Chapter 24, Problem 86A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Every code word in DNA specifies an amino acid in the synthesis of protein is to be explained.

Concept introduction: A gene is a section of DNA containing instructions for making one peptide chain or protein from the three nitrogen bases of DNA. Nitrogen bases are adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T).

Answer to Problem 86A

The sequence of three nitrogen bases of DNA, often known as the code word, is required to specify one amino acid in protein synthesis.

Explanation of Solution

The particular sequence of three nitrogen bases of DNA, commonly known as a code word, is necessary to specify one amino acid in a protein generated during synthesis. This particular sequence is a triplet, a three-letter base sequence. For example, the DNA code word CCC has three cytosine C nitrogen bases and indicates the amino acid glycine Gly.

Conclusion

The sequence of three nitrogen bases of DNA, often known as the code word, is required to specify one amino acid in protein synthesis.