What is the process by which a cell duplicates its DNA prior to division, occurring in late interphase?

What is the process by which a cell duplicates its DNA prior to division, occurring in late interphase?

• A. Meiosis
• B. Replication
• C. Transcription
• D. Translation

Answer: (B)

DNA replication is the process by which a cell copies its entire genome before division. In late interphase, the DNA double helix unwinds and each strand serves as a template for a new complementary strand, with DNA polymerase enzymes building the new strands. This semiconservative mechanism creates two identical sister chromatids for each chromosome, ensuring both daughter cells receive a complete set of genetic information. The other processes involve either copying DNA into RNA (transcription), using RNA to make proteins (translation), or a division that reduces chromosome number (meiosis), none of which describe duplicating DNA prior to cell division.

DNA replication is the process by which a cell copies its entire genome before division. In late interphase, the DNA double helix unwinds and each strand serves as a template for a new complementary strand, with DNA polymerase enzymes building the new strands. This semiconservative mechanism creates two identical sister chromatids for each chromosome, ensuring both daughter cells receive a complete set of genetic information. The other processes involve either copying DNA into RNA (transcription), using RNA to make proteins (translation), or a division that reduces chromosome number (meiosis), none of which describe duplicating DNA prior to cell division.