During which phase of the cell cycle does mitosis occur?

Mitosis occurs during the M phase of the cell cycle, which encompasses both mitosis and cytokinesis. The M phase is crucial as it is the period when the cell divides to produce two daughter cells, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes. This phase follows interphase, the part of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division by replicating its DNA during the S phase and performing other necessary growth and metabolic activities.

In contrast, interphase is critical for cell growth and DNA replication, but it does not involve the actual process of cell division. The different stages of mitosis, such as prophase and metaphase, are phases within the M phase, specifically referring to particular steps in the mitotic process. However, the broader category encompassing all stages of mitosis and cytokinesis is the M phase, which is why this is the correct answer.