Multiple Choice
In a typical eukaryotic cell cycle, which phase generally occupies the longest amount of time?
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16. Cell Division
Overview of the Cell Cycle
Multiple Choice
In an actively dividing eukaryotic cell, which phase is typically the longest portion of the cell cycle?
A
Cytokinesis
B
M phase (mitosis and cytokinesis)
C
Anaphase
D
Interphase (G1, S, and G2)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the overall structure of the eukaryotic cell cycle, which consists of Interphase and M phase. Interphase includes G1, S, and G2 phases, while M phase includes mitosis and cytokinesis.
Recall that Interphase is the period when the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for mitosis, whereas M phase is when the cell actually divides.
Recognize that cytokinesis is the final step of cell division, physically splitting the cytoplasm, and is relatively short compared to other phases.
Note that anaphase is a sub-phase of mitosis where sister chromatids separate, which is also a brief event within M phase.
Conclude that because Interphase involves extensive growth and DNA replication, it occupies the longest portion of the cell cycle compared to the relatively short M phase and its sub-phases.
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