Question

Which of the following DNA molecules serve as an effective template for DNA synthesis?

1. an intact linear, double stranded DNA
2. a single stranded, cirular DNA
3. a partially double stranded DNA
4. an intact, linear single stranded DNA

Answer 1

An intact linear, double stranded DNA serves as an effective template for DNA synthesis, as it allows each strand to be used as a template for creating new complementary strands in a semi-conservative manner involving the critical role of DNA Polymerase.

Step-by-step explanation:

The DNA molecule that serves as an effective template for DNA synthesis is an intact linear, double stranded DNA. This is because during DNA replication, the DNA helix unwinds and the two single strands of DNA serve as templates for the creation of new complementary strands. DNA replication is semi-conservative, meaning that each of the new DNA molecules contains one strand from the parent DNA and one newly synthesized strand. The enzyme DNA Polymerase plays a critical role in reading the original template and synthesizing the new strand in a 5' to 3' direction.