Final answer:
Okazaki fragments represent lagging strand synthesis, whereas continuous replication models leading strand synthesis. Lagging strands are synthesized in short segments opposite to the replication fork direction, while leading strands are synthesized continuously towards the replication fork.
Step-by-step explanation:
The formation of Okazaki fragments is a model for lagging strand synthesis. Continuous replication is a model for leading strand synthesis. During the replication process in prokaryotes, DNA is synthesized in two different manners at the replication fork. The leading strand is synthesized continuously towards the replication fork. Conversely, the lagging strand is synthesized in the opposite direction to the replication fork in short stretches of DNA called Okazaki fragments. Each Okazaki fragment begins with an RNA primer, and DNA polymerase extends this primer with DNA nucleotides. Once the Okazaki fragments are synthesized, the RNA primers are replaced by DNA, and DNA ligase creates phosphodiester bonds to seal the fragments, completing the replication of the lagging strand.