Question:

The longest phase during the eukaryotic cell cycle is

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Remember the relative durations of the cell cycle phases using the sequence: \(G_1 > S > G_2 > M\).
The \(G_1\) phase is also where cells can exit the cycle to enter the quiescent \(G_0\) state.
  • G1
  • G2
  • S
  • M
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The eukaryotic cell cycle is split into Interphase (growth and DNA replication) and M-phase (mitotic division).
Interphase includes the Gap 1 (\(G_1\)), Synthesis (\(S\)), and Gap 2 (\(G_2\)) phases, taking up over \(90%\) of the cycle.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

Let us evaluate the specific durations of the phases during a typical 24-hour mammalian cell cycle:
1. \(G_1\) Phase: The first gap phase is dedicated to active cell growth, protein synthesis, and organelle duplication.
It is the longest and most variable phase of the cell cycle, lasting approximately 11 hours in mammalian cells.
During this phase, the cell monitors its environment and size before committing to replicate its DNA.
2. \(S\) Phase: The synthesis phase involves the replication of genomic DNA and histone proteins. It lasts about 8 hours.
3. \(G_2\) Phase: The second gap phase involves final preparations for division, such as tubulin synthesis. It lasts about 4 hours.
4. M Phase: Mitosis and cytokinesis occur rapidly during this phase, which lasts only about 1 hour.
Since \(G_1\) involves massive transcription, translation, and checkpoint monitoring, it takes up the most time.

Step 4: Final Answer:

The longest phase of the eukaryotic cell cycle is the \(G_1\) phase, matching Option (A).
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