Final answer:
During interphase, the cell undergoes cell growth, DNA replication, and preparation for division. This phase is divided into G₁, S, and G₂ phases. In G₁ phase, the cell accumulates building blocks of chromosomal DNA and proteins. In S phase, the DNA is replicated. In G₂ phase, the cell makes additional proteins and organelles.
Step-by-step explanation:
During interphase, several important processes occur to prepare the cell for division. These processes include cell growth, DNA replication, and preparation for division. Interphase is divided into three phases: G₁ phase (first gap), S phase (synthesis of DNA), and G₂ phase (second gap). During G₁ phase, the cell accumulates the building blocks of chromosomal DNA and proteins needed for replication. In S phase, the cell's DNA is replicated, ensuring that each new cell will have an identical set of genetic material. Finally, during G₂ phase, the cell makes additional proteins and organelles, preparing for division.
The item that best describes what occurs during interphase in order is c) Cell growth, DNA replication, preparation for division. Interphase can be broken down into three distinct phases:
G1 Phase (First Gap) - Cell grows and performs its regular functions while accumulating the building blocks of chromosomal DNA, associated proteins, and energy reserves.
S Phase (Synthesis of DNA) - The cell's DNA is replicated, creating an identical copy of all the cell's DNA to ensure genetic material is identical in the daughter cells.
G2 Phase (Second Gap) - The cell makes final preparations for division, such as synthesizing proteins and additional organelles needed for cell division.
Following this, the cell will enter the mitotic phase where chromosomes (now consisting of two sister chromatids) align, attach to spindle fibers, and eventually separate into daughter cells during mitosis and cytokinesis.