180,411 views
38 votes
38 votes
In at least 200 words explain how DNA replicates

User David Rabinowitz
by
3.0k points

2 Answers

12 votes
12 votes

Answer:

QUESTION:

ANSWER:

Replication is the process by which a double-stranded DNA molecule is copied to produce two identical DNA molecules. DNA replication is one of the most basic processes that occurs within a cell. Each time a cell divides, the two resulting daughter cells must contain exactly the same genetic information, or DNA, like the parent cell. To accomplish this, each strand of existing DNA acts as a template for replication.

The initiation of DNA replication occurs in two steps. First, a so-called initiator protein unwinds a short stretch of the DNA double helix. Then, a protein known as helicase attaches to and breaks apart the hydrogen bonds between the bases on the DNA strands, thereby pulling apart the two strands. As the helicase moves along the DNA molecule, it continues breaking these hydrogen bonds and separating the two polynucleotide chains

Meanwhile, as the helicase separates the strands, another enzyme called primase briefly attaches to each strand and assembles a foundation at which replication can begin. This foundation is a short stretch of nucleotides called a primer

After the primer is in place on a single, unwound polynucleotide strand, DNA polymerase wraps itself around that strand, and it attaches new nucleotides to the exposed nitrogenous bases. In this way, the polymerase assembles a new DNA strand on top of the existing one

Step-by-step explanation:

A lot more than just 200 words sorry.

Hope that this helps you out! :)

If you have any questions please put them in the comment section below this answer.

Have a great rest of your day/night!

Please thank me on my profile if this answer has helped you.

User Jonthan
by
3.1k points
12 votes
12 votes

Answer: Replication is the process by which a double-stranded DNA molecule is copied to produce two identical DNA molecules. Replication occurs in three major steps: the opening of the double helix and separation of the DNA strands, the priming of the template strand, and the assembly of the new DNA segment. During separation, the two strands of the DNA double helix uncoil at a specific location called the origin. Several enzymes and proteins then work together to prepare, or prime, the strands for duplication. Finally, a special enzyme called DNA polymerase organizes the assembly of the new DNA strands. The following description of this three-stage process applies generally to all cells, but specific variations within the process may occur depending on organism and cell type.

~i hope this helps :)

User Gannonbarnett
by
3.5k points
Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.