Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this problem step by step, following the specified formatting guidelines:
Step 2:: Understand the Definition of a Codon
A codon is a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that codes for a particular amino acid or serves as a start or stop signal in protein synthesis.
Step 3:: Analyze the Composition of a Codon
In molecular biology, a codon is composed of three nucleotides. This three-nucleotide sequence is the fundamental unit of genetic code that specifies a particular amino acid during protein translation.
Step 4:: Verify the Number of Nucleotides
3 \text{ nucleotides} = 1 \text{ codon}
Step 5:: Eliminate Incorrect Options
- Two nucleotides: Incorrect - Three nucleotides: Correct - Four nucleotides: Incorrect - Five nucleotides: Incorrect
Final Answer
Three nucleotides make up a codon. Key Insight: The three-nucleotide structure of codons allows for 4^3 = 64 possible unique combinations, which provide the genetic instructions for 20 amino acids and stop/start signals in protein synthesis.
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