Florida Biology EOC Practice Test

The apoptosis phase is not a component of the cell cycle. The cell cycle consists of specific phases that include G1, S, and M phases.

The G1 phase, or first gap, is part of interphase where the cell grows and synthesizes proteins necessary for DNA replication. The S phase, or synthesis phase, is where DNA replication occurs, resulting in the duplication of chromosomes. The M phase, or mitotic phase, is the phase where cell division takes place, leading to the distribution of duplicated chromosomes into two daughter cells.

In contrast, apoptosis refers to a programmed cell death process that allows for the removal of damaged or unnecessary cells. While apoptosis can occur in relation to the cell cycle, it is not a phase within it; rather, it is a distinct biological program that can happen in response to cellular signals outside of the normal cycle of cell growth and division. This distinction is crucial for understanding cellular processes such as development, tissue homeostasis, and responses to stress or damage.