The strand that is synthesized continuously in one piece.Group of answer choicesboth leading and lagging strandlagging strandleading strandNext

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the Process: The question pertains to DNA replication and the synthesis of new strands.
2. Options Evaluation: The choices include leading strand, lagging strand, or both.

Relevant Concepts

1. Leading Strand: This strand is synthesized continuously in the direction of the replication fork.
2. Lagging Strand: This strand is synthesized discontinuously in short segments called Okazaki fragments.

Analysis and Detail

1. Synthesis Direction: The leading strand is synthesized in a continuous manner because DNA polymerase can add nucleotides in the same direction that the replication fork is unwinding.
2. Lagging Strand Characteristics: In contrast, the lagging strand must be synthesized in fragments since DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides to the 3' end of the strand, leading to discontinuous synthesis away from the replication fork.

Verify and Summarize

• The continuous synthesis of the leading strand allows for efficient DNA replication.
• The lagging strand requires more complexity due to its fragmented synthesis.

Final Answer

The strand that is synthesized continuously in one piece is the leading strand.