D1.2.9—Using genetic code table
Genetic code tables are used by reading mRNA codons in the correct frame and order to determine amino acid sequence.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2025
- Objective
- D1.2.9
- Level
- SL
Exam analysis
Chance of appearing4%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceMay 2025
Most common paperPaper1
Typical marks1
Common command terms
- Determine
Scoring notes
- Common mistake
- Using DNA triplets directly in the mRNA code table without converting thymine to uracil.
Recent exam appearances
May 2025Paper1A ["SL"] · TZ27[ 1 ]D1.2.9—Using genetic code table
November 2019Paper2 ["SL"] · TZ02(b)(i)[ 1 ]D1.2.9—Using genetic code table
November 2018Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ09[ 1 ]D1.2.9—Using genetic code table
November 2017Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ011[ 1 ]D1.2.9—Using genetic code table
May 2017Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ112[ 1 ]D1.2.9—Using genetic code table
Practice this objective
Coverage 2017–2025 · Updated 16 Jul 2026
Concept essentials
- Genetic code tables use mRNA codons.
- Template DNA must be converted to complementary mRNA before translation.
- Codons must be read in the correct reading frame and direction.
- The amino acid sequence follows the order of codons on mRNA.