Eauee rs ‘Step 1 Enzyme separates DNA strand ‘Step 3 New strands of DNA uses itself as a pattern DNA produced when itis copied. OS Step 2 New bases in cytoplasm pair with original bases of DNA strands Original DNA molecule How DNA Copies liself When chromosomes are doubled at the beginning of mito- sis, the amount of DNA in the nucleus is also doubled. What is the process by which DNA copies itself? The Watson and Crick model can be used to show how this takes place. The two strands of DNA unwind and separate. Each strand then becomes a pattern on which a new strand is formed. Figure 4-14 follows a strand of DNA as it produces two new DNA. strands identical to the original DNA. The events that take place while DNA copies itself are given below. Step 1. An enzyme breaks the bonds between the nitrogen bases. The two strands of DNA separate. Step 2. The bases attached to each strand then pair up with new bases from a supply found in the cytoplasm. Adenine pairs with thymine. Cytosine pairs with guanine. The order of base pairs in each new strand of DNA will match the order of base pairs in the original DNA. Step 3. Sugar and phosphate groups form the side of each new DNA strand. Each new DNA molecule now contains one strand of the original DNA and one new strand. 106 Chapter 4 Cell Reproduction