What is the main purpose of the cell cycle?

The main purpose of the cell cycle is to allow for cell growth and division. This process is essential for the development, reproduction, and maintenance of living organisms. During the cell cycle, a cell undergoes a series of stages that include growth, DNA replication, and cell division (mitosis or meiosis).

The cycle begins with the interphase, where the cell grows and prepares for division, followed by mitosis, where the nucleus divides, and cytokinesis, where the cytoplasm is divided to form two daughter cells. This cycle ensures that each new cell receives an identical set of genetic material, which is crucial for maintaining the organism's genetic integrity.

Understanding the cell cycle is fundamental in fields such as developmental biology, cancer research, and regenerative medicine, as disruptions in the cycle can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, as seen in tumors. Other options, while related to cellular function, do not encapsulate the overall purpose of the cell cycle as effectively as the one focused on growth and division.