Multiple Choice
In the context of the eukaryotic cell cycle (including DNA replication and mitosis), what is the typical end result of one complete cell cycle starting from a single parent cell?
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16. Cell Division
Overview of the Cell Cycle
Multiple Choice
In an actively dividing eukaryotic cell, which phase is typically the longest portion of the cell cycle?
A
Cytokinesis
B
M phase (mitosis and cytokinesis)
C
Interphase (G1, S, and G2)
D
Prophase
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the overall structure of the eukaryotic cell cycle, which consists of Interphase and M phase. Interphase includes G1 (gap 1), S (synthesis), and G2 (gap 2) phases, while M phase includes mitosis and cytokinesis.
Recall that Interphase is the period when the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for mitosis, whereas M phase is the period of actual cell division.
Recognize that cytokinesis is the final step of M phase, where the cytoplasm divides to form two daughter cells, and it is relatively short compared to other phases.
Compare the durations of each phase: Interphase generally occupies the majority of the cell cycle time because the cell needs to grow and replicate DNA accurately before division.
Conclude that among the options given, Interphase (G1, S, and G2) is typically the longest portion of the cell cycle in an actively dividing eukaryotic cell.
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