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AP® Biology Instructor Solution Manual Part 1

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Table of Contents – Part 1
i
Table of Contents – Part 1
1 | The Study of Life .............................................................................................................. 1
Review Questions ......................................................................................................................................................1
Critical Thinking Questions ........................................................................................................................................4
Test Prep for AP® Courses .........................................................................................................................................6
2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life ....................................................................................... 9
Review Questions ......................................................................................................................................................9
Critical Thinking Questions ......................................................................................................................................14
Test Prep for AP® Courses .......................................................................................................................................18
Science Practice Challenge Questions .....................................................................................................................20
3 | Biological Macromolecules ............................................................................................. 25
Review Questions ....................................................................................................................................................25
Critical Thinking Questions ......................................................................................................................................34
Test Prep for AP® Courses .......................................................................................................................................41
Science Practice Challenge Questions .....................................................................................................................48
4 | Cell Structure ................................................................................................................. 58
Review Questions ....................................................................................................................................................58
Critical Thinking Questions ......................................................................................................................................65
Test Prep for AP® Courses .......................................................................................................................................71
Science Practice Challenge Questions .....................................................................................................................76
5 | Structure and Function of Plasma Membranes ............................................................... 85
Review Questions ....................................................................................................................................................86
Critical Thinking Questions ......................................................................................................................................89
Test Prep for AP® Courses .......................................................................................................................................95
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................100
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
Copyright 2018, Rice University. All Rights Reserved. This ancillary resource is intended for instructor use only and
may not be uploaded, redistributed, or reproduced without written approval by OpenStax.
ii
Table of Contents – Part 1
6 | Metabolism ................................................................................................................. 105
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................105
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................114
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................121
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................125
7 | Cellular Respiration ...................................................................................................... 136
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................136
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................143
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................149
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................155
8 | Photosynthesis............................................................................................................. 163
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................163
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................169
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................173
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................179
9 | Cell Communication ..................................................................................................... 186
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................186
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................191
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................197
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................201
10 | Cell Reproduction ....................................................................................................... 208
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................208
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................213
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
Table of Contents – Part 1
iii
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................218
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................225
11 | Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction ............................................................................... 229
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................229
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................232
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................237
Science Practice Challenge Questions .........................................................................................................................
12 | Mendel's Experiments and Heredity ........................................................................... 240
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................240
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................246
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................249
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................254
13| Modern Understandings of Inheritance ....................................................................... 265
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................265
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................268
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................270
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................275
14 | DNA Structure and Function ....................................................................................... 280
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................280
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................291
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................303
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................312
15 | Genes and Proteins .................................................................................................... 320
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................320
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................326
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
Copyright 2018, Rice University. All Rights Reserved. This ancillary resource is intended for instructor use only and
may not be uploaded, redistributed, or reproduced without written approval by OpenStax.
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Table of Contents – Part 1
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................332
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................336
16 | Gene Regulation......................................................................................................... 346
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................346
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................352
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................359
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................367
17 | Biotechnology and Genomics ..................................................................................... 369
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................369
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................376
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................381
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................384
18 | Evolution and Origin of Species .................................................................................. 389
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................389
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................395
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................404
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................423
19 | The Evolution of Populations ...................................................................................... 434
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................434
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................438
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................444
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................452
20 | Evolutionary Relationships of Life on Earth ................................................................. 459
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................459
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................466
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
Table of Contents – Part 1
v
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................469
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................479
21 | Viruses ....................................................................................................................... 486
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................486
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................493
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................498
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................504
22 | Prokaryotes: Bacteria and Archaea ............................................................................. 510
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................510
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................520
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................531
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................542
23 | Plant Form and Physiology ......................................................................................... 553
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................553
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................570
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................582
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................590
24 | The Animal Body: Basic Form and Function ................................................................. 602
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................602
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................607
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................612
25 | Animal Nutrition and the Digestive System ................................................................. 623
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................623
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................631
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................639
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................650
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
Copyright 2018, Rice University. All Rights Reserved. This ancillary resource is intended for instructor use only and
may not be uploaded, redistributed, or reproduced without written approval by OpenStax.
