The function of the beta subunit is to prevent DNA polymerase III from dissociating from the template DNA strand while still allowing the polymerase to slide along DNA as replication progresses. Given this function, the alpha helices in the beta subunit are:
a) located on the inner surface and oriented parallel to the minor and major grooves of DNA.
b) located on the inner surface and oriented perpendicular to the minor and major grooves of DNA.
c) located on the outer surface and do not interact with DNA.

Option (b).

Explanation:

DNA polymerase III is the enzyme used during the DNA replication in case of prokaryotes. This enzyme has high processitvity and acts as the main replicating enzyme. This enzyme has different subunit like alpha, beta, gamma and tau.

The beta subunit acts as the sliding clamp. The beta subunit is lies perpendicular to the DNA grooves as this orientation restrict the entry of the protein. This restriction helps in the sliding of the beta subunit of the DNA and continue the process of DNA replication.

Thus, the correct answer is option (b).

the answers are a and c