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

10172 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Some phenotypes, such as colour-blindness, are caused by sex-linked genes. Explain why colour-blindness is more common in men than in women


What is ATP and why do we need it?


Tell me what occurs in the prophase in mitosis.


Explain how FHS and oestrogen illustrate the principle of negative feedback during the menstrual cycle, and explain therefore why oestrogen may be used as a contraceptive.


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning