DNA Structure and Replication · USMLE Step 1

Which statement correctly describes the number of origins of replication in prokaryotic versus eukaryotic chromosomes?

  1. Prokaryotes have multiple origins; eukaryotes have a single origin
  2. Both have a single origin
  3. Prokaryotes have a single origin; eukaryotes have multiple origins
  4. Both have multiple origins
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Prokaryotes have a single origin; eukaryotes have multiple origins

Prokaryotes (with circular chromosomes) typically replicate from a single origin of replication, whereas eukaryotic linear chromosomes use multiple origins to replicate large genomes efficiently.

Difficulty: Medium Question 12 of 20

Practice all 20 DNA Structure and Replication questions

Keep practicing

More DNA Structure and Replication questions