Question 1

Which experiment provided evidence that organic compounds could be synthesized abiotically, supporting the idea that physical and chemical laws govern the origin of life?

Accepted Answer

Stanley Miller’s simulation of early Earth conditions

Question 2

Why is carbon uniquely suited to form the backbone of biological molecules?

Accepted Answer

It has a valence of 4, allowing it to form up to four covalent bonds.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes an isomer?

Accepted Answer

A molecule with the same molecular formula but a different structure

Question 4

Which type of isomerism is exhibited by molecules that have the same covalent partnerships but differ in spatial arrangements around a double bond?

Accepted Answer

Cis-trans isomerism

Question 5

What is the main function of ATP in cells?

Accepted Answer

To provide energy for cellular processes

Question 6

Which of the following is released when ATP is hydrolyzed to ADP and inorganic phosphate?

Accepted Answer

Energy

Question 7

Given the reaction: $$ \mathrm{ATP} + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} ightarrow \mathrm{ADP} + \mathrm{P}_i + 	ext{Energy} $$, what is the role of water in this process?

Accepted Answer

It is a reactant that breaks the bond between phosphate groups.

Question 8

Which of the following statements about hydrocarbons is correct?

Accepted Answer

They contain only carbon and hydrogen.

Question 9

Which functional group is unique among the seven major chemical groups because it is nonpolar and not reactive, but instead affects gene expression?

Accepted Answer

Methyl group

Question 10

A molecule with the formula $$ \mathrm{C}_3\mathrm{H}_6\mathrm{O} $$ can be either acetone or propanal. What does this illustrate?

Accepted Answer

The existence of structural isomers

Question 11

Which of the following molecules can exist as enantiomers?

Accepted Answer

A molecule with at least one asymmetric carbon

Question 12

Why do isomers have different chemical properties even though they have the same molecular formula?

Accepted Answer

They have different arrangements of atoms.

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why ATP is considered the 'energy currency' of the cell?

Accepted Answer

It releases energy when a phosphate group is removed.

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a property of carbon that contributes to its ability to form diverse organic molecules?

Accepted Answer

It can only form ionic bonds.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the role of functional groups in organic molecules?

Accepted Answer

They participate in chemical reactions and affect molecular function.

Chapter 4 Review: Carbon and the Molecular Diversity of Life

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