Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between potential energy and kinetic energy in a biological context?

Accepted Answer

Potential energy is stored energy available to do work, while kinetic energy is the energy of motion.

Question 2

A spring being released and expanding rapidly is an example of which type of energy?

Accepted Answer

Kinetic energy

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a form of kinetic energy?

Accepted Answer

When the temperature of a substance rises causing the molecules of that substance to move faster.

Question 4

In the context of thermodynamics, what is the 'system'?

Accepted Answer

The specific portion of matter being studied.

Question 5

Why are the principles of thermodynamics important for the study of biology?

Accepted Answer

They govern how an organism exchanges energy with their environment.

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT an example of a biological system?

Accepted Answer

A sealed glass jar with no exchange of matter or energy.

Question 7

The first law of thermodynamics states that:

Accepted Answer

Energy can be transferred and transformed, but it cannot be created or destroyed.

Question 8

Which of the following best describes entropy?

Accepted Answer

A measure of randomness or disorder; the greater the disorder, the greater the entropy.

Question 9

According to the second law of thermodynamics, what happens to the entropy of the universe during energy conversions?

Accepted Answer

It increases.

Question 10

When chemical, transport, or mechanical work is done by an organism, what happens to the heat generated?

Accepted Answer

It is lost to the environment.

Question 11

Which of the following statements is true regarding how energy moves up the food chain?

Accepted Answer

Only a portion of the energy is transferred from producer to consumer because some is lost as heat.

Question 12

Which of the following is true for all exergonic reactions?

Accepted Answer

The reaction proceeds with a net loss of free energy.

Question 13

Which of the following best describes an endergonic reaction?

Accepted Answer

A reaction that requires an input of energy.

Question 14

A glucose molecule contains energy that can be used by cells. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Potential energy

Question 15

Which of the following equations correctly represents the first law of thermodynamics?

Accepted Answer

$$\Delta E = q + w$$

Question 16

If a chemical reaction in a cell requires an input of energy, what type of reaction is it and what is the likely sign of $$\Delta G$$?

Accepted Answer

Endergonic; $$\Delta G \u003e 0$$

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why living organisms require a constant input of energy?

Accepted Answer

To maintain order and decrease entropy within their cells.

Question 18

During a chemical reaction, what is the role of the reactants?

Accepted Answer

They are the starting materials in a chemical reaction.

Question 19

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the second law of thermodynamics?

Accepted Answer

A hot cup of coffee cooling down to room temperature.

Question 20

If a system moves from a state of low entropy to high entropy, what has happened to the order of the system?

Accepted Answer

The system has become less ordered.

Energy, Thermodynamics, and Chemical Reactions in Biology: Study Guide

Study Guide - Practice Questions