Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between inference and deduction in scientific reasoning?

Accepted Answer

Inference is drawing a conclusion based on observed facts, while deduction applies general principles to predict specific outcomes.

Question 2

A scientist wants to test the effect of fertilizer type on plant growth. She sets up two groups: one receives fertilizer A, the other receives no fertilizer. What is the independent variable in this experiment?

Accepted Answer

Type of fertilizer used

Question 3

Which of the following is a primary source of scientific information?

Accepted Answer

A peer-reviewed journal article presenting original research

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT one of the seven characteristics of life?

Accepted Answer

Ability to photosynthesize

Question 5

Why is peer review important in evaluating scientific claims?

Accepted Answer

It allows experts not involved in the research to evaluate the work for validity and reliability.

Question 6

Which feature distinguishes Archaea from Bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Archaea lack peptidoglycan in their cell walls.

Question 7

Which of the following is a benefit of multicellularity over unicellularity?

Accepted Answer

Cells can specialize for specific functions, allowing for greater complexity.

Question 8

Which of the following is an example of pseudoscience?

Accepted Answer

Claims that cannot be disproven and rely on anecdotal evidence

Question 9

Which property of water allows ice to float on liquid water?

Accepted Answer

Water molecules form long-lasting hydrogen bonds that create a less dense structure when frozen.

Question 10

Which equation correctly represents the process of photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

$$6CO_2 + 6H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6$ + 6O_2$$

Question 11

A solution has a pH of 4. Which statement is true about this solution?

Accepted Answer

It is acidic and has a higher concentration of H$$^+$$ ions than OH$$^-$$ ions.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why buffers are important in biological systems?

Accepted Answer

Buffers prevent drastic changes in pH when acids or bases are added.

Question 13

Which of the following is a helpful role of bacteria in the environment?

Accepted Answer

Decomposing dead organisms and recycling nutrients

Question 14

Which of the following is a key difference between algae and land plants?

Accepted Answer

Algae absorb nutrients through their entire body surface, while land plants absorb nutrients mainly through roots.

Question 15

Which of the following is a characteristic used to distinguish animal groups?

Accepted Answer

Presence of a digestive system

Question 16

Which step in the biogenesis model of the origin of life involves the formation of self-replicating molecules?

Accepted Answer

Formation of RNA capable of both storing information and catalyzing reactions

Question 17

Which of the following is a valid way to evaluate the reliability of a scientific media article?

Accepted Answer

Checking if the article is based on peer-reviewed research

Question 18

Which of the following is a similarity between Archaea and Bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Both reproduce primarily through binary fission.

Question 19

Which of the following is an example of a secondary source of scientific information?

Accepted Answer

A government website summarizing recent research findings

General Biology Exam 1 Review: The Science of Life and Scientific Thinking

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