During docking of tRNA to mRNA, which type of bond forms between the anticodon and codon?

• A. Covalent bonds
• B. Ionic bonds
• C. Van der Waals interactions
• D. Hydrogen bonds

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that anticodon–codon pairing relies on base pairing through hydrogen bonds. The anticodon on tRNA aligns with the codon on mRNA in an antiparallel orientation inside the ribosome, forming complementary pairs (A with U, and G with C) via hydrogen bonding. This non-covalent interaction provides the specificity and reversibility needed for accurate translation, and it allows the ribosome to verify the match before the tRNA moves on. Covalent bonds would be too rigid, ionic interactions are not the main mechanism here, and Van der Waals forces alone aren’t specific enough to ensure correct decoding. Some tRNAs use G–U wobble pairing at the third codon position, which still relies on hydrogen bonding.