What is the primary function of ribosomes in a cell?

Ribosomes play a crucial role in the process of protein synthesis, which is essential for the growth, repair, and functioning of cells. They serve as the sites where messenger RNA (mRNA) is translated into polypeptide chains, which then fold into functional proteins. This synthesis involves reading the genetic code carried by the mRNA and assembling the correct sequence of amino acids to form proteins according to that code. This process is fundamental to cellular activities, as proteins are vital for structural support, enzymatic functions, cell signaling, and overall cellular regulation.

While energy production, DNA replication, and cell division are important cellular processes, they are not the primary roles of ribosomes. Energy production occurs in organelles like mitochondria, DNA replication takes place in the nucleus, and cell division involves various cellular structures and mechanisms distinct from ribosomes. Thus, the primary function of ribosomes is indeed centered around protein synthesis.