Mismatches caused by errors in DNA replication are corrected by a repair system that must discriminate between the template strand and the newly synthesized strand. How does E. coli discriminate between the template strand and the newly synthesized strand?

Methylation state

Explanation:

After DNA replication some errors can occur in the newly synthesized strand. Therefore proofreading is important.

In E. coli, the template strand can be discriminated from the newly synthesized strand by the Methylation state.

The template or the old strand will have a methyl group ( -CH3) attached at some of its bases whereas newly synthesized strands lack the Methyl group.

it would be c. xylem.