DNA replication Flashcards
why does DNA replication take place
so genetic information can be copied before cell division
what are the base pairing rules
T-A has 2 hydrogen bonds
C-G has 3 hydrogen bonds
Describe the role of DNA helicase in DNA replication.
unwinds the DNA double helix producing two template strands
breaks the bonds between the DNA base pairs
why is DNA replication called semi conservitive
each DNA molecule contains one original strand and one newly synthesised strand ensuring genetic unity in new generations of cells
what is the role of DNA polymerase
joins adjecent enuclotides together forming phosphodiester bonds between strands
Describe the process of DNA replication
DNA helicase unwinds the double helix by breaking hydrogen bonds between bases.
Both strands act as templates.
Free DNA nucleotides align with complementary bases on each template strand (A with T, C with G).
DNA polymerase joins the nucleotides together by forming phosphodiester bonds.
Two identical DNA molecules are formed, each with one old strand and one new strand (semi-conservative replication).
