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Multiple Choice
Which of the following correctly compares prokaryotic and eukaryotic codons?
A
Prokaryotic codons specify different amino acids than eukaryotic codons.
B
Only prokaryotic cells use stop codons in their genetic code.
C
Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells use the same universal genetic code, so their codons specify the same amino acids.
D
Eukaryotic cells use four-nucleotide codons, while prokaryotic cells use three-nucleotide codons.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of codons: Codons are sequences of three nucleotides in mRNA that specify particular amino acids during protein synthesis. Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells use codons in their genetic code.
Learn about the universal genetic code: The genetic code is nearly universal across all organisms, meaning that the same codons specify the same amino acids in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
Clarify the role of stop codons: Stop codons (e.g., UAA, UAG, UGA) are used by both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells to signal the termination of translation during protein synthesis.
Address the misconception about codon length: Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells use three-nucleotide codons, not four-nucleotide codons, to encode amino acids.
Conclude that the correct comparison is: Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells use the same universal genetic code, so their codons specify the same amino acids.