vi
Table of Contents – Part 1
26 | The Nervous System ................................................................................................... 652
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................652
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................654
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................657
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................668
27 | Sensory Systems......................................................................................................... 680
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................680
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................688
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................696
28 | The Endocrine System ................................................................................................ 701
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................701
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................710
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................717
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................725
29 | The Musculoskeletal System....................................................................................... 731
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................731
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................738
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................743
30 | The Respiratory System .............................................................................................. 748
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................748
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................753
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................758
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................764
31 | The Circulatory System ............................................................................................... 766
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................766
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................776
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
Table of Contents – Part 1
vii
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................780
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................785
32 | Osmotic Regulation and Excretion .............................................................................. 791
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................791
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................798
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................807
33 | The Immune System ................................................................................................... 823
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................823
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................831
Test Prep for AP® Courses .....................................................................................................................................838
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................848
34 | Animal Reproduction and Development ..................................................................... 852
Review Questions ..................................................................................................................................................852
Critical Thinking Questions ....................................................................................................................................861
Test Prep for AP ® Courses ....................................................................................................................................869
Science Practice Challenge Questions ...................................................................................................................878
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
Copyright 2018, Rice University. All Rights Reserved. This ancillary resource is intended for instructor use only and
may not be uploaded, redistributed, or reproduced without written approval by OpenStax.
1 | The Study of Life
1
1 | THE STUDY OF LIFE
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
What is a suggested and testable explanation for an event called?
A Discovery
B Hypothesis
C Scientific method
D Theory
Solution
2
The solution is (B). A hypothesis is a testable explanation for an event.
Which branch of science is NOT considered a natural science?
A Astronomy
B Biology
C Computer science
D Physics
Solution
3
The solution is (C). Computer science is a practical and scientific approach to
computation and its application. It is not considered a natural science.
What is the name for the formal process through which scientific research is checked for
originality, significance, and quality before being accepted into the scientific literature?
A Publication
B Public speaking
C Peer review
D Scientific method
Solution
4
The solution is (C). Peer review is the process in which scientific papers are reviewed
by experts in the scientist’s field to ensure that a scientist’s research is original,
significant, logical, and thorough.
What are (i) two topics that are likely to be studied by biologists and (ii) two areas of
scientific study that would fall outside the realm of biology?
A (i) diseases affecting humans, pollution affecting species’ habitat; (ii) calculating
surface area of rectangular ground, functioning of planetary orbits
B (i) calculating surface area of rectangular ground, functioning of planetary orbits;
(ii) formation of metamorphic rocks, galaxy formation and evolution
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
2
1 | The Study of Life
C (i) plant responses to external stimuli, functioning of planetary orbits; (ii) formation of
metamorphic rocks, galaxy formation and evolution
D (i) plant responses to external stimuli, study of the shape and motion of physical
objects; (ii) formation of metamorphic rocks, galaxy formation and evolution
Solution
5
The solution is (A). Diseases affecting humans and pollution affecting species are two
topics that can be studied by biologists, while calculating the surface area of a
rectangular plot of land and the function of planetary orbits are two topics that fall
outside of the realm of biology.
Which statement is an example of deductive reasoning?
A Most swimming animals use fins; therefore, fins are an adaptation to swimming.
B Mitochondria are inherited from the mother; therefore, maternally inherited traits are
encoded by mitochondrial DNA.
C Small animals lose more heat than larger animals. One would not expect to find wild
mice in the North and South Poles.
D Water conservation is a major requirement to survive in the desert. Large leaves
increase loss of water by evaporation. Therefore, desert plants should have smaller
leaves.
Solution
6
The solution is (D). Water conservation is a major requirement to survive in the
desert. On plants, broad, thin leaves lose more water to evaporation than smaller,
thicker leaves. Therefore, desert plants should have smaller leaves. The answer best
demonstrates how a general principle or law is used to forecast specific results.
Why are viruses NOT considered living?
A Viruses are not made of cells.
B Viruses do not have genetic material.
C Viruses have DNA and RNA.
D Viruses are obligate parasites and require a host.
Solution
7
The solution is (A). Viruses are not made up of cells. They are made up of DNA or
RNA surrounded by a protein coat. Biologists characterize living organisms as being
composed of cells.
The presence of a membrane-enclosed nucleus is a characteristic of what?
A Bacteria
B Eukaryotic cells
C All living organisms
D Prokaryotic cells
Solution
The solution is (B). Unlike prokaryotic cells, eukaryotic cells contain a membranebound nucleus.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
1 | The Study of Life
8
3
What is a group of individuals of the same species living in the same area called?
