Astronomy 294 Final Review

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  • 1/98 Questions

    "Survival of the fittest" is a simple way of describing...

    • Artificial selection
    • Natural selection
    • Differential evolution
    • American Idol
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About This Quiz


The universe is so interesting especially when you gaze toward the heavens, searching to put meaning into it. No one can truly tell how big the universe is because of the various new discoveries. As your second year draws to a close the quiz below is designed to help you prep for the exam. Give it a shot.

Astronomy 294 Final Review - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    What is not one of the six conditions for life discussed in class?

    • Evolutionary Adaptation

    • Intelligence

    • Energy Utilization

    • Reproduction

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 3. 

    When a mouse sees a cat it runs away. Which life condition is this an example of?

    • Reproduction

    • Response to its environment

    • Order

    • Growth and development

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 4. 

    The distance between adjacent peaks of an electromagnetic wave is referred to as its...

    • Energy

    • Wavelength

    • Frequency

    • Speed

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 5. 

    Evolutionary adaptations are related to molecular changes in...

    • Proteins

    • Lipids

    • Carbohydrates

    • DNA

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 6. 

    What damage is done to a normal cell when it is in low temperature conditions?

    • Expansion due to freezing can cause cell rupture

    • All the choices are correct

    • Cellular fluid becomes more viscous

    • Protein enzymes stiffen

    Correct Answer
    A. All the choices are correct
    Explanation
    When a normal cell is exposed to low temperature conditions, several damages can occur. Firstly, expansion due to freezing can cause the cell to rupture, leading to its destruction. Additionally, the cellular fluid becomes more viscous, which can hinder cellular processes and disrupt normal functioning. Lastly, protein enzymes within the cell can stiffen, impairing their ability to catalyze reactions and perform their normal functions. Therefore, all the choices provided in the question are correct in describing the damage done to a normal cell in low temperature conditions.

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  • 7. 

    The basic molecular building blocks of proteins are...

    • Fatty acids

    • Monosaccharides

    • Amino acids

    • Nucleotides

    Correct Answer
    A. Amino acids
    Explanation
    Proteins are composed of amino acids, which are the basic molecular building blocks. Fatty acids are components of lipids, not proteins. Monosaccharides are the building blocks of carbohydrates, not proteins. Nucleotides are the building blocks of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, not proteins. Therefore, the correct answer is amino acids.

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  • 8. 

    Our Sun is...

    • A G type star

    • Produces its luminosity by nuclear reactions

    • Has average stellar properties

    • Is in the middle of the main sequence

    • All of the choices are correct

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 9. 

    For thousands of years it was believed that the Earth was the center of the universe.  This idea is called...

    • Heliocentric

    • Egocentric

    • Concentric

    • Eccentric

    • Geocentric

    Correct Answer
    A. Geocentric
    Explanation
    The correct answer is geocentric. Geocentric refers to the belief that the Earth is the center of the universe. This idea was widely accepted for thousands of years until it was challenged by the heliocentric model, which states that the Sun is at the center of the solar system.

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  • 10. 

    The basic biological structures of life on Earth are called...

    • Molecules

    • Atoms

    • Bacteria

    • Cells

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 11. 

    Galileo discovered that Venus goes through a cycle of phases like the Moon. This strongly suggested that...

    • The solar system was geocentric

    • Venus must be orbiting the Sun

    • Venus must be orbiting the Earth

    • Venus had four moons

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 12. 

    Which of the following is an incorrect statement about the Milky Way?

    • It is a barred spiral type galaxy

    • It has a few billion stars in it

    • It is the largest galaxy ever found

    • It is our galaxy

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 13. 

    A recent and exciting discovery in the field of astrobiology is...

    • Radio signal from an ancient extraterrestrial civilization

    • Detection of water and methane in an exoplanet atmosphere

    • Some sort of large snake in the deserts of Mars

    • Visible images of plant life on Venus

    Correct Answer
    A. Detection of water and methane in an exoplanet atmosphere
    Explanation
    The discovery of water and methane in an exoplanet atmosphere is considered a recent and exciting development in astrobiology. Water and methane are important indicators of the potential for life as we know it, as they are key components for supporting biological processes. The presence of these substances in an exoplanet's atmosphere suggests the possibility of habitable conditions and the potential for the existence of extraterrestrial life. This discovery opens up new avenues for further research and exploration in the field of astrobiology.

