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Multiple Choice
Which enzyme is responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix during replication?
A
Ligase
B
DNA polymerase
C
Primase
D
Helicase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of DNA replication: DNA replication is the process by which a cell duplicates its DNA, resulting in two identical copies. This process is essential for cell division.
Identify the role of enzymes in DNA replication: Several enzymes are involved in DNA replication, each with a specific function. Helicase, DNA polymerase, ligase, and primase are key enzymes in this process.
Focus on the unwinding of the DNA double helix: During replication, the DNA double helix must be unwound to allow the replication machinery to access the strands. This unwinding is crucial for the replication process.
Determine which enzyme unwinds the DNA: Helicase is the enzyme responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix. It breaks the hydrogen bonds between the nucleotide pairs, separating the two strands and allowing replication to proceed.
Differentiate between the functions of other enzymes: DNA polymerase synthesizes new DNA strands by adding nucleotides, ligase joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand, and primase synthesizes RNA primers needed for DNA polymerase to start replication.