Final answer:
The process of DNA replication involves using each strand of the DNA molecule as a template to create two identical DNA molecules, each consisting of one original and one new strand, allowing cells to divide with identical genetic material.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct statement that best defines the process of DNA replication is: DNA is used as a template to produce two new molecules of DNA so that a cell can divide to produce two identical cells. DNA replication is a fundamental process that occurs in the cell's lifecycle, specifically in the synthesis (S) phase, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the DNA. During replication, enzymes like DNA helicase and DNA polymerase play crucial roles. DNA helicase unwinds the DNA, breaking the hydrogen bonds between complementary nucleotide bases, which allows the DNA strands to separate.
Next, each single strand acts as a template for creating a new complementary strand, a process overseen by DNA polymerase. This results in the formation of two DNA molecules, each comprising one original strand and one new strand, making DNA replication a semiconservative process.