Final answer:
The initiator tRNA is found in the space between the 30S and 50S ribosomal subunits during bacterial translation, as it initiates the protein synthesis by recognizing the start codon on the mRNA.
Step-by-step explanation:
During bacterial translation, the component that is found in the space between the 30S and 50S ribosomal subunits is the initiator tRNA. This initiator tRNA carries N-formyl-methionine (fMet) and is necessary for the initiation of protein synthesis. The ribosome in bacteria is composed of a 30S small subunit and a 50S large subunit, which together form the 70S ribosome. During initiation, the 30S subunit binds to the mRNA template with the help of initiation factors. Subsequently, the initiator tRNA, which recognizes the start codon on the mRNA, binds to the P site of the 30S subunit.
After the formation of the initiation complex, the 50S ribosomal subunit joins to complete the ribosome. As the elongation of the polypeptide chain commences, the ribosome holds the tRNAs at the A (aminoacyl) site, P (peptidyl) site, and E (exit) site.