What is a key feature of the lagging strand during DNA replication?

The key feature of the lagging strand during DNA replication is that it is synthesized with Okazaki fragments. DNA replication occurs in a semi-discontinuous manner; the leading strand is synthesized continuously in the direction of the replication fork, while the lagging strand is synthesized in short segments called Okazaki fragments, which are formed in the opposite direction of the replication fork's movement. This occurs because DNA polymerases can only add nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction, leading to the necessity for these shorter fragments on the lagging strand. Each Okazaki fragment is initiated by an RNA primer, which provides a starting point for DNA synthesis. After these fragments are synthesized, they are later joined together by the enzyme DNA ligase, creating a continuous strand.

In contrast, the leading strand does not utilize Okazaki fragments; it is synthesized continuously. The position of elongation relative to the replication fork is specific to the mechanics of DNA synthesis. The lagging strand clearly requires RNA primers to initiate each fragment, making the assertion that it does not require them inaccurate.