What is the longest phase of the cell cycle?

Interphase is the longest phase of the cell cycle, accounting for the majority of a cell's life. During interphase, the cell undergoes growth and prepares for division. It consists of three subphases: G1 (Gap 1), S (Synthesis), and G2 (Gap 2).

In G1, the cell grows and carries out normal metabolic functions. During the S phase, the cell duplicates its DNA, ensuring that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes. In G2, the cell continues to grow and prepares for mitosis, including producing proteins and organelles necessary for cell division.

Compared to interphase, mitosis, which includes stages such as prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, is relatively short. While prophase and telophase are part of mitosis and are essential for the separation and distribution of chromosomes, they occupy only a small fraction of the overall cell cycle. Therefore, interphase is indeed the longest phase, setting the stage for successful cell division.