A A community
B An ecosystem
C A family
D A population
Solution
9
The solution is (D). A population is a group of individuals that belong to the same
species, live in a particular geographical area, and have the capability to interbreed.
Which sequence represents the hierarchy of biological organization from the most
inclusive to the least complex level?
A Biosphere, ecosystem, community, population, organism
B Organelle, tissue, biosphere, ecosystem, population
C Organism, organ, tissue, organelle, molecule
D Organism, community, biosphere, molecule, tissue, organ
Solution
10
The solution is (A). The biosphere is the highest level, which is the most inclusive,
and the organism is the lowest level and least inclusive in the given hierarchy.
Where in a phylogenetic tree would you expect to find the organism that had evolved
most recently?
A At the base
B At the nodes
C At the branch tips
D Within the branches
Solution
11
The solution is (C). The "tips" of the tree branches represent the recently evolved
taxa.
What is a characteristic that is NOT present in all living things?
A Homeostasis and regulation
B Metabolism
C Nucleus containing DNA
D Reproduction
Solution
The solution is (C). A nucleus containing DNA is not present in all living organisms.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
4
1 | The Study of Life
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
12
Is mathematics a natural science? Explain your reasoning.
A No, it is not a natural science because it is not used in the study of the natural world.
B No, it is not a natural science. Mathematics focuses on understanding mathematical
relations and calculations, which is useful in natural sciences but which is distinct.
C Yes, it is a natural science. Mathematics deals with verifying the experimental data.
D Yes, it is a natural science. It uses chemical and physical measurements.
Solution
13
The solution is (B). No, it is not a natural science. Mathematics does not involve
measuring aspects of the natural world.
Although the scientific method is used by most of the sciences, it can also be applied to
everyday situations. A situation is given below. Using the scientific method try to arrange
the given steps in the correct order. Situation:
1. If the car doesn’t start the problem might be in the battery.
2. Car doesn’t start.
3. After changing the battery. Car starts working.
4. The car should start after charging the battery or changing the battery.
5. The car doesn’t start because the battery is dead.
6. The car doesn’t start even after charging the battery, the battery must have stopped
working.
A 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
B 2, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6
C 2, 1, 5, 4, 6, 3
D 2, 1, 5, 6, 3, 4
Solution
14
The solution is (B). 2, 1, 5, 4, 6, 3 is the correct sequence of the situation given.
Read questions 1 through 4.
Question 1. Is macaroni and cheese tastier than broccoli soup?
Question 2. Are hummingbirds attracted to the color red?
Question 3. Is the moon made out of green cheese?
Question 4. Is plagiarism dishonest?
Which questions lend themselves to investigation using scientific methods? In other
words, is the hypothesis falsifiable (can be proven false)?
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
1 | The Study of Life
5
A Questions 1 and 2 are subjective and cannot be disproven using scientific methods.
Questions 3 and 4 can be tested using scientific methods.
B Questions 3 and 4 are subjective and cannot be disproven using scientific methods.
Questions 1 and 2 can be tested using scientific methods.
C Questions 1 and 3 are subjective and cannot be disproven using scientific methods.
Questions 2 and 4 can be tested using scientific methods.
D Questions 1 and 4 are subjective and cannot be disproven using scientific methods.
Questions 2 and 3 can be tested using scientific methods.
Solution
15
The solution is (D). Questions 1 and 4 are subjective because taste, dishonesty, and
plagiarism are subjective, whereas questions 2 and 3 can be tested using scientific
methods. The hypotheses for questions 2 and 3 are falsifiable (can be disproven).
Consider the levels of organization of the biological world and place each of these items in
order from narrowest level of organization to most encompassing: skin cell, elephant,
water molecule, planet Earth, tropical rain forest, hydrogen atom, wolf pack, liver.
A Hydrogen atom, water molecule, skin cell, liver, elephant, wolf pack, tropical rain
forest, planet Earth
B Hydrogen atom, skin cell, water molecule, liver, elephant, wolf pack, tropical rain
forest, planet Earth
C Hydrogen atom, skin cell, water molecule, liver, wolf pack, elephant, tropical rain
forest, planet Earth
D Water molecule, hydrogen atom, skin cell, liver, elephant, wolf pack, tropical rain
forest, planet Earth
Solution
16
The solution is (A). The narrowest level of organization to the most-encompassing is:
hydrogen atom, water molecule, skin cell, liver, elephant, wolf pack, tropical
rainforest, planet Earth.
