Question 1

Which of the following best describes a catabolic pathway in cellular metabolism?

Accepted Answer

A pathway that breaks down complex molecules into simpler compounds, releasing energy.

Question 2

According to the first law of thermodynamics, which of the following statements is correct?

Accepted Answer

Energy is neither created nor destroyed, but can change forms.

Question 3

Which equation correctly represents the change in Gibbs free energy for a chemical reaction?

Accepted Answer

$$\Delta G = \Delta H - T\Delta S$$

Question 4

A reaction has a $$\Delta G of -30 kJ/$$mol. Which of the following is true about this reaction?

Accepted Answer

The reaction is spontaneous and releases free energy.

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why living organisms can maintain a high degree of order despite the second law of thermodynamics?

Accepted Answer

They increase the entropy of their surroundings, allowing them to maintain low internal entropy.

Question 6

Which of the following is an example of an anabolic pathway?

Accepted Answer

The synthesis of a protein from amino acids.

Question 7

If a process has $$\Delta G = 0$$, what does this indicate about the process?

Accepted Answer

The process is at equilibrium and can do no work.

Question 8

Which of the following statements about metabolic pathways is correct?

Accepted Answer

Metabolic pathways consist of a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions that transform a specific molecule into a product.

Question 9

A cell couples the hydrolysis of ATP ($$\Delta G = -30.5 kJ/$$mol) to drive a reaction with $$\Delta G = +20 kJ/$$mol. What is the overall $$\Delta G$$ for the coupled process, and is it spontaneous?

Accepted Answer

$$\Delta G = -10.5 kJ/$$mol; the process is spontaneous.

Question 10

Which of the following is a correct statement about the relationship between catabolism and anabolism?

Accepted Answer

Catabolism provides energy and small molecules that can be used in anabolism.

Question 11

Which of the following best describes an exergonic reaction?

Accepted Answer

A reaction that releases free energy and has a negative $$\Delta G.$$

Question 12

Why does glucose not spontaneously combust in air, even though the reaction is highly exergonic?

Accepted Answer

The reaction requires a specific pathway and enzymes to proceed at a significant rate.

Question 13

Which of the following is true about the speed of a reaction and its $$\Delta G$$ value?

Accepted Answer

$$\Delta G$$ only determines whether a reaction is thermodynamically possible, not its speed.

Question 14

A scientist wants to drive an endergonic reaction with $$\Delta G = +15 kJ/$$mol using an exergonic reaction. Which of the following exergonic reactions would be sufficient to drive the process?

Accepted Answer

A reaction with $$\Delta G = -20 kJ/$$mol.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes an open system in the context of biological organisms?

Accepted Answer

A system that exchanges both energy and matter with its surroundings.

Chapter 8: An Introduction to Metabolism – Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

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