Explain why DNA replication proceeds only in the 5' to 3' direction.
Added by Teresa H.
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DNA replication begins at specific sites called origins of replication, where the two strands of the DNA double helix are separated, forming a replication fork. Show more…
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When describing DNA replication we say that DNA polymerase synthesizes the new strand in a 5' to 3' direction, moving down the template strand from 3' to 5'. Briefly explain why replication always proceeds in this direction.
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Why is it not possible for DNA replication to proceed in the 3'->5' direction, even if a hypothetical polymerase for it exists? Explain using energetics in your answer.
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