Moderate

Degeneration of a genetic code is attributed to the:

Correct answer: D. Third member of a codon

  • A. First member of a codon
  • B. Second member of codon
  • C. Entire codon
  • D. Third member of a codon

Explanation

Degeneration of a genetic code is attributed to the third codon member. The genetic code is a set of rules that tells the cell how to translate DNA into proteins. It is based on a triplet code, which means that each codon is made up of three nucleotides. Each codon codes for a specific amino acid. The third codon member is often referred to as the "wobble" position because it can sometimes be different without affecting the amino acid that is coded for. This is because some tRNAs can recognise multiple codons. For example, the codons GCU, GCC, GCA, and GCG all code for the amino acid alanine. This is because the third codon member (U) can be either U, C, A, or G.The degeneracy of the genetic code is important. After all, it allows for some flexibility in the way that DNA is translated into proteins. This is important for cells to be able to adapt to changing conditions.

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