Prophase meaning

Prophase is the first stage of mitosis where chromosomes condense and become visible under a microscope.


Prophase definitions

Word backwards esahporp
Part of speech The word "prophase" is a noun. It refers to the initial stage of cell division in the eukaryotic cell cycle.
Syllabic division pro-phase
Plural The plural of the word prophase is propha**ses**.
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) o,a,e
Consonants (4) p,r,h,s

Prophase is a crucial stage in the process of cell division known as mitosis. It is the first phase of mitosis where the chromatin condenses into chromosomes, the nuclear membrane breaks down, and the spindle fibers begin to form.

Chromatin Condensation

During prophase, the chromatin, which is a complex of DNA and proteins, condenses into visible chromosomes. This condensation allows for easier separation of genetic material during cell division.

Nuclear Membrane Breakdown

As prophase progresses, the nuclear membrane surrounding the nucleus disintegrates, allowing the chromosomes to be more accessible for division. This breakdown is essential for the proper distribution of chromosomes in daughter cells.

Spindle Fiber Formation

Simultaneously, spindle fibers begin to emerge from structures called centrosomes located at opposite poles of the cell. These spindle fibers play a crucial role in moving and aligning chromosomes during mitosis.

Prophase Promotes Cell Division

Prophase is a preparatory phase that sets the stage for the subsequent stages of mitosis. The condensation of chromatin, breakdown of the nuclear membrane, and formation of spindle fibers are all essential processes that ensure the accurate division of genetic material between daughter cells.

In conclusion, prophase marks the beginning of mitosis and is a vital stage in the process of cell division. Its role in chromatin condensation, nuclear membrane breakdown, and spindle fiber formation is fundamental to the successful separation of chromosomes and the creation of genetically identical daughter cells.


Prophase Examples

  1. During prophase, the nuclear envelope disintegrates, allowing the chromosomes to become visible.
  2. Prophase is the first stage of mitosis, where the chromatin condenses into chromosomes.
  3. In meiosis, prophase consists of multiple sub-stages, such as prophase I and prophase II.
  4. The centrosomes begin to move to opposite poles of the cell during prophase.
  5. Prophase is a crucial stage in cell division as it prepares the cell for the subsequent steps.
  6. During prophase, the microtubules of the mitotic spindle start to form.
  7. The chromosomes align themselves along the equatorial plane during prophase.
  8. Prophase is marked by the presence of distinct chromosomal movement and reorganization.
  9. Nuclear material becomes more condensed and visible under the microscope in prophase.
  10. The nucleus begins to disappear as the cell progresses from interphase to prophase.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 22/06/2024 - 00:41:29