1.
The elements needed for life - carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen - are...
Correct Answer
D. The most abundant (non-inert) elements in the universe
Explanation
Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen are considered the most abundant (non-inert) elements in the universe. This means that they are found in large quantities throughout the universe, not just on Earth. These elements are essential for life as we know it, and their abundance suggests that the conditions for life may exist in other parts of the universe as well.
2.
What was not one of the fundamental properties the Greek (Aristotlean) model of the solar system?
Correct Answer
D. The Earth and "heavens" are made of the same elements
Explanation
The Greek (Aristotelian) model of the solar system believed that the Earth and the heavens were made of different elements. This was in contrast to the other fundamental properties of the model, which included the idea that objects in the sky move in uniform circular motion, the natural state of motion on Earth is at rest, and the Earth is at the center of all things.
3.
This is a process which could prevent a beneficial species trait from being passed on.
Correct Answer
D. Genetic Drift
Explanation
Genetic drift refers to the random changes in the frequency of gene variants in a population due to chance events. It can lead to the loss of beneficial traits or the fixation of harmful traits in a population. In this context, genetic drift can prevent a beneficial species trait from being passed on by causing its frequency to decrease over time. This is different from natural selection, which favors traits that increase an organism's fitness, and heredity, which involves the passing of traits from parents to offspring.
4.
All living cells use adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecules...
Correct Answer
C. To store and release energy for biochemical processes
Explanation
ATP molecules are used by all living cells to store and release energy for biochemical processes. ATP acts as a universal energy currency within cells, providing the necessary energy for various cellular activities such as muscle contraction, active transport of molecules across cell membranes, and synthesis of macromolecules. When ATP is hydrolyzed, it releases energy by breaking the high-energy phosphate bond, which can be used to drive endergonic reactions and power cellular processes. Therefore, ATP plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism and serves as an energy source for the majority of biochemical reactions.
5.
The distance between adjacent peaks of an electromagnetic wave is referred to as its...
Correct Answer
B. Wavelength
Explanation
The distance between adjacent peaks of an electromagnetic wave is referred to as its wavelength. Wavelength is a fundamental property of waves and is typically measured in meters. It represents the spatial extent of one complete cycle of the wave and determines the color or frequency of the wave. In the context of electromagnetic waves, such as light or radio waves, different wavelengths correspond to different colors or frequencies.
6.
Which of the following is evidence supporting evolution?
Correct Answer
C. All of the choices are correct
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the choices are correct." This is because each of the options mentioned provides evidence supporting evolution. The great diversity of species indicates that different species have evolved over time. Bacteria becoming resistant to old antibiotics demonstrates the process of natural selection and adaptation. The variation in diets among Galapagos finches suggests that they have adapted to different food sources, which is a result of evolution.
7.
What is the most important role that lipids play in living organisms on Earth?
Correct Answer
C. Constituents of cell membranes
Explanation
Lipids are essential components of cell membranes, which are the outermost layer of cells that regulate the movement of substances in and out of the cell. They provide structural support and help maintain the integrity of the cell membrane. Additionally, lipids also play a role in cell signaling and cell recognition. Therefore, lipids are crucial constituents of cell membranes and are vital for the proper functioning of living organisms.
8.
A section of DNA that codes for a particular protein is known as a...
Correct Answer
C. Gene
Explanation
A section of DNA that codes for a particular protein is known as a gene. Genes are the basic units of heredity and contain the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. They are responsible for determining an organism's traits and characteristics. Genes are made up of specific sequences of nucleotides and are located on chromosomes.
9.
What is not one of Hubble's classes of galaxies?
Correct Answer
A. Barred Elliptical
Explanation
Hubble's classification of galaxies is based on their shape and structure. The classes include elliptical, spiral, and barred spiral galaxies. Barred elliptical is not one of Hubble's classes, as it is not a recognized category in his classification system.
10.
Photon A has a higher energy than photon B. Which of the following statements is true?
Correct Answer
D. pHoton A has a higher frequency than pHoton B
Explanation
The energy of a photon is directly proportional to its frequency. Therefore, if photon A has a higher energy than photon B, it means that photon A also has a higher frequency than photon B.
11.
Which form of RNA copies instructions for protein synthesis from DNA?
Correct Answer
A. MRNA
Explanation
mRNA, or messenger RNA, copies instructions for protein synthesis from DNA. It carries the genetic information from the DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm, where proteins are synthesized. mRNA acts as a template for protein synthesis, carrying the genetic code from the DNA and specifying the sequence of amino acids that will be used to build the protein. This process is known as transcription, and mRNA plays a crucial role in the process of gene expression.
