EXPLORE THE BIOLOGY:

DNA (DeoxyriboNucleic Acid) is made of two strands which wind around each other in a double helix.  When DNA is replicated, the DNA strands are separated and each serves as a template (i.e. the basis for a pattern) for a new double helix.

DNA is a polymer.  Polymers (poly = many) are large molecules made of smaller, linked units called monomers (mono = one). 

DNA is made up of many, individual nucleotides (monomers) that are connected to each other to form both single strands and helical, double strands (polymers).  Nucleotides are attached to a growing strand by an enzyme.    

Please read the instructions below, before you use the model.

Start by specifying the following settings in the simulator:

DNA-strand-length:  30                             Speed:  Normal

Enzyme labels: checked                           Substitutions:  unchecked

Nucleo labels: unchecked                         Free-nucleosides:  50                   Time-limit:  None
 

When you have chosen the correct settings, press SETUP.

The simulation setup shows the tools you will need to replicate DNA.  You have a strand of Condensed DNA, Free Nucleotides and Replication Enzymes:

EXPLORE THE BIOLOGY:

Enzymes are proteins that perform chemical reactions in cells.  This simulation shows you four different enzymes that are integral to DNA replication. 

Press GO/STOP to start the simulation! 

You can drag and drop molecules inside the cell using your mouse cursor.