During replication, which enzyme is responsible for joining nucleotides to form the new DNA strand?

Study for the DNA Structure, Replication, Transcription and Translation Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly and excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

During replication, which enzyme is responsible for joining nucleotides to form the new DNA strand?

Explanation:
The main idea is the enzyme that builds the new DNA strand by adding nucleotides. DNA polymerase is the one that catalyzes the formation of phosphodiester bonds as it adds complementary nucleotides to the growing strand, extending from a pre-existing primer and synthesizing in the 5' to 3' direction. It also proofreads to correct mistakes. Other enzymes have different roles: primase lays down the RNA primer to start synthesis, helicase unwinds the double helix, and DNA ligase seals the gaps between fragments on the lagging strand after synthesis. So, the enzyme that actually joins nucleotides to form the new DNA strand is DNA polymerase.

The main idea is the enzyme that builds the new DNA strand by adding nucleotides. DNA polymerase is the one that catalyzes the formation of phosphodiester bonds as it adds complementary nucleotides to the growing strand, extending from a pre-existing primer and synthesizing in the 5' to 3' direction. It also proofreads to correct mistakes. Other enzymes have different roles: primase lays down the RNA primer to start synthesis, helicase unwinds the double helix, and DNA ligase seals the gaps between fragments on the lagging strand after synthesis. So, the enzyme that actually joins nucleotides to form the new DNA strand is DNA polymerase.

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