7. To make a protein, the message in DNA must be converted to RNA through transcription. The RNA sequence is then translated into a chain of amino acids using the genetic code, where each set of three RNA bases (a codon) corresponds to one amino acid.
8. Three bases in DNA are needed to code for a single amino acid. This is because there are 20 standard amino acids, and a combination of 3 bases from 4 possible nucleotides (A, T, C, G) provides 4³ = 64 possible combinations, which is sufficient to uniquely code for all 20 amino acids, with redundancy.
9. A “protein” is a large, complex molecule made up of one or more chains of amino acids folded into a specific three-dimensional structure. Proteins perform a vast array of functions within organisms, including catalyzing metabolic reactions, DNA replication, responding to stimuli, and transporting molecules.
10. Uracil is found in RNA instead of thymine because during transcription, RNA polymerase uses uracil to pair with adenine in the DNA template strand. This substitution occurs naturally in RNA synthesis; uracil is chemically similar to thymine but lacks a methyl group, making it less stable than thymine — which is acceptable in RNA since RNA is typically short-lived compared to DNA.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of sickle cell anemia worksheet answers.
