Humber Admissions Practice Test

What is the significance of the Gap 2 phase in interphase?

1. The cell stops growing and prepares for external signals

2. The cell continues to grow and prepares proteins for division

3. The cell undergoes DNA repair

4. The cell begins alcoholic fermentation

The correct answer is: The cell continues to grow and prepares proteins for division

The Gap 2 phase, or G2 phase, is a critical part of interphase in the cell cycle where the cell continues to grow and prepares for the next step, which is mitosis. During this phase, the cell not only increases in size but also synthesizes proteins that are necessary for cell division. This includes the production of components needed for the mitotic spindle, which is crucial for the equal distribution of chromosomes to the daughter cells during mitosis. The cell’s preparation entails organizing and duplicating its organelles and accumulating the necessary energy reserves to support the upcoming division process. Additionally, any required checks for DNA damage or other cellular conditions occur during this phase, helping ensure that the cell is in optimal condition to proceed to division. The other options refer to different processes that occur in other contexts. The option about stopping growth pertains more to the G1 phase or certain checkpoints rather than the G2 phase, while DNA repair is more characteristic of specific checkpoints during G1 and G2. The reference to alcoholic fermentation is unrelated to the cell cycle and specifically pertains to metabolic processes in certain organisms. Thus, the focus on growth and protein prep in the G2 phase accurately captures its significance in ensuring the cell is ready for division.