12.
The complete set of genetic information that makes up an organism is known as a...
Correct Answer
C. Genome
Explanation
The term "genome" refers to the complete set of genetic information within an organism. It includes all of the genes, as well as non-coding DNA sequences. Genes are specific segments of DNA that provide instructions for building proteins, while chromosomes are structures that contain genes. A codon, on the other hand, is a sequence of three nucleotides that codes for a specific amino acid. Therefore, the most appropriate answer to this question is "genome" as it encompasses the entirety of an organism's genetic material.
13.
Metabolism is a term that describes the...
Correct Answer
B. Chemical processes that occur inside cells
Explanation
Metabolism refers to the chemical processes that take place within cells. These processes involve the breakdown of complex organic molecules to provide energy for cellular activities and the synthesis of new molecules necessary for growth and maintenance. Metabolism is essential for the proper functioning and survival of cells, as it allows them to obtain energy and nutrients from the environment and eliminate waste products.
14.
The recoil you feel when you fire a gun is an example of which of Newton's Laws?
Correct Answer
B. Third
Explanation
The recoil you feel when you fire a gun is an example of Newton's Third Law of Motion. This law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. When the gun is fired, it exerts a force on the bullet, propelling it forward. Simultaneously, the bullet exerts an equal and opposite force on the gun, causing it to recoil or move backward. This demonstrates the principle of action and reaction, which is the essence of Newton's Third Law.
15.
Leaving out the Earth, molecules connected with planetary life have been found...
Correct Answer
B. All the choices are correct
Explanation
The correct answer is that molecules connected with planetary life have been found in interstellar clouds, on comets and asteroids, and in extrasolar planets. This means that these molecules have been discovered in various locations outside of Earth, indicating the potential for life beyond our planet.
16.
The Ptolemaic model has planets moving in...
Correct Answer
C. Circles, the centers of which move around the Earth
Explanation
The Ptolemaic model, developed by the ancient astronomer Ptolemy, proposed that planets move in circles, with the Earth at the center of these circles. According to this model, the centers of the circles, known as deferents, move around the Earth. This explanation suggests that the Ptolemaic model was geocentric, meaning it placed the Earth at the center of the universe.
17.
What is a property of water that makes it attractive as a medium for metabolic reactions?
Correct Answer
C. It is a thermal stabilizer
Explanation
Water is a thermal stabilizer because of its high specific heat capacity. This means that water can absorb and store a large amount of heat energy without a significant change in temperature. This property is important for metabolic reactions because it helps to regulate and maintain a stable internal temperature within living organisms. Additionally, water's high heat of vaporization allows for efficient cooling through evaporation, further contributing to its role as a thermal stabilizer.
18.
During DNA replication, what happens?
Correct Answer
A. All of the choices are correct
Explanation
During DNA replication, several processes occur simultaneously. The DNA helix unzips into separate strands, allowing the replication machinery to access each strand. Mutations can occur during replication due to errors in DNA synthesis or damage to the DNA molecule. Each strand then serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand, resulting in the formation of two identical DNA molecules. Therefore, all of the choices listed in the question are correct in describing what happens during DNA replication.
19.
Tycho Brahe...
Correct Answer
C. Made extensive measurements of planetary sky positions
Explanation
Tycho Brahe made extensive measurements of planetary sky positions. This means that he meticulously observed and recorded the positions of various planets in the sky over a long period of time. These measurements were important as they provided accurate data for future astronomers to study and analyze. Brahe's observations helped to improve our understanding of the movement and behavior of planets in the solar system.
20.
The basic biological structures of life on Earth are called...
Correct Answer
D. Cells
Explanation
Cells are the basic biological structures of life on Earth. They are the smallest unit of life and are responsible for carrying out all the necessary functions for an organism to survive. Cells can be found in all living organisms, from single-celled bacteria to complex multicellular organisms like plants and animals. They are composed of molecules and atoms, but cells themselves are the fundamental building blocks of life.
21.
Organisms whose cells lack a nucleus are called...
Correct Answer
B. Prokaryotes
Explanation
Prokaryotes are organisms whose cells lack a nucleus. Unlike eukaryotes, which have a membrane-bound nucleus, prokaryotes have their genetic material, DNA, floating freely in the cytoplasm. This lack of a nucleus is a defining characteristic of prokaryotes and distinguishes them from eukaryotes. Therefore, the correct answer is prokaryotes.
