During interphase, the cell is actively growing, carrying out its normal functions, and preparing for the next division. It's broken down into three stages:
* G1 phase (First Gap): The cell grows and synthesizes proteins and organelles.
* S phase (Synthesis): The cell replicates its DNA, ensuring that each daughter cell receives a complete copy of the genetic material.
* G2 phase (Second Gap): The cell continues to grow and produce proteins, and prepares for mitosis or meiosis.
Interphase is the longest stage of the cell cycle and represents the majority of a cell's life.
