Question

What is the longest phase in the life of a cell?

Answer 1

Cell Cycle:

1. Cell performs an orderly sequence of events which leads to the duplication of its contents. This results in accumulation of the protoplasmic materials and growth of the cell.The cell later divides into two cells and repeat the growth process. This cycle of growth and division is known as cell cycle.
2. The cell cycle has two main phases: Interphase and Mitosis.
3. Interphase is further divided into three phases: G₁ (gap1) phase, S (synthesis) phase and G₂ (gap 2) phase.

Thus Interphase is the longest phase in the life of a cell.

Interphase:

1. This is the period between two successive mitotic divisions. It is a period of active synthesis and intense growth.
2. During this stage the genes are active and the cell synthesizes most of the components to double its size.
3. In a human cell, one cell cycle may take 24 hours to complete. Out of which, mitosis usually takes 1 hour and the interphase lasts for 23 hours.
4. Hence it is the longest phase in the life of a cell.