4→5→3.

Why the others are wrong:

• A skips metaphase and places cytokinesis too early, violating separation before division.
• B reverses anaphase and metaphase, contradicting chromosome alignment before separation.
• D starts with telophase, ignoring initial chromosome condensation in prophase.

Final answer: C