QQuestionBiology
QuestionBiology
Which best describes a codon?
A. A sequence of three nucleotides that together form a unit of genetic code in a DNA or RNA molecule.
B. A protein that helps in the replication of DNA.
C. A part of the cell that is involved in the process of translation.
D. A segment of DNA that contains instructions for building a protein.
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Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this step by step:
Step 2:: Understand the key terms
- A codon is a fundamental unit in genetics - It relates to the genetic code that provides instructions for protein synthesis - The term specifically describes a sequence of nucleotides
Step 3:: Analyze each option carefully
A. A sequence of three nucleotides that together form a unit of genetic code in a DNA or RNA molecule. B. A protein that helps in the replication of DNA. C. A part of the cell that is involved in the process of translation. D. A segment of DNA that contains instructions for building a protein.
Step 4:: Evaluate the definition of a codon
- Codons are specifically three-nucleotide sequences - They serve as a "code" that specifies which amino acid should be added during protein synthesis - They can be found in both DNA and RNA molecules
Step 5:: Eliminate incorrect options
- Option B is incorrect: Codons are not proteins - Option C is too vague and not specific to codons - Option D is close but not precise about the three-nucleotide structure
Step 6:: Confirm the correct answer
Option A precisely defines a codon as a three-nucleotide sequence that forms a unit of genetic code.
Final Answer
A sequence of three nucleotides that together form a unit of genetic code in a DNA or RNA molecule.
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