Ribosomes function to:

• A. Ribosomes replicate DNA.
• B. Ribosomes synthesize lipids.
• C. Ribosomes translate mRNA to synthesize a protein with a specific amino acid sequence.
• D. Ribosomes degrade proteins.

Answer: (C)

Ribosomes are the cellular machines that read the genetic message carried by mRNA and build a protein by linking amino acids in the order specified by that message. They read codons on the mRNA, bring in the matching tRNA with the correct amino acid, and catalyze the formation of peptide bonds to grow a polypeptide chain. The resulting protein’s specific sequence folds into a functional shape, determining its role in the cell. This is distinct from DNA replication, which copies DNA; lipid synthesis, which builds fats; and protein degradation, which breaks down proteins—processes that involve different cellular components.