Multiple Choice
Based on the graph showing the incorporation of radioactive nucleotides during DNA replication, which conclusion is best supported?
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14. DNA Synthesis
Introduction to DNA Replication
Multiple Choice
Which enzyme is primarily responsible for attaching nucleotides to form a complementary strand of DNA during replication?
A
Primase
B
Ligase
C
DNA polymerase
D
Helicase
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the process of DNA replication: DNA replication is the process by which a DNA molecule is copied to produce two identical DNA molecules. This involves several enzymes, each with a specific role.
Identify the role of DNA polymerase: DNA polymerase is the enzyme responsible for adding nucleotides to the growing DNA strand. It reads the template strand and attaches complementary nucleotides (A pairs with T, and G pairs with C).
Differentiate the roles of other enzymes: Primase synthesizes a short RNA primer to provide a starting point for DNA polymerase. Helicase unwinds the DNA double helix, and ligase seals gaps between DNA fragments on the lagging strand.
Focus on the complementary strand formation: DNA polymerase extends the new strand by adding nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction, using the template strand as a guide.
Conclude that DNA polymerase is the enzyme primarily responsible for attaching nucleotides to form a complementary strand of DNA during replication.
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