Answer: the four steps of the cell cycle are G1 Phase, S Phase, G2 Phase, and M Phase (which includes mitosis and cytokinesis). These steps ensure proper growth, DNA replication, and division of the cell.
Explanation:1. G1 Phase: This is the first growth phase of the cell cycle. During this phase, the cell grows in size, carries out normal metabolic activities, and duplicates its organelles. The cell also checks for any DNA damage before proceeding to the next phase.
2. S Phase: The S phase stands for the synthesis phase. In this phase, the cell replicates its DNA. Each chromosome is duplicated, resulting in two identical sister chromatids held together by a centromere.
3. G2 Phase: This is the second growth phase of the cell cycle. The cell continues to grow in size and prepares for cell division. During this phase, the cell synthesizes proteins and organelles needed for cell division. The cell also undergoes a final check to ensure that the DNA replication was successful and that there are no errors or damage.
4. M Phase: The M phase stands for the mitotic phase or cell division. It consists of two main processes: mitosis and cytokinesis. Mitosis is the division of the nucleus, where the duplicated chromosomes separate and move to opposite ends of the cell. Cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm, which results in the formation of two daughter cells.
In summary, the four steps of the cell cycle are G1 Phase, S Phase, G2 Phase, and M Phase (which includes mitosis and cytokinesis). These steps ensure proper growth, DNA replication, and division of the cell.