In the overview of DNA replication, what is the primary job of DNA polymerase?

• A. It synthesizes new DNA strands by adding nucleotides to the $3^{\prime }$ end of a growing strand using a template strand.
• B. It joins Okazaki fragments together by sealing nicks in the sugar-phosphate backbone.
• C. It unwinds the DNA double helix ahead of the replication fork to separate the two strands.
• D. It lays down short RNA primers to provide a free $3^{\prime }$ $-$$OH$ group for DNA synthesis to begin.

Answer: (A)