Skip to content
    Biology GCSE

    translation

    What translation means in Biology GCSE, as defined for AQA, OCR.

    Definitions of translation

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain translation in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: OCR

    The mRNA binds to a ribosome, where tRNA molecules carrying specific amino acids align complementary anticodons to mRNA codons, linking amino acids into a polypeptide.
    OCR · What happens in cells (and what do cells need)?
    During translation, the ribosome reads the mRNA codons in order and amino acids are joined by peptide bonds.
    AQA · DNA structure (biology only) (study guide)
    The process in which the base sequence of mRNA is translated into the amino acid sequence of a protein.
    AQA · DNA structure (biology only) (study guide)

    Topics that use translation

    Related terms

    Using translation in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Biology questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Biology GCSE terms