What happens to chromosomes during division?

1. Interphase. During the interphase of the cell cycle, chromosomes are not visible due to the high water content in the nucleus.
2. Prophase – chromatin condensation begins here, which causes chromosomes to appear.
3. Metaphase. During metaphase, chromosomes with two chromatids are fully visible. This is the best stage for studying chromosome morphology. During metaphase, all chromosomes are aligned along an imaginary plane at a center called the metaphase plate.
4. Anaphase. During anaphase, the chromatids of the chromosomes separate, so now each chromosome has one chromatid.
5. Telophase. In this phase, chromosome decondensation occurs and forms chromatin.