What type of RNA carries amino acids to the ribosome during translation?

Transfer RNA (tRNA) plays a crucial role in the process of translation, which is the synthesis of proteins based on the information encoded in messenger RNA (mRNA). During this process, tRNA's primary function is to transport specific amino acids from the cytoplasm to the ribosome. Each tRNA molecule is associated with a particular amino acid and has an anticodon that pairs with the corresponding codon on the mRNA strand. This ensures that the correct amino acids are added in the right sequence as determined by the mRNA, thus facilitating the formation of polypeptide chains that will fold into functional proteins.

The other types of RNA mentioned have distinct roles. Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries the genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, providing the template for protein synthesis. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is a structural component of ribosomes and is crucial for their function in translating mRNA into protein. Small nuclear RNA (snRNA) is involved in the processing of pre-mRNA in eukaryotic cells, primarily during the splicing process. Understanding these roles clarifies why tRNA is specifically responsible for carrying amino acids to the ribosome during translation.