Bio:

The **Student Exploration: RNA and Protein Synthesis Gizmo** is an interactive learning tool that simulates the processes of transcription and translation, crucial steps in protein synthesis. In the Gizmo, students explore how DNA is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA) and how mRNA is then translated into a sequence of amino acids to form a protein. The Gizmo provides an answer key detailing the steps involved: First, RNA polymerase transcribes the DNA sequence into mRNA. Then, the mRNA moves to the ribosome, where tRNA molecules bring amino acids according to the mRNA codons. These amino acids are linked together, forming a polypeptide chain that folds into a functional protein. The answer key typically outlines the key processes, highlighting how mutations, codons, and anticodons impact protein formation.