What happens during telophase and cytokinesis?

During telophase and cytokinesis, the cell undergoes the final stages of division, resulting in two distinct daughter cells. Telophase is marked by the reformation of the nuclear envelope around each set of chromosomes, which then begin to de-condense back into their less coiled, chromatin form. This allows the genetic material to become accessible for future cellular processes.

Cytokinesis, which often overlaps with telophase, is where the cell's cytoplasm divides. This process physically separates the two daughter cells by pinching the cell membrane inward, leading to the formation of two separate and complete cells, each with its own nucleus and set of organelles. This is crucial for cell reproduction as it ensures that each daughter cell receives an accurate copy of the genetic material and enough cytoplasmic resources to function independently.

The other options describe processes that occur at different stages of cell division. For instance, DNA replication happens during the S phase of interphase, well before mitosis begins. Chromosomes condensing occurs during prophase, making them easier to separate. Additionally, the alignment of chromosomes at the cell's equator takes place during metaphase, not telophase. Thus, the choice indicating that the cell pinches into