Which statement describes anaphase?

• A. Division of the cytoplasm during cell division
• B. The chromosomes become longer, thinner, and less distinct; the nuclear membrane forms
• C. Chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell
• D. Phase of mitosis in which the chromosomes separate and move to opposite ends of the cell

Answer: (D)

Anaphase is the stage when the sister chromatids separate and move to opposite ends of the cell. This happens as the centromeres split and motor proteins along the kinetochores pull each chromatid toward a pole, aided by shortening microtubules that shorten the distance between poles. This movement marks the active segregation of genetic material into the two future daughter cells.

That idea fits the described option best because it emphasizes the separation and movement of chromosomes. In metaphase, chromosomes line up in the middle; in cytokinesis, the cytoplasm divides; and in telophase the chromosomes arrive at the poles, de-condense, and the nuclear envelope reforms.