Mitosis. Image 2 of 6. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the surface of a breast cancer cell during metaphase, the second stage of mitotic cell division. During mitosis, the nuclear material of a cell divides, followed by separation of the cytoplasm and cell organelles to form two daughter cells. During the metaphase stage of mitosis, the chromosomes are organised in pairs along the centre of the nucleus, forming what is called the metaphase plate. This organisation helps to ensure that each new cell receives one copy of each chromosome. Magnification: around x2200 when printed 10cm wide. For a sequence of mitosis, see images P672/082 to P672/087.