Which DNA strand is synthesized continuously during replication?

• A. Lagging strand
• B. Coding strand
• C. Leading strand
• D. Template strand

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of DNA replication: DNA replication involves the synthesis of new DNA strands from a template strand. This occurs in the 5' to 3' direction.
2. Identify the role of the leading strand: During replication, the leading strand is synthesized continuously because it is oriented in the 3' to 5' direction, allowing DNA polymerase to add nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction without interruption.
3. Contrast with the lagging strand: The lagging strand is synthesized discontinuously in short segments called Okazaki fragments because it is oriented in the 5' to 3' direction, opposite to the direction of replication fork movement.
4. Clarify the role of the template strand: The template strand is the original DNA strand that serves as a guide for the synthesis of the new complementary strand.
5. Differentiate from the coding strand: The coding strand is not directly involved in replication; it refers to the DNA strand that has the same sequence as the RNA transcript (except for thymine being replaced by uracil in RNA).