Final answer:
The 3' end of a DNA strand refers to the end with a free hydroxyl group on the sugar molecule.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a DNA strand, the 3' end refers to the end that has a free hydroxyl group on the sugar molecule. The 5' end refers to the end that has a free phosphate group on the sugar molecule.
The 3' end is where the new nucleotides are added during DNA replication.