Which phase of the cell cycle is characterized by DNA duplication?

The phase of the cell cycle that is characterized by DNA duplication is interphase. During interphase, which is the longest phase of the cell cycle, the cell prepares for division by undergoing several key processes. One of the most crucial processes during this phase is the synthesis of DNA, allowing the cell to replicate its genetic material. This ensures that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes after mitosis.

Interphase consists of three subphases: G1 (Gap 1), S (Synthesis), and G2 (Gap 2). It is during the S phase that the actual DNA replication occurs. Cells also grow and carry out normal metabolic functions during G1 and G2, preparing for the eventual process of mitosis where the duplicated DNA will be divided between two new cells.

The other choices represent different phases of cell division. Prophase marks the beginning of mitosis, during which chromatin condenses into chromosomes and the mitotic spindle begins to form. Telophase is the phase after anaphase where the separated chromosomes reach opposite poles and begin to de-condense back into chromatin. Anaphase follows metaphase and is characterized by the separation of sister chromatids and their movement toward opposite poles of the cell,