5.2 Study Guide

Question 1

Please explain helicase.

Answer 1

The unzipping enzyme. Unzips the two strands of DNA. Takes care of the hydrogen bonds and splits DNA helix.

Question 2

Please explain DNA Polymerase.

Answer 2

The builder. Builds DNA polymers.

Question 3

Please explain Primase.

Answer 3

The initiator. Makes the primer sequence so DNA polymerase can take care of their job.

Question 4

Please explain Ligase.

Answer 4

The gluer. Glues nucleotide fragments together.

Question 5

Please explain the DNA replication process.

Answer 5

Starts at the origin, where helicase unwinds the DNA. Primase makes RNA primers on both strands so that DNA polymerase knows where to start. Polymerase adds DNA nucleotide in 5’ to 3’ directions on both strands of the DNA. Ligase seals DNA fragments together on one side of the DNA.

Question 6

What is the difference between a leading strand and a lagging strand?

Answer 6

The leading strand is continuous. This strand doesn’t stop, and continues to get added onto. The lagging strand continuously stops and makes copies.

Question 7

Please explain the 3 primes.

Answer 7

Hydroxyl. Identifies one end of a single-stranded nucleic acid molecule. The end of the molecule that terminates in a 3’ phosphate group. The 3’ direction is the direction toward the 3’ end. Indicates the carbon numbers in the DNA’s sugar backbone.

Question 8

Please explain the 5 primes.

Answer 8

Phosphate. Indicates the carbon numbers in the DNA’s sugar backbone.