What occurs during the interphase of the cell cycle?

During interphase, the cell prepares for division, primarily focusing on the replication of genetic material. This phase is crucial because, before a cell divides, it must duplicate its DNA to ensure that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

Interphase consists of three main stages: G1 (first gap), S (synthesis), and G2 (second gap). During the S phase, the DNA is replicated, effectively doubling the genetic material in preparation for cell division. This makes option B the correct choice, as it emphasizes the importance of DNA synthesis in providing the genetic blueprint for the next generation of cells.

While other processes, such as cell division, protein synthesis, and the separation of chromatids occur in the broader context of the cell cycle, they do not happen during interphase. Cell division actually occurs during the mitotic phase, while protein synthesis and chromatid separation occur at different stages of the cell cycle. Thus, the focus of interphase is predominantly on the replication of genetic material, which is fundamental to proper cell function and genetics.