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  • 14. 

    At the boundaries of the Earth's tectonic plates what can be found?

    • Crustal folding and faulting

    • All of the choices are correct

    • Volcanoes

    • Earthquakes

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the choices are correct
    Explanation
    At the boundaries of the Earth's tectonic plates, all of the choices mentioned can be found. Crustal folding and faulting occur as the plates collide or move past each other, leading to the formation of mountains and valleys. Volcanoes are also commonly found at these boundaries, where magma from the mantle rises and erupts onto the surface. Earthquakes are another common occurrence at plate boundaries, as the stress and pressure build up and eventually release, causing the ground to shake. Therefore, all of the choices mentioned are correct in describing what can be found at the boundaries of Earth's tectonic plates.

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  • 15. 

    What is not a domain of life found in the phylogenic tree (tree of life)?

    • Archaea

    • Viral

    • Bacteria

    • Eukarya

    Correct Answer
    A. Viral
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "Viral" because viruses are not considered to be living organisms. They lack the characteristics of life such as cellular structure, metabolism, and the ability to reproduce on their own. Instead, viruses require a host cell to replicate and carry out their life cycle. Therefore, they do not fit into any of the traditional domains of life (Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya) found in the phylogenetic tree.

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  • 16. 

    In astrobiology, the BIG question is...

    • "How did life originate on Earth?"

    • "What is the biological makeup of other life forms?"

    • "Is there other life in the universe?"

    • "How can we communicate with extraterrestrial life?"

    Correct Answer
    A. "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.

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  • 17. 

    Why is a cell membrane important?

    • It has selective permeability

    • It is permeable to molecules both leaving and entering

    • All of the choices are correct

    • It concentrates the molecules needed for metabolism

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the choices are correct
    Explanation
    The cell membrane is important because it has selective permeability, allowing only certain substances to enter or leave the cell. It is also permeable to molecules both leaving and entering, ensuring the necessary exchange of materials. Additionally, the cell membrane concentrates the molecules needed for metabolism, which is crucial for the cell's survival and functioning.

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  • 18. 

    The composition of stars is...

    • All hydrogen; no other elements

    • 50% hydrogen; 50% helium

    • 80% hydrogen; 20% helium; traces of other elements

    • 20% hydrogen; 80% helium

    Correct Answer
    A. 80% hydrogen; 20% helium; traces of other elements
    Explanation
    Stars are composed primarily of hydrogen, which makes up about 80% of their composition. Helium makes up about 20% of their composition. In addition to hydrogen and helium, stars also contain traces of other elements, such as carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen. These elements are formed through nuclear fusion reactions that occur in the core of the star. Therefore, the correct answer is 80% hydrogen; 20% helium; traces of other elements.

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  • 19. 

    Which component of Earth's geology has helped to shield the Earth's atmosphere from energetic particles of solar wind?

    • Planetary magnetic field

    • Volcanism

    • Seismic activity

    • Plate tectonics

    Correct Answer
    A. Planetary magnetic field
    Explanation
    The Earth's planetary magnetic field acts as a protective shield against energetic particles of solar wind. This magnetic field is generated by the movement of molten iron in the Earth's outer core, creating a magnetic field that extends into space. The magnetic field deflects charged particles from the solar wind, preventing them from directly reaching and damaging the Earth's atmosphere. This shielding effect is crucial for maintaining a stable atmosphere and protecting life on Earth from the harmful effects of solar radiation. Volcanism, seismic activity, and plate tectonics are all important geological processes but do not directly shield the atmosphere from solar wind particles.

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  • 20. 

    What was the revolutionary idea that was the fundamental part of Copernicus' model of the solar system?

    • Gravity held the planets in their orbits

    • The Sun was at the center of the solar system and planets orbited it

    • The more distant planets moved faster in their orbits

    • The orbits of the planets were elliptical, not circular

    Correct Answer
    A. The Sun was at the center of the solar system and planets orbited it
    Explanation
    Copernicus' model of the solar system revolutionized the understanding of the universe by proposing that the Sun was at the center of the solar system and the planets orbited around it. This idea challenged the prevailing belief that Earth was the center of the universe and everything revolved around it. Copernicus' heliocentric model laid the foundation for modern astronomy and our understanding of the solar system.

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  • 21. 

    What is the most important role that carbohydrates play in living organisms on Earth?

    • Information storage

    • Constituents of cell membranes

    • Basic functioning of living organisms

    • Energy storage and structural support

    Correct Answer
    A. Energy storage and structural support
    Explanation
    Carbohydrates play a crucial role in providing energy to living organisms. They are broken down during cellular respiration to release ATP, which is used as a source of energy for various metabolic processes. Additionally, carbohydrates also serve as a structural component in organisms, providing support and stability to cell walls and tissues. Therefore, the most important role of carbohydrates in living organisms is energy storage and structural support.

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  • 22. 

    Scientists cannot agree on whether viruses are living or not because...

    • They are incapable of evolving

    • They cannot reproduce on their own

    • They do not use any energy source

    • They are much smaller than other simple living organisms

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 23. 

    A chemoautotroph gets its energy from ___ and its carbon from ___...

    • Oxidation reactions; carbon dioxide in its environment

    • Oxidation reactions; consuming organics

    • The Sun; consuming organics

    • The Sun; carbon dioxide in its environment

    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.

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  • 24. 

    Of the six basic properties of life, the most important are...

    • Intelligence and reproduction

    • Reproduction and evolution

    • Reproduction and energy utilization

    • Order and growth

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 25. 

    Kepler's first law states that the orbits of the planets are...

    • Any possible shapes

    • Ellipses with the Sun at one focus

    • All exact circles with the Sun at the center

    • Ellipses with the Earth at one focus

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 26. 

    In a covalent bond between atoms...

    • Valence shells (orbitals) are left unfilled

    • Electrons are transferred from one atom to another

    • Electrons are shared

    • Molecules usually form a crystalline solid

    Correct Answer
    A. Electrons are shared
    Explanation
    In a covalent bond between atoms, electrons are shared. This means that the atoms involved in the bond each contribute one or more electrons to a shared electron pair. This sharing of electrons allows both atoms to achieve a more stable electron configuration, usually by filling their valence shells. Covalent bonds are typically formed between nonmetal atoms and result in the formation of molecules rather than a crystalline solid.

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  • 27. 

    What is the main factor that drives Darwinian evolution?

    • The ability of an organism to harness energy

    • The size of an organism

    • The need to reproduce

    • The competition for finite resources

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 28. 

    The process by which molecules go directly from the solid to gas phase is called...

    • Deposition

    • Sublimation

    • Condensation

    • Evaporation

    Correct Answer
    A. Sublimation
    Explanation
    Sublimation is the process in which molecules transition directly from the solid phase to the gas phase without passing through the liquid phase. This occurs when the temperature and pressure conditions allow the solid to bypass the liquid phase and transform into a gas. The other options, deposition, condensation, and evaporation, involve transitions between different phases of matter but not the direct solid-to-gas phase change described in sublimation.

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  • 29. 

    Branch lengths in the tree of life are a measure of the...

    • Life expectancy difference between species

    • Size difference between species

    • Amount of genetic difference between different species

    • Rate of evolution between different species

    Correct Answer
    A. Amount of genetic difference between different species
    Explanation
    Branch lengths in the tree of life represent the amount of genetic difference between different species. The longer the branch, the greater the genetic divergence between the species. This measure helps us understand the evolutionary relationships and the extent of genetic changes that have occurred over time. It provides insights into the patterns and rates of evolution among different species.

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  • 30. 

    Rocks are found having been formed from the solidification of molten lava.  These rocks would be classified as...

