Which of the following best describes the function of helicase?

Helicase plays a critical role in DNA replication by unwinding the DNA double helix. This enzyme moves along the DNA strands, breaking the hydrogen bonds between the paired bases, which separates the two strands of the double helix. This unwinding is essential because it creates two single-stranded DNA templates that can then be replicated. The action of helicase is crucial for providing the necessary access to the genetic information for the DNA polymerase and other enzymes involved in the replication process. Without helicase, the double-stranded DNA would remain tightly coiled, preventing the replication machinery from functioning effectively.