22.
Evolutionary adaptations are related to molecular changes in...
Correct Answer
D. DNA
Explanation
Evolutionary adaptations are related to molecular changes in DNA. DNA is the genetic material that carries the instructions for the development, functioning, and reproduction of all living organisms. Through mutations and genetic variations in DNA, organisms can undergo changes that allow them to better survive and reproduce in their environment. These changes can lead to the development of new traits or the modification of existing ones, ultimately driving the process of evolution. Therefore, DNA is the primary molecule involved in evolutionary adaptations.
23.
A chemoautotroph gets its energy from ___ and its carbon from ___...
Correct Answer
A. Oxidation reactions; carbon dioxide in its environment
Explanation
A chemoautotroph is an organism that obtains its energy from oxidation reactions and its carbon from carbon dioxide in its environment. Chemoautotrophs are able to use inorganic compounds such as hydrogen sulfide or ammonia as a source of energy, which they obtain through oxidation reactions. They then use carbon dioxide from their surroundings to synthesize organic molecules through a process called carbon fixation. This allows them to produce their own food and sustain their metabolism without relying on consuming organic matter or sunlight.
24.
What is the most important role that nucleic acids play in living organisms on Earth?
Correct Answer
B. Information storage
Explanation
Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information in living organisms. They contain the instructions that determine the structure and function of cells, and ultimately, the entire organism. This information is essential for processes like protein synthesis, cell division, and the overall functioning of living organisms. Therefore, the most important role that nucleic acids play in living organisms on Earth is information storage.
25.
What is the main factor that drives Darwinian evolution?
Correct Answer
D. The competition for finite resources
Explanation
The main factor that drives Darwinian evolution is the competition for finite resources. This means that organisms with advantageous traits that allow them to better compete for limited resources are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on these traits to future generations. This competition for resources creates a selective pressure that drives the process of natural selection, leading to the adaptation and evolution of species over time.
26.
Spectral line patterns are...
Correct Answer
C. Unique for each element and molecule
Explanation
Spectral line patterns refer to the unique set of wavelengths or frequencies of light emitted or absorbed by a molecule or element. Each element and molecule has its own distinct spectral line pattern, which can be used to identify and distinguish them. Therefore, the correct answer is that spectral line patterns are unique for each element and molecule.
27.
The size of an ellipse is determined by its ___ and its "ovalness" is determined by ___.
Correct Answer
C. Semi-major axis; eccentricity
Explanation
The size of an ellipse is determined by its semi-major axis, which represents the distance from the center to the furthest point on the ellipse. On the other hand, the "ovalness" or eccentricity of an ellipse is determined by its eccentricity, which measures how much the ellipse deviates from a perfect circle shape. Therefore, the correct answer is semi-major axis; eccentricity.
28.
Galileo discovered that Venus goes through a cycle of phases like the Moon. This strongly suggested that...
Correct Answer
B. Venus must be orbiting the Sun
Explanation
Galileo's discovery that Venus goes through a cycle of phases like the Moon strongly suggests that Venus must be orbiting the Sun. This is because the phases of Venus can only be explained if it is orbiting the Sun, with Earth and Venus at different positions in their orbits. If Venus were orbiting the Earth, it would not exhibit these phases. Therefore, Galileo's observation supports the heliocentric model of the solar system, where the Sun is at the center and the planets, including Venus, orbit around it.
29.
Kepler's first law states that the orbits of the planets are...
Correct Answer
B. Ellipses with the Sun at one focus
Explanation
Kepler's first law states that the orbits of the planets are ellipses with the Sun at one focus. This means that the path of a planet around the Sun is not a perfect circle, but rather an elongated oval shape. The Sun is located at one of the two foci of the ellipse, not at the center. This law helps to explain the varying distances between planets and the Sun throughout their orbits.
30.
The first demonstration (by Newton) that the force of gravity was universal was proving...
Correct Answer
C. The Moon was held in its orbit by gravity
Explanation
Newton's demonstration that the Moon was held in its orbit by gravity was the first proof of the universality of the force of gravity. This discovery showed that gravity not only affected objects on Earth, but also extended to celestial bodies like the Moon. By observing the Moon's motion and understanding the principles of gravity, Newton was able to demonstrate that the force of gravity acted universally, providing a fundamental understanding of the nature of gravity and its effects on celestial objects.
31.
In astrobiology, the BIG question is...
