Advanced Placement (AP) Biology Practice Exam

What is the M phase of the cell cycle also known as?

1. Interphase

2. Mitotic phase

3. Synthesis phase

4. G1 phase

The correct answer is: Mitotic phase

The M phase of the cell cycle is known as the mitotic phase, which encompasses processes essential for cellular division. During this phase, the cell undergoes mitosis, where it separates its duplicated chromosomes into two new nuclei, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes. Following mitosis, the cell transitions into cytokinesis, where the cytoplasm divides, completing the process of cell division. This phase is critical for growth, development, and tissue repair. In contrast, interphase refers to the phase of the cell cycle during which the cell prepares for division and includes the G1, S, and G2 phases. The synthesis phase specifically refers to the part of interphase where DNA replication occurs. Lastly, the G1 phase is the first stage of interphase, focusing on cell growth and preparation for DNA synthesis, rather than actual division. Therefore, considering the specific processes involved, the mitotic phase accurately describes the M phase of the cell cycle.