DNA carries out two basic functions in cells: (1) information storage and transfer (genes can be copied and passed to offspring)
and (2) the "blueprint" function (genes provide instructions for building proteins). The key process for information storage and transfer to offspring cells is _____.
DNA replication is a complex process in which the parent DNA transfers its data to daughter DNA. The DNA is separated in the double helix prior to transfer. The three main steps in DNA replication are initiation, elongation, and termination. In initiation, the DNA breaks down and the strands separate. During elongation, new DNA molecules form by single strands adding complementary bases. Finally, termination is when two idential DNA molecules are made each containing a new strand of DNA.
