In which phase does DNA synthesis occur?

DNA synthesis occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle, which stands for "Synthesis phase." This phase is characterized by the replication of the entire DNA content of the cell, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes when the cell divides.

During the S phase, the cell prepares for mitosis by duplicating its genetic material, which is crucial for maintaining genetic stability across cell generations. The proteins and enzymes involved in DNA replication, such as DNA polymerases, are active during this phase to facilitate this process.

In contrast, the G1 phase is primarily focused on cell growth and preparation for DNA synthesis, while Anaphase and Metaphase, which are stages of mitosis, involve the separation and alignment of chromosomes but do not involve DNA synthesis. Thus, the S phase is specifically dedicated to the synthesis of DNA, making it the correct choice for this question.