Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between a scientific theory and a hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

A hypothesis is a prediction about the outcome of an experiment, while a theory is a broad explanation supported by extensive evidence.

Question 2

During meiosis, when do cells first become haploid?

Accepted Answer

After homologous chromosomes separate during meiosis I

Question 3

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the Law of Independent Assortment?

Accepted Answer

A pea plant with round, yellow seeds produces gametes with all possible combinations of seed shape and color.

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why crossing over increases genetic variability?

Accepted Answer

It allows homologous chromosomes to exchange genetic material, creating new combinations of alleles.

Question 5

A researcher is studying a gene located on the X chromosome. Which of the following statements about inheritance of this gene is correct?

Accepted Answer

Males are more likely to express recessive alleles for this gene because they have only one X chromosome.

Question 6

Which of the following is an example of a frameshift mutation?

Accepted Answer

A base pair is deleted, altering the reading frame of the gene.

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the process of transcription?

Accepted Answer

The synthesis of an RNA molecule from a DNA template.

Question 8

If a DNA strand has the sequence $$5'	ext{-}ATCGGTA-3'$$, what is the complementary DNA strand?

Accepted Answer

$$3'	ext{-}TAGCCAT-5'$$

Question 9

Which of the following is NOT a role that proteins play in physiology?

Accepted Answer

Storing genetic information for inheritance

Question 10

A woman who is heterozygous for a gene located on the X chromosome has one normal allele and one mutant allele. Due to X chromosome inactivation, what is the expected effect in her cells?

Accepted Answer

One X chromosome is randomly inactivated in each cell, forming a Barr body.

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the outcome of Morgan’s Drosophila test cross that provided evidence for crossing over?

Accepted Answer

Some offspring had recombinant phenotypes, indicating exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes.

Question 12

Which of the following is true regarding linkage disequilibrium?

Accepted Answer

Genes that are close together on the same chromosome have a lower probability of being separated by crossing over.

Question 13

Which of the following is an example of a silent mutation?

Accepted Answer

A base substitution that does not change the amino acid sequence of the protein.

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why random fertilization contributes to genetic diversity?

Accepted Answer

It combines gametes with different genetic backgrounds, increasing the possible genetic combinations in offspring.

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct statement about autosomal chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

They are present in pairs in both males and females.

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct definition of Mendel’s Law of Segregation?

Accepted Answer

Alleles for a trait separate during gamete formation, so each gamete carries only one allele for each gene.

Question 17

Which of the following is NOT one of the five factors that lead to more complex patterns of inheritance than simple Mendelian genetics?

Accepted Answer

Law of Segregation

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the central dogma of molecular biology?

Accepted Answer

DNA is transcribed into RNA, which is then translated into protein.

Question 19

A mutation changes the codon $$UAC ($$which codes for tyrosine) to $$UAA. $$What type of mutation is this?

Accepted Answer

Nonsense mutation

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the process of DNA proofreading and repair?

Accepted Answer

DNA polymerase checks and corrects errors during replication, and additional repair mechanisms fix mismatches and excise damaged bases.

Biology Exam 1 Study Guide: Genetics, Inheritance, and Molecular Biology

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