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Multiple Choice
How does DNA polymerase help prevent mutations during DNA replication?
A
By unwinding the DNA helix
B
By synthesizing RNA primers
C
By adding nucleotides randomly
D
By proofreading and correcting errors
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of DNA polymerase in DNA replication: DNA polymerase is an enzyme that synthesizes new DNA strands by adding nucleotides complementary to the template strand.
Recognize the importance of accuracy in DNA replication: Accurate DNA replication is crucial to prevent mutations, which can lead to genetic disorders or cell malfunction.
Learn about the proofreading function of DNA polymerase: DNA polymerase has a proofreading ability, which means it can detect and correct errors during DNA synthesis.
Explore how proofreading works: As DNA polymerase adds nucleotides, it checks each newly added nucleotide against the template strand. If an incorrect nucleotide is added, the enzyme can remove it and replace it with the correct one.
Understand the impact of proofreading on mutation prevention: By correcting errors during replication, DNA polymerase significantly reduces the rate of mutations, ensuring the genetic information is accurately passed on to daughter cells.