Final answer:
DNA replication is the process of duplicating a cell's DNA, involving enzymes like helicase and DNA polymerase. The complementary strands are separated and act as templates for creating new antiparallel strands through complementary base pairing. This preserves the double helix structure and genetic information for the daughter cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
DNA Replication Process
DNA replication is a critical process by which a cell duplicates its DNA. The DNA is composed of two complementary strands oriented antiparallel to each other with phosphodiester backbones on the exterior and the nitrogenous bases facing inward. Replication starts with the enzyme helicase catalyzing the breakage of hydrogen bonds between the nitrogenous bases, resulting in the DNA unzipping.
Each single strand then serves as a template for new strand synthesis. The enzyme DNA polymerase adds new complementary nucleotides to the original strand: adenine with thymine, and guanine with cytosine. One strand, the leading strand, is synthesized continuously towards the replication fork. The other, the lagging strand, is synthesized in short segments known as Okazaki fragments, which are later joined by DNA ligase.
The original strand and the new complementary strand together form a new double helix, ensuring that each daughter cell receives accurate genetic information. The complementary base pairing is critical for maintaining the double helix structure and ensuring accurate replication.