Explain why mitosis proceeds in a fixed sequence
Three steps, the way the exam actually works: work through the lab, write down your own observations, then answer a 6-point free response. What you recorded goes to the grader with your writing, so a conclusion that does not follow from your own evidence will cost you the point — exactly as it would with a real reader.
Predict before you look
- Mitosis produces two genetically identical cells. What must happen BEFORE the chromatids separate for that outcome to be guaranteed?
- What is the difference between a chromosome and a sister chromatid? Your answer decides what anaphase is actually pulling apart.
Nothing to submit here — these are to think through, so the prediction below is an informed one rather than a guess.
Commit to an answer now. It is not graded and being wrong costs nothing — the point is to have something specific to reconcile against once you have the data.
Answer every prediction to unlock the lab. A sentence is enough.
Run the investigation
Predictions first
The procedure and the simulation unlock once you have committed above. Observing before predicting is how a wrong intuition survives a lab intact.
Record what you found
This is your reading of the source, not ours. The grader sees them, so your conclusions have to follow from what you actually recorded.
| Key prophase event | |
|---|---|
| Key metaphase event | |
| Key anaphase event | |
| Key telophase event |
Answer the free response
Mitosis is not just a list of names; the order matters. (a) Explain why chromosome condensation in prophase is necessary before metaphase and anaphase can work reliably. (b) Explain why metaphase alignment is a checkpoint-worthy moment for the cell. (c) Describe what anaphase accomplishes mechanically and why that matters genetically. (d) A student says mitosis makes genetic variation because the chromosomes “get mixed up” during division. Evaluate that claim and contrast mitosis with the process that really does generate new combinations.
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