Problem: Interphase- technically not part of cell division. The cell is growing, performing its functions, and making preparations for cell division as described earlier. Mitotic Stage: During metaphase What happens in this stage? Why must a cell condense the chromosomes for cell division? Mitotic Stage: _ prophase___ What happens in this stage? During this stage, when chromosomes are all lined up, there is an inspection of the process, a "check point," to ensure all is going well. If not, the cell division process stops. This is an anticancer mechanism. Mitotic Stage: ____________ What happens in this stage? Mitotic Stage: Telophase as well as cytokinesis Telophase focuses on the chromosomes and nucleus Cytokinesis is about all the other things in the cell splitting and the cell splitting into two new cells. How does it differ in plants and animals? Need Assignment Help?