Final answer:
DNA replication is a semiconservative process, not producing an exact copy but rather each new DNA containing one original strand and one new strand. correct option is b.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement DNA replication produces an exact copy of the original strand is false. DNA replication is a semiconservative process, meaning that during replication each of the two strands of the original (template) DNA strand serves as a template to synthesize new complementary strands.
As a result, the newly formed double-stranded DNA consists of one original strand and one newly synthesized strand. This mechanism ensures that each daughter DNA molecule will have one strand from the parental DNA and one new strand, hence the term semiconservative replication.
DNA replication is a highly accurate process, but it is not entirely error-proof. While the majority of the time, DNA replication results in an exact copy of the original strand, occasional errors, called mutations, can occur. These mutations may be caused by various factors, such as environmental influences or errors in the DNA replication machinery. Additionally, some mutations are a natural part of genetic variation and evolution.
Therefore, while DNA replication is generally precise, it is not guaranteed to produce an entirely identical copy of the original DNA strand due to the potential for occasional mutations.