Biology · Continuity and change

D1.1 — DNA replication

Biology · SL / HL · syllabus-mapped notes

1. D1.1.1

   DNA replication as production of exact copies of DNA with identical base sequences

   Define DNA replication, and state the two processes that require it.

2. D1.1.2

   Semi-conservative nature of DNA replication and role of complementary base pairing

   Explain semi-conservative replication and the role of complementary base pairing.

3. D1.1.3

   Role of helicase and DNA polymerase in DNA replication

   Explain the roles of helicase and DNA polymerase in replication.

4. D1.1.4

   Polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis as tools for amplifying and separating DNA

   Explain PCR and gel electrophoresis as tools for amplifying and separating DNA.

5. D1.1.5

   Applications of polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis

   Explain PCR in coronavirus testing and gel electrophoresis in DNA profiling.

6. D1.1.6

   Directionality of DNA polymerases

   Explain what 5' and 3' mean, and why DNA polymerase works in only one direction.

7. D1.1.7

   Differences between replication on the leading strand and the lagging strand

   Explain why one strand is replicated continuously and the other in Okazaki fragments.

8. D1.1.8

   Functions of DNA primase, DNA polymerase I, DNA polymerase III and DNA ligase in replication

   State the functions of DNA primase, DNA polymerase I and III, and DNA ligase.

9. D1.1.9

   DNA proofreading

   Explain how DNA polymerase III proofreads and corrects a mismatched base.