$\mathrm{H} \quad \mathrm{H}$ \newline \mathrm{H} - \mathrm{C} - \mathrm{H}$

Question 1

Which of the following statements best explains why carbon is considered a versatile element in organic chemistry?

Accepted Answer

Carbon can share electrons with other atoms in covalent bonds, allowing for a diversity of skeletons and branching patterns.

Question 2

Methane ($CH_4$) is considered one of the simplest organic compounds. Which feature makes it organic?

Accepted Answer

It is a carbon-based molecule.

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a way that carbon skeletons can vary in organic molecules?

Accepted Answer

They can form ionic bonds with nitrogen.

Question 4

A patient is diagnosed with lactose intolerance. Which biological molecule is the patient unable to properly digest?

Accepted Answer

A carbohydrate found in milk.

Question 5

Which of the following is a correct structural formula for methane?

Accepted Answer

$\mathrm{H} \quad \mathrm{H}$ 
ewline \mathrm{H} - \mathrm{C} - \mathrm{H}$

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a property of organic compounds?

Accepted Answer

They are always hydrophilic.

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the difference between the ball-and-stick model and the space-filling model of methane?

Accepted Answer

The ball-and-stick model emphasizes the bonds between atoms, while the space-filling model emphasizes the space occupied by the atoms.

Question 8

Which of the following is a correct statement about the composition of cells?

Accepted Answer

Cells are mostly composed of water, with the rest consisting mainly of carbon-based molecules.

Question 9

Which of the following is a real-world application for someone with lactose intolerance?

Accepted Answer

Avoiding lactose-containing foods or taking lactase pills with food.

Question 10

Which of the following elements is most commonly found bonded to carbon in organic compounds?

Accepted Answer

Hydrogen

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why organic compounds are important for life?

Accepted Answer

They form the large, complex molecules necessary for life’s functions.

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT a possible variation in carbon skeletons?

Accepted Answer

Formation of triple bonds with hydrogen

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct molecular formula for methane?

Accepted Answer

$CH_4$

Question 14

Which of the following is a reason why larger organic compounds are important fuels in your body?

Accepted Answer

They have diverse carbon skeletons that store energy.

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT a correct representation of methane?

Accepted Answer

A model showing a carbon atom double-bonded to two hydrogen atoms.

The Molecules of Life: Structure and Function of Biological Molecules

Study Guide - Practice Questions