Final answer:
The incorrect event in the process that generates 3'-protruding ends for strand invasion is that the chi site triggers loss of the RecD subunit and nuclease activity. Instead, after the RecBCD enzyme encounters a chi site, it adopts a new function that facilitates homologous recombination.
Step-by-step explanation:
Which series of events is NOT part of the process that generates 3'-protruding ends for strand invasion? The correct answer would be (d) The chi site triggers loss of the RecD subunit and nuclease activity. This statement is incorrect because the chi site does not trigger loss of the RecD subunit; instead, it causes a change in the function of RecBCD. After encountering a chi site, the enzyme modifies its activity, with RecBC acquiring a reduced nuclease activity and promoting the loading of RecA onto the DNA. RecA is essential for homologous recombination, as it facilitates the invasion of the 3'-protruding end into a homologous DNA sequence.
Let's address some of the other points in the question. RecBCD is indeed a complex that binds to chromosomal DNA and acts as a helicase to unwind the DNA duplex. Also, during DNA replication, DNA is synthesized in the 5' to 3' direction. Additionally, topoisomerase and single-strand binding proteins are involved in preventing stress and rewinding of the DNA strands, respectively, during the formation of the replication fork.