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Multiple Choice
When examining the genetic code, it is apparent that ________.
A
most amino acids are encoded by more than one codon
B
each codon specifies multiple amino acids
C
the code is different in all organisms
D
stop codons encode amino acids
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of the genetic code: it is the set of rules by which information encoded in DNA or RNA sequences is translated into proteins by living cells.
Recall 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.
Recognize that the genetic code is described as 'degenerate,' meaning that most amino acids are encoded by more than one codon. This redundancy helps protect against mutations.
Note that each codon specifies only one amino acid or a stop signal, so the statement that each codon specifies multiple amino acids is incorrect.
Remember that the genetic code is nearly universal across organisms, and stop codons do not encode amino acids but instead signal the termination of protein synthesis.