Question

Read through the following steps of translation and place them in the correct order by numbering 1-8.

_____ A small ribosomal subunit binds to an mRNA and the first tRNA at the start codon.

Answer 1

Translation proceeds in a specific order starting with the small ribosomal subunit binding to the mRNA and initiator tRNA, leading to a series of steps including elongation and ending with termination at a stop codon.

Step-by-step explanation:

Order of Translation Steps

1. The small ribosomal subunit binds to an initiator tRNA and the mRNA at the start codon.
2. Initiation factors assist the small subunit in locating and binding to the AUG start codon.
3. The initiator tRNA anticodon hydrogen bonds with the start codon.
4. The large ribosomal subunit joins, completing the initiation complex.
5. A second tRNA is recruited as the ribosome aligns with the mRNA.
6. The ribosome catalyzes the bonding between amino acids to form a polypeptide chain.
7. As the ribosome moves along the mRNA in a 5' to 3' direction, it continues to facilitate the growth of the polypeptide chain.
8. Upon reaching a stop codon, a release factor binds, terminating translation, and the components dissociate.

The small ribosomal subunit binds to the mRNA and the initiator tRNA at the AUG start codon, proceeding through the steps involving elongation and termination to form a polypeptide chain.

Translation is the process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins using the genetic information encoded in messenger RNA (mRNA). It starts when the small ribosomal subunit binds to the mRNA at the start codon, which is typically AUG. This step, along with the assistance of initiation factors, ensures that the ribosome correctly identifies the start point for translation.