In genetic coding terminology, the three codons that signal termination of translation are collectively known as:

Introduction / Context:
Protein synthesis terminates when the ribosome encounters specific triplets that do not encode an amino acid. These signals recruit release factors, triggering hydrolysis of the peptidyl–tRNA bond and disassembly of the translation complex.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard genetic code stop codons are UAA, UAG, and UGA.
• No tRNAs carry anticodons for these triplets in the canonical code.
• Release factors recognize stop codons to end translation.

Concept / Approach:
Historically, ‘‘nonsense codon’’ denotes a triplet that does not specify an amino acid (in contrast to ‘‘sense’’ codons). In bacteria, RF1 recognizes UAA/UAG; RF2 recognizes UAA/UGA; in eukaryotes, eRF1 recognizes all three. Specialized contexts (selenocysteine incorporation at UGA with SECIS) are regulated exceptions, not the rule.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the collective term for stop codons: nonsense codons.Recall the three canonical triplets: UAA, UAG, UGA.Select the appropriate option.

Verification / Alternative check:
Mutations converting a sense codon to UAA/UAG/UGA cause premature termination (nonsense mutation), demonstrating the functional meaning of ‘‘nonsense’’ in genetics.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Pause codons: nonstandard term; elongation pauses can occur but are not dedicated stop signals.
• Missense: codon change to a different amino acid.
• Antisense: refers to the noncoding strand or regulatory RNAs, not termination codons.
• Frameshift codons: frameshifts arise from insertions/deletions, not specific codons.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing ‘‘nonsense’’ (stop) with ‘‘missense’’ (amino acid substitution); they have distinct phenotypic outcomes.

Final Answer:
Nonsense codons