**Core Concept**
Stop codons are sequences of three nucleotides (codons) in messenger RNA (mRNA) that signal the termination of protein synthesis during translation. These codons are recognized by release factors that lead to the dissociation of the ribosome from the mRNA, terminating the translation process.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is UAA, which is one of the three stop codons in the genetic code. These codons are recognized by the release factor RF1, which binds to the stop codon on the ribosome and triggers the release of the completed polypeptide chain from the ribosome. UAA is a specific stop codon that is recognized by the ribosome to terminate protein synthesis. The other two stop codons, UAG and UGA, are recognized by a different release factor, RF2.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** UAC is a codon that codes for the amino acid tyrosine, not a stop codon.
**Option B:** UGG is a codon that codes for the amino acid tryptophan, not a stop codon.
**Option C:** UAU is a codon that codes for the amino acid tyrosine, not a stop codon.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that stop codons are recognized by specific release factors, and their recognition is crucial for the proper termination of protein synthesis. This knowledge is critical in understanding various genetic disorders and diseases that result from mutations in stop codons.

**Correct Answer: C. UAA**