DNA replication and repair
DNA replication uses complementary base pairing to copy genetic information. Replication is semiconservative: daughter double helices typically contain one original and one newly synthesized strand.
Open interactive lesson & self-check ↗DNA replication fork
Original conceptual SVG · scalableConcept schematic: each new strand grows 5′ to 3′. Leading is more continuous; lagging is synthesized in fragments.
Understand direction
DNA polymerases extend a nascent DNA strand in the 5′ to 3′ direction using a template read in the opposite direction.
Contrast strands
The leading strand is synthesized relatively continuously in the direction of fork progression; the lagging strand is synthesized in short Okazaki fragments.
Include quality control
Proofreading and DNA repair pathways reduce replication errors, but no process is absolutely error-free.
Reference and next reading
Explore the original curriculum and publisher-hosted resources for full-depth reading; this note is an original schematic introduction, not an exhaustive chapter.