What is the process of DNA replication?

DNA replication involves many steps and enzymes. As DNA is a double stranded helix it must be untwisted so that it can be copied. Each strand from the parental DNA acts as a template for the daughter strand synthesis. DNA replication occurs at a replication fork which is a Y-shaped structure generated by the unwinding of the DNA double helix. The new strands are formed in a 5' to 3' direction and the replication begins at a sequence called the origin. The main steps and enzymes are listed in the order they occur below.1.) A DNA helicase enzyme breaks down the hydrogen bonds between the nitrogenous bases of the 2 DNA strands.2.) This separates the 2 DNA strands and forms the replication fork.3.) Complementary nucleotides base pair to the template strand.4.) A DNA polymerase enzyme joins the adjacent nucleotides on the coding strand by catalysing a phosphodiester bond.Further details would be added after the student shows an understanding of these basic ideas.