What is DNA replication?

DNA replication is the fundamental biological process in which a cell makes an identical copy of its DNA before cell division. This process ensures that when a cell divides, each new cell receives a complete set of genetic information that is identical to that of the original cell.

During replication, the double helix structure of DNA unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand. Enzymes such as DNA polymerase play a crucial role by adding nucleotides to the growing strand based on the base-pairing rules (adenine pairs with thymine, and cytosine pairs with guanine). As a result, two identical double helices are formed, each containing one original and one newly synthesized strand, maintaining the genetic continuity.

The other options refer to different processes: the production of RNA from DNA describes transcription, the exchange of genetic material refers to recombination, and the separation of chromatids occurs during mitosis or meiosis, but none of these define the process of DNA replication itself.