DNA replication is described as semi conservative because each daughter molecule

Correct answer: A. contains one old strand and one newly synthesised strand

  • A. contains one old strand and one newly synthesised strand
  • B. is built entirely from new nucleotides
  • C. conserves only half of its original bases
  • D. is rebuilt only in every second cell cycle

Explanation

When the two parental strands separate, each serves as a template for a new partner, so both daughter helices retain one original strand. This was proved by Meselson and Stahl using nitrogen isotopes, ruling out models in which old DNA was chopped up or fully conserved.

Written and checked by , contributorLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? support@testustad.com

About Classification of Biological Molecules

Biological molecules are classified as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids, with water, minerals and vitamins also supporting cellular processes. The key distinctions involve their monomers, chemical bonds, structures and functions, including glucose and starch, fatty acids and triglycerides, amino acids and polypeptides, and nucleotides in DNA and RNA.

Practise Biological Molecules

1,790 free Biological Molecules MCQs from Biology, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Biology questions like this

Biology is on 8 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Classification of Biological Molecules questions