DNA is replicated through which method?

• A. Conservative replication
• B. Nonconservative replication
• C. Dispersive replication
• D. Semiconservative replication

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of DNA replication: DNA replication is the process by which a double-stranded DNA molecule is copied to produce two identical DNA molecules. This is crucial for cell division and inheritance.
2. Learn about the semiconservative model: In semiconservative replication, each of the two parental DNA strands serves as a template for new strands. After replication, each DNA molecule consists of one original strand and one newly synthesized strand.
3. Differentiate between replication models: Conservative replication would result in one molecule with two old strands and another with two new strands. Dispersive replication would produce DNA strands that are a mix of old and new DNA segments.
4. Recognize the experimental evidence: The Meselson-Stahl experiment provided strong evidence for semiconservative replication by using isotopic labeling to show that DNA molecules after replication contained one old and one new strand.
5. Conclude with the significance: Semiconservative replication ensures genetic consistency across generations, as each new cell receives an exact copy of the DNA, preserving genetic information.