Final answer:
The four key types of RNA are mRNA, which carries the genetic code; tRNA, which transports amino acids; rRNA, which is part of the protein synthesis machinery in ribosomes; and snRNA, which is involved in splicing mRNA to ensure correct mRNA processing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types and Functions of RNA
There are four types of RNA, each with its own function in the cell:
- messenger RNA (mRNA) - Carries the genetic code from DNA to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm where proteins are synthesized.
- transfer RNA (tRNA) - Carries amino acids to the ribosomes to be assembled into proteins.
- ribosomal RNA (rRNA) - Together with proteins, makes up the ribosomes where proteins are synthesized.
- small nuclear RNA (snRNA) - Involved in the splicing of mRNA, a process necessary to remove introns and join exons to generate a mature mRNA transcript.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is c) mRNA - carries genetic code; tRNA - carries amino acids; rRNA - synthesizes proteins; snRNA - splices RNA. This choice aligns with the recognized roles each type of RNA plays within the cell for gene expression and protein synthesis.