Multiple Choice
In DNA replication, what is the primary function of DNA polymerase?
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8. DNA Replication
Overview of DNA Replication
Multiple Choice
In the overview of DNA replication, what is the primary role of DNA polymerase?
A
It unwinds the parental double helix by breaking hydrogen bonds between base pairs at the replication fork.
B
It synthesizes a new DNA strand by adding nucleotides to the 3′ end, extending from an RNA primer using the template strand.
C
It lays down short RNA primers to provide a free 3′-OH for DNA synthesis to begin.
D
It joins Okazaki fragments together by forming phosphodiester bonds between adjacent DNA fragments.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the main function of DNA polymerase in DNA replication by understanding the roles of different enzymes involved in the process.
Recall that DNA polymerase is responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands by adding nucleotides complementary to the template strand.
Understand that DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides to the 3′ end of an existing strand, which means it extends from an RNA primer that provides a free 3′-OH group.
Differentiate DNA polymerase's role from other enzymes: helicase unwinds the DNA, primase lays down RNA primers, and DNA ligase joins Okazaki fragments.
Conclude that the primary role of DNA polymerase is to synthesize a new DNA strand by adding nucleotides to the 3′ end, extending from an RNA primer using the template strand.
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