In which direction does DNA polymerase read the template strand?

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Multiple Choice

In which direction does DNA polymerase read the template strand?

Explanation:
DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides to the 3' end of the growing strand, so synthesis occurs in the 5' to 3' direction on the new strand. To place the correct complementary bases, the enzyme must move along the template in the opposite direction—from the template’s 3' end toward its 5' end. This reading direction (3' to 5' on the template) aligns with the antiparallel arrangement of DNA and allows proper base pairing (A with T, G with C) while the new strand is extended at its 3' end.

DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides to the 3' end of the growing strand, so synthesis occurs in the 5' to 3' direction on the new strand. To place the correct complementary bases, the enzyme must move along the template in the opposite direction—from the template’s 3' end toward its 5' end. This reading direction (3' to 5' on the template) aligns with the antiparallel arrangement of DNA and allows proper base pairing (A with T, G with C) while the new strand is extended at its 3' end.

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