Central dogma focus: RNA is synthesized using a DNA template in a process called what, and which enzyme catalyzes this reaction in cells?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: transcription, RNA polymerase

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question tests a core piece of the central dogma of molecular biology: how information flows from DNA to RNA. It asks you to correctly name the process that uses DNA as a template to make RNA and to identify the enzyme that performs this task.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Cells contain DNA, RNA, and proteins.
  • Template-directed synthesis follows base-pairing rules (A–U in RNA, A–T in DNA; G–C).
  • Standard cellular processes are considered (no unusual viral enzymes).



Concept / Approach:
Information typically moves DNA → RNA → protein. The step DNA → RNA is called transcription. The enzyme that catalyzes transcription is RNA polymerase, which binds to promoters, unwinds a short region of DNA, and polymerizes ribonucleotides into an RNA chain using the DNA template strand for base pairing.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the process that makes RNA from DNA: transcription.Identify the enzyme that synthesizes RNA: RNA polymerase.Match to the option that pairs both correctly.Select: transcription, RNA polymerase.



Verification / Alternative check:
Replication uses DNA polymerase and produces DNA from DNA. Translation uses ribosomes to build polypeptides from mRNA; there is no “translation polymerase.” Thus the only accurate pairing is transcription with RNA polymerase.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • translation, RNA polymerase: translation does not synthesize RNA.
  • transcription, DNA polymerase: DNA polymerase makes DNA, not RNA.
  • replication, DNA polymerase: correct pairing, but wrong process for making RNA.



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing replication with transcription or assuming all polymerases make all nucleic acids. Each polymerase has specificity.



Final Answer:
transcription, RNA polymerase

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