What scientific evidence did Carl Woese use to determine that there should be a separate
domain for Archaea?
A A sequence of DNA
B A sequence of rRNA
C A sequence of mRNA
D A sequence of tRNA
Solution
17
The solution is (B). Woese used sequences of rRNA as evidence to determine that
there should be a separate domain for Archaea.
Both astronomy and astrology study the stars. Which one is considered a natural science?
Explain your reasoning.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
6
1 | The Study of Life
A Astrology is a natural science because it indirectly influences human affairs and the
natural world.
B Astronomy is a natural science because it deals with observations and predictions of
events in the sky, which are based on the laws of physics.
C Astrology is a natural science because it deals with observations and predictions of
events in the sky, and influences human affairs and the natural world.
D Astrology is a natural science because it deals with the study of asteroids and comets,
which is based on the laws of natural sciences.
Solution
The solution is (B). Astrology does involve observations of celestial bodies, but it is a
way to predict human affairs based on astronomical data that do not rely on
testable hypotheses. Astronomy is the science of observing, measuring, and
predicting events in space based on past observations and the laws of physics.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
18
Which structure is conserved in all living organisms and points to a common origin?
A All living organisms have mitochondria that produce energy.
B All living organisms store genetic material in DNA/RNA.
C All living organisms use the energy from sunlight.
D All living organisms have a nucleus.
Solution
19
The solution is (B). This is true of all organisms and, therefore, logically suggests a
common origin.
Which statement is the strongest argument in favor of two organisms, A and B, being
closely related evolutionarily?
A A and B look alike.
B A and B live in the same ecosystem.
C A and B use the same metabolic pathways.
D The DNA sequences of A and B are highly homologous.
Solution
20
The solution is (D). All living organisms store genetic material in DNA/RNA so this is
one of the strongest ways to probe for similarities.
In the phylogenetic tree shown, which organism is most distantly related to organism 2?
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
1 | The Study of Life
7
A Organism 1
B Organism 3
C Organism 4
D Organism 5
Solution
21
The solution is (D). Organism 5 is most distantly related to organism 2 as it is evident
in the phylogenetic tree that 5 diverged from the main branch much earlier than rest
of the organisms.
In the phylogenetic tree shown, which organism is the most recent common ancestor of
organisms 1 and 3?
A Organism A
B Organism B
C Organism C
D Organism D
Solution
22
The solution is (B). Organism B is the recent common ancestor of 1 and 3 because B
is the base of 1 and 3.
The French scientist Jacques Monod famously said, “Anything found to be true of E. coli
must also be true of elephants.” How is this statement based on the notion that living
organisms share a common ancestor?
A E. coli is a eukaryote and shares similarities with most living organisms.
B E. coli is a prokaryote. The various metabolic processes and core functions in E. coli
share homology with higher organisms.
C E. coli contains a nucleus and membrane-bound cell organelles that are shared by all
living organisms.
D E. coli is a prokaryote and reproduces through binary fission, which is common to
most living organisms.
Solution
23
The solution is (B). All organisms share core structures and functions; therefore,
basic research on E. coli metabolic pathways, molecular biology, and other topics
applies to higher organisms.
Birds have been reclassified as reptiles. What is one line of evidence that has led to this
reclassification?
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
8
1 | The Study of Life
A Archeopteryx is the connecting link between birds and reptiles, which shows that birds
and reptiles are related.
B Birds have scales, so they have the same origin as reptiles.
C Birds and reptiles have the same circulatory and excretory systems and both are egglaying animals.
D Birds and reptiles have similar anatomical and morphological features.
Solution
The solution is (B). Birds have feathers, which are understood to be modified scales,
as well as scales on their feet. They show some skeletal similarity, which supports
their reclassification as reptiles.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
9
2 | THE CHEMICAL FOUNDATION OF LIFE
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
What are atoms that vary in the number of neutrons found in their nuclei called?
A Ions
B Isotopes
C Isobars
D Neutral atoms
Solution
2
The solution is (B). Isotopes are atoms that have the same number of protons but
differ in the number of neutrons.
Potassium has an atomic number of 19. What is its electron configuration?
A Shells 1 and 2 are full, and shell 3 has nine electrons.
B Shells 1, 2, and 3 are full, and shell 4 has three electrons.
C Shells 1, 2, and 3 are full, and shell 4 has one electron.
D Shells 1, 2, and 3 are full, and no other electrons are present.
