Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
The process by which a new DNA strand is formed from an "old" strand of DNA is called DNA replication. During DNA replication, the two strands of DNA that make up the double helix unwind and separate. Each separated strand serves as a template for the creation of a new complementary strand.
The enzymes responsible for DNA replication, called DNA polymerases, attach to the separated strands and begin building new strands of DNA by adding complementary nucleotides. The nucleotides that are added are determined by the base-pairing rules: adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T) and guanine (G) pairs with cytosine (C).
The new strand is synthesized in the 5' to 3' direction, which means that nucleotides are added to the 3' end of the growing strand. The DNA polymerase moves along the template strand in the 3' to 5' direction, adding nucleotides to the 3' end of the growing strand.
As the new strand is being synthesized, it is continuously paired with the old template strand, which serves as a guide for the DNA polymerase. The end result is two identical DNA molecules, each with one "old" and one "new" strand.
To conclude, the process of DNA replication allows for the faithful transmission of genetic information from one generation of cells to the next, ensuring that each new cell has a complete and accurate copy of the genetic material.