Why does a new DNA strand elongate only in the 5' to 3' direction in replication?
A)DNA polymerase begins adding nucleotides at the 5' end of the template.
B)Okazaki fragments prevent elongation in the 3' to 5' direction.
C)Replication must progress toward the replication fork.
D)DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides to the free 3' end.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides to the free 3' end. The enzyme adds new nucleotides to the 3' end of the template strand, which creates a free 3' hydroxyl group for the next nucleotide to be added. As a result, elongation can only occur in the 5' to 3' direction.

Why Does a New DNA Strand Elongate Only in the 5