    • Igneous

    • Metamorphic

    • Meteoric

    • Sedimentary

    Correct Answer
    A. Igneous
    Explanation
    Rocks that are formed from the solidification of molten lava are classified as igneous rocks. Igneous rocks are formed when molten material cools and solidifies, either on the Earth's surface (extrusive igneous rocks) or beneath the surface (intrusive igneous rocks). The solidification process can happen quickly or slowly, resulting in different types of igneous rocks with varying textures. Examples of igneous rocks include basalt, granite, and obsidian.

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  • 31. 

    What is not one of the four primary forces that physically shape the surface of a planet?

    • Erosion

    • Electricity

    • Vulcanism

    • Tectonism

    Correct Answer
    A. Electricity
    Explanation
    Electricity is not one of the four primary forces that physically shape the surface of a planet. The four primary forces are erosion, vulcanism, and tectonism. Erosion refers to the wearing away of the surface by water, wind, or ice. Vulcanism is the process of volcanic activity that brings molten rock, ash, and gases to the surface. Tectonism involves the movement of the Earth's crust, leading to the formation of mountains, valleys, and earthquakes. Electricity, although it can have an impact on the planet's surface in some cases, is not considered a primary force in shaping the surface of a planet.

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  • 32. 

    The Himalayas were formed by...

    • Two continental plates separating

    • A continental plate subducting under an oceanic plate

    • Two oceanic plates colliding

    • Two continental plates colliding

    Correct Answer
    A. Two continental plates colliding
    Explanation
    The correct answer is two continental plates colliding. When two continental plates collide, they create intense pressure and force, causing the crust to buckle and fold, leading to the formation of mountains. The Himalayas, which are the highest mountain range on Earth, were formed due to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. This collision began around 50 million years ago and is still ongoing, resulting in the continued growth of the Himalayas.

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  • 33. 

    The temperature at which a substance changes from the liquid to gas state is called the...

    • Breaking point

    • Sublimation point

    • Boiling point

    • Melting point

    Correct Answer
    A. Boiling point
    Explanation
    The boiling point is the temperature at which a substance changes from the liquid to gas state. During boiling, the substance absorbs enough heat energy to overcome the intermolecular forces holding the molecules together in the liquid phase, causing them to become a gas. This is different from the melting point, which is the temperature at which a substance changes from solid to liquid, and the sublimation point, which is the temperature at which a substance changes directly from solid to gas without passing through the liquid state. The breaking point is not a recognized term in the context of phase changes.

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  • 34. 

    Which of the following is evidence supporting evolution?

    • Great diversity of species

    • Bacteria becoming resistant to old antibiotics

    • All of the choices are correct

    • Some Galapagos finches eating insects, other seeds

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 35. 

    Which of the following specifically argues that biological processes should also occur throughout space?

    • Natural Laws are Universal

    • The Copernican Principle

    • The Statistical Argument

    • Nature can be understood by scientific laws

    Correct Answer
    A. Natural Laws are Universal
    Explanation
    The correct answer, "Natural Laws are Universal," suggests that biological processes should occur throughout space because it asserts that the laws of nature apply universally. This implies that the same biological processes that occur on Earth should also occur in other parts of the universe, as the laws governing these processes are consistent across all space.

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  • 36. 

    Organisms whose cells lack a nucleus are called...

    • Karyokes

    • Prokaryotes

    • Non-nucleodes

    • Eukaryotes

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 37. 

    What is the complementary sequence corresponding to the DNA fragment GATACA?

    • ACATAC

    • TGCCAC

    • CTATGT

    • ACCCTC

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 38. 

    The complete set of genetic information that makes up an organism is known as a...

    • Gene

    • Chromosome

    • Genome

    • Codon

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 39. 

    The Ptolemaic model has planets moving in...

    • A simple circle about the Sun

    • Elliptical orbits about the Sun

    • Circles, the centers of which move around the Earth

    • A simple circle about the Earth

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 40. 

    The astronomical unit (AU) is defined to be equal to the...

    • Distance between the Sun and the nearest star to our solar system

    • Average distance between the Earth and the Moon

    • Average distance between the Sun and Pluto

    • Average distance between the Earth and the Sun

    Correct Answer
    A. Average distance between the Earth and the Sun
    Explanation
    The correct answer is the average distance between the Earth and the Sun. The astronomical unit (AU) is a unit of measurement used in astronomy to represent distances within the solar system. It is defined as the average distance between the Earth and the Sun, which is approximately 149.6 million kilometers or 93 million miles.

