Why does DNA synthesis proceed in a 5' to 3' direction? DNA polymerases can only add nucleotides to the 3' end of a polynucleotide strand. The 3' end of the polynucleotide molecule contains more phosphates than the 5' end. DNA unzips in the 5' to 3' direction. DNA strands are parallel to each other. Chromosomes are aligned in the 5' to 3' direction in the nucleus.
Show transcribed image textWhy does DNA synthesis proceed in a 5' to 3' direction? DNA polymerases can only add nucleotides to the 3' end of a polynucleotide strand. The 3' end of the polynucleotide molecule contains more phosphates than the 5' end. DNA unzips in the 5' to 3' direction. DNA strands are parallel to each other. Chromosomes are aligned in the 5' to 3' direction in the nucleus.