Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between a compound and a mixture in the context of body chemistry?

Accepted Answer

A compound is formed by chemical bonds between different elements, while a mixture involves physical intermixing without chemical bonding.

Question 2

Which of the following elements makes up the largest percentage of the human body by mass?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen

Question 3

A solution is defined as a homogeneous mixture. Which of the following is an example of a solution found in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Blood plasma

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why sodium and potassium ions are essential for muscle contraction?

Accepted Answer

They are electrolytes that help generate and transmit electrical signals in muscle cells.

Question 5

Which of the following statements about acids and bases is correct?

Accepted Answer

Bases increase the concentration of hydroxyl ions ($OH^-$) in solution.

Question 6

A patient presents with an arterial blood pH of 7.0. What does this indicate about their physiological state?

Accepted Answer

They are experiencing acidosis, which can interfere with cell function and may be life-threatening.

Question 7

Which of the following is an example of an organic compound found in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Glucose ($C_6H_{12}O_6$)

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the role of buffers in maintaining homeostasis in body fluids?

Accepted Answer

Buffers prevent abrupt and large swings in pH by releasing or binding hydrogen ions.

Question 9

Which of the following is a correct statement about the structure of phospholipids in cell membranes?

Accepted Answer

Phospholipids have a hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tails.

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a function of cholesterol in the human body?

Accepted Answer

It is the main source of energy for muscle contraction.

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the difference between a suspension and a colloid in biological systems?

Accepted Answer

Colloids have larger particles that do not settle out, while suspensions have visible particles that settle out.

Question 12

Which of the following is a correct statement about nucleic acids in the human body?

Accepted Answer

DNA provides instructions for building every protein in the body and is found in the nucleus.

Question 13

Which of the following reactions is an example of a decomposition reaction important for energy release in the body?

Accepted Answer

$ATP \rightarrow ADP + P_i$

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the role of carbohydrates in the human body?

Accepted Answer

They provide a ready, easily used source of cellular fuel.

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct statement about the pH scale?

Accepted Answer

A solution with pH greater than 7 is basic (alkaline).

Question 16

Which of the following is an example of a base found in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Sodium hydroxide ($NaOH$)

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why enzymes are essential for physiological reactions?

Accepted Answer

Enzymes act as catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions without being consumed.

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct statement about organic and inorganic compounds in the body?

Accepted Answer

Organic compounds contain carbon and are usually large, covalently bonded molecules.

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct statement about the role of prostaglandins in the body?

Accepted Answer

Prostaglandins play roles in blood clotting, inflammation, and labor contractions.

Basic Principles of Chemistry for Anatomy & Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions