What happens to chromosomes during anaphase?

During anaphase, the key event is that the chromosomes are pulled to opposite sides of the cell. This phase occurs after the metaphase, where chromosomes line up at the metaphase plate. As the anaphase begins, the sister chromatids, which are still attached at a region called the centromere, are separated and pulled apart by the spindle fibers attached to the centromeres. This movement ensures that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes once the cell divides.

The proper distribution of chromosomes is crucial for maintaining the correct number of chromosomes in each daughter cell. By the end of anaphase, each half of the chromosomes moves to opposite poles, setting the stage for the subsequent phase of telophase, where the cell will begin to return to its interphase state.