Which of the following occurs during interphase (G1, S and G2) of the cell cycle?
DNA condenses into chromosomes.
The plasma membrane pinches off to form two separate cella.
Chiomosomes align on the metaphase plate
The cell grows larger and makes copies af DNA to prepare for cell division.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
The cell grows larger and makes copies of DNA to prepare for cell division.
Explanation:
Interphase is the phase of the cell cycle that prepares a cell for division and is divided into three sub-stages: G1 (Gap 1), S (Synthesis), and G2 (Gap 2). During this phase, the cell undergoes significant growth and preparation for mitosis. Here’s a breakdown of the events that occur during each phase of interphase:
- G1 Phase (Gap 1):
- The cell undergoes growth, increasing in size and synthesizing proteins and organelles.
- The cell carries out its normal functions, such as metabolic processes and producing necessary materials (e.g., RNA and proteins).
- The cell also prepares for DNA replication by producing the necessary enzymes.
- S Phase (Synthesis):
- This phase is marked by the replication of DNA.
- Each chromosome is duplicated, resulting in two identical sister chromatids connected at the centromere.
- The purpose of this phase is to ensure that the daughter cells will each receive a complete set of chromosomes after division.
- G2 Phase (Gap 2):
- The cell continues to grow and produce proteins required for mitosis.
- It checks the DNA for any replication errors and repairs them before proceeding to cell division.
- The cell also prepares all the components necessary for mitosis, such as spindle fibers and centrioles (in animal cells).
What does not happen during interphase?
- DNA condensing into chromosomes: This occurs during prophase, which is part of mitosis, not interphase.
- Plasma membrane pinching off to form two separate cells: This happens during cytokinesis, the final stage of cell division, after mitosis.
- Chromosomes aligning on the metaphase plate: This is a process that happens during metaphase, which is also part of mitosis, not interphase.
Thus, interphase is primarily about the growth of the cell, DNA replication, and preparation for cell division. It is essential for ensuring that the cell has everything it needs for successful division and the formation of two identical daughter cells.
I’ll generate an image illustrating the stages of interphase.
Here is the diagram illustrating the stages of interphase: G1 phase (cell growth), S phase (DNA replication), and G2 phase (final preparations for mitosis). The diagram highlights the key processes occurring in each stage, providing a visual aid for better understanding.