In DNA replication, what is the leading strand?

• A. The strand that is synthesized in the 3' to 5' direction
• B. The strand that serves as a template for RNA synthesis
• C. The strand that is synthesized continuously in the 5' to 3' direction
• D. The strand that is synthesized discontinuously in short segments

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that DNA replication involves the synthesis of a new strand of DNA complementary to the template strand.
2. Recognize that DNA polymerase, the enzyme responsible for DNA synthesis, can only add nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction.
3. Identify that the leading strand is synthesized continuously because it follows the replication fork, allowing DNA polymerase to add nucleotides in a smooth, uninterrupted manner.
4. Differentiate between the leading and lagging strands: the leading strand is synthesized continuously, while the lagging strand is synthesized in short segments called Okazaki fragments.
5. Conclude that the leading strand is the one synthesized continuously in the 5' to 3' direction, as it aligns with the direction of the replication fork movement.