Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Biology

Chapter

Molecular Basis of Inheritance

Question:

What is the process of copying genetic information from one strand of DNA to RNA ?

Options:

Translation .

Transcription .

Replication .

Reverse transcription .

Correct Answer:

Transcription .

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (2) -Transcription .

Transcription is a crucial biological process that involves the synthesis of RNA from a DNA template. Here's a step-by-step explanation of transcription:

  1. Initiation: Transcription begins with the binding of an enzyme called RNA polymerase to a specific region on the DNA molecule known as the promoter. The promoter signals the starting point for transcription.
  2. Elongation: Once RNA polymerase is bound to the promoter, it moves along the DNA template strand in the 3' to 5' direction. As it moves, it synthesizes a complementary RNA molecule in the 5' to 3' direction. The RNA molecule is complementary to the DNA template, with uracil (U) replacing thymine (T) in the RNA sequence.
  3. Termination: Transcription continues until the RNA polymerase encounters a termination signal on the DNA. This signal prompts the release of the RNA transcript and the detachment of RNA polymerase from the DNA template.

In summary, transcription is the process through which genetic information stored in the DNA is used to synthesize a complementary RNA molecule. This RNA molecule, known as messenger RNA (mRNA), serves as a template for protein synthesis during the process of translation.