# During the cell cycle, DNA replication occurs in the nucleus before a cell can divide. Explain how DNA replication produces two identical copies of DNA from one original molecule.

> Eduqas A-Level Biology — 1.5 Nucleic acids and DNA replication · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The two strands of the double helix unwind / separate
2. Each original strand acts as a template for a new strand
3. Complementary bases pair up / free nucleotides align with complementary bases on the template strand
4. Two new double-stranded DNA molecules are formed, each containing one original strand and one new strand
5. The two new DNA molecules are identical to the original / each daughter cell receives identical genetic information

## Key terms

- [DNA](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/dna)
- [DNA replication](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/dna-replication)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/during-the-cell-cycle-dna-replication-0c54ef30) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.