During DNA replication, the term leading strand is applied to the one which replicates

⇦

⇨

During DNA replication, the term leading strand is applied to the one which replicates in

Options

(a) 5′ → 3′ direction discontinuously
(b) 3′ → 5′ direction continuously
(c) 5′ → 3′ direction continuously
(d) 3′ → 5′ direction discontinuously

Correct Answer:

5′ → 3′ direction continuously

Explanation:

When the double helix of DNA unwinds, DNA replication on one of the two strands (3′ to 5′ strand) can easily proceed continously in 5′ to 3′ direction. This is the leading strand. On the other strand (5′-3′) if the synthesis has to take place in 5′ to 3′ direction, it has to be synthesized in a direction opposite to that on the leading strands. This strand is the lagging strand and on this strand synthesis takes place in segments discontinously and these segments are called Okazagi fragments which then fuse to create an intact lagging strand. This behaviour where the leading strand is synthesized continously and the lagging strand is synthesized discontinously is called semi-discontinous replication.

Related Questions:

1. Plasma membrane is made of
2. Structure of nuclear membrane helps in
3. Widal Test is carried out to test
4. If pollen of a flower falls on the stigma of another flower, belonging
5. DNA fragments generated by the restriction endonucleases in a chemical reaction

Topics: Genetics (204)
Subject: Biology (4253)

---

Important MCQs Based on Medical Entrance Examinations To Improve Your NEET Score

18000+ students are using NEETLab to improve their score. What about you?

Solve Previous Year MCQs, Mock Tests, Topicwise Practice Tests, Identify Weak Topics, Formula Flash cards and much more is available in NEETLab Android App to improve your NEET score.

---

Share this page with your friends