What is the term for the regular sequence of growth and division that cells undergo?

The term that describes the regular sequence of growth and division that cells undergo is the cell cycle. The cell cycle encompasses all the stages a cell goes through from its formation until it divides into two daughter cells. This includes distinct phases such as interphase (which consists of G1, S, and G2 phases where the cell grows and DNA is replicated) and mitotic phase (where cell division occurs).

Other terms associated with cellular processes are related but refer to different aspects. Cell division specifically pertains to the process of a cell splitting into two, which is just one part of the overall cell cycle. Cell differentiation refers to the process by which cells become specialized in structure and function, leading to the development of various cell types. Cell proliferation generally describes the rapid increase in the number of cells, often related to division rates, but does not encompass the entire series of events in the cell cycle. Thus, the most accurate term for the entire process of growth and division is the cell cycle.