The Cell Cycle
Interphase
Gap 1 (G1)
Gap 1, or G1, is the first step in interphase. During this step the cell preforms normal functions and grows. During this step the cell prepares itself for cell division.
Synthesis (S)
Synthesis, or S, is the second step in interphase. Synthesis means to combine two parts to make one. During this step DNA synthesizes, or copies. This means there are two sets of DNA in the nucleus.
Gap 2 (G2)
The third and last step in interphase is Gap 2, or G2. In this stage the cell grows and preforms normal functions. If the cell is healthy, it will divide.
Importance Of Each Step
The importance of Gap 1, G1, is to get the cell ready for division. This is important because if a cell isn't ready for division, it might not divide correctly. Synthesis, S, is important because to be able to divide, a cell has to have double the DNA so that the ending cells have the right organelles that they need to function. Lastly, the importance of Gap 1, G1, is making sure the cell is ready to go into mitosis and actually divide.