$\text{Number of neutrons} = \text{Atomic mass} - \text{Atomic number}$

Question 1

Which of the following statements best describes a scientific hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

A testable and falsifiable explanation for an observation.

Question 2

Which of the following is an example of negative feedback in biological systems?

Accepted Answer

Sweating to cool the body when overheated.

Question 3

What are the three parts of a scientific argument?

Accepted Answer

Claim, evidence, and reasoning.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the difference between inductive and deductive reasoning?

Accepted Answer

Inductive reasoning uses specific observations to form general principles; deductive reasoning uses general principles to predict specific results.

Question 5

Which of the following molecules is most likely to dissolve in water?

Accepted Answer

C$_6$H$_{12}$O$_6$

Question 6

How is the charge of an atom determined?

Accepted Answer

By subtracting the number of electrons from the number of protons.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why water is important for life?

Accepted Answer

Water has a high specific heat, allowing it to moderate temperature.

Question 8

Which property of water allows geckos to cling to smooth surfaces without slipping?

Accepted Answer

Adhesion

Question 9

Which of the following is a covalent bond?

Accepted Answer

H$_2$

Question 10

How many electrons do you need to fill the first three shells of an atom?

Accepted Answer

18

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the emergent property of water known as surface tension?

Accepted Answer

Water molecules resist being pulled apart at the surface due to hydrogen bonding.

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT a major theme in biology?

Accepted Answer

Gravity

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the difference between acclimation and adaptation?

Accepted Answer

Acclimation is a temporary physiological change; adaptation is a genetic change over generations.

Question 14

Which of the following is a polar molecule?

Accepted Answer

H$_2$O

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why ice floats on water?

Accepted Answer

Hydrogen bonds in ice create a lattice that is less dense than liquid water.

Question 16

Which equation correctly determines the number of neutrons in an atom?

Accepted Answer

$	ext{Number of neutrons} = 	ext{Atomic mass} - 	ext{Atomic number}$

Question 17

Which of the following is an example of positive feedback?

Accepted Answer

Release of oxytocin during childbirth to intensify contractions.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes a valence shell?

Accepted Answer

The outermost shell containing electrons involved in bonding.

Question 19

Which of the following is a hydrogen bond?

Accepted Answer

The attraction between a hydrogen atom in one water molecule and an oxygen atom in another water molecule.

Question 20

Which of the following best explains how polarity affects the likelihood that molecules will dissolve in water?

Accepted Answer

Polar molecules dissolve easily in water because water is also polar.

General Biology: Foundational Concepts and Atomic Structure Study Guide

Study Guide - Practice Questions