Question

Which of the following statements is FALSE regarding Okazaki fragments?

a. Okazaki fragments form during DNA replication
b. They exist because DNA is anti parallel and can only be synthesized in one direction
c. Are found in the lagging strand during DNA replication
d. Are found in the leading strand during DNA replication

Answer 1

The false statement about Okazaki fragments is that they are found in the leading strand during DNA replication. Okazaki fragments are actually short stretches found on the lagging strand, synthesized in the direction away from the replication fork.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that is FALSE regarding Okazaki fragments is:

• d. Are found in the leading strand during DNA replication.

Okazaki fragments are actually short stretches of DNA that are synthesized on the lagging strand during DNA replication. These fragments are created because the DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction. Therefore, while the leading strand is synthesized continuously in the direction of the replication fork, the lagging strand is synthesized in short stretches called Okazaki fragments, which move in the direction away from the replication fork.