Final answer:
Type II topoisomerases cut DNA's phosphate backbone and reattach the broken strands to relieve the tension and supercoiling that occurs during DNA replication.
Step-by-step explanation:
Topoisomerases are enzymes that are involved in relieving the pressure and supercoiling that occurs during DNA replication. Type II topoisomerases specifically cut DNA's phosphate backbone ahead of the replication fork to alleviate the tension. They then reattach the broken DNA strands, allowing the DNA to relax. These enzymes play a critical role in DNA replication by preventing DNA damage and ensuring the smooth progression of replication.