Which of the following is not a component of the translation machinery?

• A. tRNA
• B. DNA polymerase
• C. mRNA
• D. Ribosome

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of translation: Translation is the process by which the genetic code carried by mRNA is decoded to produce a specific polypeptide or protein. It occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell.
2. Identify the key components involved in translation: The main components of the translation machinery include mRNA, tRNA, and ribosomes. mRNA carries the genetic information from DNA, tRNA brings amino acids to the ribosome, and ribosomes facilitate the assembly of amino acids into proteins.
3. Recognize the role of tRNA: Transfer RNA (tRNA) is crucial in translation as it transports the correct amino acids to the ribosome, matching the mRNA codons with the appropriate anticodons.
4. Understand the function of ribosomes: Ribosomes are the cellular structures where protein synthesis occurs. They consist of rRNA and proteins and provide a site for mRNA and tRNA to interact during translation.
5. Differentiate DNA polymerase: DNA polymerase is an enzyme involved in DNA replication, not translation. It synthesizes DNA molecules from deoxyribonucleotides, the building blocks of DNA, and is not part of the translation machinery.