What is the definition of a codon?

A codon is defined as a group of three consecutive nucleotide bases in RNA that corresponds to a specific amino acid during the process of protein synthesis. This triplet code is essential because it translates the genetic information encoded in DNA into proteins, which are crucial for cellular function and structure. Each codon specifies one amino acid, and the sequence of codons in mRNA determines the order in which amino acids are added to the growing polypeptide chain, ultimately forming a functional protein.

The significance of the codon lies in its role in the genetic code, where different combinations of three nucleotides can encode for 20 different amino acids. This coding mechanism is universal among almost all living organisms, illustrating the fundamental nature of genetic expression. Understanding codons is vital for grasping how genes are translated into proteins, which are necessary for all biological processes.