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Multiple Choice
Which enzyme breaks the hydrogen bonds between DNA strands during replication?
A
Helicase
B
Primase
C
DNA polymerase
D
Ligase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of DNA replication: DNA replication is the process by which a double-stranded DNA molecule is copied to produce two identical DNA molecules. It is a critical process that occurs in all living organisms to ensure that each new cell receives an exact copy of the DNA.
Identify the role of enzymes in DNA replication: Several enzymes are involved in DNA replication, each with a specific function. These include helicase, primase, DNA polymerase, and ligase.
Focus on the function of helicase: Helicase is the enzyme responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix. It breaks the hydrogen bonds between the complementary base pairs, separating the two strands to allow each strand to be copied.
Differentiate the roles of other enzymes: Primase synthesizes a short RNA primer to provide a starting point for DNA polymerase. DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand. Ligase joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand.
Conclude that helicase is the enzyme that breaks the hydrogen bonds between DNA strands during replication, allowing the strands to separate and replication to proceed.