Question

In which stage of the cell cycle do chromosomes begin to condense and become visible under a microscope?

a. G1 (Gap 1)
b. S (Synthesis)
c. G2 (Gap 2)
d. Prophase

Answer 1

Chromosomes begin to condense and become visible under a microscope during Prophase of the cell cycle.

Step-by-step explanation:

The stage of the cell cycle in which chromosomes begin to condense and become visible under a microscope is Prophase. During Prophase, the loosely packed chromatin coils and condenses into visible chromosomes.

Each chromosome becomes visible with its identical partner attached, forming the familiar X-shape of sister chromatids. The nucleolus disappears early during this phase, and the nuclear envelope also disintegrates.