AP Biology Flashcards: Translation
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 11 cards to help you master important concepts.
How is the genetic information on an mRNA molecule read during translation?
The mRNA is read in three-nucleotide sequences called codons.
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How is the genetic information on an mRNA molecule read during translation?
The mRNA is read in three-nucleotide sequences called codons.
How is the phenotype of an organism determined?
The phenotype of an organism is determined by its genotype through the process of gene expression, which includes translation.
If a drug were to inhibit ribosome function, which specific process of protein synthesis would be directly halted?
A drug that inhibits ribosome function would directly halt translation, the synthesis of a polypeptide from mRNA.
Where in the cell does translation occur?
Translation occurs on ribosomes, which are located in the cytoplasm and on the rough ER.
What is reverse transcriptase?
Reverse transcriptase is an enzyme used by retroviruses to facilitate an alternative flow of information from RNA to DNA.
What are the three stages of translation?
The three stages of translation are initiation, elongation, and termination.
How do retroviruses violate the typical flow of genetic information?
Retroviruses have an alternative flow of information from RNA to DNA, which is the reverse of the standard transcription process.
What is the role of tRNA molecules in translation?
tRNA molecules bring the corresponding amino acids to the ribosome to build the polypeptide chain according to the mRNA codons.
A scientist observes a process where an mRNA molecule is still attached to the DNA from which it is being made, while a ribosome is already attached and building a polypeptide. What can be inferred?
This observation implies the organism is a prokaryote, as translation can occur simultaneously with transcription in prokaryotic cells.
What is a key difference in gene expression timing for prokaryotes?
In prokaryotes, the translation of an mRNA molecule can occur simultaneously with its transcription.
What is translation?
Translation is the synthesis of a polypeptide from an mRNA molecule.