Which of the following statements about DNA replication is false?

Which of the following statements about DNA replication is false?

a. Error rates for DNA replication are reduced by proofreading the DNA polymerase.

b. Replication forks represent areas of active DNA synthesis on the chromosomes.

c. Ligases and polymerases function in the vicinity of replication forks.

d. Okazaki fragments are synthesized as part of the leading strand.

Answer: d. Okazaki fragments are synthesized as part of the leading strand.

To understand why DNA replication is one of the most selective processes by which the organism can make a photocopy of its genetic material, we start with definitions of key terms. In replication, the DNA molecule is described to be relaxed or denatured and each of the separated threads will act as a model for the creation of a new string. The strands that dominate in replication are synthesizing in the 5’ to 3’ direction, the strand that lags behind synthesizes in a backward manner in small sections known as Okazaki fragments. On the lagging strand, short Okazaki fragments are synthesized and are later connected by DNA ligase in a single polynucleotide. Therefore, the information under the statement – that Okazaki fragments are synthesized as part of the leading strand is false. Concerning the additional information, Okazaki, fragments are made behind the replication fork on the lagging strand, not the leading string.