Which stage of the cell cycle involves DNA replication?

The stage of the cell cycle that involves DNA replication is the S phase, which stands for Synthesis phase. During this phase, each chromosome is replicated to create two sister chromatids, which are identical copies of the chromosome. This duplication is essential for ensuring that when a cell divides during mitosis, each daughter cell receives an exact copy of the genetic material.

The S phase is a crucial component of the interphase, which is the period of the cell cycle when the cell is not dividing but is preparing for division. It occurs after the G1 phase, where the cell grows and carries out normal functions, and before the G2 phase, which involves further growth and preparation for mitosis. The M phase is when actual cell division occurs, following the completion of DNA replication in the S phase. Thus, S phase is specifically dedicated to replicating the DNA in preparation for cell division.