IB Biology Topic D1.1.1 DNA Replication Revision…

DNA Replication Makes Exact Copies of the Genome

Building a replica of a Lego model means every piece has to fit perfectly to make an exact copy.
DNA replication works the same way, giving every cell in your body an identical set of genetic instructions.

Definition

DNA Replication

DNA replication is the biological process by which a cell copies its DNA to ensure that each daughter cell receives an identical set of genetic instructions during cell division. It is essential for growth, repair, and reproduction in living organisms.

Each Strand Guides a New Copy

The double helix separates into two single strands.
Each original strand acts as a template for a new strand.
Free nucleotides pair with the template by the base-pairing rules, A with T and C with G.
This builds a new strand that matches the original exactly.

Example

If the template strand reads A-T-C-G, the new strand reads T-A-G-C.

Why Replication Matters for Life

Reproduction
1. Offspring inherit a full set of DNA from their parents.
Growth
1. Cell division lets multicellular organisms grow, and every new cell needs its own copy of the DNA.
Tissue replacement
1. New cells replace worn-out or damaged ones.

Example

When you cut your skin, DNA replication lets new cells form and repair the wound.

How Accurate Is DNA Replication?

Replication copies billions of bases with very few mistakes.
This precision keeps genetic information stable from one cell to the next.

Active recall

What does it mean that DNA replication produces exact copies?
What role does each original strand play during replication?
State the two complementary base-pairing rules.
Name two processes in the body that depend on DNA replication.

DNA Replication Makes Exact Copies of the Genome

Building a replica of a Lego model means every piece has to fit perfectly to make an exact copy.
DNA replication works the same way, giving every cell in your body an identical set of genetic instructions.

Definition

DNA Replication

Each Strand Guides a New Copy

The double helix separates into two single strands.
Each original strand acts as a template for a new strand.
Free nucleotides pair with the template by the base-pairing rules, A with T and C with G.
This builds a new strand that matches the original exactly.

Example

If the template strand reads A-T-C-G, the new strand reads T-A-G-C.

Why Replication Matters for Life

Reproduction
1. Offspring inherit a full set of DNA from their parents.
Growth
1. Cell division lets multicellular organisms grow, and every new cell needs its own copy of the DNA.
Tissue replacement
1. New cells replace worn-out or damaged ones.

Example

When you cut your skin, DNA replication lets new cells form and repair the wound.

How Accurate Is DNA Replication?

Replication copies billions of bases with very few mistakes.
This precision keeps genetic information stable from one cell to the next.

Active recall

What does it mean that DNA replication produces exact copies?
What role does each original strand play during replication?
State the two complementary base-pairing rules.
Name two processes in the body that depend on DNA replication.

IB Biology Topic D1.1.1: DNA Replication Notes

IB Biology Topic D1.1.1: DNA Replication Notes

DNA Replication Makes Exact Copies of the Genome

Each Strand Guides a New Copy

Why Replication Matters for Life

How Accurate Is DNA Replication?

DNA Replication Makes Exact Copies of the Genome

Each Strand Guides a New Copy

Why Replication Matters for Life

How Accurate Is DNA Replication?

A - Unity and Diversity

B - Form and Function

C - Interaction and Interdependence

D - Continuity and Change

A - Unity and Diversity

B - Form and Function

C - Interaction and Interdependence

D - Continuity and Change

IB Biology Topic D1.1.1: DNA Replication Notes

IB Biology Topic D1.1.1: DNA Replication Notes

DNA Replication Makes Exact Copies of the Genome

Each Strand Guides a New Copy

Why Replication Matters for Life

How Accurate Is DNA Replication?

DNA Replication Makes Exact Copies of the Genome

Each Strand Guides a New Copy

Why Replication Matters for Life

How Accurate Is DNA Replication?