Definition
diaster
noun
- A stage in cell division (mitosis or meiosis) in which two groups of chromosomes have separated and are moving toward opposite poles of the cell.
Usage: biology; technical
Examples
- During diaster, the separated chromosome groups begin to decondense as they approach the cell poles.
- The diaster stage follows anaphase in the process of mitosis.
- Biologists observe the diaster phase under a microscope to study chromosome movement.
- In meiosis II, diaster represents the period after the sister chromatids have separated.