Solution
3
The solution is (C). Shells 1, 2, and 3 are full, as they hold a total of 18 electrons, and
shell 4 has the remaining one electron and is unfilled.
Which type of bond exemplifies a weak chemical bond?
A Covalent bond
B Hydrogen bond
C Ionic bond
D Nonpolar covalent bond
Solution
4
The solution is (B). A hydrogen bond forms between hydrogen and an
electronegative atom. It is weak because electrons are not shared as they are in a
covalent bond nor are they transferred to form opposite, attracting charges, as they
are in ionic bonds. Instead, hydrogen has a slight positive charge when covalently
bonded to a more electronegative atom, because that atom draws the hydrogen’s
electron away from it, causing it to become attracted to nearby electronegative
atoms with unpaired electrons.
Which statement is false?
A Electrons are unequally shared in polar covalent bonds.
B Electrons are equally shared in nonpolar covalent bonds.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
10
2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
C Hydrogen bonds are weak bonds based on electrostatic forces.
D Ionic bonds are generally stronger than covalent bonds.
Solution
5
The solution is (D). Ionic bonds are generally stronger than covalent bonds.
If xenon has an atomic number of 54 and a mass number of 108, how many neutrons does
it have?
A 27
B 54
C 100
D 108
Solution
6
The solution is (B). The number of neutrons can be calculated by subtracting the
element’s atomic number from its mass number. When you subtract 54 from 108,
the number of neutrons is 54.
What forms ionic bonds?
A Atoms that share electrons equally
B Atoms that share electrons unequally
C Ions with similar charges
D Ions with opposite charges
Solution
7
The solution is (D). Ions with similar charges will not likely come together to form
ionic bonds; they must be oppositely charged.
Based on the information provided, which of the following statements is correct?
A In NH2 , the nitrogen atom acquires a partial positive charge and the hydrogen atoms
acquire a partial negative charge.
B In H2O, the hydrogen atoms acquire a partial negative charge, and the oxygen atom
acquires a partial positive charge.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
11
C In aqueous HCl, the hydrogen atom acquires a partial positive charge, and the chlorine
atom acquires a partial negative charge.
D In LiF, the lithium atom acquires a positive charge, and the fluorine atom acquires a
negative charge.
Solution
8
The solution is (C). In HCl(aq), the hydrogen atom acquires a partial positive charge,
and the chlorine atom acquires a partial negative charge.
Which statement is NOT true?
A Water is polar.
B Water can stabilize the temperature of nearby air.
C Water is essential for life.
D Water is the most abundant molecule in Earth’s atmosphere.
Solution
9
The solution is (D). Water is the most abundant molecule in Earth’s atmosphere.
Why do hydrogen and oxygen form polar covalent bonds within water molecules?
A Hydrogen is more electronegative than oxygen, generating a partial negative charge
near the hydrogen atoms.
B Hydrogen is more electronegative than oxygen, generating a partial positive charge
near the hydrogen atoms.
C Oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, generating a partial negative charge
near the oxygen atom.
D Oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, generating a partial positive charge
near the oxygen atom.
Solution
10
The solution is (C). The oxygen atom nucleus is more attractive to the electrons of a
hydrogen atom than the hydrogen nucleus is to the oxygen’s electrons. Therefore,
the hydrogen atom acquires a partial positive charge while the oxygen atom
acquires a partial negative charge.
What happens to the pH of a solution when acids are added?
A The pH of the solution decreases.
B The pH of the solution increases.
C The pH of the solution increases and then decreases.
D The pH of the solution stays the same.
Solution

The solution is (A). An acid is a substance that increases the H ion concentration of

the solution by dissociating its H atoms. Thus, the pH of the solution decreases on
addition of a hydrogen atom.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
12
11
2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
Which statement is true?
A Acids and bases cannot mix together.
B Acids and bases can neutralize each other.
C Acids, not bases, can change the pH of a solution.
D Acids donate hydroxide ions ( OH ); bases donate hydrogen ions ( H ).
+
Solution
12

The solution is (B). Acids add H ions in a solution, while bases add OH ions to a
solution. These ions neutralize each other by forming water molecules.
What is water’s property of adhesion?
A The force that allows surface water molecules to escape and vaporize
B The attraction between water molecules and other molecules
C The intermolecular force between water molecules
D The force that keeps particles dispersed in water
Solution
13
The solution is (B). Adhesion is the tendency of different particles to cling to one
another. It is sometimes a strong adhesive force, such as when water is exposed to
charged surfaces.
In a solution, what kind of molecule binds up excess hydrogen ions?
A Acid
B Base
C Donator
D Isotope
Solution
14

The solution is (B). Bases bind excess H ions in solution, resulting in a neutral

solution. For example, the addition of OH to H produces water.
What is the maximum number of atoms or molecules a single carbon molecule can bond
with?
A 4
B 1
C 6
D 2
Solution
The solution is (A). The carbon atom has four electrons in its valence shell.
Therefore, bonding four more electrons will complete its octet, allowing it to attain a
stable configuration. A carbon molecule can therefore bond with a maximum of four
other atoms.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
15
13
Which statement is true?
A Molecules with the formulas CH3CH2OH and C3H6O2 could be structural isomers.
B Molecules must have a single bond to be cis-trans isomers.
C To be enantiomers, a molecule must have at least three different atoms or groups
connected to a central carbon.
D To be enantiomers, a molecule must have at least four different atoms or groups
connected to a central carbon.
Solution
16
The solution is (D). To be enantiomers, a molecule must have at least four different
atoms or groups connected to a central carbon.
What is NOT a functional group that can bond with carbon?
A Carbonyl
B Hydroxyl
C Phosphate
D Sodium
Solution
17
The solution is (D). Sodium is not a functional group; it is an element. Thus, it does
not bond with carbon as a functional group.
Which functional group is NOT polar?
A Carbonyl
B Hydroxyl
C Methyl
D Sulfhydryl
Solution
18
The solution is (C). Methyl groups are nonpolar because carbon and hydrogen have
similar electronegativity. This means the covalent bond between carbon and
hydrogen has electrons that are equally shared by the carbon and hydrogen.
Therefore, it is a nonpolar molecule.
What are enantiomers?
A Hydrocarbons consisting of closed rings of carbon atoms
B Isomers with similar bonding patterns differing in the placement of atoms along a
double covalent bond
C Molecules that share the same chemical bonds but are mirror images of each other
D Molecules with the same chemical formula that differ in the placement of their
chemical bonds
Solution
The solution is (C). Enantiomers are molecules that share the same chemical bonds
but are mirror images of each other.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
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2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
19
What are the mass number and atomic number of carbon-12 and carbon-13, respectively?
A The mass number and atomic numbers of carbon-12 are 12 and 6, while those of
carbon-13 are 13 and 6.
B The mass number and atomic numbers of carbon-12 are 12 and 6, while those of
carbon-13 are 13 and 12.
C The mass number and atomic numbers of carbon-12 are 12 and 6, while those of
carbon-12 are 13 and 13.
D The mass number and atomic numbers of carbon-12 are 12 and 12, while those of
carbon-13 are 13 and 12.
Solution
20
The solution is (A). The mass number and atomic number of carbon-12 are 12 and 6,
while those of carbon-13 are 13 and 6. Use the figure to determine the mass and
atomic numbers.
Why are hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions necessary for cells?
A Hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions form weak associations between
molecules, providing the necessary shape and structure for DNA and proteins to
function in the body.
B Hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions form strong associations between
molecules, providing the necessary shape and structure for DNA and proteins to
function in the body.
C Hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions form weak associations between
different molecules, providing the necessary shape and structure for acids to function
in the body.
D Hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions form strong associations between the
same molecules, providing the necessary shape and structure for acids to function in
the body.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
Solution
21
15
The solution is (A). Hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions form weak
associations between different molecules or within different regions of the same
molecule. They provide the structure and shape necessary for proteins and DNA
within cells so that they function properly.
Using the figure, which two groups will form a strong ionic bond?
A Group 1 and Group 17
B Group 1 and Group 14
C Group 14 and Group 18
D Group 1 and Group 18
Solution
22
The solution is (A). Group 1 and Group 17 will form a strong ionic bond. Group 1 has
one valence electron, so to obtain a stable configuration, it will donate the electron
readily. Group 17 has 7 electrons in its valence shell. In order to obtain a stable
configuration, it will accept one electron readily.
Why can some insects walk on water?
A Insects can walk on water because of its high surface tension.
B Insects can walk on water because it is a polar solvent.
C Insects can walk on water because they are less dense than water.
D Insects can walk on water because they are denser than water.
