Final answer:
RNA consists of three main types: mRNA, rRNA, and tRNA. mRNA carries genetic instructions, rRNA forms ribosomes, and tRNA carries amino acids during protein synthesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
RNA, or ribonucleic acid, is a type of nucleic acid that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis. There are three main types of RNA: messenger RNA (mRNA), ribosomal RNA (rRNA), and transfer RNA (tRNA).
1. Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries the genetic instructions from the DNA in the nucleus and delivers them to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm. It serves as a template for protein synthesis.
2. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) combines with proteins to form ribosomes, which are responsible for protein synthesis. rRNA helps to catalyze the formation of peptide bonds between amino acids.
3. Transfer RNA (tRNA) carries amino acids to the ribosomes during protein synthesis. Each tRNA molecule is specific to a particular amino acid, and it recognizes the codons on mRNA to ensure the correct sequence of amino acids in the protein.