In DNA replication there are leading and lagging strands, because
A) DNA replication is conservative and a completely new DNA molecule must be made.
B) DNA replication is semiconservative and each strand is copied simultaneously in opposite directions.
C) the strands of DNA are parallel and are copied in the same direction simultaneously.
D) one strand of DNA is copied faster than the other.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

DNA replication is semiconservative which means that each strand is copied simultaneously in opposite directions. The leading strand is synthesized continuously in the 5' to 3' direction, while the lagging strand is synthesized in the opposite direction in a discontinuous manner. This results in the formation of Okazaki fragments, which are later joined together by DNA ligase.

In DNA Replication There Are Leading and Lagging Strands, Because