Florida Biology EOC Practice Test

Where does transcription occur in the cell?

1. Cytoplasm

2. Endoplasmic reticulum

3. Nucleus

4. Ribosome

The correct answer is: Cytoplasm

Transcription is the process by which the genetic information in DNA is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA). This vital step occurs in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, where DNA is housed. The nucleus contains the necessary machinery for RNA polymerase to synthesize mRNA from the DNA template. The cytoplasm, where your answer suggests transcription takes place, is primarily the site of translation, where mRNA is read and proteins are synthesized. Other cellular structures listed, like the endoplasmic reticulum, play roles in the synthesis of proteins and lipids but are not involved in the transcription of DNA to RNA. Similarly, ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis and do not participate in the transcription process itself. Therefore, transcription is specifically associated with the nucleus.