Question

what is the function of dna polymerase iii in replication in e. coli?
○ to unwind the dna helix during replication
○ to seal together the broken ends of dna strands
○ to add nucleotides to the 3 end of a growing dna strand
○ to degrade damaged dna molecules

Explanation:

• Analyze each option:
• Option 1: Helicase unwinds DNA helix, not DNA polymerase III.
• Option 2: DNA ligase seals broken DNA ends, not DNA polymerase III.
• Option 3: DNA polymerase III's main function in E. coli replication is to add nucleotides to the 3’ end of a growing DNA strand, using the template strand.
• Option 4: Enzymes like nucleases degrade damaged DNA, not DNA polymerase III.

Answer:

C. to add nucleotides to the 3' end of a growing DNA strand (assuming the options are labeled A - D with this as the third option, but based on the text, the correct option is "to add nucleotides to the 3' end of a growing DNA strand")