Which of the following is NOT a phase of mitosis?

Mitosis is the process by which a eukaryotic cell divides its nucleus and its genetic material, resulting in two daughter cells. The phases of mitosis include prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each of these phases plays a crucial role in facilitating the accurate segregation of chromosomes.

Interphase, on the other hand, is the phase of the cell cycle that occurs before mitosis begins. It is during interphase that the cell undergoes growth, replicates its DNA, and prepares for the mitotic phase. Interphase encompasses several stages: G1 (first gap), S (synthesis), and G2 (second gap). Although it is a critical part of the overall cell cycle, interphase does not involve the division of chromosomes or the physical processes of mitosis itself, which is why it is accurately identified as not being one of the phases of mitosis.