Which phase of the cell cycle is characterized by preparation for cell division?

The phase of the cell cycle characterized by preparation for cell division is the M phase, also known as the mitotic phase. During this phase, the cell undergoes significant changes in order to divide and produce two daughter cells. Mitosis consists of several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, followed by cytokinesis, which is the actual division of the cytoplasm.

As cells enter the M phase, they have already completed the necessary preparations for division in the earlier phases of the cell cycle. In the G1 phase, the cell grows and synthesizes proteins necessary for DNA replication. The S phase (synthesis phase) is where DNA replication occurs, ensuring that each daughter cell will have an identical copy of the genome. The G2 phase is a final preparation stage after DNA has been replicated, where the cell ensures all components (like organelles and proteins) are in place for mitosis. Ultimately, it is during the M phase that the actual process of cell division occurs, making it the definitive stage of preparation for cell division.