Bio Quiz & Exam Review Flashcards
What happens when you mix a strong acid with a strong base?
A neutralization reaction occurs, producing water (H₂O) and a salt (an ionic compound).
What is the basic definition of a cell?
A cell is the smallest unit of life that can function independently and perform all necessary life processes.
How is a cell different from an organelle?
Organelles are specialized structures within a cell that perform specific functions, but they are not independently living units.
What is the primary function of carboxylic acids in biological systems?
Carboxylic acids (-COOH) act as acidic functional groups in organic molecules, often donating protons (H⁺) and playing a key role in amino acids and fatty acids.
What is the primary function of organic phosphates in biological systems?
Organic phosphates (-PO₄³⁻) are important in energy transfer (such as ATP) and in forming the backbone of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA).
What is the difference between a solute and a solvent?
A solute is the substance that is dissolved (e.g., salt in water), while a solvent is the substance that dissolves the solute (e.g., water in saltwater).
How can you visually identify a solute and a solvent?
The solute is typically the smaller component that disperses within the solvent, which is usually the larger component of a solution.
Q: What specific property of water makes it an excellent solvent?
Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other, allowing it to dissolve many substances by surrounding and separating their molecules (forming hydration shells).
What is the difference between a macromolecule and an organelle?
A macromolecule is a large biological molecule (such as proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids), while an organelle is a specialized structure within a cell that performs specific functions (such as the mitochondrion or nucleus).
What is the function of the carboxyl (-COOH) functional group?
Carboxyl groups act as acids, donating hydrogen ions (H⁺) and making molecules more hydrophilic and reactive, particularly in amino acids and fatty acids.
What is the function of the amine (-NH₂) functional group?
Amines act as bases, accepting hydrogen ions (H⁺), and are found in amino acids and neurotransmitters, playing a key role in protein structure and signaling.
What is the difference between an isotope and an ion?
Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons, affecting atomic mass but not charge. Ions are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost electrons, resulting in a positive (cation) or negative (anion) charge.
What is the role of the cytoskeleton?
Provides internal support and aids in the transport if molecules and signals within the body
