What is the process of making a copy of DNA called?

The process of making a copy of DNA is called DNA replication. This is a fundamental biological process that occurs in living cells to ensure that genetic information is passed on accurately during cell division. During DNA replication, the double helix structure of the DNA unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand. This ensures that each new cell receives an exact copy of the DNA.

In contrast, DNA synthesis generally refers to the broader process of creating DNA strands and may not specifically denote the copying mechanism that occurs in replication. RNA transcription is a separate process where a segment of DNA is used to produce RNA, which serves various roles in protein synthesis. Protein synthesis involves translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into a polypeptide chain or protein, which is distinct from the process of duplicating genetic material. Therefore, DNA replication specifically addresses the copying of DNA, making it the correct answer.