DNA Replication Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is DNA Replication?

The process of making identical copies of DNA before cell division (correct)

The process of converting DNA to RNA

The replication of RNA molecules

A method of DNA degradation

What is a replication fork?

A Y-shaped point that results when the two strands of a DNA double helix separate.

What is semiconservative replication?

A method of DNA replication in which parental strands separate and act as templates.

What is the role of helicase in DNA replication?

An enzyme that unwinds the double helix of DNA and separates the DNA strands. Signup and view all the answers

What is DNA Polymerase?

An enzyme that builds the complementary strand in DNA replication. Signup and view all the answers

What is the leading strand?

The newly forming daughter strand of DNA replicated in a continuous fashion. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of DNA ligase?

The enzyme which connects the individual okazaki fragments on the lagging strand. Signup and view all the answers

What does double helix refer to in DNA?

The shape of DNA, referring to its two adjacent polynucleotide strands wound into a spiral shape. Signup and view all the answers

What is a hydrogen bond?

A weak chemical bond that holds the DNA molecules together. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

DNA Replication

DNA replication is the process of creating identical copies of DNA prior to cell division.
This ensures that each daughter cell inherits an exact copy of the genetic material.

Replication Fork

A replication fork forms as two strands of the DNA double helix unwind, creating a Y-shaped structure.
This fork is essential for the DNA replication process, allowing access to each strand for copying.

Semiconservative Replication

The semiconservative model of replication suggests that each new DNA molecule consists of one original parental strand and one newly synthesized daughter strand.
This method preserves half of the original DNA in each replication cycle.

Helicase

Helicase is an enzyme that unzips the double helix of DNA, separating the two strands.
This unwinding is a critical preparatory step for DNA replication.

DNA Polymerase

DNA polymerase is the enzyme responsible for synthesizing the new complementary strand during DNA replication.
It reads the existing strands and adds the appropriate nucleotides.

Leading Strand

The leading strand is synthesized continuously in the same direction that the parental DNA unwinds.
This results in a faster replication process compared to the lagging strand.

DNA Ligase

DNA ligase is the enzyme that connects individual Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand.
It forms covalent bonds to seal gaps between these fragments, ensuring the integrity of the new DNA strand.

Double Helix

The double helix structure of DNA consists of two adjacent polynucleotide strands coiled around each other.
This shape is crucial for the stability and function of DNA.

Hydrogen Bond

Hydrogen bonds are weak chemical bonds that form between the slightly positive hydrogen atom of one polar molecule and the slightly negative atom of another.
In DNA, these bonds hold the two strands together, allowing for the separation needed during replication.

Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of DNA replication through these flashcards. Each card features key terms such as 'replication fork' and 'semiconservative replication', along with their definitions to enrich your understanding of this critical biological process.