AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Explanation: The ’ subunit of polymerase binds to two Zn2+ ions which are thought to participate in the catalytic function of the polymerase. It is also responsible for the binding of the enzyme to the template DNA.

Detailed explanation-2: -The beta subunit binds DNA by forming a ring around the DNA helix, essentially acting as a sliding clamp, also known as a beta clamp. This conformation allows the enzyme to move along the DNA structure without diffusing away, thereby increasing the processivity and rate of nucleotide polymerization.

Detailed explanation-3: -The ’ subunit contains structures crucial for transcription, including the sites for ribonucleotide addition and catalysis. Double-stranded DNA enters RNAP through the active site channel, while ribonucleotides (NTPs) enter through the secondary channel.

Detailed explanation-4: -The subunit is the product of the dnaN gene. This subunit appears to confer specificity for primer utilization upon the complex and to increase the processivity.

Detailed explanation-5: -The ′ subunit is the largest subunit, and is encoded by the rpoC gene. The ′ subunit contains part of the active center responsible for RNA synthesis and contains some of the determinants for non-sequence-specific interactions with DNA and nascent RNA. It is split into two subunits in Cyanobacteria and chloroplasts.