In DNA replication, which direction does the DNA polymerase move along the template strand?

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Study for the DNA Replication and DNA Storage Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

In DNA replication, which direction does the DNA polymerase move along the template strand?

Explanation:
The main idea is that DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides to the 3' end of a growing strand, so it must read the template in the opposite direction. That means the polymerase moves along the template from the 3' end toward the 5' end, allowing it to pair each incoming nucleotide with the correct complementary base and extend the new strand in the 5' to 3' direction. The other options mix up which strand is being described or the direction of synthesis: the new strand is indeed built 5' to 3', not 3' to 5', and the polymerase cannot move along the template in the 5' to 3' direction if it’s to synthesize a complementary strand.

The main idea is that DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides to the 3' end of a growing strand, so it must read the template in the opposite direction. That means the polymerase moves along the template from the 3' end toward the 5' end, allowing it to pair each incoming nucleotide with the correct complementary base and extend the new strand in the 5' to 3' direction. The other options mix up which strand is being described or the direction of synthesis: the new strand is indeed built 5' to 3', not 3' to 5', and the polymerase cannot move along the template in the 5' to 3' direction if it’s to synthesize a complementary strand.

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