Question

How does the structure of DNA make replication easy?

a) The double helix is snipped open and new molecules are tucked in.
b) The double helix unzips and each side serves as a template for the other.
c) The single helix comes apart to allow new molecules in.
d) The helix is twisted apart and put back together.

Answer 1

The structure of DNA makes replication easy because the two strands of the double helix can separate and each serve as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand. This is known as semi-conservative replication.

Step-by-step explanation:

The structure of DNA makes replication easy because the two strands of the double helix can separate and each serve as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand. This process is known as semi-conservative replication. The DNA helix unwinds, breaking the hydrogen bonds between the base pairs, and the enzyme DNA Helicase is involved in this process. The resulting single strands of DNA are then used as templates for the synthesis of new strands, using the base pairing rules (A with T, and C with G). Each new DNA molecule consists of one original strand (parental strand) and one newly synthesized strand.