Here's a breakdown of the cell cycle stages:
* Interphase: This is the longest stage of the cell cycle, where the cell grows and prepares for division. It consists of three sub-phases:
* G1 phase (Gap 1): The cell grows and carries out its normal functions.
* S phase (Synthesis): This is where DNA replication occurs, ensuring each daughter cell receives a complete copy of the genome.
* G2 phase (Gap 2): The cell continues to grow and prepares for mitosis or meiosis.
* M phase (Mitosis or Meiosis): This is the stage where the cell actually divides into two daughter cells.
Therefore, the S phase is crucial for ensuring that each daughter cell receives a complete and accurate copy of the genetic information from the parent cell.
