Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The cell cycle consists of Interphase (which includes G1, S, and G2 phases) and the M phase (mitosis/meiosis).
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
During Interphase, the cell prepares for division:
• G1 phase (Gap 1): Intensive cellular synthesis and growth.
• S phase (Synthesis): DNA replication takes place, and the quantity of DNA per cell is doubled (from \(2\text{C}\) to \(4\text{C}\)), while the chromosome number remains the same (\(2\text{n}\)).
• G2 phase (Gap 2): Synthesis of proteins (like tubulin) required for spindle formation.
• M phase: Actual nuclear and cellular division.
Step 4: Final Answer
DNA synthesis takes place during the S (Synthesis) phase of the cell cycle.