Metaphase in both mitosis and meiosis is characterized by the orientation of chromosomes themselves on the spindle fibres at the equatorial plate.
Prophase is the first phage and the longest of all phages. Chromatin of the nucleus become condensed forming chromosomes.
Anaphase is characterized by the separation of chromatids. Chromatids move in opposite direction towards the pole. Contraction of spindle fibre occurs. It is the shortest of four phases in duration.
Telophase in a sense is reversible process of prophase. Chromatin network are reformed from chromosomes. The nuclear membrane and nucleolus (which disappeared at late prophase) reappears.