AP Biology - DNA Replication

Front

What is the role of DNA polymerase in DNA replication?

Back

DNA polymerase synthesizes new DNA strands by adding nucleotides complementary to the template strand.

Front

What is the first step in the process of DNA replication?

Back

The unwinding of parental DNA by helicase.

Front

In which direction is a new strand of DNA synthesized during replication?

Back

5' to 3' direction.

Front

What is the primary purpose of DNA replication?

Back

To create two identical molecules of DNA.

Front

Which strand is synthesized continuously during DNA replication?

Back

The leading strand.

Front

What is the lagging strand?

Back

The strand that is synthesized in short segments (Okazaki fragments) away from the replication fork.

Front

What enzyme seals the nicks between short DNA sections on the lagging strand?

Back

DNA ligase.

Front

What is the function of RNA primers in DNA replication?

Back

RNA primers provide a starting point for DNA polymerase to begin synthesis.

Front

What is the role of helicase in DNA replication?

Back

Helicase unwinds the double helix of DNA, separating the two strands.

Front

What are Okazaki fragments?

Back

Short segments of DNA synthesized on the lagging strand during DNA replication.