Module 32 Terms - DNA Replication

Question 1

Replication fork

Answer 1

The site where the two strands of the parental DNA double helix unwinds and separates into single strands

Question 2

Semiconservative replication

Answer 2

Each new DNA molecule consists of one strands that was originally part of the parental molecule and one newly synthesized strand

Question 3

Helicase

Answer 3

An enzyme that separates the strands of the parental double helix by breaking hydrogen bonds holding the base pairs together

Question 4

Topoisomerase

Answer 4

An enzyme that works upstream from the replication fork to relieve the stress that results from unwinding the double helix at the replication fork

Question 5

DNA polymerase

Answer 5

An enzyme that makes copies of DNA and therefore carries out DNA replication

Question 6

Primer

Answer 6

A short stretch of RNA that serves as a starter for DNA synthesis

Question 7

Leading strand

Answer 7

The DAUGHTER strand whose 3’ end is pointed toward the replication fork. This strand can be synthesized as one long, continuous polymer

Question 8

Lagging strand

Answer 8

The daughter strand whose 3’ end is pointed away from the replication fork. This strand is synthesized in relatively short, discontinuous pieces known as Okazaki fragments

Question 9

DNA ligase

Answer 9

Joins adjacent DNA fragments in the lagging strand

Question 10

Proofreading

Answer 10

A process by which DNA polymerase can immediately correct its own errors