Multiple choice

Which of the following statements about DNA polymerase is INCORRECT

  1. it proofreads and corrects for errors in base pairing

  2. it is unable to initiate synthesis; requires RNA primer

  3. it works only in the 5' → 3' direction

  4. it forms the bond between complementary base pairs
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the growing strand by forming phosphodiester bonds between the 3'-OH of the existing strand and the 5'-phosphate of the incoming nucleotide. It does not form the hydrogen bonds between base pairs; those form spontaneously based on complementarity.

Keep practicing — related questions