During which phase of the cell cycle are chromosomes duplicated?

• A. Anaphase
• B. Prophase
• C. Metaphase
• D. Interphase

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the cell cycle: The cell cycle consists of several phases that a cell goes through to divide and produce new cells. These phases include Interphase and the Mitotic phase (M phase).
2. Learn about Interphase: Interphase is the phase where the cell prepares for division. It is divided into three sub-phases: G1 (Gap 1), S (Synthesis), and G2 (Gap 2).
3. Focus on the S phase: During the S phase of Interphase, DNA replication occurs. This is when the chromosomes are duplicated, ensuring that each new cell will have the correct amount of DNA.
4. Differentiate from M phase: The Mitotic phase includes Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase, where the cell actually divides. Chromosome duplication does not occur during these phases; instead, they involve the separation and distribution of already duplicated chromosomes.
5. Conclude with the correct phase: Based on the understanding of the cell cycle, chromosomes are duplicated during the S phase of Interphase, not during Anaphase, Prophase, or Metaphase.