DNA Replication in E. coli

Practice flashcards for the topic of DNA replication, focusing on key concepts, enzymes, and processes involved.

What is the structure that forms during DNA replication where the DNA unwinds and separates?

Replication fork.

What is the function of DNA polymerase (DNA pol III) in DNA replication?

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

What are Okazaki fragments?

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

What enzyme synthesizes the RNA primer needed for DNA replication?

Primase.

What are the two types of strands being synthesized during DNA replication?

Leading strand and lagging strand.

What is the role of DNA ligase in DNA replication?

It joins together Okazaki fragments and links newly synthesized DNA.

What is formed at the end of DNA replication?

Two identical DNA molecules.

Which bacterium is used as a model organism in studying DNA replication?

E. coli.

What is the direction of synthesis for the leading strand?

5' to 3' direction.

What happens to RNA during DNA replication when DNA polymerase I is involved?

DNA polymerase I removes RNA primers and replaces them with DNA.