Which phase follows metaphase in the process of mitosis?

The phase that follows metaphase in mitosis is anaphase. During anaphase, the sister chromatids that were aligned along the metaphase plate are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell. This separation is facilitated by the spindle fibers, which shorten and help to ensure that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes. Anaphase is a critical step that ensures the correct distribution of genetic material, preparing the cell for the subsequent phase of mitosis, telophase, where the cell begins to reform its nucleus and the chromosomes start to de-condense.

The other phases, such as telophase, interphase, and prophase, do not immediately follow metaphase. Telophase occurs after anaphase, interphase is the phase where the cell is not actively dividing, and prophase is the phase that occurs prior to metaphase, where chromosomes are condensed and the spindle apparatus begins to form. Understanding these distinct phases helps clarify the orderly progression of mitotic division.