CONNECT!

• How does a cell “know” what to do to stay alive?

• Where does a cell get this information from?

• What has to happen in the original cell so that both new cells get the hereditary information?

DNA Replication

• replication, the exact copying of the genetic material to produce new cells (cells need their own DNA to function)

• since DNA makes up chromosomes, it is the DNA that replicates

Steps of DNA Replication

1. The two strands of the DNA molecule separate by “unzipping” between pairs of nitrogenous bases (because weakest bond is there)

2. Unbound nucleotides floating free bond to the unzipped portions of the DNA molecule to make two new identical DNA molecules

Each single strand became a template, or pattern for a new molecule built by attaching new nucleotides

CHUNK TIME!

1. What does replicate mean?2. Why do cells need to replicate their

hereditary material?3. What is replicated?4. What is the first step in DNA replication?5. Why does it unzip where it does?6. What is the next step in DNA replication?

7. What does template mean?

8. What would the corresponding strand be for the template at right?

9. Compare the 2 new DNA strands to the original.

Just for Fun!