Question

DNA replicates by which of the following models? a. conservative b. semiconservative c. dispersive d. none of the above

Short answer

b. semiconservative

Step-by-step solution

Understand each model of DNA replication

Let's define each model: a. Conservative: The original DNA remains intact, and a completely new copy is synthesized. b. Semiconservative: Each DNA strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand, resulting in two DNA molecules, each with one old and one new strand. c. Dispersive: The original DNA strand is broken into smaller fragments and can act as templates for the synthesis of new strands. The fragments are then reassembled to create two new DNA molecules.

Identify the correct model of DNA replication

Through research and experiments, it has been proven that DNA replicates by the semiconservative model. This was demonstrated by the Meselson-Stahl experiment, where they observed that each newly synthesized DNA molecule consists of one old strand and one new strand, confirming the semiconservative model of replication.

Conclude the answer to the exercise

Since the correct model of DNA replication is the semiconservative model, the answer to the exercise is: b. semiconservative