Basic Biology Quiz: Can You Pass Without Googling?

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Stephen Reinbold, PhD (Biological Sciences) |
Biology Instructor
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Stephen Reinbold has a PhD in Biological Sciences and a strong passion for teaching. He taught various subjects including General Biology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Genetics, and Anatomy & Physiology at Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City, Missouri, for nearly thirty years. He focused on scientific methodology and student research projects. Now retired, he works part-time as an editor and engages in online activities.
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  • 1/15 Questions

    What is genetics?

    • Genetics is the study of microorganisms.
    • Genetics is the study of genes and heredity.
    • Genetics is the study of sexual reproduction.
    • Genetics is the study of environmental influences on organisms.
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About This Quiz

This Basic Biology Quiz is designed to help you test your knowledge of essential concepts in biology. If you are a student reviewing for exams or simply interested in science, this quiz will cover topics that form the foundation of biology. Expect basic biology questions on cell structure, genetics, ecosystems, human anatomy, and basic physiology.

Each question is carefully crafted to enhance your understanding of life science and prompt critical thinking. Approach each question with focus, as they require careful reading and a good grasp of biology basics. This quiz is meant to challenge your knowledge and help you improve. Good luck, and enjoy learning more about the fascinating world of biology!

Basic Biology Quiz: Can You Pass Without Googling? - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    What is an organism?

    • A living thing

    • An organ

    • A large group of molecules

    • An evolutionary unit

    Correct Answer
    A. A living thing
    Explanation
    An organism is any individual living thing that can grow, reproduce, respond to its environment, and perform biological processes necessary for survival. Organisms range from single-celled bacteria to multicellular plants and animals, each with organized structures and cells that support life functions.

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  • 3. 

    What does DNA stand for?

    • Deoxyribonucleic Acid

    • Dehydrogenated Acid

    • Dinitroamylose

    • Denaturedamylase

    Correct Answer
    A. Deoxyribonucleic Acid
    Explanation
    DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid, the molecule that holds genetic information for the growth, function, and reproduction of all living organisms. DNA's double-helix structure and nucleotide sequences form the genetic code, which dictates individual traits and is vital for passing information from one generation to the next.

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  • 4. 

    Which tool is used to identify the probability of inheritance?

    • Paper

    • Calculator

    • Computer

    • Punnett Square

    Correct Answer
    A. Punnett Square
    Explanation
    A Punnett Square is a tool in genetics used to predict the likelihood of offspring inheriting specific traits. By crossing the alleles of two parents, it shows potential genetic outcomes, helping to visualize and calculate inheritance probabilities. It is a simple, yet powerful tool for understanding genetic inheritance.

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  • 5. 

    What is the most basic structural unit of living things?

    • DNA

    • Skin

    • Cell

    • Life

    Correct Answer
    A. Cell
    Explanation
    The cell is the most basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms. It carries out essential functions needed for an organism's survival and reproduction, acting as the building block of life. Cells contain organelles and genetic material, such as DNA, which enables them to perform specific tasks and contribute to the organism's overall functioning. From single-celled organisms like bacteria to complex multicellular organisms like animals, cells are fundamental to life.

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  • 6. 

    In ecology, what do we use to model how energy is transferred from one organism to another?

    • Food labels

    • Food notes

    • Food ladder

    • Food chain

    Correct Answer
    A. Food chain
    Explanation
    A food chain represents the flow of energy in an ecosystem, showing how energy moves from producers (plants) to various consumers (animals). Each organism relies on the energy obtained from the previous one, illustrating interdependence among species and helping ecologists understand energy transfer dynamics in ecosystems.

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  • 7. 

    Which molecule is primarily responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood?

    • Hemoglobin

    • DNA

    • Insulin

    • Glucose

    Correct Answer
    A. Hemoglobin
    Explanation
    Hemoglobin is the molecule responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood. Found in red blood cells, it binds oxygen in the lungs, thanks to iron ions in its structure, which attract oxygen molecules. Hemoglobin’s efficiency enables it to transport approximately 1.34 mL of oxygen per gram. As blood circulates, hemoglobin releases oxygen where it’s needed, like in muscles and tissues. Hemoglobin’s shape adjusts to hold or release oxygen, optimizing oxygen delivery to cells for metabolism. This intricate process ensures that vital organs and tissues have the oxygen they need to sustain cellular functions, making hemoglobin essential for human survival.

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  • 8. 

    Where is DNA found inside a cell?

    • Cytoplasm

    • Nucleus

    • Cell membrane

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. Nucleus
    Explanation
    DNA is found inside the nucleus of a cell. The nucleus is the control center of the cell and contains the genetic material, which is DNA. DNA carries the instructions for the cell's functions and characteristics. It is protected within the nucleus, surrounded by a nuclear membrane. The other options, cytoplasm, cell membrane, and mitochondria, do not contain the DNA of the cell.

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  • 9. 

    Who was Charles Darwin?

    • He was the Prince of Wales.

    • He was the scientist who uncovered the Theory of Evolution.

