Question 1

Which of the following best describes the scientific method as presented in the course materials?

Accepted Answer

A system where evidence and measurable data are used to resolve disagreements.

Question 2

Which statement best explains why most of the mass of the universe is made of hydrogen and helium?

Accepted Answer

Hydrogen and helium were formed during the Big Bang, before stars existed.

Question 3

A carbon atom has 6 protons, 6 neutrons, and 6 electrons. What is its atomic mass?

Accepted Answer

$$12$$

Question 4

Which of the following is a correct statement about isotopes?

Accepted Answer

Isotopes of an element have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Question 5

Radioactive tracers are used in medicine because:

Accepted Answer

They can be detected by machines to visualize biological processes.

Question 6

Which element makes up the largest percentage of the human body by mass?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen

Question 7

Why do scientists believe that alien life, if it exists, is likely to be based on water and carbon?

Accepted Answer

Water and carbon are abundant and form stable, versatile molecules necessary for life.

Question 8

Which of the following best illustrates the concept that 'function arises from structure' in biology?

Accepted Answer

The shape of an enzyme determines its ability to catalyze specific reactions.

Question 9

If a radioactive isotope has a half-life of 10 years, how much of a 100 g sample will remain after 30 years?

Accepted Answer

$$12.5\ \mathrm{g}$$

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a trace element in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen

Question 11

Which process is responsible for the formation of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium?

Accepted Answer

Stellar nucleosynthesis in stars

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the relationship between atoms, molecules, and cells?

Accepted Answer

Cells are made of molecules, which are made of atoms.

Question 13

A scientist is using stable oxygen isotopes to study ancient climate. What property of isotopes makes this possible?

Accepted Answer

Isotopes have different masses, which can be measured in samples.

Question 14

Which of the following is a fundamental scientific tool for explaining how the universe works, as described in the course?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical perspective: explaining phenomena using atoms and the void.

Question 15

Which equation correctly represents the calculation of atomic mass?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Atomic mass} = 	ext{Number of protons} + 	ext{Number of neutrons}$$

Question 16

Which of the following is a reason why most of an atom's volume is empty space?

Accepted Answer

Electrons occupy a cloud far from the nucleus.

Question 17

Which of the following is a key difference between science and online arguments, according to the course materials?

Accepted Answer

Science relies on evidence and consensus, while online arguments often lack agreed standards.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the concept of entropy in the context of life?

Accepted Answer

Entropy is the process by which living things create order from energy.

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

Astrology

Introduction to General Biology: Scientific Thinking, Life, and the Chemical Basis of Life

Study Guide - Practice Questions