During transcription, in what direction does RNA polymerase move along the DNA template strand?

• A. It moves bidirectionally away from the promoter on both strands simultaneously.
• B. It moves along the template strand in the $3\prime$ to $5\prime$ direction.
• C. It moves along the template strand in the $5\prime$ to $3\prime$ direction.
• D. It moves along the coding strand in the $3\prime$ to $5\prime$ direction.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that during transcription, RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA by reading the DNA template strand.
2. Recall that DNA strands have directionality, labeled as 5' to 3' and 3' to 5', which is crucial for enzyme movement.
3. Know that RNA polymerase moves along the DNA template strand in the 3' to 5' direction to synthesize RNA in the 5' to 3' direction.
4. Recognize that the template strand is complementary and antiparallel to the RNA being synthesized, which dictates the direction of RNA polymerase movement.
5. Conclude that RNA polymerase does not move bidirectionally or along the coding strand, but specifically along the template strand from 3' to 5'.