Anaphase is a very important step in how cells divide and make new cells. It happens during two types of cell division – mitosis and meiosis. In this stage, the chromosomes, which carry our DNA, are pulled apart and move to opposite sides of the cell. This helps make sure that each new cell gets the right number of chromosomes.
Understanding Anaphase in cell division is important for exams like SSC, Banking, RRB NTPC, UPSC, and State-level competitive exams under the Science and Technology section. Many questions are asked from this topic because it is a basic part of biology.
In this blog, we will explain Anaphase in a simple and clear way. Whether you’re a student or a competitive exam aspirant, this post will help you learn and remember it easily. Let’s explore how this tiny stage plays a big role in life!
What is Anaphase?
Anaphase is one of the four main stages of mitosis, a process by which a cell divides to form two new identical cells.
📌 Definition: Anaphase is the third stage of mitosis in which the sister chromatids (identical halves of chromosomes) are pulled apart and move to opposite sides of the cell.
➡️ Mitosis helps in growth, repair, and reproduction of cells in our body.
➡️ Anaphase is the third stage of mitosis, after Prophase and Metaphase, and before Telophase.
Mnemonic to Remember the Order of Mitosis Stages
❇️ Please Make A Tea
(Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase)or,
❇️PMAT
(Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase)
Breakdown of Mitosis Stages
| Stage | What Happens? | Keyword |
|---|---|---|
| Prophase | Chromosomes become visible | Preparation begins |
| Metaphase | Chromosomes line up in the middle | Middle line |
| Anaphase | Chromatids are pulled to the poles | Apart |
| Telophase | Two new nuclei start forming | The End (Telo = end) |
What Happens During Anaphase?
During Anaphase, the cell makes sure that each new cell will get the same number of chromosomes.
Here’s what you need to remember in simple steps:
- Chromatids separate: Each chromosome is made of two sister chromatids. In anaphase, they split apart.
- Move to opposite poles: The separated chromatids move toward opposite sides of the cell.
- Spindle fibers help: These are like ropes that pull the chromatids apart.
- Equal number of chromosomes: Each side will get the same number of chromosomes to make sure the two new cells are identical.
👉 Each side now has a complete set of chromosomes.
Simple Diagram: Anaphase at a Glance
| Part | What It Does in Anaphase |
|---|---|
| Chromatids | Move apart to opposite ends of the cell |
| Centromere | Splits to allow chromatids to separate |
| Spindle fibers | Pull the chromatids to the cell poles |
Key Terms to Remember
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Chromatid | One-half of a duplicated chromosome |
| Chromosome | A structure made of DNA, contains genetic info |
| Spindle fibers | Thread-like structures that pull chromatids to opposite sides |
| Cell division | Process of one cell splitting into two |
| Poles of cell | The two ends of the dividing cell |
Why is Anaphase Important?
✅ It ensures equal distribution of DNA.
✅ It prevents genetic problems in new cells.
✅ It is essential for healthy growth and development.
Anaphase in Mitosis vs. Meiosis
| Feature | Anaphase in Mitosis | Anaphase I in Meiosis | Anaphase II in Meiosis |
|---|---|---|---|
| What separates? | Sister chromatids | Homologous chromosomes | Sister chromatids |
| Number of cells formed later | 2 (identical) | 2 (not identical) | 4 (not identical) |
| Occurs in | Growth and repair cells | Reproductive cells (gametes) | Reproductive cells (gametes) |
📝 Note: For most exams at this level, focus more on Anaphase in Mitosis.
Mnemonic to Remember Anaphase Events
“A” in Anaphase stands for “Apart”
➡️ Sister chromatids move Apart to Opposite sides.
Another memory aid:
“Anaphase: Arms Apart” – Think of chromatids as arms being pulled to both sides.
Fun Analogy: Tug-of-War Game
Imagine two teams in a tug-of-war. The rope is like the chromosome, and the teams are like the spindle fibers. When the referee (centromere) says “GO!”, the rope splits, and each team pulls one side to their end. That’s Anaphase in action!
Quick Recap: Anaphase in One Minute
✔ Third stage of mitosis
✔ Chromatids separate and move to opposite poles
✔ Centromere splits
✔ Pulled by spindle fibers
✔ Ensures equal DNA in new cells
Exam-Oriented Tips
- Always remember that Anaphase = Apart (chromatids separate).
- Understand the sequence of mitosis stages using PMAT.
- Focus on key terms like chromatids, spindle fibers, and poles.
- Practice drawing simple diagrams of cell division – visuals help retention.
- If a question asks, “In which phase do sister chromatids move to opposite poles?” — the answer is always Anaphase.
Exam Tips for Anaphase
- Questions are usually diagram-based or definition-based.
- Remember the sequence of mitosis using mnemonics.
- Focus on key actions: separation of chromatids, role of spindle fibers.
Practice Questions (Quiz Time!)
✅ Multiple Choice Questions
In which stage of mitosis do the sister chromatids move to opposite poles?
a) Prophase
b) Metaphase
c) Anaphase
d) Telophase
What helps in pulling the chromatids during anaphase?
a) Nucleus
b) Ribosomes
c) Spindle fibers
d) Mitochondria
Anaphase is the ___ stage of mitosis.
a) First
b) Second
c) Third
d) Fourth
Which of the following best describes what happens during anaphase?
a) Chromosomes line up in the center
b) Chromatids are pulled to opposite sides
c) Nuclear envelope breaks down
d) The cell rests
✅ Answer Key
- ✅ c) Anaphase
- ✅ c) Spindle fibers
- ✅ c) Third
- ✅ b) Chromatids are pulled to opposite sides
You Can Remember This!
You’re doing great! Science is like a story, and you’re learning every chapter like a pro. Just like how Anaphase splits and organizes chromosomes, you can split your study into steps and organize your knowledge.
Stay curious. Stay confident. You’ve got this! 💪
