During which phase does a cell primarily grow and perform normal metabolic functions?

The cell primarily grows and performs normal metabolic functions during the G₁ phase of the cell cycle. This phase follows cytokinesis, which is the final step of cell division. G₁ stands for "Gap 1," and during this time, the cell increases in size and synthesizes proteins necessary for DNA replication and other functions. It is a period of intense metabolic activity where the cell carries out its regular functions, prepares for DNA synthesis, and checks for any damage to its DNA.

In contrast, the G₂ phase, while also a growth phase, is more focused on preparing for mitosis, including the synthesis of proteins required for cell division. The S phase is specifically dedicated to DNA synthesis, where the cell replicates its genetic material. The M phase, or mitosis, is where actual cell division occurs, resulting in the formation of two daughter cells. Therefore, G₁ is characterized distinctly by growth and regular metabolic activities, making it the correct answer.