Describe the structure and function of ribosomes.

Ribosomes are essential cellular structures composed of ribonucleic acid (RNA) and proteins. Their primary function is to facilitate protein synthesis, which is a crucial process for cell function and growth. During translation, the ribosomes read messenger RNA (mRNA) sequences, which are transcribed from genes, and assemble amino acids into polypeptide chains based on the sequences specified by the mRNA. This process occurs in two main subunits of the ribosome – a large and a small subunit that come together during protein synthesis.

This role in protein synthesis is why ribosomes are often referred to as the "protein factories" of the cell. They are found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and can either float freely in the cytoplasm or be attached to the endoplasmic reticulum (rough ER), where they play a key role in synthesizing proteins for use both inside and outside the cell.

While considering the other options, it's evident that they misrepresent the fundamental role and structure of ribosomes. DNA is not a component of ribosomes, nor do they have any direct role in energy production or in storing genetic information. Instead, their primary focus is on decoding the genetic information carried by mRNA to