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During which phase of the cell cycle does DNA duplicate?

  1. Anaphase

  2. Interphase

  3. Metaphase

  4. Telophase

The correct answer is: Anaphase

The correct phase during which DNA duplicates is Interphase. This phase, specifically the S phase (synthesis phase) of Interphase, is when the cell prepares for division by replicating its DNA. DNA duplication is a critical process that ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of genetic information after cell division. In contrast, Anaphase is a stage of mitosis where the duplicated chromosomes are separated and pulled apart towards opposite poles of the cell. Metaphase, also part of mitosis, involves the alignment of chromosomes at the cell's equatorial plane, and Telophase is when the separated chromosomes reach the poles, and the cell begins to reform its nucleus. Therefore, these phases do not involve DNA replication, making Interphase the only suitable phase for this process.