A ribozyme is

Options

A. an enzyme associated with ribosome
B. an catalytic RNA
C. an enzyme that helps in ribose synthesis
D. an enzyme that joins ribose with adenine Chemical reactions

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Definition of Ribozyme**: A ribozyme is a type of RNA molecule that has the ability to catalyze biochemical reactions, similar to the way enzymes do.

2. **Composition**: Unlike traditional enzymes, which are typically proteins, ribozymes are made up of ribonucleic acid (RNA) nucleotides.

3. **Function**: Ribozymes can catalyze various reactions, including the cleavage and ligation of RNA molecules. They play a crucial role in processes such as RNA splicing and the synthesis of proteins.

4. **Significance**: The discovery of ribozymes challenged the traditional view that only proteins could serve as enzymes, highlighting the versatility of RNA in biological systems.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, a ribozyme can be defined as a catalytic RNA that facilitates biochemical reactions.

**Final Answer**: A ribozyme is a catalytic RNA that can catalyze biochemical reactions.

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