Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

A hypothesis is a tentative explanation that can be tested, while a theory is a well-supported explanation based on a broad range of evidence.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the function of microvilli in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

They increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients.

Question 3

A researcher is testing the effect of a new fertilizer on plant growth. She sets up two groups: one receives the fertilizer, the other does not. What is the independent variable in this experiment?

Accepted Answer

Whether or not the plants receive fertilizer

Question 4

Which of the following equations correctly represents Fick's Law of Diffusion?

Accepted Answer

$ J = -D \frac{dC}{dx} $

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why saturated fatty acids are solid at room temperature while unsaturated fatty acids are liquid?

Accepted Answer

Saturated fatty acids have no double bonds, allowing them to pack tightly together.

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a function of the stomach in the human digestive system?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of most nutrients

Question 7

A cell is placed in a solution and water moves into the cell, causing it to swell. Which term best describes the solution?

Accepted Answer

Hypotonic

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the role of the Na$^+$/K$^+$-ATPase in the cell membrane?

Accepted Answer

It uses ATP to pump Na$^+$ out of the cell and K$^+$ into the cell, creating an ion gradient.

Question 9

Which of the following statements about facilitated diffusion is correct?

Accepted Answer

It requires a membrane protein but does not require energy input.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus, while prokaryotic cells do not.

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why tight junctions are important in epithelial tissues?

Accepted Answer

They prevent the passage of substances between adjacent cells, maintaining tissue integrity.

Question 12

A patient is unable to digest fats properly. Which organ is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Pancreas

Question 13

Which of the following best describes osmosis?

Accepted Answer

The movement of water across a selectively permeable membrane from low solute concentration to high solute concentration.

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct statement about the structure of phospholipids in cell membranes?

Accepted Answer

They have hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the function of peristalsis in the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

It moves food along the digestive tract by coordinated muscle contractions.

Question 16

A scientist wants to test whether a new drug lowers blood pressure. She randomly assigns 100 patients to receive the drug and 100 to receive a placebo. She measures blood pressure after 4 weeks. Which statistical result would indicate the drug is effective?

Accepted Answer

A p-value less than 0.05 when comparing the two groups' blood pressures.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the function of carrier proteins in the cell membrane?

Accepted Answer

They transport specific molecules across the membrane, sometimes using energy.

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct example of active transport?

Accepted Answer

The Na$^+$/K$^+$-ATPase pumping Na$^+$ out of the cell and K$^+$ into the cell using ATP.

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

They lower the activation energy required for chemical reactions.

Question 20

Which of the following is a correct statement about the difference between an observation and an inference in scientific research?

Accepted Answer

An observation is a direct measurement or description, while an inference is a logical interpretation based on observations.

General Biology Exam 1 Study Guide: Scientific Method, Digestion, Membranes, and Cells

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards