Question 1

Which property of carbon atoms allows them to form the backbone of biological macromolecules?

Accepted Answer

Carbon atoms have four valence electrons and can form four covalent bonds, enabling diverse molecular structures.

Question 2

A molecule with the formula $$C_6H_{12}O_6$ can exist in both linear and ring forms. Which class of biomolecule does this represent, and what is its biological significance?

Accepted Answer

It is a monosaccharide, serving as a primary energy source for cells.

Question 3

Which chemical group is responsible for making alcohols polar and able to form hydrogen bonds with water?

Accepted Answer

Hydroxyl group ($$-OH)$$

Question 4

A patient is diagnosed with lactose intolerance. Which biological principle explains their inability to digest lactose?

Accepted Answer

The patient lacks the enzyme lactase, which hydrolyzes the glycosidic bond in lactose, a disaccharide.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats?

Accepted Answer

Unsaturated fats have one or more double bonds in their hydrocarbon chains, causing kinks and preventing tight packing.

Question 6

Which functional group is found in both aldehydes and ketones, and what is its chemical formula?

Accepted Answer

Carbonyl group, $$\u003eC=O$$

Question 7

A researcher is studying the effect of epigenetic mechanisms on memory formation. Which of the following best describes an epigenetic change?

Accepted Answer

A reversible chemical modification of DNA or histones that affects gene expression without changing the DNA sequence.

Question 8

Which of the following statements about phospholipids is correct?

Accepted Answer

Phospholipids have hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails, forming the basis of cell membranes.

Question 9

Which of the following is NOT a function of carbohydrates in biological systems?

Accepted Answer

Catalyzing chemical reactions

Question 10

A cow is treated with antibiotics, which disrupt its gut microbiome. What is a likely consequence for carbohydrate digestion?

Accepted Answer

The cow may have reduced ability to break down cellulose due to loss of symbiotic microbes.

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why trans fats are considered unhealthy compared to cis unsaturated fats?

Accepted Answer

Trans fats are produced by hydrogenation and have a straighter structure, which can increase cholesterol and risk of heart disease.

Question 12

Which equation correctly represents the formation of a disaccharide from two monosaccharides via dehydration synthesis?

Accepted Answer

$$C_6H_{12}O_6$ + C_6H_{12}O_6$ \rightarrow C$$_{12}$$H_{22}O$$_{11} + H_2O$

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct statement about polymers and monomers?

Accepted Answer

Monomers are joined together by covalent bonds to form polymers through dehydration synthesis.

Question 14

Which chemical group is most likely to make a molecule basic and able to accept protons?

Accepted Answer

Amino group ($$-NH_2$)

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the molecular diversity of carbon compounds?

Accepted Answer

Carbon skeletons can vary in length, branching, double bond position, and presence of rings, leading to diverse organic molecules.

Question 16

Which of the following is a real-world example of a functional group affecting biological function?

Accepted Answer

The presence of a methyl group ($$-CH_3$) in DNA can silence gene expression through epigenetic modification.

Question 17

Which of the following statements about water in cells is correct?

Accepted Answer

Water is the most abundant molecule in cells, comprising 70-95% of cell mass.

Question 18

Which of the following is NOT a polymer?

Accepted Answer

Phospholipid

Question 19

Which chemical group is most likely to make a molecule acidic and donate protons?

Accepted Answer

Carboxyl group ($$-COOH)$$

Question 20

Which of the following best explains the importance of functional groups in organic molecules?

Accepted Answer

Functional groups determine the physical and chemical properties of organic molecules and their roles in biological processes.

Macromolecules: Carbon, Carbohydrates, and Lipids – Structure and Function in Biology

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