Introduction to Biology: Characteristics of Life

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following cellular processes is LEAST directly involved in maintaining homeostasis in a single-celled organism?

Undergoing DNA replication in preparation for cell division. (correct)
Breaking down waste products using lysosomes.
Synthesizing enzymes to catalyze metabolic reactions.
Regulating the transport of ions across the plasma membrane.

A scientist is studying a newly discovered organism. Which of the following characteristics would definitively classify it as a living organism, rather than a non-living entity?

It responds to external stimuli.
It contains complex organic molecules.
It replicates its genetic material with occasional errors. (correct)
It can maintain a stable internal temperature.

If a mutation occurs during DNA replication that alters the sequence of a gene, which of the following is the MOST likely direct consequence?

A change in the organism's genotype. (correct)
The immediate death of the cell.
The disruption of DNA replication.
A change in the organism's phenotype.

A cell is exposed to a toxin that disrupts the function of the Golgi apparatus. Which of the following processes would be MOST directly affected?

Processing and packaging of proteins for secretion. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the flow of genetic information as described by the central dogma of molecular biology?

DNA → RNA → Protein (C) Signup and view all the answers

In an experiment, a scientist removes the ribosomes from a cell. Which of the following processes would be MOST directly affected?

Protein synthesis (D) Signup and view all the answers

A plant cell is placed in a hypertonic solution. Which of the following is MOST likely to occur?

The cell will shrink as water moves out. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A scientist discovers a new cell type that contains membrane-bound organelles, but lacks a defined nucleus. This cell would MOST likely be classified as:

This combination is not possible; all cells with membrane-bound organelles have a nucleus. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates natural selection?

A population of fish exhibits a wide range of coloration, but darker-colored fish are better camouflaged and thus less likely to be eaten by predators. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the most inclusive level of ecological organization?

Biosphere (B) Signup and view all the answers

How do viruses differ from bacteria?

Viruses are acellular and require a host cell to replicate, whereas bacteria are cellular organisms that can reproduce independently. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a structural adaptation of xerophytes for conserving water?

Thick, waxy cuticle on leaves to reduce transpiration. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone is primarily responsible for fruit ripening?

Ethylene (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key characteristic used to classify animals into different phyla?

Mode of reproduction (sexual vs. asexual). (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

To break down dead organic matter and release nutrients back into the environment. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which organ system is responsible for protecting the body, regulating temperature, and providing a barrier against pathogens?

Integumentary system (A) Signup and view all the answers

How does the process of speciation typically occur?

Through gradual accumulation of genetic differences between reproductively isolated populations. (B) Signup and view all the answers

If a scientist is investigating the function of the kidneys in maintaining proper salt balance in the blood, which field of study are they primarily working in?

Physiology (C) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Biology

The scientific study of life, exploring structure, function, evolution, and more.

Organization (in living things)

All living things are highly ordered, from molecules to ecosystems.