DNA Replication

Front

What is DNA replication?

Back

DNA replication is the process by which a cell makes an exact copy of its DNA, allowing genetic information to be passed on during cell division.

Front

What are the main enzymes involved in DNA replication?

Back

The main enzymes involved in DNA replication are DNA helicase (unzips the DNA), DNA polymerase (adds nucleotides to form a new strand), and DNA ligase (joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand).

Front

What is a nucleotide?

Back

A nucleotide is the basic building block of DNA and RNA, consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

Front

What are the four nitrogenous bases in DNA?

Back

The four nitrogenous bases in DNA are adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G).

Front

What is the base pairing rule in DNA?

Back

The base pairing rule states that adenine pairs with thymine (A-T) and cytosine pairs with guanine (C-G) in DNA.

Front

What is the significance of the replication fork?

Back

The replication fork is the area where the DNA double helix is unwound, allowing the replication process to occur.

Front

What is the difference between leading and lagging strands?

Back

The leading strand is synthesized continuously in the direction of the replication fork, while the lagging strand is synthesized in short segments (Okazaki fragments) away from the fork.

Front

What role does DNA ligase play in DNA replication?

Back

DNA ligase is an enzyme that joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand, sealing the gaps between them to create a continuous DNA strand.

Front

What is semi-conservative replication?

Back

Semi-conservative replication is the method of DNA replication in which each new DNA molecule consists of one original strand and one newly synthesized strand.

Front

How does DNA replication differ in prokaryotes and eukaryotes?

Back

In prokaryotes, DNA replication occurs in the cytoplasm and is typically faster, while in eukaryotes, it occurs in the nucleus and involves more complex regulation.