Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The eukaryotic cell cycle is divided into distinct, regulated phases (G1, S, G2, M) to ensure accurate cellular growth and genome duplication.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us review the events in each phase of the cell cycle:
1. G1 (Gap 1) phase: Cell growth, protein synthesis, and metabolic preparation for DNA replication.
2. S (Synthesis) phase: The cell replicates its nuclear genomic DNA, doubling its DNA content. Histones are also synthesized during this phase.
3. G2 (Gap 2) phase: Final growth and checkpoint verification before mitosis.
4. G0 (Gap 0) phase: A quiescent, non-dividing state where cells exit the active cell cycle.
Therefore, DNA synthesis occurs exclusively during the S phase.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is 3, which corresponds to S.