Question 1

Which of the following best distinguishes a scientific theory from a hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

A hypothesis is a testable explanation for an observation, while a scientific theory is a well-supported, broad explanation backed by evidence.

Question 2

A researcher wants to test the effect of a new fertilizer on plant growth. Which of the following best describes a properly controlled experiment?

Accepted Answer

Some plants receive the new fertilizer, while others do not, and only the type of fertilizer is changed between groups.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of a quantitative variable in a biological experiment?

Accepted Answer

Plant height measured in centimeters

Question 4

Why have scientists reconsidered the classification of red pandas and giant pandas?

Accepted Answer

DNA evidence showed closer relation to different groups, leading to reclassification.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the process of natural selection?

Accepted Answer

Organisms with favorable traits survive and reproduce more.

Question 6

Which of the following is an example of artificial selection?

Accepted Answer

Farmers breeding cows that produce more milk.

Question 7

Which statement best explains how evolution affects the lives of all humans?

Accepted Answer

Evolution explains antibiotic resistance, crop improvement, and genetic diseases.

Question 8

How does DNA determine an organism's structures and functions?

Accepted Answer

DNA codes for proteins, which determine cell structure and function.

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the relationship between structure and function in biology?

Accepted Answer

Structure determines function, as seen in bird wings adapted for flight.

Question 10

In an ecosystem, which statement best describes the flow of energy and cycling of nutrients?

Accepted Answer

Energy flows one way, while nutrients are recycled.

Question 11

A scientist repeats an experiment several times and gets similar results each time. This is an example of which aspect of science?

Accepted Answer

Repetitive

Question 12

Which of the following is a product of natural selection?

Accepted Answer

A population of insects becomes resistant to a pesticide over time.

Question 13

Which of the following best describes how systems biology is used to understand biological systems?

Accepted Answer

It studies interactions between parts of a system and uses models to predict whole-system behavior.

Question 14

A group of scientists from different countries work together to study a new disease. This is an example of which aspect of science?

Accepted Answer

Collaborative

Question 15

Which of the following is an example of a qualitative variable?

Accepted Answer

Color of flower petals

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why scientific discoveries must be peer reviewed?

Accepted Answer

To allow other scientists to evaluate, repeat, and build on the work.

Question 17

A scientist observes that enzyme shape is crucial for its function. Which concept does this illustrate?

Accepted Answer

Structure fits function

Question 18

Which of the following is a real-world example of how evolution impacts agriculture?

Accepted Answer

Improvement of crop yield through selection of favorable traits

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the cycling of nutrients in an ecosystem?

Accepted Answer

Nutrients cycle continuously through the ecosystem.

Question 20

A biologist uses computer models to predict how a change in one gene affects an entire metabolic pathway. Which approach is being used?

Accepted Answer

Systems biology

Foundations and Unifying Themes in General Biology

Study Guide - Practice Questions