Question 1

Which of the following statements best describes the process by which biological polymers are synthesized in cells?

Accepted Answer

Polymers are synthesized by condensation reactions, in which activated monomers are linked together by the removal of water.

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT a class of proteins based on their function?

Accepted Answer

Polysaccharide proteins

Question 3

Amino acids are the monomers of proteins. What feature distinguishes one amino acid from another?

Accepted Answer

The type of R group (side chain) attached to the central carbon

Question 4

Which type of bond is formed between the sulfur atoms of two cysteine residues, and what is its role in protein structure?

Accepted Answer

Disulfide bond; confers considerable stability to the protein conformation

Question 5

Which of the following interactions is most likely to be disrupted by a change in pH?

Accepted Answer

Ionic bonds

Question 6

What is the directionality of a polypeptide chain, and how is it determined?

Accepted Answer

It runs from the N-terminus (amino group) to the C-terminus (carboxyl group), determined by the way peptide bonds are formed.

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the role of molecular chaperones in protein folding?

Accepted Answer

They shield parts of the protein from interactions until more of the protein can be made, aiding in proper folding.

Question 8

Which level of protein structure is defined by the local folding of the polypeptide chain, such as alpha helices and beta sheets?

Accepted Answer

Secondary structure

Question 9

A protein consisting of two identical polypeptide chains is best described as a:

Accepted Answer

Dimer

Question 10

Which of the following statements about nucleic acids is correct?

Accepted Answer

DNA serves as the repository of genetic information, while RNA plays several roles in expressing that information.

Question 11

Which of the following base pairings is correct for DNA?

Accepted Answer

A pairs with T, G pairs with C

Question 12

What type of bond links adjacent nucleotides in a DNA or RNA strand?

Accepted Answer

Phosphodiester bond

Question 13

Which of the following is a storage polysaccharide found in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Glycogen

Question 14

Which of the following statements about lipids is FALSE?

Accepted Answer

Lipids are formed by the same type of linear polymerization as proteins and nucleic acids.

Question 15

Which class of lipids is the main component of biological membranes due to its amphipathic nature?

Accepted Answer

Phospholipids

Question 16

Which of the following is TRUE about saturated fatty acids?

Accepted Answer

They have long straight chains that pack together well.

Question 17

Trans fats are considered unhealthy because:

Accepted Answer

They are a type of unsaturated fatty acid with a double bond that causes less of a bend in the chain, linked to increased risk of heart disease.

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct description of a glycosidic bond?

Accepted Answer

A bond formed between two monosaccharides by the elimination of water.

Question 19

Which of the following is a function of steroids in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Serving as membrane components and signaling molecules

Chapter 3: The Macromolecules of the Cell – Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions