GRE Subject Test: Biology : Understanding the Cell Cycle

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for GRE Subject Test: Biology

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : The Cell Cycle

Which part of the cell life cycle is not part of interphase?

Possible Answers:

G1 phase

M phase

G2 phase

S phase

Correct answer:

M phase

Explanation:

Interphase is the portion of the cell life cycle where the cell is preparing for division. This portion of the life cycle includes growth, as well as reproducing organelles and proteins. The genome is also replicated in interphase. Interphase is composed of the G1, S, and G2 phases. G1 and G2 correspond to periods of growth, protein synthesis, and organelle replication. The S phase is the period of DNA replication.

The M phase is mitosis, and is the portion of the cell cycle during which the cell is undergoing division. As a result, it is not part of interphase.

Example Question #1 : The Cell Cycle

Cells that rarely divide, if at all, will spend most of their time in what phase of the cell cycle?

Possible Answers:

G0

G1

S

G2

Correct answer:

G0

Explanation:

When the cell is not preparing to divide any time soon, it will spend its time in the G0 phase. This phase is distinct from the actual cell cycle, and can prevent the cell from actively growing and preparing for division. Cells arrested in the G0 phase are considered quiescent.

Example Question #2 : The Cell Cycle

Which stage of the cell cycle is not part of interphase?

Possible Answers:

All of these are part of interphase

Cytokinesis

S phase

Correct answer:

Cytokinesis

Explanation:

Interphase includes S phase plus the two gap phases . The M phase is the remainder of the cell cycle, made up of mitosis (and meiosis in germ cells) and cytokinesis. Cytokinesis (physical cell division) occurs at the end of M phase, but before interphase.

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