1.
What does DNA ligase do during DNA replication?
Correct Answer
C. Seals the nicks in the sugar-pHospHate bonds of one of the new DNA strands.
Explanation
DNA ligase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in DNA replication. It seals the nicks, or gaps, that are present in the sugar-phosphate backbone of one of the newly synthesized DNA strands. These nicks occur as a result of the discontinuous replication of the lagging strand, where small fragments called Okazaki fragments are synthesized in the opposite direction of the replication fork. DNA ligase catalyzes the formation of phosphodiester bonds between adjacent nucleotides, effectively joining the fragments and creating a continuous DNA strand. This process ensures the integrity and completeness of the newly synthesized DNA molecule.
2.
To determine whether a field of study is a science, you would:
Correct Answer
B. Consider what methods are used.
Explanation
To determine whether a field of study is a science, it is important to consider the methods that are used. Science is characterized by the use of systematic and empirical methods to gather and analyze data in order to test hypotheses and draw conclusions. By evaluating the methods employed in a field of study, one can determine if it adheres to the principles of scientific inquiry. This includes the use of controlled experiments, observation, measurement, and the application of logical reasoning. Examining the methods used provides insight into the scientific rigor and validity of a field of study.
3.
Strictly speaking, DNA replication leads to:
Correct Answer
C. 2 copies of each DNA molecule that are each half old and half new.
Explanation
During DNA replication, the double-stranded DNA molecule unwinds and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand. This process results in the formation of two new copies of the DNA molecule, with each copy consisting of one original (old) strand and one newly synthesized (new) strand. Therefore, the correct answer is that DNA replication leads to 2 copies of each DNA molecule that are each half old and half new.
4.
What does recombinant DNA technology refer to?
Correct Answer
C. The process of inserting gene from one organism into another.
Explanation
Recombinant DNA technology refers to the process of inserting a gene from one organism into another. This technique allows scientists to manipulate and modify DNA, creating genetically modified organisms (GMOs) with desired traits. By transferring genes between different species, scientists can enhance crop yields, produce pharmaceuticals, and study gene function. This technology has revolutionized fields such as agriculture, medicine, and biotechnology.
5.
Which best describes why an allele is recessive?
Correct Answer
B. Recessive alleles make no functional gene product.
Explanation
Recessive alleles are described as such because they do not produce a functional gene product. This means that when an individual carries two copies of a recessive allele, they will not have the normal gene product necessary for a particular trait or function. In contrast, dominant alleles produce a functional gene product even if only one copy is present. Therefore, the lack of a functional gene product is the defining characteristic of recessive alleles.
6.
When there are 2 alleles for a gene and both make a protein product the alleles are said to be:
Correct Answer
B. Codominant.
Explanation
When there are 2 alleles for a gene and both make a protein product, the alleles are said to be codominant. This means that both alleles are equally expressed and contribute to the phenotype of the organism. In codominance, there is no dominance or recessiveness between the alleles, and both traits are fully expressed in the heterozygous condition.
7.
What is the name of the enzymes which cut DNA only at a specific sequence?
Correct Answer
C. Restriction Enzymes.
Explanation
Restriction enzymes are enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences known as restriction sites. These enzymes recognize specific patterns of nucleotides and cleave the DNA at those sites. This process is important in genetic engineering and molecular biology, as it allows researchers to manipulate and study DNA by cutting it at specific locations. DNA polymerases, ligases, and modification enzymes do not have the ability to cut DNA at specific sequences, making restriction enzymes the correct answer.
8.
A set of ideas that explain a broad set of observations is a:
Correct Answer
A. Theory.
Explanation
A theory is a set of ideas that can explain a broad range of observations. It is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on a body of evidence and has been repeatedly tested and confirmed through experimentation and observation. Theories are often used to make predictions and guide further research. In contrast, a law is a statement that describes a natural phenomenon or relationship, while a hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a specific observation or phenomenon. An inference, on the other hand, is a conclusion drawn from evidence or reasoning.
9.
Which one of the following characteristics is not necessary in order for an object to be considered living?
Correct Answer
C. Ability to move.
Explanation
The ability to move is not necessary for an object to be considered living because there are many living organisms, such as plants, that are rooted in one place and cannot move. While movement is a common characteristic of many living organisms, it is not a defining feature of life. Reproduction, growth, and the ability to respond to stimuli are all essential characteristics that distinguish living objects from non-living ones.
10.
The nucleotide that is found in RNA but not DNA is:
Correct Answer
D. Uracil.
Explanation
Uracil is the nucleotide that is found in RNA but not DNA. In DNA, the nucleotide thymine is present instead of uracil. RNA uses uracil as a complementary base to adenine, while DNA uses thymine as a complementary base to adenine. This difference in nucleotides allows RNA to perform its various functions, such as protein synthesis and gene expression, while DNA is responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information.
11.
How does Gel Electrophoresis work?
Correct Answer
B. A sample of DNA is added to a gel and exposed to a current. The DNA is attracted to the charge and different sized fragments of DNA are separated.
Explanation
Gel electrophoresis works by adding a sample of DNA to a gel and exposing it to a current. The DNA is attracted to the charge and different sized fragments of DNA are separated. This is because the smaller fragments move faster through the gel, while the larger fragments move slower. By running the gel for a specific amount of time, the fragments can be separated based on their size. This technique is commonly used in molecular biology to analyze and compare DNA samples.
12.
When geneticists speak of mutation, they are referring to:
Correct Answer
C. A change in the DNA sequence.
Explanation
Geneticists refer to mutation as a change in the DNA sequence. Mutations can occur due to various factors, such as errors during DNA replication or exposure to certain chemicals or radiation. These changes in the DNA sequence can lead to alterations in the genetic code, which can result in different traits or characteristics in an organism. This definition of mutation is widely accepted in the field of genetics and is essential for understanding the mechanisms of genetic variation and evolution.
13.
Why are DNA fingerprints useful?
Correct Answer
A. When a sample of DNA is cut up with restriction enzymes and separated by gel electropHoresis, the result is unique for each individual.
Explanation
DNA fingerprints are useful because when a sample of DNA is cut up with restriction enzymes and separated by gel electrophoresis, the resulting pattern is unique for each individual. This allows for the identification and differentiation of individuals based on their DNA profiles. By comparing these unique patterns, scientists can determine relationships, establish paternity, and solve crimes.
14.
Natural Selection may be BEST defined as:
Correct Answer
D. A difference in reproduction between individuals.
Explanation
Natural selection is a process in which individuals with favorable traits for survival and reproduction are more likely to pass on their genes to the next generation. This leads to a difference in reproduction between individuals, as those with advantageous traits have a higher chance of producing offspring. Differences between populations or individuals alone do not fully capture the essence of natural selection, as it specifically involves the differential reproductive success of individuals based on their traits.
15.
What is an example of a trait:
Correct Answer
E. All of these.
Explanation
The correct answer is "all of these." This is because all the given examples - fur color in a mammal, leg length in a bird, flower number in a plant, and enzyme production in a fungus - represent traits. A trait is a characteristic or feature that can be inherited or observed in an organism. In this case, each example represents a specific trait that can vary among individuals within a species.
16.
Nuclear transfer was the cloning technique used to produce the sheep, Dolly. Which best describes nuclear transfer?
Correct Answer
B. The chromosomes are removed from an egg and replaced by the chromosomes from an adult cell.
Explanation
Nuclear transfer involves the removal of chromosomes from an egg and replacing them with the chromosomes from an adult cell. This technique was used in the cloning of Dolly the sheep.
17.
What is necessary for natural selection to lead to evolution?
Correct Answer
D. All of these.
Explanation
For natural selection to lead to evolution, it is necessary for all of these conditions to be met. Individuals having different traits allows for variation within a population. Traits affecting reproduction means that certain traits will be more likely to be passed on to future generations. Lastly, traits being inherited ensures that these advantageous traits can be passed down from one generation to the next, leading to the accumulation of beneficial traits over time. Therefore, all of these factors are essential for natural selection to drive evolutionary change.
