Given below are two statements
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.
- Statement (I) is True: Prophase constitutes the longest phase of mitotic nuclear division (often occupying over $50\%$ of total mitotic duration), involving extensive chromatin condensation, sister chromatid resolution, nucleolar disintegration, and mitotic spindle assembly.
- Statement (II) is True: During metaphase, chromosomes attain their highest level of condensation, aligning along the equatorial metaphase plate; because they are at their shortest and thickest, metaphase chromosomes provide optimal clarity for karyotype analysis, ideogram construction, and morphological assessment of centromeres and secondary constrictions.
- Conclusion: Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are true (Option 3).
Correct option: (3) Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.