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Multiple Choice
Which enzyme is responsible for unzipping the DNA during replication, and what type of bonds does it break?
A
Ligase; ionic bonds
B
DNA polymerase; covalent bonds
C
Helicase; hydrogen bonds
D
Topoisomerase; peptide bonds
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of DNA replication: DNA replication is the process by which a double-stranded DNA molecule is copied to produce two identical DNA molecules. It is a critical process that occurs in all living organisms to ensure that genetic information is passed on during cell division.
Identify the role of enzymes in DNA replication: Several enzymes are involved in DNA replication, each with a specific function. The key enzymes include helicase, DNA polymerase, ligase, and topoisomerase.
Focus on the enzyme responsible for 'unzipping' the DNA: During replication, the double-stranded DNA must be separated into two single strands to serve as templates for replication. This 'unzipping' is necessary to expose the nucleotide bases for pairing.
Determine which enzyme breaks the bonds between DNA strands: The enzyme helicase is responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix by breaking the hydrogen bonds between the complementary bases (adenine-thymine and guanine-cytosine) that hold the two strands together.
Clarify the type of bonds broken by helicase: The bonds that helicase breaks are hydrogen bonds, which are weak interactions between the nitrogenous bases of the DNA strands. These bonds are not covalent, ionic, or peptide bonds, which are involved in other biological processes.