Final answer:
The key structural features of the DNA molecule that allow for faithful replication are the double-helix structure, complementary base pairing, and semi-conservative replication.
Step-by-step explanation:
The key structural features of the DNA molecule that underlie its ability to be faithfully replicated are:
- The double-helix structure, where two complementary strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between nucleotides.
- The complementary base pairing rule, where adenine (A) always pairs with thymine (T) and guanine (G) always pairs with cytosine (C).
- The semi-conservative nature of replication, where each daughter DNA molecule contains one strand from the parent molecule and one newly synthesized strand.
These structural features allow for the accurate replication of the DNA molecule during cell division, ensuring the faithful transmission of genetic information.