Chapter 21, Problem 37A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Difference between the function of m RNA and t RNA needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

RNA- ribonucleic acid, RNA is a polymer of nucleotides that is consists of a ribose sugar, a phosphate, and nitrogenous bases. The three main types of RNA present in a cell are: messenger RNA (mRNA), ribosomal RNA (rRNA), and transfer RNA (tRNA).

Answer to Problem 37A

The messenger RNA carries the information for protein synthesis, and transfer RNA is used for the transfer of the amino acid for protein synthesis.

Explanation of Solution

mRNA is found in a linear structure. It is used to production of proteins from genes. mRNA travels to the cytoplasm. It carries the message for the cell, so it is termed as messenger RNA. It is comprised of codons.

The shape of t RNA is a cloverleaf structure. It is comprised of anticodons. The first function of tRNA carries with it an amino acid which matches the mRNA codon.

Conclusion

The main difference between the m RNA and t RNA is that m RNA carries the code information of an amino acid and t RNA carries the specific amino acid to the ribosome to form the polypeptide chain for the protein synthesis.