Question 1

Based on the image, which of the following best describes the chemical reaction catalyzed by DNA polymerase during DNA replication?

Accepted Answer

A phosphodiester bond forms between the 5' phosphate group of the incoming dNTP and the 3' hydroxyl group of the growing DNA strand, releasing pyrophosphate ($$PP_i).$$

Question 2

What is the significance of the 3' hydroxyl group (–OH) shown in the image for DNA synthesis?

Accepted Answer

It serves as the attachment point for the incoming nucleotide, allowing chain elongation in the 5' to 3' direction.

Question 3

Which product(s) are released as a result of the condensation reaction shown in the image during DNA replication?

Accepted Answer

Pyrophosphate ($$PP_i)$$

Question 4

Why does DNA synthesis always proceed in the 5' to 3' direction, as illustrated in the image?

Accepted Answer

Because DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides to the free 3' hydroxyl group of the growing strand.

Question 5

If a mutation prevented the formation of the 3' hydroxyl group on the growing DNA strand, what would be the most immediate consequence for DNA replication?

Accepted Answer

DNA polymerase would be unable to add new nucleotides, halting DNA synthesis.

DNA Replication: Structure, Mechanism, and Laboratory Applications

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