replication cycle

The replication cycle is how a cell copies its DNA before division. First, the cell's DNA unwinds, making it accessible. Then, specialized enzymes called DNA polymerases build new DNA strands by adding matching nucleotides to each original strand. This results in two identical DNA molecules, each composed of one original and one new strand. The process ensures genetic information is accurately passed on when the cell divides. After replication, the cell can split into two, each with an exact copy of the DNA, maintaining continuity of genetic information across generations.