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Multiple Choice
Why are enzymes necessary for the process of DNA replication?
A
They catalyze the unwinding and synthesis of new DNA strands, increasing the speed and accuracy of replication.
B
They act as structural components of the DNA double helix.
C
They prevent the DNA from being transcribed into RNA.
D
They provide the energy required to break the hydrogen bonds between DNA bases.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes in biological processes: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. In DNA replication, enzymes play a critical role in facilitating the unwinding and synthesis of new DNA strands.
Identify the key enzymes involved in DNA replication: Helicase is responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix by breaking the hydrogen bonds between complementary bases. DNA polymerase synthesizes new DNA strands by adding nucleotides to the growing chain, ensuring accuracy through proofreading mechanisms.
Analyze the incorrect options: Enzymes do not act as structural components of the DNA double helix, nor do they prevent DNA from being transcribed into RNA. Additionally, enzymes do not directly provide energy to break hydrogen bonds; instead, they catalyze the process efficiently.
Focus on the correct explanation: Enzymes catalyze the unwinding of the DNA double helix and the synthesis of new strands, increasing the speed and accuracy of replication. This is essential for maintaining genetic fidelity during cell division.
Summarize the importance of enzymes in DNA replication: Without enzymes, the process of DNA replication would be too slow and error-prone to sustain life. Their catalytic activity ensures that replication occurs rapidly and with high fidelity, which is crucial for cellular function and inheritance.