During prokaryotic DNA replication, what are the short DNA segments synthesized opposite to the direction of fork movement on the lagging strand called?

Introduction / Context:
DNA replication is semi-discontinuous. The antiparallel nature of DNA and the 5′→3′ synthesis constraint force the cell to create short DNA pieces on one strand. Recognizing these as Okazaki fragments is central to understanding lagging-strand synthesis.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Synthesis proceeds only 5′→3′.
• The replication fork moves in one direction, creating a leading and a lagging strand.
• RNA primers initiate each short segment on the lagging strand.

Concept / Approach:
The leading strand is synthesized continuously by the replicative polymerase. The lagging strand is synthesized discontinuously as short segments called Okazaki fragments, each initiated by an RNA primer. These fragments are later processed: primers removed (Pol I), DNA filled in, and nicks sealed (ligase).

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify continuous versus discontinuous synthesis.Name the short discontinuous DNA segments: Okazaki fragments.Differentiate primers (short RNA initiators) from the DNA fragments themselves.Confirm that “lagging strand” is the template/strand, not the fragment name.

Verification / Alternative check:
Pulse-chase labeling experiments produced short labeled DNA pieces that matured into longer DNA, validating the Okazaki fragment model.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Leading strands: continuous synthesis; not short pieces.Primers: RNA oligonucleotides that start fragments but are not the DNA fragments themselves.Lagging strand: refers to the discontinuously synthesized strand overall.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing RNA primers with Okazaki fragments, or thinking both strands are made continuously.

Final Answer:
Okazaki fragments