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Multiple Choice
Which enzyme is primarily responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands during DNA replication?
A
Helicase
B
DNA polymerase
C
Ligase
D
RNA polymerase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of DNA replication: DNA replication is the process by which a cell duplicates its DNA, creating two identical copies. This process is essential for cell division.
Identify the role of each enzyme listed: Helicase unwinds the DNA double helix, RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA, and ligase joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand.
Focus on the enzyme responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands: DNA polymerase is the enzyme that adds nucleotides to a growing DNA strand, using the original strand as a template.
Recognize the function of DNA polymerase: DNA polymerase reads the template strand and incorporates complementary nucleotides to form a new strand, ensuring accurate replication of the genetic material.
Conclude that DNA polymerase is the enzyme primarily responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands during DNA replication, as it directly catalyzes the formation of the DNA molecule.