Question

How DNA polymerase, the double helix structure of DNA, and the base-pairing rules work together to produce two identical copies fo the original DNA molecule

Answer 1

DNA structure, function and replication. DNA is a long molecule that consists of two strands of nucleotides twisted together in a long spiral called a double helix, the base-pairing rules describe which bases pair together in a DNA double helix, work together to produce two identical copies of the original DNA molecule=DNA structure; DNA funcution; RNA; replication; transcription; translation; the two strands are wound round each other to form a double helix. The two strands. Are joined together by hydrogen bonds between the bases, before every cell divison, so that one identical copy can go to each daughter cell =because the two strands of a DNA molcule have complementary base pairs, the nucleotide each can be used as a pattern or template to produce a complementary strand together then form a new DNA double helix, identical to the orginal. The enzyme DNA polymerase then moves along the exposed DNA strand

Answer 2

The identical copies of DNA are produced through a process called DNA replication which takes place through S phase of the cell cycle. DNA replication is an enzyme-mediated process like DNA helicase, primase, polymerase which also uses ATP.

Double helical structure: both the strands of DNA acts as a template for the synthesis of new strands where one acts as a leading strand(3'→ 5') and one acts as lagging strand (5'→3').

DNA polymerase: Binds to the unwinded DNA after the action of helicase and adds nucleotides to the growing DNA chain using ATP. It also exhibits a proofreading mechanism.

Base-pair rule: Given by Chargaff, stated that adenine binds to thymine and guanine binds to cytosine in the complementary strand.