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Why is replication of the leading and lagging strand different?

Briefly describe the mechanism of each

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  • J
    Lv 5
    6 years ago

    DNA can only be synthesized in the 5'-->3' direction.

    The leading strand is fast at replicating but the lagging strand has to replicate backwards, thus needing okazaki fragments and other necessities.

    Since DNA is double stranded, both of the strands can't be 5'--->3'

    Source(s): bio student
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