Answer: Primase.
- A Helicase
- B Primase
- C Ligase
- D Topoisomerase
Correct answer: B. Primase
Explanation: Primase synthesises a short RNA primer complementary to the template, providing the free 3 prime end that DNA polymerase extends.
Helicase unwinds the double helix at the replication fork; one new strand (leading) is synthesised continuously toward the fork, while the other (lagging) must be made in short, separate Okazaki fragments because DNA polymerase only adds nucleotides 5'→3'.
Concept context
DNA structure, replication, transcription, translation, the genetic code, and gene regulation (lac operon). The single most important chapter for NEET molecular biology.