During which part of the cell cycle is DNA replicated?

DNA replication occurs during the S Phase of the cell cycle. This phase, which stands for "synthesis," is where the cell's genetic material is precisely duplicated, ensuring that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes after cell division. During this phase, the enzymes responsible for DNA synthesis are activated, and the cell prepares for mitosis by ensuring that there are two complete sets of DNA.

In contrast, the G1 and G2 phases are primarily focused on cell growth and preparation for DNA replication and mitosis, respectively. The G1 phase involves cellular growth and the production of cellular components, while the G2 phase focuses on further preparations for mitosis, including additional growth and protein synthesis. Interphase, which includes the G1, S, and G2 phases, encompasses the entire period of growth and preparation before cell division occurs, but it is specifically in the S Phase where the actual replication of DNA takes place.