Final Exam Spring 2016
The following questions need to be answered, and submitted to TurnItIn.com by Thursday June 2,
11:59pm. This is the night before the multiple choice part of the test). This is the DEADLINE; we suggest
that you turn it in earlier and check yourself for plagiarism and grammar issues! Verified plagiarism on
any essay will result in a zero for all essays. You can only use your textbooks, CLiffNOTES book and your
class notes to help you answer these questions. The essays will be worth 40% of your grade and the
multiple choice will be the additional 60%.
Essay #1 Energy
a. Write the chemical reactions for photosynthesis and cellular respiration (yes, they should be
balanced). Then, in essay form, discuss the reactants and how they are obtained. Be sure to
note the main product of each reaction.
b. Discuss why energy is needed to sustain life.
Essay #2 Cells
a. How do cell structures/organelles work together to accomplish the task of protein production?
Include in your answer the role of the ribosomes, nucleus, DNA, and RNA.
b. Protein production is essential to life. State and briefly discuss 2 functions of proteins.
Essay #3 Genetics
a. Describe the structure of a chromosome.
b. How is genetic information passed from parent to offspring? Include an explanation of the basic
processes by which gametes are produced.
Essay #4 Evolution
a. Discuss the key points of Darwin’s theory of natural selection.
b. In the context of the theory of natural selection, explain how a species changes and also how a
new species might emerge.