Q: If a solution has a hydrogen ion concentration of $1 \times 10^{-4}$ M, what is its pH?

$pH = -\log_{10}(1 \times 10^{-4}) = 4$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main difference between a scientific hypothesis and a scientific theory?

Accepted Answer

A scientific hypothesis is a tentative explanation that can be tested, while a scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation supported by a large body of evidence.

Question 2

Darwin observed that finches on different Galápagos Islands had different beak shapes. What is the best explanation for this observation?

Accepted Answer

The finches adapted to different food sources on each island, leading to genetic variation and natural selection favoring different beak shapes.

Question 3

Which of the following statements about the genetic code is correct?

Accepted Answer

The genetic code is nearly universal, meaning almost all organisms use the same codons to specify amino acids.

Question 4

A neutral atom of carbon has an atomic number of 6 and an atomic mass of 12. How many neutrons does it have?

Accepted Answer

$12 - 6 = 6$ neutrons

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why water has a high specific heat?

Accepted Answer

Hydrogen bonds between water molecules absorb heat when they break and release heat when they form, buffering temperature changes.

Question 6

If a solution has a hydrogen ion concentration of $1 	imes 10^{-4}$ M, what is its pH?

Accepted Answer

$pH = -\log_{10}(1 	imes 10^{-4}) = 4$

Question 7

Which of the following is a property of hydrophobic substances?

Accepted Answer

They do not dissolve in water because they are nonpolar and cannot form hydrogen bonds with water.

Question 8

Which functional group is present in all amino acids and is responsible for their acidic properties?

Accepted Answer

The carboxyl group $(-COOH)$

Question 9

Which of the following best describes a dehydration reaction?

Accepted Answer

A reaction in which two monomers are joined together by removing a molecule of water.

Question 10

A patient is diagnosed with acidosis, meaning their blood pH is below 7.4. Which of the following could help buffer their blood pH back toward normal?

Accepted Answer

Adding a weak base that can accept hydrogen ions, such as bicarbonate $\left( HCO_3^- \right)$

Question 11

Which of the following statements about the density of water is correct?

Accepted Answer

Ice is less dense than liquid water because hydrogen bonds hold water molecules in a rigid lattice, creating more open space.

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the role of glycogen in animals?

Accepted Answer

Glycogen serves as a storage form of glucose in liver and muscle cells.

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct statement about polar covalent bonds?

Accepted Answer

Electrons are shared unequally between atoms, resulting in partial charges on the atoms.

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why carbon is able to form such a wide variety of organic molecules?

Accepted Answer

Carbon has four valence electrons, allowing it to form up to four covalent bonds with other atoms.

Question 15

Which of the following is an example of a ketose sugar?

Accepted Answer

Fructose

Question 16

A molecule has the formula $C_6H_{12}O_6$. Which of the following best describes this molecule?

Accepted Answer

It is a monosaccharide, such as glucose or fructose.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the process of hydrolysis?

Accepted Answer

A polymer is broken down into monomers by the addition of a water molecule.

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why surface tension is higher in water than in most other liquids?

Accepted Answer

Hydrogen bonding between water molecules creates a strong cohesive force at the surface.

Question 19

Which of the following is true about the organization of genetic material in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Genetic material is organized into linear chromosomes within a membrane-bound nucleus.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the relationship between valence electrons and the reactivity of an atom?

Accepted Answer

Atoms with incomplete valence shells are more reactive because they tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve stability.

General Biology Exam 1 Study Guide: Cells, Chemistry, Water, and Biomolecules

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards