Answer
The cell cycle is a process the cell goes through as it grows, prepares to go through cell division, and, finally, to undergo cell division.
Work Step by Step
In prokaryotic cells, the cell cycle is not as clear-cut as in eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells grow to a certain size before they begin DNA replication. When DNA replication is almost complete, the cell starts to divide.
Eukaryotic cell cycles go through a series of stages that are defined by what is going on within the cell. These stages include interphase (the time during which the cell grows, replicates its DNA, and makes more organelles), prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
