- The DNA double helix is composed of two antiparallel strands held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary nitrogenous bases: adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T), and guanine (G) pairs with cytosine (C).
- During replication, the double helix unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand, resulting in two identical DNA molecules.
- The process is semi-conservative, meaning each new DNA molecule consists of one original (parental) strand and one newly synthesized strand.
- Enzymes such as helicase unwind the DNA, DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the growing strand, and ligase seals nicks in the sugar-phosphate backbone.
- Proofreading and repair mechanisms ensure high fidelity, minimizing errors during replication.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of double helix coloring worksheet.
