what happens in metaphase

Metaphase is a stage during the process of cell division, specifically during mitosis or meiosis. During metaphase, the cells chromosomes condense and move together, aligning in the center of the dividing cell on the metaphase plate. At this stage, the chromosomes are distinguishable when viewed through a microscope, and they are used in karyotyping, a laboratory technique for identifying chromosomal abnormalities. The spindle microtubules have direct access to the genetic material of the cell, and every chromosome has at least two microtubules extending from its kinetochore, with at least one microtubule connected to each pole. The tension within the cell becomes balanced, and the chromosomes no longer move back and forth. The spindle is now complete, and three groups of spindle microtubules are apparent. The spindle checkpoint process occurs during metaphase, which ensures that all the chromosomes are at the metaphase plate with their kinetochores correctly attached to microtubules before proceeding to anaphase.