Which phases are part of interphase in the cell cycle?

Interphase is a crucial part of the cell cycle during which the cell prepares for division. It is comprised of three distinct phases: G1 phase, S phase, and G2 phase.

In the G1 phase (Gap 1), the cell undergoes growth and synthesizes various proteins necessary for DNA replication. This phase involves cellular functions such as nutrient acquisition and organelle growth, ultimately preparing the cell to duplicate its DNA.

The S phase (Synthesis) is where DNA replication occurs. During this phase, the cell’s chromosomes are duplicated, resulting in two sister chromatids for each chromosome. This step is essential for ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes after cell division.

The G2 phase (Gap 2) follows DNA synthesis and serves as a period of growth and preparation for mitosis (M phase). The cell continues to grow and produce proteins, and it also checks for errors in the duplicated DNA to ensure that everything is in order before proceeding to cell division.

Understanding these three phases of interphase is vital since they lay the groundwork for accurate and successful cell division. The other options include phases that either do not belong to interphase or do not accurately represent the progression of the cell cycle.