There are then two complete sets of chromosomes in the nucleus. The chromosomes are now coiled tightly. The coiled chromosomes can be seen through a microscope. The nuclear membrane begins to disappear at this time. There is no longer a division between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
Chromosomes become thicker and shorter, and are now easier to see.
The nuclear membrane has faded away. If the cell in Step 1 had four chromosomes, we would now be able to see four double chromosomes. After making a copy, each chromosome appears as a doubled chromosome. The original and copy appear side by side and are attached to each other. The pairs of identical chromosomes line up in the center of the cell.