Describe the function of enzymes DNA helicase and DNA polymerase during DNA replication (2 marks)

DNA replication occurs in two phases: DNA separation (DNA helicase) and DNA transcription (DNA polymerase)
Enzyme Function:
1. DNA helicase – (unwinding DNA and) breaking hydrogen bonds between DNA strands (1 mark)
2. DNA polymerase – joins (adjacent) nucleotides OR forms sugar- phosphate backbone (1 mark)
Analogy to remember:
Like opening (DNA helicase) and reading (DNA polymerase) a book.
Exam technique:
Emphasise the importance of key terms e.g. "adjacent" and "unwinding" in achieving full marks in regard to A-level mark-schemes (e.g. AQA, OCR Edexcel).

BJ
Answered by Ben J. Biology tutor

9101 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Briefly describe the mechanism of muscle contraction.


Describe how proteins are processed and released from cells


Compare and contrast the causes of Type 1 (insulin-dependent) and Type 2 (noninsulin-dependent) diabetes mellitus


What kinds of valves are found in the human circulatory system and how do they differ?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences