What process is described as the copying of DNA molecules?

The process described as the copying of DNA molecules is DNA replication. During DNA replication, the double helix of the DNA molecule unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand. This occurs through the action of various enzymes, including DNA polymerase, which adds nucleotides to form the new strands. The result of this process is two identical DNA molecules, each containing one original strand and one newly synthesized strand, which is essential for cell division and the preservation of genetic information.

Transcription refers to the process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template and is crucial for gene expression rather than duplicating DNA itself. Translation is the subsequent step where the RNA is used to synthesize proteins. Cellular respiration involves metabolic processes that break down glucose to produce energy and does not relate to the copying of DNA. Thus, DNA replication is specifically the process that involves the accurate copying of DNA, making it the correct choice.