Chapter 26.9, Problem 13P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The base of a codon which can cause least like to cause mutation has to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

DNA is the abbreviation term of “DeoxyriboNucleic Acid”. It is a complex molecule found in all living things.

The primary function of DNA is to store and transmit genetic information that tells cells which proteins to make and when to make them.

Codons are the sequence of three bases in mRNA that specifies the amino acid to be incorporated into a protein.

A base is nitrogen containing heterocyclic compound which is found in DNA and RNA.

There are mainly four nitrogen bases.

1. (1) Adenine
2. (2) Guanine
3. (3) Cytosine
4. (4) Thymine (in RNA Uracil)

In RNA, Adenine always makes a double bond with uracil ($A=U$) and cytosine always makes triple bond with guanine $\left(G\equiv C\right)$

In DNA Adenine always makes a double bond with Thymine ($A=T$) and cytosine always makes triple bond with guanine $\left(G\equiv C\right)$

Mutation is the process that results in change in the sequence of the DNA.