DNA Replication Statement Accuracy

Steps:

• Statement 1 is correct: DNA replication occurs in stages (initiation, elongation, termination) and follows semi-conservative replication where each strand templates the new opposite strand.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: DNA polymerase links nucleotides via phosphodiester bonds, not bases directly, as bases are components of nucleotides.
• Statement 3 is correct: Helicase breaks hydrogen bonds between A-T and C-G base pairs to unwind and separate DNA strands for replication.
• Only statements 1 and 3 are accurate, matching option C.

Why C is correct:

• DNA replication requires template-guided synthesis (semi-conservative model) and hydrogen bond breakage for strand separation, as defined in molecular biology.

Why the others are wrong:

• A includes incorrect statement 2 on polymerase function.
• B includes incorrect statement 2 and omits correct statement 3.
• D omits correct statements 1 and 3.

Final answer: C