Translation is very similar for prokaryotes and eukaryotes with a few differences. Importantly, translation can occur simultaneously with transcription in prokaryotes, but this does not happen in eukaryotes because of the nucleus.

Translation in Prokaryotes

Ribosomes are made up of RNA and proteins. They are responsible for translating mRNA into proteins. Ribosomes are present in the cytoplasm.

Ribosomes

Transfer RNAs or tRNAs translate the mRNA code to the corresponding amino acids by binding to the specific codons. There are many types depending on the species. They are also a product of RNA transcription.

tRNA

Ribosomal RNAs or rRNAs make up about 50% of the ribosome. They are structural or enzymatic and are important in forming the ribosome to be used for translation. They are also a product of transcription.

rRNA

While eukaryotes and prokaryotes have some differences between their processes of translation, they share many of the same enzymes and terms needed for translation. These are:

- Ribosomes
- tRNA
- rRNA

University of Wisconsin - Madison

Translation is the decoding of mRNA transcripts into proteins. Protein synthesis uses more energy in a cell than any other metabolic process. This overall process is conserved with prokaryotes and eukaryotes with important differences in the proteins and mRNA involved. 

Translation (Protein Synthesis)

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Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

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The steps of translation are shared between eukaryotes and prokaryotes. The steps of translation are:

1. Initiation
2. Elongation
3. Termination

Steps of Translation (Protein Synthesis)

Key Components in Translation

Translation shares many of the same enzymes and components across the domains of life, but there are many important differences. Here we designate translation based on their domains of life. 
- Prokaryotic translation
- Eukaryotic translation

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