Question

What did the Watson-Crick model suggest about the replication of DNA?

Short answer

Answer: The main principle of DNA base pairing according to the Watson-Crick model is that adenine (A) always pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) always pairs with guanine (G). This is called the base pairing rule.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the double helix structure of DNA

According to the Watson-Crick model, DNA is composed of two polynucleotide chains that twist around each other to form a double helix. Each chain is made up of nucleotides, which contain a sugar, a phosphate, and a base. The bases are adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G).

Learn about the complementary base pairing

In the double helix structure, the two polynucleotide chains are held together by hydrogen bonds between their bases. These bonds are formed between specific pairs of bases, known as complementary base pairs. Adenine (A) always pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) always pairs with guanine (G). This is called the base pairing rule.

Understand the semi-conservative replication process

The Watson-Crick model suggests that DNA replication occurs in a semi-conservative manner. This means that, when the double helix is produced, one strand of the original DNA molecule serves as a template for the new, complementary strand, while the other original strand pairs with a new complementary strand. As a result, each new DNA molecule contains one original strand and one newly synthesized strand.

Explain the steps of DNA replication

According to the Watson-Crick model, DNA replication occurs in the following steps: 1. Unwinding: The DNA double helix unwinds, with the two chains held together by hydrogen bonds. 2. Separation: The two strands of the DNA molecule separate, breaking the hydrogen bonds between the complementary base pairs. 3. Template Formation: Each separated strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand of DNA. 4. Base Pairing: Complementary bases (A with T, and C with G) are added to the template strand according to the base pairing rule. 5. Formation of New DNA: The complementary bases are bonded together with the help of enzymes, forming a new polynucleotide chain that is a complete copy of the original template strand. 6. Formation of the Double Helix: The newly synthesized strand pairs with the original template strand, and the two polynucleotide chains twist together to form a new DNA double helix.

Understand the significance of semi-conservative replication

The semi-conservative replication process ensures that the genetic information is accurately copied and transmitted from one generation of cells to another. It minimizes the possibility of errors or mutations in the process, as each strand serves as a template for its own complementary strand, preserving the original genetic information.