Final answer:
The statement is false; after DNA repair, the phosphate backbone is resealed and left without nicks, ensuring the integrity and function of the DNA.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "After damaged DNA has been repaired, nicks in the phosphate backbone are maintained as a way to identify the strand that was repaired" is false. When damage to the DNA occurs, repair mechanisms are initiated to correct errors and restore the integrity of the DNA structure. For example, in the repair process known as nucleotide excision repair, the damaged nucleotides are removed and replaced with new ones using the complementary strand as a template, after which DNA ligase reseals the strand, leaving no nicks. This results in an intact phosphate backbone. The accuracy of DNA repair is critical for cellular function and the survival of species, reflecting an evolutionary imperative for maintaining genetic integrity.