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  • 41. 

    What occurs when the nucleus of a radioactive isotope decays?

    • All of the choices are correct

    • The nucleus is converted into a different element

    • Energy is released

    • Radioactive particles are emitted

    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.

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  • 42. 

    The tectonic plates making up the Earth's crust move because of...

    • Earthquakes

    • Mantle convection

    • Gravitational forces due to the Moon

    • Gravitational forces due to the Sun

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 43. 

    With regard to The Great Debate:

    • Was settled by measuring distance to the Andromeda Galaxy

    • One side argued that spiral nebulae were just clouds

    • One side argued that spiral nebulae were other galaxies

    • All of the choices are correct

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the choices are correct
    Explanation
    The Great Debate was a historic discussion in astronomy that took place in 1920. One side of the debate argued that spiral nebulae, including the Andromeda Galaxy, were simply clouds within our own Milky Way galaxy. The other side argued that these spiral nebulae were actually separate galaxies, including the Andromeda Galaxy. The debate was settled when astronomers were able to measure the distance to the Andromeda Galaxy and confirm that it was indeed a separate galaxy outside of our own. Therefore, all of the choices given in the question are correct.

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  • 44. 

    What was not one of the fundamental properties the Greek (Aristotlean) model of the solar system?

    • Objects in the sky move in uniform circular motion

    • The natural state of motion on Earth is at rest

    • The Earth is at the center of all things

    • The Earth and "heavens" are made of the same elements

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 45. 

    All living cells use adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecules...

    • To catalyze biochemical reactions

    • As a building block for nucleic acids

    • To store and release energy for biochemical processes

    • To carry oxygen into cells

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 46. 

    Metabolism is a term that describes the...

    • Breaking down of complex organic molecules by bacteria

    • Chemical processes that occur inside cells

    • Rate of cell division of bacteria

    • Rate at which molecules travel across cell membranes

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

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  • 47. 

    A key component of all amino acids is...

    • All of the choices are correct

    • Central carbon atom

    • Carboxylic acid group

    • Amine group

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the choices are correct
    Explanation
    All of the choices are correct because a key component of all amino acids includes a central carbon atom, a carboxylic acid group, and an amine group. These components are essential for the structure and function of amino acids. The central carbon atom serves as the backbone of the amino acid, while the carboxylic acid group and the amine group are responsible for the acidic and basic properties of amino acids, respectively. Therefore, all three components are necessary for the formation and classification of amino acids.

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  • 48. 

    What is an extrasolar planet?

    • A planet in a system with two or more suns

    • A free planet; not orbiting any object

    • A planet orbiting a star other than the Sun

    • A planet at an extreme distance from the Sun

    Correct Answer
    A. A planet orbiting a star other than the Sun
    Explanation
    An extrasolar planet refers to a planet that orbits a star other than the Sun. This means that it is a planet located in a different solar system, outside of our own. The term "extrasolar" indicates that it is beyond or outside of our solar system.

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  • 49. 

    In a heliocentric model of the solar system, retrograde motion of Mars is due to...

    • Mars reversing the direction of its orbit around the Sun

    • Relative speeds of Earth and Mars orbiting the Sun

    • Mars moving on an epicycle whose center orbits the Earth

    • The Earth reversing the direction of its orbit

    Correct Answer
    A. Relative speeds of Earth and Mars orbiting the Sun
    Explanation
    In a heliocentric model of the solar system, retrograde motion refers to the apparent backward motion of a planet in its orbit. This occurs because the Earth and Mars have different orbital speeds around the Sun. When Earth overtakes Mars in its orbit, it appears as if Mars is moving backward relative to the background stars. Therefore, the retrograde motion of Mars is due to the relative speeds of Earth and Mars orbiting the Sun.

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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Jul 27, 2023 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

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  • Jul 27, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • May 12, 2010
    Quiz Created by
    Lhyedsisa
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