DNA Replication

What is semi-conservative DNA replication?

A method of DNA replication where each new DNA molecule contains one original strand and one new strand

Why does semi-conservative replication ensure genetic continuity?

It ensures genetic information is passed accurately between cell generations

What happens to the original DNA strands during replication?

They separate and act as templates

Which enzyme separates the DNA strands?

DNA helicase

What does DNA helicase do?

Breaks hydrogen bonds between complementary bases

Which bonds are broken during DNA replication?

Hydrogen bonds

What is a template strand?

An original DNA strand used to build a new complementary strand

What happens after the DNA strands separate?

Free nucleotides pair with complementary bases on the template strand

What type of base pairing occurs during replication?

Complementary base pairing

Which enzyme joins nucleotides together?

DNA polymerase

What bond does DNA polymerase form between nucleotides?

Phosphodiester bonds

What are activated nucleotides?

Nucleotides with sufficient energy to form phosphodiester bonds

What is the final result of DNA replication?

Two identical DNA molecules

How many original strands are in each new DNA molecule?

One

How many newly synthesised strands are in each DNA molecule?

One

Why are the two DNA molecules identical?

Because complementary base pairing ensures accurate copying