Describe the function of enzymes DNA helicase and DNA polymerase during DNA replication (2 marks)

DNA replication occurs in two phases: DNA separation (DNA helicase) and DNA transcription (DNA polymerase)
Enzyme Function:
1. DNA helicase – (unwinding DNA and) breaking hydrogen bonds between DNA strands (1 mark)
2. DNA polymerase – joins (adjacent) nucleotides OR forms sugar- phosphate backbone (1 mark)
Analogy to remember:
Like opening (DNA helicase) and reading (DNA polymerase) a book.
Exam technique:
Emphasise the importance of key terms e.g. "adjacent" and "unwinding" in achieving full marks in regard to A-level mark-schemes (e.g. AQA, OCR Edexcel).

Answered by Ben J. Biology tutor

8599 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the process of translation.


Name 3 features of a prokaryote cell that are not common of a eukaryote cell


Outline the importance of the junctions between neurones in the functioning of the nervous system


How does a nerve transmit impulses?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences