Q.62 Properties of the genetic code are:

A. composed of nucleotide triplets
B. non overlapping except rare cases
C. comma-free
D. degenerate
E. ordered

Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

(A) A and B only
(B) A, B and C only
(C) A, B, C and D only
(D) A, B, C, D and E only

The correct answer is (C) A, B, C, and D only.

Properties Breakdown

A. Composed of nucleotide triplets: True—codons are 3 nucleotides each (61 code amino acids, 3 stop).
B. Non-overlapping except rare cases: True—standard reading frame; each base in one codon only (rare frameshifts exist).
C. Comma-free: True—no punctuation between codons; continuous from start codon.
D. Degenerate: True—64 codons for 20 amino acids + stops; multiple codons/amino acid (e.g., 6 for Leu).
E. Ordered: False—not a standard property; code lacks strict chemical order (e.g., no progression by size/charge), though patterns exist (wobble).​

Option Analysis

• (A) A and B only: Misses C/D, core traits.​

• (B) A, B, C only: Excludes degeneracy (D).​

• (C) A, B, C, D only: Correct—matches 4 universal properties.

• (D) All: Wrong—”ordered” isn’t recognized.​

Introduction: Properties of Genetic Code

Properties of genetic code include triplet codons, non-overlapping reading, comma-free continuity, and degeneracy—essential for accurate protein synthesis. These traits minimize errors despite 64 codons for 20 amino acids. Crucial for NEET questions testing A-E options.

Core Properties of Genetic Code

Standard characteristics:

• Triplet (A): 3 nucleotides/codon (e.g., AUG = Met).​

• Non-overlapping (B): Sequential, no base sharing (rare exceptions).​

• Comma-free (C): No gaps/punctuation; read continuously.​

• Degenerate (D): Redundancy buffers mutations (3rd base wobble).​

• Others: Universal, unambiguous (not “ordered”).​

MCQ Solution: Genetic Code Properties A B C D E

Question: Properties: A. triplets B. non-overlapping except rare C. comma-free D. degenerate E. ordered.

Answer: (C)​

Why Degeneracy and Comma-Free Matter

Degeneracy protects against silent mutations; comma-free enables frame maintenance from AUG start. Exceptions (mitochondria) prove rule. Key for translation accuracy in ribosomes.