Which term is used for the three-nucleotide sequence that codes for one amino acid in the mRNA?

Study for the California Science Test. Get ready for the 8th grade exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Prepare with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which term is used for the three-nucleotide sequence that codes for one amino acid in the mRNA?

Explanation:
Three-nucleotide units in mRNA that specify which amino acid to add next are called codons. During translation, the ribosome reads mRNA in these codons, and a tRNA with the matching anticodon brings the corresponding amino acid to build the protein. The full set of rules that maps each codon to its amino acid is known as the genetic code. A gene is a unit of heredity, and a genome is the entire set of genetic material in an organism. For example, the codon AUG signals the start of translation and codes for methionine. Therefore, the term for the three-nucleotide sequence that codes for one amino acid is codon.

Three-nucleotide units in mRNA that specify which amino acid to add next are called codons. During translation, the ribosome reads mRNA in these codons, and a tRNA with the matching anticodon brings the corresponding amino acid to build the protein. The full set of rules that maps each codon to its amino acid is known as the genetic code. A gene is a unit of heredity, and a genome is the entire set of genetic material in an organism. For example, the codon AUG signals the start of translation and codes for methionine. Therefore, the term for the three-nucleotide sequence that codes for one amino acid is codon.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy