How are codons and anticodons related in the process of protein synthesis?

• A. Codons and anticodons are both found on the same strand of DNA.
• B. Codons are sequences of three nucleotides on mRNA that pair with anticodons on tRNA during translation.
• C. Codons and anticodons are identical sequences that ensure the correct amino acid is added to the growing polypeptide chain.
• D. Anticodons are sequences of three nucleotides on mRNA that pair with codons on tRNA during transcription.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of mRNA and tRNA in protein synthesis: mRNA (messenger RNA) carries the genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, where proteins are synthesized. tRNA (transfer RNA) brings amino acids to the ribosome to be added to the growing polypeptide chain.
2. Define codons: Codons are sequences of three nucleotides on mRNA. Each codon corresponds to a specific amino acid or a stop signal during protein synthesis.
3. Define anticodons: Anticodons are sequences of three nucleotides on tRNA. Each anticodon is complementary to a specific codon on the mRNA, allowing tRNA to deliver the correct amino acid.
4. Explain the pairing process: During translation, the ribosome facilitates the pairing of codons on mRNA with anticodons on tRNA. This ensures that the correct amino acids are added to the polypeptide chain.
5. Clarify the relationship: Codons and anticodons are not identical; they are complementary. This complementarity ensures the accurate translation of the genetic code into a protein sequence.