NEETBotanyCell Cycle and Cell Division
What is the metaphase plate?
Options
- AThe plane of alignment of the chromosomes at metaphase
- BThe structure that holds the chromosomes in place during mitosis
- CThe centromere of a chromosome
- DA small disc-shaped structure at the surface of the centromeres
Correct answer
A. The plane of alignment of the chromosomes at metaphase
Step-by-step solution
These structures serve as the sites of attachment of spindle fibres (formed by the spindle fibres) to the chromosomes that are moved into position at the centre of the cell. Hence, the metaphase is characterised by all the chromosomes coming to lie at the equator with one chromatid of each chromosome connected by its kinetochore to spindle fibres from one pole and its sister chromatid connected by its kinetochore to spindle fibres from the opposite pole. The plane of alignment of the chromosomes at metaphase is ref