During which phase does a cell intake nutrients before division?

The correct choice is interphase because this phase is the period of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division. During interphase, the cell undergoes critical growth and metabolic processes, which include the intake and processing of nutrients. This phase consists of three stages: G1 (first gap), S (synthesis), and G2 (second gap).

In the G1 phase, the cell grows and synthesizes proteins, producing organelles and increasing the supply of proteins necessary for DNA replication. Nutrients from the environment are absorbed, providing the necessary materials for these processes. In the S phase, DNA replication occurs, ensuring that each daughter cell will have an identical set of chromosomes. By the end of interphase, during the G2 phase, the cell continues to grow and produces additional proteins and organelles in preparation for mitosis.

In contrast, the other phases such as metaphase, anaphase, and telophase occur during mitosis, where the actual process of cell division takes place, focusing on segregating chromosomes rather than nutrient intake. Thus, interphase is critical for ensuring that the cell has the necessary resources and preparations before it divides.