OCR GCSE Biology Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success

The cell cycle is accurately described as a continuous cycle that consists of various stages, which include not only the replication of DNA (copying chromosomes) but also the preparation for cell division and subsequent division itself. This process is essential for growth, development, and tissue repair in multicellular organisms.

During the cell cycle, cells go through interphase, which encompasses stages where the cell grows and duplicates its DNA, preparing for mitosis (the actual division of the cell). After interphase, the next phase is mitosis, where the duplicated chromosomes are separated into two new nuclei, followed by cytokinesis which divides the cytoplasm, resulting in two daughter cells.

The mention of 'cell specialization' is an important aspect that can occur during or after the cell cycle, particularly in multicellular organisms where cells may differentiate into specialized types with specific functions. This indicates the dynamic nature of the cycle that goes beyond simple cell division.

In contrast to the other options:

- Some cells may divide when they reach a certain size, but this is not the entire scope of the cell cycle.

- While the cycle concludes with cell division, it does not inherently describe a sequence that leads straight to cell death.

- The cell cycle applies broadly to somatic (body)