The primary goal of DNA replication is to ensure that genetic information is accurately copied and passed on to the daughter cells during cell division. When a cell divides, it needs to duplicate its DNA so that each new cell receives a complete set of genetic instructions.
DNA replication begins when the double helix structure of the DNA unwinds, allowing the two strands to separate. Each strand serves as a template for the creation of a new complementary strand. This process involves various enzymes, including DNA polymerase, which add nucleotides to form the new strands based on the sequence of the original template strands.
The accuracy of DNA replication is crucial, as errors in this process can lead to mutations, which may result in genetic disorders or contribute to the development of cancer. Thus, the goal is not only to replicate the DNA but to do so with a high degree of fidelity.