Correct Answer
C. "Is there other life in the universe?"
Explanation
The correct answer is "Is there other life in the universe?" This is because astrobiology is the study of life in the universe, and one of its main goals is to determine if there is life beyond Earth. By exploring different environments and searching for signs of life, astrobiologists hope to find evidence of extraterrestrial life and answer this fundamental question.
32.
On what solar system body listed below have erupting volcanoes been seen?
Correct Answer
A. Io
Explanation
Erupting volcanoes have been observed on Io, one of Jupiter's moons. Io is known for its intense volcanic activity, with hundreds of active volcanoes and plumes of volcanic material reaching high into space. This is due to tidal heating caused by the gravitational interactions between Io, Jupiter, and other moons in the system. The extreme volcanic activity on Io makes it a unique and fascinating object in our solar system.
33.
What is not one of the six conditions for life discussed in class?
Correct Answer
B. Intelligence
Explanation
Intelligence is not one of the six conditions for life discussed in class because it is not a fundamental requirement for the existence of life. While intelligence may be a characteristic of some living organisms, it is not essential for their survival or basic functions. The six conditions for life typically include factors such as the ability to reproduce, utilize energy, adapt to the environment, and maintain homeostasis.
34.
Scientists cannot agree on whether viruses are living or not because...
Correct Answer
B. They cannot reproduce on their own
Explanation
Viruses cannot reproduce on their own, which is why scientists cannot agree on whether they are living or not. Unlike living organisms, viruses require a host cell to replicate and multiply. They are essentially genetic material enclosed in a protein coat, lacking the necessary cellular machinery for independent reproduction. While viruses can infect and hijack host cells to reproduce, they are unable to do so autonomously. This unique characteristic blurs the line between living and non-living entities, leading to the debate among scientists.
35.
Of the six basic properties of life, the most important are...
Correct Answer
B. Reproduction and evolution
Explanation
Reproduction and evolution are considered the most important properties of life because they are essential for the continuation and adaptation of species over time. Reproduction allows for the production of new individuals, ensuring the survival of the species. Evolution, on the other hand, refers to the process of genetic change over generations, leading to the development of new traits and adaptations that enhance the survival and reproductive success of organisms. Together, reproduction and evolution are crucial for the persistence and diversity of life on Earth.
36.
When a mouse sees a cat it runs away. Which life condition is this an example of?
Correct Answer
B. Response to its environment
Explanation
This is an example of "Response to its environment" because the mouse is exhibiting a behavior (running away) in response to a stimulus (seeing a cat). The mouse is reacting to its surroundings and adapting its actions in order to survive and avoid danger.
37.
The atoms of most of the elements in the periodic table were made...
Correct Answer
C. By nuclear reactions in the cores of stars and supernovas
Explanation
The correct answer is "by nuclear reactions in the cores of stars and supernovas." This explanation is based on the understanding that elements are formed through nuclear reactions, specifically fusion and supernova explosions, which occur in the cores of stars and during supernovas. These reactions generate the necessary energy and conditions for the synthesis of heavier elements from lighter ones. As a result, the majority of elements found in the periodic table were created through these processes.
38.
What occurs when the nucleus of a radioactive isotope decays?
Correct Answer
A. All of the choices are correct
Explanation
When the nucleus of a radioactive isotope decays, several things happen. Firstly, the nucleus can be converted into a different element, meaning the number of protons and/or neutrons changes. Additionally, energy is released during this process. Finally, radioactive particles, such as alpha or beta particles, are emitted as a result of the decay. Therefore, all of the choices provided in the question are correct explanations for what occurs when the nucleus of a radioactive isotope decays.
39.
What is not a property of eukaryotic cells?
Correct Answer
A. They are only found in microbes (single-celled organisms)
Explanation
Eukaryotic cells are not only found in microbes (single-celled organisms). They can be found in both single-celled organisms and multicellular organisms. Multicellular organisms, such as plants, animals, and fungi, are composed of eukaryotic cells. Therefore, the statement that eukaryotic cells are only found in microbes is incorrect.
40.
"Survival of the fittest" is a simple way of describing...
Correct Answer
B. Natural selection
Explanation
"Survival of the fittest" is a phrase commonly associated with the concept of natural selection. Natural selection refers to the process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those traits to future generations. This leads to the gradual adaptation of species to their environment over time. The phrase "survival of the fittest" captures the idea that those individuals who are best suited to their environment, in terms of their traits and abilities, are the ones who are most likely to survive and pass on their genes.
41.
What is not a property of the element carbon that makes it attractive as a "building block" of life?
