DNA Replication: Copying the Molecule of Life

The video explains DNA replication, detailing the structure of DNA and the process by which it is copied. It covers the roles of various enzymes, such as helicase, topoisomerase, primase, and DNA polymerase, in unwinding the DNA, initiating replication, and synthesizing new strands. The video also distinguishes between the leading and lagging strands, highlighting the formation of Okazaki fragments. Finally, it discusses the accuracy of DNA replication, including proofreading and error correction mechanisms, ensuring minimal mutations.

What is the primary function of DNA replication in cell division?

• To produce energy for the cell

• To create new proteins

• To ensure each new cell has a complete set of genetic material

• To repair damaged DNA

Which enzyme is responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix?

• Primase

• Topoisomerase

• Ligase

• Helicase

What role does primase play in DNA replication?

• It synthesizes RNA primers

• It joins Okazaki fragments

• It proofreads the DNA sequence

• It unwinds the DNA strands

How does DNA polymerase III function differently on the leading and lagging strands?

• It synthesizes in fragments on both strands

• It synthesizes continuously on both strands

• It only synthesizes on the leading strand

• It synthesizes continuously on the leading strand and in fragments on the lagging strand

What are Okazaki fragments?

• Short RNA sequences synthesized during transcription

• Short protein sequences synthesized during translation

• Short DNA sequences synthesized on the leading strand

• Short DNA sequences synthesized on the lagging strand

Which enzyme is responsible for replacing RNA primers with DNA nucleotides?

• DNA polymerase I

• Helicase

• DNA polymerase III

• Ligase

What process allows DNA polymerase to correct its mistakes during replication?

• Mismatch repair

• Proofreading

• Transcription

• Translation