$$\text{Monomer}_1 + \text{Monomer}_2 \rightarrow \text{Polymer} + H_2O$$

Question 1

Which of the following statements best explains why lipids are not considered polymers?

Accepted Answer

Lipids are assembled from smaller molecules but do not consist of repeating, identical subunits.

Question 2

A dehydration (condensation) reaction is crucial in the synthesis of biological polymers. Which equation best represents this process?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Monomer}_1 + 	ext{Monomer}_2 ightarrow 	ext{Polymer} + H_2O$$

Question 3

Which type of glycosidic linkage is found in cellulose, and why is it significant for its function in plants?

Accepted Answer

$$\beta-1$$,4 linkage; it provides rigidity and resistance to enzymatic hydrolysis.

Question 4

A patient is unable to digest lactose due to a deficiency in the enzyme lactase. Which type of chemical reaction is impaired in this patient?

Accepted Answer

Hydrolysis

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the structure of a triglyceride (fat molecule)?

Accepted Answer

Three fatty acids joined to a glycerol molecule by ester linkages

Question 6

Which property of phospholipids is essential for the formation of biological membranes?

Accepted Answer

Their amphipathic nature, with hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails

Question 7

Which of the following is a correct comparison between starch and glycogen?

Accepted Answer

Glycogen is more highly branched than starch.

Question 8

A scientist discovers a new molecule composed of a long chain of nucleotides. Which class of biological macromolecule does this molecule belong to?

Accepted Answer

Nucleic acid

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Catalyzing chemical reactions

Question 10

Why are saturated fats solid at room temperature while unsaturated fats are liquid?

Accepted Answer

Saturated fats lack double bonds, allowing molecules to pack tightly together.

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of cholesterol in animal cell membranes?

Accepted Answer

It is a major component of the phospholipid bilayer, providing fluidity and stability.

Question 12

Which of the following reactions is responsible for breaking down polymers into monomers in the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Hydrolysis reaction

Question 13

A molecule with the formula $$C_6H_{12}O_6$ is most likely which type of carbohydrate?

Accepted Answer

Monosaccharide

Question 14

Which of the following is true about the structure of phospholipids in an aqueous environment?

Accepted Answer

Hydrophilic heads face outward toward the water, while hydrophobic tails point inward.

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why cellulose cannot be digested by most animals?

Accepted Answer

Cellulose contains $$\beta-$$glycosidic linkages that most animal enzymes cannot hydrolyze.

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct statement about the relationship between structure and function in biological macromolecules?

Accepted Answer

The structure of a macromolecule determines its function.

Question 17

Which of the following is a major difference between the storage polysaccharides starch and glycogen?

Accepted Answer

Glycogen is more highly branched than starch.

Question 18

Which of the following is a defining feature of steroids?

Accepted Answer

They contain four fused carbon rings.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the process by which a disaccharide is formed from two monosaccharides?

Accepted Answer

A dehydration reaction removes a water molecule and forms a glycosidic linkage.

Question 20

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of biological macromolecules?

Accepted Answer

Lipids are macromolecules but are not polymers.

Chapter 5 Part A: Structure and Function of Large Biological Molecules

Study Guide - Practice Questions