What enzyme is responsible for separating the two strands of DNA during replication?

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Multiple Choice

What enzyme is responsible for separating the two strands of DNA during replication?

Explanation:
Separating the two DNA strands is accomplished by DNA helicase. It binds at the replication fork and uses energy from ATP to break the hydrogen bonds between base pairs, unwinding the double helix so each strand can serve as a template for synthesis. This opening step is essential because DNA polymerase can only copy exposed templates. DNA polymerase then builds the new strands, ligase seals nicks after fragments are formed, and topoisomerase relieves twisting strain as the DNA unwraps.

Separating the two DNA strands is accomplished by DNA helicase. It binds at the replication fork and uses energy from ATP to break the hydrogen bonds between base pairs, unwinding the double helix so each strand can serve as a template for synthesis. This opening step is essential because DNA polymerase can only copy exposed templates. DNA polymerase then builds the new strands, ligase seals nicks after fragments are formed, and topoisomerase relieves twisting strain as the DNA unwraps.

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