What phase of the cell cycle involves preparation for DNA replication?

The cell cycle is divided into several phases, and interphase is critically important as it encompasses the time when the cell prepares for mitosis and DNA replication. During interphase, the cell undergoes growth and synthesizes the components necessary for cell division. It is subdivided into three stages: G1 (first gap), S (synthesis), and G2 (second gap).

The S phase is where DNA replication actually occurs, but preceding this phase is the G1 phase, which includes growth and the accumulation of resources needed for DNA synthesis. The G2 phase involves further preparation for mitosis, ensuring that all cellular components are ready for division. Therefore, interphase encompasses all these preparatory activities leading up to DNA replication.

In contrast, the other phases mentioned in the choices—metaphase, prophase, and telophase—are specifically stages of mitosis where chromosomes are aligned, separated, and cells divide, respectively. They do not involve the preparatory steps that occur prior to DNA replication. Thus, interphase is unequivocally the phase during which the cell prepares for DNA replication.