How does an RNA polymerase differ from a DNA polymerase?

• A. RNA polymerase is only found in prokaryotes, while DNA polymerase is only found in eukaryotes.
• B. RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA from a DNA template, while DNA polymerase synthesizes DNA from a DNA template.
• C. RNA polymerase requires a primer to initiate synthesis, while DNA polymerase does not.
• D. RNA polymerase incorporates deoxyribonucleotides, while DNA polymerase incorporates ribonucleotides.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the role of RNA polymerase and DNA polymerase. RNA polymerase is an enzyme responsible for synthesizing RNA from a DNA template during transcription, while DNA polymerase is an enzyme responsible for synthesizing DNA from a DNA template during DNA replication.
2. Step 2: Clarify the difference in the type of nucleotides incorporated by each enzyme. RNA polymerase incorporates ribonucleotides (which contain ribose sugar), whereas DNA polymerase incorporates deoxyribonucleotides (which contain deoxyribose sugar).
3. Step 3: Address the requirement for a primer. DNA polymerase requires a primer to initiate DNA synthesis, as it cannot start synthesis on its own. RNA polymerase, on the other hand, does not require a primer and can initiate RNA synthesis directly on the DNA template.
4. Step 4: Correct the misconception about their presence in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Both RNA polymerase and DNA polymerase are found in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, as both types of organisms perform transcription and DNA replication.
5. Step 5: Summarize the key distinction: RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA during transcription, while DNA polymerase synthesizes DNA during replication. Their functions are distinct but complementary in the processes of gene expression and genome maintenance.