Question

After the DNA molecule has replicated itself, the duplicate strands are called a. homologous chromosomes. b. chromatids. c. centromeres. d. spindle fibers.

Short answer

The duplicate strands of a DNA molecule after replication are called b. chromatids.

Step-by-step solution

Know the DNA replication process

During DNA replication, a DNA molecule unwinds and splits into two single strands. Each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new, complementary strand, based on the rules of base pairing. After the process is complete, there are two identical DNA molecules containing the same genetic information as the original.

Define the terms

a. Homologous chromosomes: These are pairs of chromosomes that have the same size, shape, and types of genes. They are usually inherited from different parents (one from the mother and one from the father). b. Chromatids: Chromatids are the two identical copies of a chromosome, held together by a centromere after the DNA has been replicated. c. Centromeres: A centromere is a region of a chromosome where spindle fibers attach during cell division and where sister chromatids are joined. d. Spindle fibers: Spindle fibers are protein fibers that help to separate chromosomes during cell division.

Determine the correct answer

After analyzing the terms provided, we can determine that the correct answer for the duplicate strands of a DNA molecule after replication is: b. chromatids. So, the answer to the exercise is b. chromatids.