DNA replication occurs in __________.

• A. prophase of mitosis
• B. metaphase of mitosis
• C. the G₁ phase of interphase
• D. cytokinesis
• E. the S phase of interphase

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the cell cycle: The cell cycle consists of interphase and the mitotic phase. Interphase is further divided into G1, S, and G2 phases.
2. Identify the purpose of each phase: G1 is for cell growth, S is for DNA replication, and G2 is for preparation for mitosis.
3. Recognize that DNA replication is a crucial step that ensures each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.
4. Recall that the S phase, or synthesis phase, is specifically dedicated to the replication of DNA.
5. Conclude that DNA replication occurs during the S phase of interphase, not during any phase of mitosis or cytokinesis.