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Multiple Choice
The short DNA fragments created during lagging strand replication are called what?
A
Primers
B
Okazaki Fragments
C
Replicates
D
Exonucleases
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of DNA replication: DNA replication is a process by which a cell duplicates its DNA, resulting in two identical copies. This process involves the synthesis of a leading strand and a lagging strand.
Recognize the difference between leading and lagging strands: The leading strand is synthesized continuously, while the lagging strand is synthesized in short, discontinuous segments.
Identify the role of Okazaki fragments: On the lagging strand, DNA polymerase synthesizes short DNA fragments known as Okazaki fragments. These fragments are later joined together to form a continuous strand.
Differentiate between the given options: Primers are short RNA sequences that initiate DNA synthesis, replicates refer to the copies of DNA, and exonucleases are enzymes that remove nucleotides from the ends of DNA. None of these terms describe the short DNA fragments on the lagging strand.
Conclude that the correct term for the short DNA fragments on the lagging strand is 'Okazaki fragments', named after the scientist Reiji Okazaki who discovered them.