Question 1

Which of the following best describes an emergent property in biology?

Accepted Answer

A property that arises only when individual components interact to form a complex system.

Question 2

If the atomic number of an element is 8 and its atomic mass is 16, how many neutrons does it have?

Accepted Answer

$$16 - 8 = 8$$ neutrons

Question 3

Which statement correctly explains why you cannot walk through walls, even though atoms are mostly empty space?

Accepted Answer

The electrons in atoms repel each other due to their negative charge, creating a force that prevents atoms from passing through each other.

Question 4

A radioactive isotope has a half-life of 10 years. If you start with 100 grams, how much will remain after 30 years?

Accepted Answer

$$100 \div 2^3$ = 12.5$$ grams

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Oxygen

Question 6

What is the main difference between isotopes of the same element?

Accepted Answer

They have different numbers of neutrons.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains the concept of a compound?

Accepted Answer

A substance consisting of two or more elements in a fixed ratio.

Question 8

Which electron shell is filled first in an atom, and how many electrons can it hold?

Accepted Answer

The first shell, which can hold up to $$2$$ electrons.

Question 9

Why do atoms form chemical bonds?

Accepted Answer

To complete their valence shells and achieve energetic stability.

Question 10

A patient is injected with a radioactive tracer for a diagnostic test. Which property of the isotope makes this possible?

Accepted Answer

It emits detectable energy as it decays.

Question 11

Which of the following is an example of an emergent property in compounds?

Accepted Answer

Table salt (NaCl) is edible, while its elements sodium and chlorine are toxic.

Question 12

Which subatomic particle determines the chemical behavior of an atom?

Accepted Answer

Electron

Question 13

If an atom has 6 protons, 6 neutrons, and 6 electrons, what is its atomic number and atomic mass?

Accepted Answer

Atomic number: $$6$$, Atomic mass: $$6 + 6 = 12$$

Question 14

Which of the following statements about electron shells is correct?

Accepted Answer

Electrons fill the lowest energy shells first.

Question 15

Which element is present in trace amounts in the human body but is essential for thyroid function?

Accepted Answer

Iodine

Question 16

What is the main reason why compounds have properties different from their constituent elements?

Accepted Answer

The arrangement and interaction of atoms in compounds create new properties.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes a valence electron?

Accepted Answer

An electron in the outermost shell of an atom.

Question 18

Which process allows scientists to estimate the age of a fossil using isotopes?

Accepted Answer

Radiometric dating, which measures the ratio of parent to daughter isotopes and uses the half-life formula.

Question 19

Which of the following is NOT a major element found in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Boron

Question 20

If an atom has an unfilled valence shell, what is most likely to happen?

Accepted Answer

It will form chemical bonds by sharing or transferring electrons to achieve a full valence shell.

Atoms, Elements, and the Chemical Basis of Life: Study Notes for General Biology

Study Guide - Practice Questions