Question

“DNA replication is continuous and discontinuous on the two strands within the replication fork.” Explain with the help of a schematic representation.

Hint:

The antiparallel nature of DNA strands necessitates continuous and discontinuous replication in the fork structure.

Answer 1

Leading strand: Synthesised continuously in the 5\(\prime\) to 3\(\prime\) direction. Lagging strand: Synthesised discontinuously in short fragments (Okazaki fragments) and later joined by DNA ligase. \[ \text{Diagrammatic representation should include the fork, helicase, and synthesis direction.} \]