[Campbell Biology P.396] Based on Figure 17.15 and its description, what is the primary role... | Practice Question

Based on Figure 17.15 and its description, what is the primary role of a tRNA molecule during protein synthesis?

  • A: To carry genetic information from DNA to the ribosome.
  • B: To synthesize polypeptide chains by forming peptide bonds.
  • C: To transport specific amino acids to the ribosome, matching them to mRNA codons via their anticodons.
  • D: To form the structural framework of the ribosome.

Explanation

Figure 17.15 and its caption explain that tRNA molecules act as 'translators, or interpreters' that have a specific anticodon at one end and a corresponding amino acid at the other. They add their amino acid cargo to the growing polypeptide chain by hydrogen-bonding to the complementary codon on the mRNA.