Why was another nucleotide not added to the smallest fragment?
A)DNA polymerase became inactive after adding the last nucleotide.
B)The last nucleotide added does not have a 3′ hydroxyl group.
C)The last nucleotide added does not have a 5′ phosphate group.
D)The DNA strand reached a length where it cannot grow any longer.
E)DNA polymerase reached the end of the template.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The last nucleotide added does not have a 3′ hydroxyl group is the correct answer because DNA polymerase requires a 3′ hydroxyl group on the nucleotide to add another nucleotide. Without this group, the chain cannot be extended further.

Why Was Another Nucleotide Not Added to the Smallest Fragment