Final answer:
Telomeres contain repeated nucleotide sequences that cap the ends of chromosomes and prevent them from being recognized as broken DNA in need of repair. Telomeres also allow for the replication and separation of duplicated chromosomes during the M phase of the cell cycle. Hence the correct answer is option C
Step-by-step explanation:
Telomeres are repetitive sequences found at the ends of linear chromosomes, consisting of noncoding nucleotides. They cap the ends of the DNA molecule and prevent them from being recognized by the cell as broken DNA in need of repair. Telomeres play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of chromosomes during replication and cell division.
In addition to their protective function, telomeres also allow for the replication and separation of duplicated chromosomes during the M phase of the cell cycle. The discovery of the enzyme telomerase further helped in understanding how telomeres are maintained.
Hence the correct answer is option C