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Select the statements that correctly describe how a new DNA molecule reflects the original DNA molecule from which it was copied. Select the TWO answers that are correct.

a. DNA replication proceeds in a 5' to 3' direction in the new DNA molecule and in the opposite direction in the original.
b. The nitrogenous bases in the new DNA molecule are A, T, G, and C, but the original molecule contains A, U, G, and C.
c. Each new DNA molecule contains an original strand and a newly synthesized strand.
d. The two DNA molecules are exact opposites of each other according to base pairs.
e. Base pairing rules duplicate the base pairs of the original molecule in the new molecule.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The correct descriptions for how a new DNA molecule reflects the original are that each new DNA molecule includes an original and a new strand, and base pairing rules are followed to duplicate the original base pairs in the new molecule.(Options C and E)

Step-by-step explanation:

The two statements that correctly describe how a new DNA molecule reflects the original DNA molecule from which it was copied are:

  • c. Each new DNA molecule contains an original strand and a newly synthesized strand. This principle of DNA replication is called the semiconservative model, where one strand from the original molecule is conserved in each of the new DNA molecules, providing a direct link between the new and the original DNA.
  • e. Base pairing rules duplicate the base pairs of the original molecule in the new molecule. According to base-pairing rules, adenine (A) always pairs with thymine (T), and guanine (G) always pairs with cytosine (C), ensuring that each new DNA molecule is a faithful replica of the original, with one old strand and one new strand.

These two points are pivotal in understanding the fidelity and mechanism of DNA replication.

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