Question:medium

Which of the following codons codes for the amino acid phenylalanine?

Show Hint

Memorize the key codons like AUG (start codon) and those coding for frequently asked amino acids, such as UUU/UUC for phenylalanine.
Updated On: Nov 26, 2025
  • AUG.
  • UUU.
  • GCA.
  • CCC.
Hide Solution

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Genetic Code Comprehension.
The genetic code dictates how nucleotide sequences in mRNA translate to amino acids. A triplet of nucleotides, known as a codon, specifies a particular amino acid.Step 2: Phenylalanine Codon Identification.
The codons responsible for coding the amino acid phenylalanine (\(Phe\)) are:\[\text{UUU and UUC}.\]From the provided choices, \(UUU\) is the accurate codon for phenylalanine.Step 3: Analysis of Alternative Options.
Option (A): AUG. Invalid. AUG functions as the start codon and encodes methionine. Option (B): UUU. Valid. UUU encodes phenylalanine. Option (C): GCA. Invalid. GCA encodes alanine. Option (D): CCC. Invalid. CCC encodes proline.Step 4: Final Determination.
The designated codon for phenylalanine is \(UUU\).\[\therefore \text{The correct answer is: (B)}.\]
Was this answer helpful?
0