During cell division, which phase involves the separation of chromatids?

• A. Prophase
• B. Anaphase
• C. Metaphase
• D. Telophase

Answer: (B)

Chromatid separation happens in anaphase, the stage when the sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles by shortening spindle fibers attached to kinetochores. This event marks the moment they become separate chromosomes that will be distributed to the two new cells. Before this stage, chromosomes condense in prophase and align along the equator in metaphase; after separation, the cell moves into telophase as nuclei reform and cytokinesis begins. So the phase that best matches the separation of chromatids is anaphase.