D theme d1.2 Flashcards
(12 cards)
To make RNA, how many strands of DNA are used?
Only one strand of DNA is used — it’s called the template strand.
Which enzyme is responsible for making RNA?
RNA polymerase builds the RNA strand.
How is transcription different from DNA replication?
Unlike DNA replication (which copies the whole genome), transcription only copies a specific gene.
Where does RNA polymerase begin?
It begins at the start of a gene and moves along it, building RNA in steps.
What are the steps of transcription?
- RNA polymerase unwinds the DNA. 2. It separates the strands and exposes the bases on the template strand.
Does RNA polymerase unwind the whole DNA at once?
No, it only unwinds small sections at a time.
What RNA bases does RNA polymerase use?
It uses A, U, C, and G to pair with DNA bases using complementary base pairing.
What kind of bonds form between RNA nucleotides?
Strong covalent bonds form between the sugar and phosphate groups of RNA nucleotides.
What happens to the RNA strand after it’s built?
The RNA strand detaches from the DNA.
What happens to the DNA after transcription?
The DNA reforms back into its double helix structure.
