How is metaphase distinguished?

Now, during metaphase — the second stage of in the eukaryotic cell cycle — the chromosomes, pulled by the spindle fibers, line up along the middle of the cell, halfway between the centrosomes in the middle of the dividing cell. The chromosomes are now maximally condensed.

It is very easy to see these lined up on the middle or equatorial plate. They may stay in this position for days at a time to be sure all is ready to move to the next stage,