In the context of genetic coding, what does it mean for two codons to be synonymous?

• A. They are located on the same chromosome.
• B. They code for the same amino acid.
• C. They code for different amino acids but have similar sequences.
• D. They initiate translation at the start codon.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a codon is a sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that corresponds to a specific amino acid or a stop signal during protein synthesis.
2. Recognize that the genetic code is redundant, meaning multiple codons can code for the same amino acid.
3. Define synonymous codons as different codons that specify the same amino acid, which helps reduce the impact of mutations on protein function.
4. Contrast synonymous codons with non-synonymous codons, which code for different amino acids and can alter protein structure.
5. Conclude that two codons are synonymous if they both code for the same amino acid, regardless of their nucleotide sequence differences.