Here's how it works:

* Breaking Hydrogen Bonds: Helicase breaks the hydrogen bonds that hold the two strands of DNA together.

* Separating Strands: This separation creates two single strands of DNA, which can then be used as templates for replication or transcription.

* Unwinding the Helix: Helicase moves along the DNA molecule, unwinding the double helix as it goes.

Helicase is essential for DNA replication, transcription, and repair.