Multiple Choice
During which phase of the cell cycle does mitosis occur?
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16. Cell Division
Overview of the Cell Cycle
Multiple Choice
In an overview of the cell cycle, which stage typically occupies the greatest proportion of a cell’s lifetime (i.e., is the longest stage)?
A
M phase (mitosis and cytokinesis)
B
Prophase
C
Interphase
D
G2 phase
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the cell cycle consists of several stages: Interphase (which includes G1, S, and G2 phases) and M phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).
Recall that Interphase is the period when the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for mitosis, while M phase is the process of cell division itself.
Recognize that Interphase generally occupies the majority of the cell's lifetime because the cell spends most of its time growing and preparing for division rather than dividing.
Note that within Interphase, the G1 phase (cell growth) and S phase (DNA replication) are particularly time-consuming compared to the relatively short M phase.
Conclude that among the options given, Interphase is the longest stage of the cell cycle, typically occupying the greatest proportion of a cell's lifetime.
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