How many nucleotides make up a $\mathrm{codon}$?

• A. $2$
• B. $1$
• C. $3$
• D. $4$

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a codon: A codon is a sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that corresponds to a specific amino acid or stop signal during protein synthesis.
2. Recall that nucleotides are the basic building blocks of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
3. Recognize that in the genetic code, a codon is made up of a specific number of nucleotides that together encode for an amino acid.
4. Review the standard genetic code, which is based on triplets of nucleotides. Each triplet, or codon, specifies one amino acid or a stop signal.
5. Conclude that a codon is composed of three nucleotides, which is the number required to encode a single amino acid in the genetic code.