Fill in the blank: __________ is the enzyme that adds complementary DNA nucleotides during replication.

The correct answer is DNA polymerase. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the process of DNA replication, where it synthesizes new strands of DNA by adding nucleotides that are complementary to the template strand. DNA polymerase ensures the accuracy of the replication process by matching adenine with thymine and cytosine with guanine.

During DNA replication, the double helix unwinds, creating two template strands. DNA polymerase then attaches to the template strand and begins adding nucleotides that match the existing bases. This process is vital for cell division and the maintenance of genetic information. Without DNA polymerase, the replication process would not occur efficiently, leading to potential errors and mutations in the DNA.

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