Question 1

Which of the following best explains why chemistry is fundamental to understanding anatomy and physiology?

Accepted Answer

Because all physiological processes are based on chemical reactions and the composition of substances in the body.

Question 2

A patient is given radioactive iodine-131 to treat a thyroid disorder. Why is this isotope specifically effective for this treatment?

Accepted Answer

Because the thyroid gland is the only part of the body that actively transports and metabolizes iodine.

Question 3

Which of the following statements about isotopes is correct?

Accepted Answer

Isotopes of an element have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Question 4

A sodium atom (Na) loses one electron to become a sodium ion (Na$$^+). $$What type of bond will it most likely form with a chloride ion (Cl$$^-$$)?

Accepted Answer

Ionic bond

Question 5

Which of the following best describes a polar covalent bond?

Accepted Answer

A bond in which electrons are shared unequally between atoms, resulting in partial charges.

Question 6

A solution has a hydrogen ion concentration of $$1 	imes 10$$^{-4}$$ g/L. What is its pH?

Accepted Answer

$$4$$

Question 7

Which of the following is a function of buffers in the human body?

Accepted Answer

They help resist changes in pH by releasing or binding hydrogen ions.

Question 8

A patient is experiencing acidosis. Which of the following blood pH values would be consistent with this condition?

Accepted Answer

$$7.2$$

Question 9

Which of the following best distinguishes organic from inorganic molecules?

Accepted Answer

Organic molecules contain both carbon and hydrogen, while inorganic molecules generally do not.

Question 10

Which of the following is a correct example of a synthesis reaction?

Accepted Answer

$$A + B \rightarrow AB$$

Question 11

A patient is hyperventilating at high altitude and develops alkalosis. Which physiological mechanism is most likely to help restore normal blood pH?

Accepted Answer

Buffer systems in the blood will temporarily bind excess hydroxide ions.

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the structure of a triglyceride?

Accepted Answer

One glycerol molecule bonded to three fatty acids.

Question 13

Which of the following is a function of water in the human body?

Accepted Answer

It acts as a medium for most metabolic reactions and helps transport chemicals.

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why proteins can have such diverse functions in the body?

Accepted Answer

Proteins have complex three-dimensional shapes determined by their amino acid sequence.

Question 15

A molecule of glucose has the formula $$C_6H_{12}O_6$. What is the ratio of hydrogen to oxygen atoms in glucose?

Accepted Answer

$$2:1$$

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct description of a phospholipid?

Accepted Answer

It consists of one glycerol, two fatty acids, and one phosphate group, and is a major component of cell membranes.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the role of nucleic acids in the cell?

Accepted Answer

They store genetic information and direct protein synthesis.

Question 18

A patient with cystic fibrosis has a mutation that causes a misfolded protein. What is the most direct consequence of this misfolding?

Accepted Answer

The protein cannot anchor in the cell membrane, impairing chloride ion channels.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes an exchange reaction?

Accepted Answer

$$AB + CD \rightarrow AD + CB$$

Question 20

Which of the following is a correct statement about electrolytes?

Accepted Answer

Electrolytes are substances that release ions in water and can conduct an electric current.

Chemical Basis of Life: Foundations for Anatomy & Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions