Which of the following is NOT a stage of mitosis?

• A. Prophase
• B. Telophase
• C. Cytokinesis
• D. Anaphase

Answer: (C)

Cytokinesis is not classified as a stage of mitosis itself, but rather as a separate process that follows mitosis. Mitosis includes distinct stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

During prophase, the nuclear envelope breaks down, chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, and the spindle apparatus begins to form. Anaphase is the stage where sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell. Telophase involves the reformation of the nuclear envelope around the separated sets of chromosomes, leading to the eventual completion of the mitotic phase.

Following these steps of mitosis, cytokinesis takes place, resulting in the division of the cytoplasm into two daughter cells. Although it is closely linked to the overall process of cell division, it is not a stage of mitosis itself. This distinction is important in understanding the phases of cell division and the mechanisms that ensure genetic material is correctly divided between daughter cells.