The stage of cell division (mitosis or meiosis) when duplicated chromosomes separate and move toward opposite poles of the cell.
From Greek 'ana-' (back, up) + 'phase' (stage). Coined by German biologist Eduard Strasburger in the late 19th century when microscopy first allowed observation of chromosome movement during cell division.
Anaphase is when chromosomes literally get pulled apart by spindle fibers, and it's absolutely wild to watch under a microscope—the chromosomes separate and zoom toward opposite ends like they're being reeled in on invisible fishing lines. This was one of the first clear visual proofs that life follows mechanical, observable rules.
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