Mark the following statements about the cell cycle as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.


a. During the S phase of the cell cycle, the cell stalls until conditions for division are more favorable

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the phases of the cell cycle: G1, S, G2, and M.
2. Understand the role of the S phase: DNA replication occurs during this phase.
3. Evaluate the statement: 'During the S phase, the cell stalls until conditions for division are more favorable.'
4. Recognize that the S phase is primarily for DNA synthesis, not for stalling or checking conditions.
5. Correct the statement: During the S phase of the cell cycle, DNA replication occurs, preparing the cell for division.

Key Concepts

Cell Cycle Stages

The cell cycle consists of several stages: G1 (gap 1), S (synthesis), G2 (gap 2), and M (mitosis). Each stage has specific functions, with the S phase being crucial for DNA replication, where the cell synthesizes a complete copy of its DNA in preparation for cell division.

S Phase Function

The S phase is characterized by the replication of the cell's DNA, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes. It is a highly regulated process, and the cell does not 'stall' but actively synthesizes DNA, making the statement in question false.

Cell Cycle Regulation

The cell cycle is tightly regulated by various checkpoints and proteins, such as cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). These regulatory mechanisms ensure that the cell only progresses to the next phase when conditions are favorable, preventing errors in DNA replication and division.