Final answer:
Interphase is a cell cycle stage where the cell grows, duplicates its organelles, synthesizes DNA, and prepares for mitosis, which is followed by cytokinesis to form two daughter cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
During interphase, a cell undergoes growth, duplicates its organelles, and prepares for cell division. This phase is characterized by three distinct stages: the G1 phase (also known as the first growth phase), the S phase (DNA synthesis), and the G2 phase. In the G1 phase, the cell grows in size, performs normal metabolic processes, and starts replicating organelles. Entry into the S phase marks the beginning of DNA replication to ensure each new cell has an identical set of genetic material. Finally, in the G2 phase, the cell continues to grow, makes additional proteins and organelles, and prepares for mitosis. The mitotic phase follows interphase, which includes the processes of mitosis and cytokinesis, resulting in the formation of two genetically identical daughter cells.