What are the short lengths of DNA produced on the lagging strand during DNA replication called?

The short lengths of DNA produced on the lagging strand during DNA replication are referred to as Okazaki fragments. These fragments are formed because DNA replication is discontinuous on the lagging strand, which runs in the opposite direction to the replication fork. As a result, small segments of DNA are synthesized in short bursts, which are the Okazaki fragments, rather than continuously like on the leading strand.

Each fragment is created as the DNA polymerase enzyme adds nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction, starting from an RNA primer that provides the necessary 3' hydroxyl group for nitrogenous bases to attach. These Okazaki fragments are later connected by the action of DNA ligases, which join them together to form a continuous strand of DNA.

Other terms in the options describe different aspects of DNA replication or other processes; for instance, leading strands refer to the continuously synthesized DNA on the leading side of the fork, while RNA primers serve as starting points for synthesis. Thus, Okazaki fragments are specifically linked to the lagging strand and its unique method of replication during the DNA synthesis process.