Question 1

Which of the following best describes the general formula for a monosaccharide?

Accepted Answer

$$C_nH_{2n}O_n ($$where the ratio of carbon:hydrogen:oxygen is 1:2:1)

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT a function of carbohydrates in living organisms?

Accepted Answer

Catalyzing chemical reactions

Question 3

Which reaction type is responsible for joining two monosaccharides to form a disaccharide?

Accepted Answer

Dehydration synthesis (condensation reaction)

Question 4

Which of the following pairs correctly matches a disaccharide with its monosaccharide components?

Accepted Answer

Maltose: glucose + glucose

Question 5

Cellulose is difficult for mammals to digest because:

Accepted Answer

Mammals lack the enzyme to break the $$\beta-$$glycosidic linkages

Question 6

Which polysaccharide is used by animals for energy storage?

Accepted Answer

Glycogen

Question 7

Which of the following statements about lipids is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Lipids are hydrophobic and do not covalently link to form polymers

Question 8

A triglyceride is formed by joining three fatty acids to a glycerol molecule. What type of reaction is this?

Accepted Answer

Dehydration synthesis

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why saturated fatty acids tend to be solid at room temperature?

Accepted Answer

Their straight chains pack tightly together

Question 10

Which statement about phospholipids is correct?

Accepted Answer

They have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions (amphipathic)

Question 11

What structural feature allows phospholipids to form bilayers in water?

Accepted Answer

Amphipathic nature with hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails

Question 12

Which of the following is a function of essential fatty acids (EFAs) in humans?

Accepted Answer

They are necessary for proper growth and brain development

Question 13

Trans fats are produced by which process?

Accepted Answer

Hydrogenation of unsaturated fats

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a major class of macromolecules?

Accepted Answer

Steroids

Question 15

Which molecule is the most common steroid found in humans and is a precursor to steroid hormones?

Accepted Answer

Cholesterol

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the difference between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids?

Accepted Answer

Unsaturated fatty acids have double bonds that create kinks, preventing tight packing

Question 17

Which carbohydrate is the primary energy source for most cells?

Accepted Answer

Glucose

Question 18

Which of the following is a structural polysaccharide found in plant cell walls?

Accepted Answer

Cellulose

Question 19

A patient is diagnosed with lactose intolerance. Which enzyme is most likely deficient?

Accepted Answer

Lactase

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why fats (triglycerides) aggregate in water?

Accepted Answer

They are hydrophobic and interact via nonpolar interactions

General Biology Study Notes: Carbohydrates and Lipids

Study Guide - Practice Questions