Final answer:
The lagging strand is more prone to mutations than the leading strand, due to its complex synthesis process requiring multiple primers and the action of various enzymes like DNA ligase, which can introduce errors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Between the leading strand and the lagging strand, the lagging strand is more prone to mutations. The lagging strand is synthesized in short segments called Okazaki fragments, requiring frequent starts and stops, which leaves more room for errors to occur. Each Okazaki fragment starts with an RNA primer, necessitating the removal of the primers and filling the gaps with DNA nucleotides; this extra set of activities introduces more opportunities for mutations. Additionally, the enzymes involved, such as DNA ligase that seals the nicks between Okazaki fragments, can occasionally introduce errors. In comparison, the leading strand is synthesized continuously, requiring only a single primer and therefore less complex processing, which reducc c es the chances of errors.