During DNA replication, the leading strand of the separated double helix is synthesized using continuous replication. The lagging strand is synthesized using discontinuous replication.

Question

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DNA synthesis proceeds 5' to 3' along the single stranded DNA. The leading strand is in the correct orientation for continuous synthesis to be possible. The lagging strand is in the wrong orientation for this to be possible, so short pieces of DNA are synthesized, then DNA polymerase releases, reattaches, then synthesizes the next section - this is discontinuous replication.

During DNA Replication, the Leading Strand of the Separated Double