What is the term for the process that occurs after transcription, leading to protein synthesis?

The process that occurs after transcription and is essential for protein synthesis is known as translation. During transcription, the information from a segment of DNA is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA). Once this mRNA strand is synthesized, translation begins.

Translation involves the decoding of the mRNA sequence into a specific chain of amino acids, which ultimately fold into a functional protein. This process takes place in the ribosomes, where transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules bring the appropriate amino acids based on the codon sequence of the mRNA. Each sequence of three nucleotides in the mRNA corresponds to a specific amino acid, guiding the synthesis of proteins.

Other options like replication refer to the process of copying DNA to ensure genetic material is passed appropriately during cell division, and cell division itself relates to the process whereby a cell divides into two daughter cells. Transcription is the step preceding translation and is solely responsible for synthesizing mRNA from DNA. Therefore, translation is indeed the correct answer, as it specifically pertains to the synthesis of proteins following the transcription phase.