Multiple Choice
In the overview of DNA replication, what is the primary role of DNA helicase?
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8. DNA Replication
Overview of DNA Replication
Multiple Choice
In an overview of DNA replication, what is the primary role of DNA polymerase?
A
It joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand by forming phosphodiester bonds between fragments.
B
It lays down short RNA primers to provide a free 3′-OH for DNA synthesis to begin.
C
It synthesizes a new DNA strand by adding nucleotides to the 3′ end using the template strand as a guide.
D
It unwinds the DNA double helix at the replication fork by breaking hydrogen bonds between base pairs.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the overall process of DNA replication, which involves unwinding the DNA, laying down primers, synthesizing new DNA strands, and joining fragments.
Identify the specific function of DNA polymerase among the enzymes involved in replication. DNA polymerase is responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands.
Recall that DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the 3′ end of a growing DNA strand, using the original template strand to guide the sequence.
Differentiate DNA polymerase's role from other enzymes: helicase unwinds the DNA, primase lays down RNA primers, and 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, following the template strand.
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