$M = \frac{\text{moles of solute}}{\text{volume of solution (L)}}$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes a living organism according to the unifying themes of biology?

Accepted Answer

A system that maintains homeostasis, is composed of cells, and can reproduce and evolve.

Question 2

Which statement correctly distinguishes prokaryotic cells from eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells contain their genetic material in a nucleus, while prokaryotic cells do not.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of emergent properties in biological organization?

Accepted Answer

The coordinated contraction of heart muscle cells resulting in a heartbeat.

Question 4

Which reasoning method involves making generalizations based on specific observations?

Accepted Answer

Inductive reasoning

Question 5

Natural selection can best be described as:

Accepted Answer

The differential survival and reproduction of individuals due to differences in phenotype.

Question 6

Given an element with atomic number $Z = 8$ and atomic mass $A = 16$, how many neutrons does it have?

Accepted Answer

8

Question 7

Which of the following makes an isotope radioactive?

Accepted Answer

An unstable ratio of protons to neutrons causing the nucleus to decay.

Question 8

A scientist uses $^{14}C$ to trace the incorporation of carbon into plant tissues. What property of $^{14}C$ makes it useful for this experiment?

Accepted Answer

It is radioactive and can be detected as it decays.

Question 9

The half-life of a radioactive isotope is defined as:

Accepted Answer

The time required for half of the atoms in a sample to decay.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes valence electrons and their importance?

Accepted Answer

Electrons in the outermost shell that participate in chemical bonding.

Question 11

Which formula is used to calculate the molarity $M$ of a solution?

Accepted Answer

$M = \frac{	ext{moles of solute}}{	ext{volume of solution (L)}}$

Question 12

Which of the following is a trace element and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Iron; it is needed in small amounts for oxygen transport in blood.

Question 13

Which of the following correctly identifies the difference between acids and bases?

Accepted Answer

Acids donate $H^+$ ions, bases accept $H^+$ ions.

Question 14

Which of the following is an example of a condensation (dehydration synthesis) reaction?

Accepted Answer

Joining two monosaccharides to form a disaccharide and releasing water.

Question 15

Which property of water allows it to moderate Earth's climate by absorbing heat without a large change in temperature?

Accepted Answer

High specific heat

Question 16

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

Accepted Answer

It will lose water and shrink.

Question 17

Which of the following is NOT a property of hydrocarbons?

Accepted Answer

They readily dissolve in water.

Question 18

Which functional group is most likely to make a molecule reactive and why?

Accepted Answer

Hydroxyl group; because it can form hydrogen bonds and increase solubility.

Question 19

Which type of chemical bond involves the sharing of electron pairs between atoms?

Accepted Answer

Covalent bond

General Biology Study Guide: Key Concepts and Applications

Study Guide - Practice Questions