* Mitosis: This is the process of cell division that creates two identical daughter cells from a single parent cell.
* Chromosomes: During mitosis, the chromosomes (containing genetic material) condense and become visible.
* Chromatids: Each chromosome is duplicated, creating two identical copies called sister chromatids, which are held together at the centromere.
* Metaphase: During this stage of mitosis, the chromosomes line up at the center of the cell (the metaphase plate), with each chromosome having two sister chromatids.
Why not other stages?
* Interphase: Chromosomes are not condensed and visible during this stage.
* Prophase: While chromosomes condense, they are not yet fully aligned like in metaphase.
* Anaphase: Sister chromatids separate and move towards opposite poles of the cell.
* Telophase: The nuclear membrane reforms around the separated chromosomes, and the cell prepares to divide.
Important Note: Pigeons have a diploid number of 80 chromosomes (2n = 80). However, the question states there are 7 chromosomes, which is likely a simplification for the sake of the question.
