Biology

Transcription vs Translation: Differences and Worked Examples

Transcription copies DNA into mRNA; translation turns mRNA into protein. See both with worked examples.

The central dogma

Transcribe means copy the same language (DNA to RNA). Translate means change language (nucleotides to amino acids).

TRANSCRIPTION

Template strand: 3′ TAC GGA 5′. What is the mRNA?

  1. RNA polymerase pairs bases
  2. A→U, T→A, C→G, G→C
  3. mRNA: 5′ AUG CCU 3′
AUG CCU

TRANSLATION

Read the mRNA AUG CCU in codons.

  1. Ribosome reads 3 bases at a time
  2. tRNA brings the matching amino acid
  3. AUG = Met, CCU = Pro
Met – Pro

Common mistake

Translation happens in the nucleus

In eukaryotes, transcription is in the nucleus. Translation is at ribosomes in the cytoplasm.

RNA has uracil (U), not thymine (T).

Want more Biology practice?

The free Biology study guide has quizzes, flashcards and practice exams. 100% free, no sign-up needed.

Open the Biology guide