Define DNA replication.
The process by which a cell makes an identical copy of its DNA.
True or false: DNA replication occurs during interphase.
TRUE
Interphase is the phase of the cell cycle where DNA is replicated.
What enzyme unwinds the DNA double helix?
Helicase
Fill in the blank: DNA polymerase synthesizes new DNA strands from _______.
Nucleotides
Define leading strand.
The DNA strand that is synthesized continuously in the 5’ to 3’ direction.
What is the function of primase?
To synthesize a short RNA primer for DNA replication.
True or false: The lagging strand is synthesized continuously.
FALSE
The lagging strand is synthesized in short segments called Okazaki fragments.
What are Okazaki fragments?
Short segments of DNA synthesized on the lagging strand.
Fill in the blank: DNA ligase joins _______ together.
Okazaki fragments
Define semi-conservative replication.
Each new DNA molecule consists of one original strand and one new strand.
What is the role of single-strand binding proteins?
To stabilize unwound DNA strands during replication.
True or false: DNA replication is a bidirectional process.
TRUE
Replication occurs in both directions from the origin of replication.
What is the origin of replication?
The specific location where DNA replication begins.
Fill in the blank: Nucleotides are made of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a _______.
Nitrogenous base
Define antiparallel strands.
The two strands of DNA run in opposite directions.
What is the function of topoisomerase?
To relieve the strain of unwinding DNA during replication.
True or false: RNA primers are replaced with DNA after replication.
TRUE
RNA primers are removed and replaced by DNA nucleotides.
What is the role of telomerase?
To extend the telomeres of chromosomes during replication.
Fill in the blank: The template strand is used to synthesize a _______.
Complementary strand
Define replication fork.
The Y-shaped region where DNA is split into two strands.
What is the purpose of proofreading during DNA replication?
To correct errors in DNA synthesis.
True or false: DNA replication occurs at a constant rate in all organisms.
FALSE
The rate of replication can vary significantly among different organisms.
What are nucleotides composed of?
A sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
Fill in the blank: Adenine pairs with _______ in DNA.
Thymine
