Question:

Given below are two statements:
Statement I - In prokaryotes, there is only replicon however in eukaryotes, these are several replicons in tandem.
Statement II - Two separated strands in a replicon of DNA are prevented from re-joining by helicase enzyme.
In light of above statements, choose the correct answer from the option given below.

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Key roles: Helicase = Unwinds DNA
SSB proteins = Prevent rejoining
Updated On: May 8, 2026
  • Both statement I and statement II are correct.
  • Both statement I and statement II are incorrect.
  • Statement I is correct and statement II is incorrect.
  • Statement I is incorrect and statement II is correct.
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation


Concept: DNA replication occurs at specific regions called replicons, each having an origin of replication.
Replicon: Unit of DNA replication containing one origin.
• Prokaryotes: Usually have a single circular chromosome with one origin (single replicon).
• Eukaryotes: Have linear chromosomes with multiple origins (many replicons).

Step 1:
Analyze Statement I.
Prokaryotes have a single replicon, while eukaryotes have multiple replicons arranged along DNA. Hence, Statement I is correct.

Step 2:
Analyze Statement II.
Helicase unwinds DNA strands by breaking hydrogen bonds. However, the separated strands are prevented from rejoining by single-strand binding proteins (SSB proteins), not helicase. Hence, Statement II is incorrect.

Step 3:
Conclusion.
Statement I is correct, Statement II is incorrect. Final Answer: Option (C)
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