[Campbell Biology P.375] Which statement best describes the difference between the leading s... | Practice Question

Which statement best describes the difference between the leading strand and the lagging strand during DNA replication?

  • A: The leading strand is synthesized continuously, while the lagging strand is synthesized in fragments.
  • B: The leading strand requires multiple primers, while the lagging strand requires only one.
  • C: DNA pol I synthesizes the leading strand, and DNA pol III synthesizes the lagging strand.
  • D: Synthesis on the leading strand occurs from 3' to 5', while on the lagging strand it's 5' to 3'.

Explanation

The leading strand is synthesized continuously in the same direction as the replication fork movement, while the lagging strand is synthesized discontinuously in short fragments Okazaki fragments in the opposite direction of the replication fork movement.