Correct Answer
B. It is the only element capable of bonding to itself
Explanation
Carbon's ability to bond to itself is a unique property that makes it attractive as a "building block" of life. This property allows carbon atoms to form long chains and complex structures, which are essential for the formation of biological molecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. Carbon compounds being soluble in water, common throughout the universe, and capable of forming a variety of molecular structures are all properties that further contribute to carbon's importance in supporting life.
42.
Where does protein synthesis occur in the cell?
Correct Answer
D. Ribosome
Explanation
Protein synthesis occurs in the ribosome. Ribosomes are small organelles found in the cytoplasm of the cell. They are responsible for assembling amino acids into polypeptide chains, which then fold into functional proteins. Ribosomes can be found free-floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum. They play a crucial role in the process of translation, where the genetic information encoded in messenger RNA (mRNA) is used to synthesize proteins.
43.
The spectral lines of what element were first seen in the spectrum of the Sun?
Correct Answer
B. Helium
Explanation
The correct answer is Helium. The spectral lines of helium were first observed in the spectrum of the Sun. This discovery was made by French astronomer Jules Janssen during a solar eclipse in 1868. Janssen noticed a yellow line in the spectrum that did not correspond to any known element at the time. Later, it was confirmed that this line was caused by the presence of helium in the Sun's atmosphere. This discovery was significant as it led to the identification of a new element and expanded our understanding of the composition of celestial bodies.
44.
The tectonic plates making up the Earth's crust move because of...
Correct Answer
B. Mantle convection
Explanation
The tectonic plates making up the Earth's crust move because of mantle convection. Mantle convection refers to the movement of the Earth's solid mantle due to the transfer of heat from the core to the surface. This heat transfer causes the mantle material to become less dense and rise towards the surface, while cooler, denser material sinks back down. This convection process creates a circular motion within the mantle, which in turn causes the tectonic plates to move. As the plates interact with each other, they can create earthquakes, but the primary driving force behind their movement is mantle convection.
45.
As you move down the main sequence, (from type O stars to type M stars) what stellar property increases?
Correct Answer
C. Lifetime
Explanation
As you move down the main sequence from type O stars to type M stars, the stellar property that increases is the lifetime. The main sequence represents the stage in a star's life where it is fusing hydrogen into helium in its core. Type O stars are the hottest and most massive, while type M stars are the coolest and least massive. Due to their higher mass, type O stars have shorter lifetimes compared to type M stars, which have lower mass and therefore longer lifetimes.
46.
Which of the following is an incorrect statement about the Milky Way?
Correct Answer
C. It is the largest galaxy ever found
Explanation
The statement "It is the largest galaxy ever found" is incorrect because the Milky Way is not the largest galaxy ever found. There are galaxies much larger than the Milky Way, such as the Andromeda Galaxy, which is estimated to be about twice the size of the Milky Way.
47.
The distance between two objects is tripled. What happens to the gravitational force between them?
Correct Answer
B. It decreases by a factor of 9
Explanation
When the distance between two objects is tripled, the gravitational force between them decreases by a factor of 9. This is because the gravitational force is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between the objects. So, when the distance is tripled, the force decreases by a factor of 1/9, which is equivalent to decreasing by a factor of 9.
48.
Differentiation of planets is a process by which...
Correct Answer
B. Dense material sinks; less dense material floats
Explanation
Differentiation of planets is a process by which dense material sinks and less dense material floats. This process occurs due to the gravitational forces acting on the materials within a planet. As the planet forms, the heavier elements and compounds sink towards the center, forming the core, while the lighter materials rise towards the surface. This differentiation leads to the formation of distinct layers within a planet, with the densest materials concentrated in the core and the less dense materials forming the crust and mantle.
49.
What is the complementary sequence corresponding to the DNA fragment GATACA?
Correct Answer
C. CTATGT
Explanation
The complementary sequence of a DNA fragment is formed by pairing each nucleotide with its complementary base. In DNA, adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) pairs with guanine (G). Therefore, the complementary sequence to GATACA would be CTATGT, as each base is paired with its complementary base: G with C, A with T, and T with A.
50.
Our Sun is...
Correct Answer
E. All of the choices are correct
Explanation
The Sun is a G type star, which means it falls under the category of stars that are similar in size and temperature to our own Sun. It produces its luminosity through nuclear reactions, specifically through the process of nuclear fusion in its core. The Sun also has average stellar properties, such as its size, temperature, and age. Additionally, it is located in the middle of the main sequence, which is the phase in a star's life cycle where it spends the majority of its lifetime. Therefore, all of the choices given in the question are correct.