Question

which outcome occurs after mrna is transcribed?
o it remains in the nucleus.
o it leaves the cytoplasm through the cell membrane.
o it becomes part of the nucleolus.
o it enters the cytoplasm and moves toward ribosomes.

Explanation:

mRNA is transcribed in the nucleus. After transcription, it undergoes processing (like splicing in eukaryotes). Then, it exits the nucleus through nuclear pores. Once in the cytoplasm, it moves towards ribosomes. Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis, and mRNA provides the template for protein - building (translation process).

• The first option “It remains in the nucleus” is incorrect because mRNA is meant to carry the genetic code from the nucleus (where DNA is) to the site of protein synthesis (ribosomes in the cytoplasm).
• The second option “It leaves the cytoplasm through the cell membrane” is wrong. mRNA's destination is within the cell (ribosomes in the cytoplasm) for protein synthesis, not outside the cell.
• The third option “It becomes part of the nucleolus” is incorrect. The nucleolus is mainly involved in ribosome synthesis (production of rRNA and assembly of ribosomal subunits), not mRNA function.

Answer:

It enters the cytoplasm and moves toward ribosomes.