What is metaphase and what does it do?

Metaphase is the second stage of cell division, between prophase and anaphase, during which the chromosomes become attached to spindle fibers.  A metaphase separates duplicated genetic material that is carried in the nucleus of a parent cell and then converts it into two identical daughter cells.

Metaphase is a stage in the cell cycle where all the genetic material is condensing into chromosomes. These chromosomes then become visible. During this stage, the nucleus disappears and the chromosomes appear in the cytoplasm of the cell. As metaphase continues, the cells partition into the two daughter cells.