HSC Biology — Module 5
DNA Replication — Flashcards & Quiz
DNA replication is the semi-conservative process that copies the genome before cell division, and it is a high-frequency exam topic in HSC Biology Module 5. You need to name the key enzymes — helicase, DNA polymerase, ligase — and explain the difference between leading and lagging strand synthesis. Examiners reward enzyme specificity and the ability to link replication accuracy to the prevention of mutation. The Meselson-Stahl experiment is the classic evidence question: be ready to interpret nitrogen-isotope banding patterns.
Sample Flashcards
Q1: Outline the process of DNA replication.
1) Helicase unwinds and separates the double helix. 2) DNA polymerase adds complementary nucleotides to each template strand (5' to 3'). 3) Leading strand is continuous; lagging strand is synthesised in Okazaki fragments. 4) Ligase joins fragments. Result: two identical DNA molecules (semi-conservative).
Sample Quiz Questions
Q1: DNA replication is described as semi-conservative because each new molecule contains one original strand and one new strand.
Answer: TRUE
Semi-conservative means each daughter DNA molecule has one parental (template) strand and one newly synthesised strand.
Related Concepts
Last updated: March 2026 · 1 flashcards · 1 quiz questions