Final answer:
The two elements of prokaryotic translation that are paired by a Shine-Dalgarno sequence are 16S rRNA and mRNA, ensuring the precise initiation of protein synthesis on the 30S ribosomal subunit. Option c is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two elements of prokaryotic translation that are paired by a Shine-Dalgarno sequence are c) 16S rRNA and mRNA. The Shine-Dalgarno sequence is found within the mRNA and is a purine-rich sequence that pairs with a complementary sequence in the 16S rRNA of the 30S ribosomal subunit.
The presence of this sequence ensures the correct positioning of the mRNA on the ribosome for the initiation of protein synthesis. The initiator tRNA enters the ribosome-mRNA complex and binds to the start codon to begin translation.