Which step occurs in the P site of the ribosome during translation?

• A. Codon recognition
• B. mRNA binding
• C. Peptide bond formation
• D. tRNA exit

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the ribosome in translation: The ribosome is the molecular machine that facilitates the synthesis of proteins by translating mRNA into a polypeptide chain.
2. Identify the sites within the ribosome: The ribosome has three key sites known as the A (aminoacyl), P (peptidyl), and E (exit) sites, each playing a distinct role in translation.
3. Focus on the P site: The P site is where the growing polypeptide chain is held. It is crucial for peptide bond formation, which links amino acids together.
4. Recognize the process of peptide bond formation: During translation, the ribosome catalyzes the formation of peptide bonds between the amino acids carried by tRNAs. This occurs in the P site, where the polypeptide chain is transferred from the tRNA in the P site to the tRNA in the A site.
5. Differentiate between the steps: Codon recognition occurs in the A site, mRNA binding is part of the initiation process, and tRNA exit happens at the E site. Peptide bond formation is the key step occurring in the P site.