What is the function of the anticodon on tRNA?

The function of the anticodon on tRNA is to pair with a complementary codon in mRNA. During protein synthesis, the ribosome moves along the mRNA strand, which is composed of codons—three-nucleotide sequences that specify particular amino acids. Each tRNA molecule carries a specific amino acid and has an anticodon region that consists of three nucleotides, which are complementary to a specific codon on the mRNA.

When a tRNA's anticodon pairs with its corresponding codon on the mRNA, this ensures that the correct amino acid is added to the growing polypeptide chain in the proper sequence dictated by the mRNA's genetic code. This base pairing is crucial for translating the sequence of nucleotides in mRNA into the sequence of amino acids in a protein, effectively linking genetic information to the synthesis of proteins.

Other options focus on functions that are either not performed by the anticodon or involve different components of the translation process, such as the binding of amino acids or the initiation of translation, which are not the specific roles of the anticodon. The pairing of the anticodon with the codon is central to the accurate translation process.