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Which term describes a pair of parallel helices intertwined about a common axis?

a) Helicase
b) Replication
c) Double helix
d) RNA polymerase

User Tashay
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

A double helix describes two parallel helices intertwined around a common axis, characteristic of the DNA structure. Other enzymes related to DNA replication include helicase, primase, DNA ligase, and telomerase, each with a distinct role in the replication process. The correct option is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term that describes a pair of parallel helices intertwined about a common axis is known as a double helix. This structure is famously associated with DNA, where it consists of two strands of nucleotides winding around each other, resembling a twisted ladder. The correct answer to the student's question is therefore c) Double helix.

In the context of DNA replication, several enzymes play critical roles. For example, helicase is responsible for unwinding the DNA strands, allowing replication to occur. Primase synthesizes RNA primers that are essential for DNA polymerase to start the replication process.

DNA ligase is involved in joining Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand during replication. Lastly, telomerase maintains the ends of linear chromosomes. Each of these enzymes is essential for the accurate and efficient replication of DNA.

User Matia
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