Question

Explain the three main stages of the cell cycle.

Answer 1

The main stages of a complete cycle are:

1. Interphase (Preparatory Phase): The longest phase where the cell prepares itself for division. It is further divided into three sub-stages:
   • First Growth Phase (G₁): RNA and proteins are synthesised, and the cell grows in size.
   • Synthesis Phase (S): DNA replication takes place, and chromosomes are duplicated.
   • Second Growth Phase (G₂): More proteins are formed, and the cell prepares to enter the division phase.
2. Karyokinesis (Nuclear Division): The process where the replicated nucleus divides into two daughter nuclei through four stages: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
3. Cytokinesis (Cytoplasmic Division): The final stage where the cell's cytoplasm splits, dividing the single cell into two independent daughter cells.