Q: Compare and contrast DNA replication and transcription

Similarities:
Both processes occur in the nucleus. Both processes also involve specific complementary base pairing. Both processes involving the unwinding of the double helix DNA. Both processes involve forming of hydrogen bonds between the original DNA and the eventual product.

Differences:
Replication involves the forming of a new DNA molecule but the product of transcription is an mRNA molecule. Replication uses the base thymine but transcription uses the base uracil. Replication uses deoxyribose sugar but transcription uses ribose sugar. Replication involves DNA polymerase whereas transcription involves RNA polymerase. In replication, the DNA does not remain intact as both parent strands are eventually separated under semi-conservative replication whereas in transcription, the DNA eventually remains intact. Replication occurs in order for mitosis to occur, it is part of the cell division cycle; however, transcription occurs as a part of protein synthesis.