How are Okazaki fragments synthesized? a. by using the leading-strand template, and synthesizing 5'→3' b. by using the leading-strand template, and synthesizing 3'→5' c. by using the lagging-strand template, and synthesizing 5'→3' d. by using the lagging-strand template, and synthesizing 3'→5'.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that DNA replication involves the synthesis of new DNA strands from existing templates. DNA polymerase, the enzyme responsible for this process, can only add nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction.
2. Recognize that the replication fork has two strands: the leading strand and the lagging strand. The leading strand is synthesized continuously in the same direction as the replication fork's movement, while the lagging strand is synthesized discontinuously.
3. Identify that Okazaki fragments are short sequences of DNA nucleotides which are synthesized discontinuously on the lagging strand during DNA replication.
4. Note that each Okazaki fragment begins with an RNA primer, which is later replaced by DNA, and then DNA polymerase synthesizes the rest of the fragment.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is 'c. by using the lagging-strand template, and synthesizing 5'→3'', because Okazaki fragments are synthesized on the lagging strand in the 5' to 3' direction.