During which stage does the DNA replicate before cell division occurs?

The correct choice is interphase, as this is the stage of the cell cycle where DNA replication occurs. Interphase is divided into three phases: G1 (first gap), S (synthesis), and G2 (second gap). It is during the S phase that the replication of DNA takes place, preparing the cell for division.

This process is critical because each daughter cell must receive a complete set of DNA. If DNA replication did not occur during interphase, one or both daughter cells may end up with an incomplete or incorrect amount of genetic material, which could lead to malfunction or disease.

In contrast, the other phases mentioned—prophase, telophase, and anaphase—are stages that occur during mitosis and are involved in the segregation of the chromosomes after DNA has been replicated. Therefore, interphase is the key phase for DNA replication in preparation for cell division.