Final answer:
DNA polymerase is a protein (A) that adds nucleotides to form a complementary DNA strand during replication, utilizing the energy from nucleotide phosphate bonds. In prokaryotes, examples include DNA pol I, DNA pol II, and DNA pol III.
Step-by-step explanation:
- During DNA replication, the enzyme known as DNA polymerase plays a crucial role in bonding nucleotides to form the complementary strand of DNA.
- DNA polymerase is a type of biomolecule classified under the category of proteins.
- These proteins perform most actions carried out by organisms, including various biochemical reactions and processes.
- Specifically, DNA polymerases are responsible for adding nucleotides in a sequential manner, using energy derived from the nucleotides themselves, which have three phosphate groups attached, much like ATP.
- DNA polymerases in prokaryotes are exemplified by DNA pol I, DNA pol II, and DNA pol III, with DNA pol III being essential for DNA synthesis, and the other two primarily involved in repair mechanisms.