Mitochondrion; $$C_6H_{12}O_6$ + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + \text{ATP}$$

Photosynthesis; $$6CO_2 + 6H_2O + \text{light energy} \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6$ + 6O_2$$

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 2

Water is essential for life due to its unique properties. Which property of water allows it to moderate temperature in living organisms?

Accepted Answer

Its high specific heat capacity, given by $$C = \frac{q}{m \Delta T}.$$

Question 3

Which of the following molecules is classified as a carbohydrate, and what is its general formula?

Accepted Answer

Glucose; $$C_6H_{12}O_6$

Question 4

During dehydration synthesis, which of the following occurs?

Accepted Answer

A water molecule is removed to join two monomers, forming a covalent bond.

Question 5

Which organelle is responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration, and what is the main equation for this process?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondrion; $$C_6H_{12}O_6$ + 6O_2 ightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + 	ext{ATP}$$

Question 6

A cell is placed in a hypertonic solution. What will happen to the cell, and why?

Accepted Answer

It will shrink because water leaves the cell to the surrounding solution.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why enzymes are specific to their substrates?

Accepted Answer

The active site of an enzyme has a unique shape that fits only specific substrates, following the 'lock and key' model.

Question 8

Which process occurs in the chloroplast and converts light energy into chemical energy? What is the overall equation for this process?

Accepted Answer

Photosynthesis; $$6CO_2 + 6H_2O + 	ext{light energy} ightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6$ + 6O_2$$

Question 9

During mitosis, what is the result after cytokinesis in terms of chromosome number and genetic identity?

Accepted Answer

Two cells, each with the same chromosome number and genetically identical to the parent.

Question 10

Which phase of meiosis is responsible for the independent assortment of chromosomes, and why is this important?

Accepted Answer

Metaphase I; homologous chromosomes align randomly at the equator, increasing genetic variation.

Question 11

A DNA sequence reads 5'-ATGCGT-3'. What is the complementary RNA sequence produced during transcription?

Accepted Answer

5'-UACGCA-3'

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the role of ribosomes in protein synthesis?

Accepted Answer

Ribosomes translate mRNA sequences into polypeptide chains by facilitating peptide bond formation.

Question 13

Which of the following is a function of the plasma membrane in cells?

Accepted Answer

It regulates the movement of substances into and out of the cell.

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why surface area to volume ratio is important for cell function?

Accepted Answer

A higher surface area to volume ratio increases the efficiency of nutrient and waste exchange.

Question 15

Which of the following statements about enzymes is correct?

Accepted Answer

Enzymes lower the activation energy, $$E_a$$, required for a reaction to proceed.

Question 16

Which of the following is true about the structure of DNA?

Accepted Answer

DNA is a double helix composed of deoxyribose, phosphate, and nitrogenous bases.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the process of translation in protein synthesis?

Accepted Answer

Translation is the process where ribosomes read mRNA and assemble amino acids into a polypeptide chain.

Question 18

Which of the following is a product of glycolysis, and what is the net ATP yield per glucose molecule?

Accepted Answer

Pyruvate; 2 ATP

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.

General Biology Semester Exam Review Guide: Key Concepts and Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions