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Multiple Choice
In a typical eukaryotic cell cycle, which phase is generally the shortest?
A
G1 phase
B
G2 phase
C
S phase
D
M phase (mitosis and cytokinesis)
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1
Understand the phases of the eukaryotic cell cycle: G1 (first gap), S (synthesis), G2 (second gap), and M (mitosis and cytokinesis).
Recall that G1, S, and G2 phases are collectively called interphase, during which the cell grows and DNA is replicated.
Recognize that the M phase involves the division of the nucleus (mitosis) and the cytoplasm (cytokinesis), which is a relatively quick process compared to the time spent preparing the cell in interphase.
Compare the durations of each phase: G1 is often the longest as the cell grows and prepares for DNA replication; S phase involves DNA synthesis; G2 is preparation for mitosis; M phase is the actual division and is typically the shortest.
Conclude that among the listed phases, M phase is generally the shortest phase in the eukaryotic cell cycle.