A sequence of three DNA bases (a triplet) codes for a specific amino acid
Every group of three bases in a DNA strand acts as a code word for one specific amino acid. Amino acids are the building blocks that join together to make proteins.
Formula
1 DNA triplet → 1 amino acid
Real World
The DNA triplet TAC on the template strand codes for methionine, the start amino acid that initiates virtually every protein your body builds, including the 51-amino-acid hormone insulin.
Exam Focus
Specify whether you mean a DNA triplet or an mRNA codon — examiners penalise answers that conflate the two.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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