It forms four bonds arranged at approximately $$109.5^\\circ$$ angles.

Question 1

Which statement best describes why carbon is considered the backbone of organic molecules?

Accepted Answer

Carbon can form four covalent bonds, allowing for a variety of complex molecules.

Question 2

A molecule with the formula $$C_4H_8$$ can exist as either a cis or trans isomer. What is the main difference between these two isomers?

Accepted Answer

Cis isomers have substituents on the same side of a double bond, while trans isomers have them on opposite sides.

Question 3

Which functional group is responsible for making a molecule an acid by donating a proton ($$H^+$$)?

Accepted Answer

Carboxyl group ($$COOH)$$

Question 4

ATP (adenosine triphosphate) contains three phosphate groups. What happens when ATP reacts with water in a cell?

Accepted Answer

ATP loses a phosphate group, forming ADP and releasing energy.

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why double bonds in carbon molecules prevent free rotation?

Accepted Answer

Double bonds create a rigid planar structure, restricting rotation around the bond.

Question 6

A patient is given a medication that contains only the 'active' enantiomer of a drug. Why is this important in medical treatment?

Accepted Answer

Only one enantiomer usually fits the biological target and produces the desired effect.

Question 7

Which functional group is found in alcohols and is characterized by a polar covalent bond?

Accepted Answer

Hydroxyl group ($$OH)$$

Question 8

A molecule contains a $$PO_4$$^{3-}$$ group. What is the significance of this group in biological systems?

Accepted Answer

It is a phosphate group that is negatively charged and involved in energy transfer.

Question 9

Which statement about hydrophobic molecules is correct?

Accepted Answer

They are repelled by water and tend to cluster together.

Question 10

Which of the following is a correct description of a tetrahedral carbon atom?

Accepted Answer

It forms four bonds arranged at approximately $$109.5^\circ$$ angles.

Question 11

A molecule contains both an amino group ($$NH_2) $$and a carboxyl group ($$COOH). $$What property does this molecule likely have?

Accepted Answer

It can act as both an acid and a base.

Question 12

Which functional group is most likely to form cross-links in proteins, stabilizing their structure?

Accepted Answer

Sulfhydryl group ($$SH)$$

Question 13

Which of the following best describes a structural isomer?

Accepted Answer

Molecules with the same formula but different covalent arrangements of atoms.

Question 14

Which group is found in aldehydes and is characterized by a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen and single-bonded to a hydrogen?

Accepted Answer

Carbonyl group

Question 15

A molecule with a methyl group ($$CH_3) $$attached is likely to be:

Accepted Answer

More hydrophobic and less reactive.

Question 16

Which of the following is true about polar covalent bonds?

Accepted Answer

Electrons are shared unequally, creating partial charges.

Question 17

Which functional group is most likely to be found in organic acids?

Accepted Answer

Carboxyl group ($$COOH)$$

Question 18

Which of the following statements about enantiomers is correct?

Accepted Answer

Enantiomers are mirror images and can have different biological activities.

Question 19

A molecule with a hydroxyl group ($$OH) is $$most likely to:

Accepted Answer

Be soluble in water due to its polarity.

Question 20

Which of the following best explains the role of ATP in cellular metabolism?

Accepted Answer

ATP stores energy in its phosphate bonds and releases it when hydrolyzed.

Organic Chemistry Fundamentals for General Biology

Study Guide - Practice Questions