What is the role of ribosomal RNA (rRNA)?

• A. To transport amino acids during protein synthesis
• B. To form the core of ribosome's structure and catalyze protein synthesis
• C. To carry the genetic information from DNA to ribosomes
• D. To interact with tRNA during translation

Answer: (B)

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) plays a pivotal role in the process of protein synthesis by forming the structural and functional core of ribosomes, which are the cellular machinery responsible for translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins. rRNA contributes not only to the ribosome's structure but also has essential catalytic functions, facilitating the biochemical reactions involved in forming peptide bonds between amino acids. This function is crucial, as it allows ribosomes to synthesize proteins accurately and efficiently.

The other options relate to different components of the protein synthesis process. For example, the transport of amino acids is primarily the function of transfer RNA (tRNA), which brings specific amino acids to the ribosome during translation. The role of carrying genetic information is attributed to messenger RNA (mRNA), which serves as the template for translation. Lastly, while rRNA does interact with tRNA during translation, the primary focus of rRNA is its structural and catalytic roles within the ribosome. Thus, the choice highlighting its role in forming the ribosome's core and catalyzing protein synthesis accurately captures its critical functions in the cell.