Which phase of the cell cycle is characterized by the production of two distinct nuclei?

The phase of the cell cycle characterized by the production of two distinct nuclei is known as telophase. During telophase, the chromatids that have been separated during anaphase begin to de-condense back into chromatin, and the nuclear membrane reforms around each set of chromosomes. This process effectively leads to the creation of two separate nuclei within the cell. As the cell prepares to complete division, these newly formed nuclei will each contain an identical set of chromosomes, establishing the foundation for two daughter cells.

In contrast, anaphase is primarily focused on the separation of sister chromatids, while metaphase is the stage where chromosomes align in the center of the cell. Interphase is a preparatory phase where the cell grows and replicates its DNA, but it is not involved in the actual division of the nucleus. Thus, telophase specifically marks the moment when the distinct nuclei are formed, making it the correct choice for this question.