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Multiple Choice
Which of the following enzymes can unwind the DNA double helix?
A
Helicase
B
Primase
C
Ligase
D
DNA polymerase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is a double helix formed by two strands of nucleotides. These strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary bases.
Identify the role of each enzyme listed: Helicase, Primase, Ligase, and DNA Polymerase, in the process of DNA replication.
Helicase: This enzyme is responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix by breaking the hydrogen bonds between the base pairs, creating two single strands that can be used as templates for replication.
Primase: This enzyme synthesizes a short RNA primer that provides a starting point for DNA synthesis.
Ligase: This enzyme joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand, sealing nicks in the sugar-phosphate backbone of the DNA.