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Multiple Choice
What is the role of the helicase enzyme in DNA replication?
A
It adds RNA primers to the DNA template.
B
It synthesizes new DNA strands.
C
It joins Okazaki fragments together.
D
It unwinds the DNA double helix.
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 helicase: Helicase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in DNA replication by unwinding the DNA double helix. This unwinding is necessary to expose the two single strands of DNA, which serve as templates for the synthesis of new DNA strands.
Differentiate between the roles of other enzymes: Recognize that other enzymes are involved in DNA replication, such as primase, which adds RNA primers, DNA polymerase, which synthesizes new DNA strands, and ligase, which joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand.
Visualize the unwinding process: Imagine the DNA double helix as a twisted ladder. Helicase moves along the DNA, breaking the hydrogen bonds between the base pairs, effectively 'unzipping' the ladder into two single strands.
Connect the role of helicase to the overall replication process: By unwinding the DNA, helicase allows other enzymes to access the single strands and perform their functions, ensuring accurate and efficient replication of the DNA.