Interphase is the period between cell divisions. During this time, chromosomes replicate—each DNA strand unzips into two strands while free-floating bases attach to the unzipped strands.

The most obvious difference between interphase and mitosis involves the appearance of a cell's chromosomes. During interphase, individual chromosomes are not visible, and the chromatin appears ...

Interphase The cell spends most of its life in this phase. The DNA in chromosomes copies itself ready for mitosis. Prophase The DNA in chromosomes and their copies condenses to become more visible.