18.
According to question 18, what is true about the type of cloning discussed in the previous question?
Correct Answer
D. All of these.
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of these." This means that all of the statements mentioned in the options are true about the type of cloning discussed in the previous question. The technique does require that the egg develops in a female's uterus, it does lead to the production of a newborn infant animal, and the clone would indeed be a younger identical twin to the donor of the DNA.
19.
In a population of long-tailed weasels in central Missouri, individuals that turn white in the winter are rare. Individual weasels that turn white in winter are much more common in the northern part of the weasel's range. This appears to be an example of:
Correct Answer
D. Natural selection.
Explanation
This is an example of natural selection because the weasels that turn white in the winter are better adapted to their environment in the northern part of their range. This adaptation provides them with a survival advantage by allowing them to blend in with the snowy surroundings and avoid predation. Over time, this trait becomes more common in the population as those individuals have a higher chance of passing on their genes to the next generation.
20.
What enzyme is necessary to convert an RNA sequence back to it's complementary DNA sequence:
Correct Answer
C. Reverse Transcriptase.
Explanation
Reverse transcriptase is an enzyme that is necessary to convert an RNA sequence back to its complementary DNA sequence. This enzyme is commonly found in retroviruses and is responsible for the process of reverse transcription, where RNA is used as a template to synthesize DNA. Reverse transcriptase catalyzes the synthesis of DNA from RNA, allowing the conversion of RNA into its complementary DNA sequence.
21.
When dogs become overheated, they pant. During panting, blood flow to the tongue increases and this circulates heat from the center of their body to where it can be dissipated. This is an example of:
Correct Answer
B. Homeostasis.
Explanation
This is an example of homeostasis because it refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. In this case, when dogs become overheated, their body automatically responds by increasing blood flow to the tongue, which helps to dissipate the heat and regulate their body temperature. Homeostasis is a fundamental process that ensures the body's optimal functioning and survival.
22.
Over the past 5 years, the number of acres planted in genetically modified crops has:
Correct Answer
A. Increased.
Explanation
The correct answer is "increased" because the question states that over the past 5 years, the number of acres planted in genetically modified crops has increased. This indicates that there has been a growth in the cultivation of genetically modified crops during this period.
23.
On page five of your textbook, there is a story about African dung beetles and elephants. We have similar dung beetles here in MO. Suppose you encountered one of these beetles rolling a ball of cow dung across a pasture. You are eager to explain, using the scientific method, why these beetles are rolling ball of cow manure. Your first step is to come up with a(n).
Correct Answer
C. Hypothesis.
Explanation
The first step in using the scientific method to explain why the beetles are rolling a ball of cow manure would be to come up with a hypothesis. A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or prediction based on available evidence and prior knowledge. In this case, the hypothesis could be that the beetles roll the ball of cow manure as a means of transportation or as a way to store food. This hypothesis can then be tested through experiments and observations to determine its validity.
24.
Three of the following are hypotheses concerning the dung beetle's behavior, select the exception.
Correct Answer
D. Only female dung beetles roll balls of dung.
Explanation
The correct answer is that only female dung beetles roll balls of dung. This is the exception among the given hypotheses. The other three hypotheses state that dung beetles store the balls of dung to feed on later, lay eggs in the balls of dung, and use the balls of dung to construct nests.
25.
You hypothesize that dung beetles lay eggs in the balls of dung and the young hatch and feed on the dung. Three of the following are reasonable predictions concerning your hypothesis, select the exception:
Correct Answer
A. If dung beetles are laying eggs in the dung, the they will only roll balls of dung during daylight.
Explanation
The correct answer is "If dung beetles are laying eggs in the dung, the they will only roll balls of dung during daylight." This is the exception because it does not directly relate to the hypothesis that dung beetles lay eggs in the balls of dung and the young hatch and feed on the dung. The other predictions are reasonable because they are all related to the behavior and characteristics of dung beetles in relation to their reproductive cycle.