What is the primary enzyme responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands during replication?
Analysis & Theory
DNA polymerase adds new nucleotides to the growing DNA strand during replication.
Which enzyme unwinds the DNA double helix during replication?
Analysis & Theory
Helicase breaks the hydrogen bonds between base pairs, unwinding the double helix.
In which direction is the new DNA strand synthesized?
D
Both directions simultaneously
Analysis & Theory
DNA strands are synthesized in the 5' to 3' direction.
What are Okazaki fragments?
B
Short DNA fragments on the lagging strand
Analysis & Theory
On the lagging strand, DNA is synthesized in short fragments called Okazaki fragments.
Which enzyme joins Okazaki fragments together?
Analysis & Theory
DNA ligase forms phosphodiester bonds between Okazaki fragments.
Which enzyme synthesizes the RNA primer required for DNA replication?
Analysis & Theory
Primase creates short RNA primers that initiate DNA synthesis.
What is the role of topoisomerase during DNA replication?
Analysis & Theory
Topoisomerase relieves strain by cutting and rejoining DNA to prevent supercoiling.
Replication is called semiconservative because:
A
Each new DNA molecule has one old and one new strand
B
Only one strand is copied
C
DNA replicates only once
D
Both strands are newly formed
Analysis & Theory
In semiconservative replication, each daughter molecule consists of one original and one new strand.
Where does DNA replication begin in prokaryotes?
C
At origin of replication
Analysis & Theory
Replication in prokaryotes begins at a single origin of replication.
Which strand is synthesized continuously during DNA replication?
Analysis & Theory
The leading strand is synthesized continuously in the 5' to 3' direction.