Metaphase

Definition

Metaphase is a stage of cell division during mitosis and meiosis where chromosomes align in the middle of the cell before being separated into each of the two daughter cells. This alignment ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

Related terms

Mitosis:

A type of cell division that results in two daughter cells each having the same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent nucleus.

Chromosome:

A long DNA molecule with part or all of the genetic material of an organism, which becomes highly condensed and visible under a microscope during cell division.

Anaphase:

The stage following metaphase in cell division, where duplicated chromosomes are pulled apart and moved to opposite ends of the cell