What does the genetic code specify?

The genetic code specifies how sequences of nucleotides correspond to specific amino acids in protein synthesis, which is fundamental to the process of translating genetic information into functional proteins. Each set of three nucleotides, called a codon, in the DNA or RNA sequence corresponds to a specific amino acid. This correspondence forms the basis for assembling proteins according to the genetic instructions carried by the DNA.

Understanding this link between nucleotides and amino acids is crucial, as proteins are responsible for most of the biological functions in an organism, from catalyzing metabolic reactions to providing structural support. The specificity of the genetic code allows for precise regulation and expression of genes, ensuring that proteins are synthesized correctly and efficiently.

The other options, while related to genetics and biology, do not accurately reflect the primary function of the genetic code itself. Communication between organisms, the inheritance of traits, and the concept of evolution are broader biological concepts that are influenced by genetic principles but are not directly specified by the genetic code. Thus, focusing on the translation process that the genetic code facilitates clarifies its crucial role in molecular biology.