Multiple Choice
In a typical eukaryotic cell cycle, which phase generally occupies the greatest proportion of the total cycle time?
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16. Cell Division
Overview of the Cell Cycle
Multiple Choice
In an overview of the eukaryotic cell cycle, what is the name of the longest stage in which the cell grows and replicates its DNA in preparation for division?
A
Interphase
B
Cytokinesis
C
Anaphase
D
M phase (mitotic phase)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the eukaryotic cell cycle consists of several stages: Interphase, M phase (mitotic phase), and Cytokinesis, with Anaphase being a sub-stage of M phase.
Recall that Interphase is the stage where the cell spends most of its time growing and preparing for division by replicating its DNA.
Recognize that Interphase itself is divided into three phases: G1 (cell growth), S (DNA synthesis/replication), and G2 (preparation for mitosis).
Note that M phase includes mitosis (nuclear division) and cytokinesis (cytoplasmic division), which are relatively short compared to Interphase.
Conclude that since the cell grows and replicates its DNA during Interphase, and this stage is the longest, the correct answer is Interphase.
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