What is the process of making a copy of an existing DNA molecule called?

The process of making a copy of an existing DNA molecule is known as replication. During replication, the double helix structure of the DNA unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the formation of a new complementary strand. This is a crucial process that occurs during the cell cycle, specifically in the S phase, ensuring that when a cell divides, each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the DNA.

Replication involves various enzymes, including DNA polymerase, which synthesizes the new strands by adding nucleotides that are complementary to the existing strands. The end result is two identical DNA molecules, each comprising one original strand and one newly synthesized strand.

This process is fundamental to biological inheritance, as it allows genetic information to be passed on during cell division and ultimately from one generation to the next. Understanding the mechanics of DNA replication is vital for comprehending topics such as genetic continuity, mutation rates, and the principles of molecular biology.