What phase of somatic cell division is characterized by DNA replication without cell division?

The phase of somatic cell division characterized by DNA replication without cell division is interphase. During interphase, the cell prepares for division by undergoing several critical processes. The most notable of these is the S phase, where the DNA is replicated, resulting in two identical copies of each chromosome. This preparation is essential because it ensures that when the cell eventually divides, each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.

Interphase is divided into three main phases: G1 (the first gap phase), S (synthesis phase, where DNA replication occurs), and G2 (the second gap phase, where the cell prepares for mitosis). Unlike stages such as prophase, anaphase, and metaphase, which are all part of mitosis involving the actual division of the cell and its genetic material, interphase is primarily focused on the preparation and replication processes that occur before cell division begins. This is critical for maintaining genetic consistency and integrity in the resulting daughter cells.