Which of the following is part of the elongation step of DNA synthesis?

• A. Addition of nucleotides to the growing DNA strand
• B. Termination of DNA replication
• C. Initiation of RNA primer synthesis
• D. Unwinding of the DNA double helix

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of DNA synthesis, which involves three main stages: initiation, elongation, and termination.
2. During the elongation step, DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand. This is a key part of elongation.
3. Recognize that initiation involves the synthesis of an RNA primer, which is necessary for DNA polymerase to start adding nucleotides.
4. Identify that unwinding of the DNA double helix is part of the initiation process, allowing the replication machinery access to the DNA strands.
5. Termination of DNA replication occurs when the replication process is complete, and it is distinct from the elongation step.