    • He contributed to cell theory.

    • He was a scientist who discovered DNA.

    Correct Answer
    A. He was the scientist who uncovered the Theory of Evolution.
    Explanation
    Charles Darwin was a renowned scientist who is best known for his work on the Theory of Evolution. He conducted extensive research and observations, especially during his voyage on the HMS Beagle, which led him to propose the concept of natural selection and the idea that species evolve over time. His groundbreaking work revolutionized the field of biology and had a profound impact on our understanding of the origins and development of life on Earth.

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  • 10. 

    What part of the plant is mainly responsible for photosynthesis?

    • Stem

    • Roots

    • Leaves

    • Flowers

    Correct Answer
    A. Leaves
    Explanation
    Leaves are primarily responsible for photosynthesis due to their large surface area, which maximizes sunlight absorption. They contain chloroplasts filled with chlorophyll, a pigment that captures sunlight. During photosynthesis, leaves convert water and carbon dioxide into glucose, releasing oxygen as a byproduct. The arrangement of stomata (tiny pores) on leaves allows carbon dioxide intake and oxygen release, enhancing the efficiency of this energy-making process. Leaves’ thin structure ensures light penetration to reach chloroplasts. This photosynthetic capability makes leaves vital to plant survival, enabling them to grow and serve as primary energy sources in ecosystems.

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  • 11. 

    What is the main purpose of the mitochondria in a cell?

    • To store genetic material

    • To produce energy

    • To help cell division

    • To break down toxins

    Correct Answer
    A. To produce energy
    Explanation
    The mitochondria serve as the powerhouse of the cell, producing ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the main energy carrier in cells, through cellular respiration. Mitochondria use oxygen to break down glucose in a series of reactions in the citric acid cycle and electron transport chain, generating about 36-38 ATP molecules per glucose molecule. This energy enables essential cellular functions, from muscle contraction to neurotransmission. Mitochondria are especially abundant in energy-demanding cells, like those in muscles. Without this energy production, cellular processes would halt, making mitochondria crucial for maintaining life at a cellular level.

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  • 12. 

    Why is photosynthesis an important chemical reaction?

    • It uses CO2 to produce sugar for producers and O2 as waste.

    • It uses O2 to produce sugar and CO2 as waste.

    • It helps synthesize proteins

    • This is not important

    Correct Answer
    A. It uses CO2 to produce sugar for producers and O2 as waste.
    Explanation
    Photosynthesis is vital because it converts carbon dioxide (CO₂) and sunlight into sugar (energy) for plants, while releasing oxygen (O₂) as a byproduct. This process sustains plant life, which forms the base of food chains, and supplies oxygen necessary for respiration in many organisms.

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  • 13. 

    Which type of organism can make its own food through photosynthesis?

    • Herbivores

    • Carnivores

    • Producers

    • Parasites

    Correct Answer
    A. Producers
    Explanation
    Producers, such as plants and algae, can make their own food via photosynthesis. Using chlorophyll, they absorb sunlight and convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen in a process that releases energy. Producers are fundamental to ecosystems because they initiate the food chain by supplying energy to herbivores and, indirectly, to carnivores. By harnessing solar energy, producers play a critical role in sustaining life across ecosystems, forming the basis of most food webs. Through photosynthesis, they contribute to the global oxygen supply, making this self-sustaining energy creation vital for all living organisms.

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  • 14. 

    Meiosis is a process that helps make _______________ and _______________.

    • Brain cells, life

    • Body cells, life

    • Sex cells, genetic diversity

    • None of these

    Correct Answer
    A. Sex cells, genetic diversity
    Explanation
    Meiosis is a type of cell division that produces sex cells, like sperm and egg cells, which are essential for sexual reproduction. It also introduces genetic diversity by reshuffling genes, leading to unique combinations in offspring. This diversity is important for adaptation and evolution within species.

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  • 15. 

    Why is cellular respiration important?

    • It uses CO2 and sugar to produce energy (ATP)

    • It uses O2 and sugar to produce energy (ATP)

    • It is how living organisms breathe

    • For living

    Correct Answer
    A. It uses O2 and sugar to produce energy (ATP)
    Explanation
    Cellular respiration is crucial because it enables cells to produce ATP, the main energy currency of cells, by breaking down sugar in the presence of oxygen. This energy supports vital cellular functions, allowing cells to grow, repair, and reproduce. Without cellular respiration, organisms would lack the energy needed for survival.

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Stephen Reinbold |PhD (Biological Sciences) |
Biology Instructor
Stephen Reinbold has a PhD in Biological Sciences and a strong passion for teaching. He taught various subjects including General Biology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Genetics, and Anatomy & Physiology at Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City, Missouri, for nearly thirty years. He focused on scientific methodology and student research projects. Now retired, he works part-time as an editor and engages in online activities.

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  • Jun 10, 2025
    Quiz Edited by
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    Expert Reviewed by
    Stephen Reinbold
  • May 26, 2015
    Quiz Created by
    Atison

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