Final answer:
Cells grow during the Growth Phase 1 (G₁) and must pass the G₁ checkpoint by meeting certain requirements to proceed to the S phase. The G₁ checkpoint assesses the cell size.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Cell Growth Phase and Checkpoints
Cells grow during the Growth Phase 1 (G₁) and pass the G₁ checkpoint to show they are committed to dividing. This checkpoint occurs toward the end of the G₁ phase and ensures the cell is large enough .
If not, the cell either tries to repair any issues that prevent it from moving forward, or it enters a resting period, known as the Go phase.
The Importance of the G₁ Checkpoint
The G₁ checkpoint is crucial as it determines whether all conditions are favorable for cell division to proceed. At this point, the cell checks for both internal
Cells that do not meet all the requirements will not be allowed to progress into the S phase. This careful control mechanism ensures that cells only divide when they are fully prepared.