Solution
The solution is (A). Some insects can walk on water, although they are denser than
water, because of the surface tension of water. Surface tension is a result of
cohesion, or the attraction between water molecules at the surface of the body of
water (the liquid-air/gas interface).
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2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
Which statement describes how buffers help prevent drastic swings in pH?
A Buffers absorb excess hydrogen and hydroxide ions to prevent increases or decreases
in pH. An example is the bicarbonate system in the human body.
B Buffers absorb excess hydrogen ions to prevent increases or decreases in pH. An
example is the bicarbonate system in the human body.
C Buffers absorb excess hydroxide ions to prevent increases or decreases in pH. An
example is the bicarbonate system in the human body.
D Buffers absorb excess hydrogen and hydroxide ions to prevent increases or decreases
in pH. An example is carbonate system in the human body.
Solution
24
The solution is (A). Buffers absorb the free hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions
produced by chemical reactions. Because they can bond to these ions, they prevent
increases or decreases in pH. An example of a buffer system is the bicarbonate
system in the human body. This system is able to absorb hydrogen and hydroxide
ions to prevent changes in pH and keep cells functioning properly.
What are three examples of how the characteristics of water are important in
maintaining life?
A First, the lower density of water as a solid versus a liquid allows ice to float, forming an
insulating surface layer for aquatic life. Second, the high specific heat capacity of
water insulates aquatic life or bodily fluids from temperature changes. Third, the high
heat of vaporization of water allows animals to cool themselves by sweating.
B First, the higher density of water as a solid versus a liquid allows ice to float, forming
an insulating surface layer for aquatic life. Second, the high specific heat capacity of
water insulates aquatic life or bodily fluids from temperature changes. Third, the low
heat of vaporization of water allows animals to cool themselves by sweating.
C First, the lower density of water as a solid versus a liquid allows ice to float, forming an
insulating surface layer for aquatic life. Second, the low specific heat capacity of water
insulates aquatic life or bodily fluids from temperature changes. Third, the high heat
of vaporization of water allows animals to cool themselves by sweating.
D First, the lower density of water as a solid versus a liquid allows ice to float, forming an
insulating surface layer for aquatic life. Second, the low specific heat capacity of water
insulates aquatic life or bodily fluids from temperature changes. Third, the low heat of
vaporization of water allows animals to cool themselves by sweating.
Solution
The solution is (A). The lower density of ice compared to liquid water allows it to
float on water. In lakes and ponds, ice will form on the surface of water creating an
insulating barrier that protects the animals and plant life in the pond from freezing.
Water’s lower density in its solid form is due to the orientation of hydrogen bonds as
it freezes: the water molecules are pushed farther apart compared to liquid water.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
17
Water is used by warm-blooded animals to more evenly disperse heat in their
bodies. Water has the highest specific heat capacity of any liquid, a property caused
by hydrogen bonding between water molecules.
In many living organisms, the evaporation of sweat allows organisms to cool to
maintain homeostasis of body temperature. This is because water has a high heat of
vaporization. As liquid water heats up, hydrogen bonding makes it difficult to
separate the liquid water molecules from each other.
Other examples include water’s solvent properties as well as water’s cohesive and
adhesive properties.
25
What is the pH scale, and how does it relate to living systems? Give an example of how
drastic pH changes are prevented in living systems.
A The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where anything below 7 is acidic and above 7 is
alkaline. The bicarbonate system in the human body buffers the blood.
B The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where anything below 7 is alkaline and above 7 is
acidic. The bicarbonate system in the human body buffers the blood.
C The pH scale ranges from 0 to 7, where anything below 7 is acidic and above 7 is
alkaline. Water in the human body buffers the blood.
D pH scale ranges from 0 to 7, where anything below 4 is acidic and above 4 is alkaline.
Water in the human body buffers the blood.
Solution
26
The solution is (A). The pH scale ranges from zero to 14. Pure water has a pH of
seven, which is known as neutral pH. The pH of human cells and blood is maintained
at pH seven. Anything below pH seven is acidic and anything above seven is alkaline.
Extreme pH is usually considered inhospitable for life. Buffers maintain pH
homeostasis. For example, the bicarbonate system in the human body absorbs
hydrogen and hydroxide ions to prevent changes in pH.
What property of carbon makes it essential for organic life?
A Carbon can form up to four covalent bonds, allowing it to form long chains.
B Carbon can form more than four covalent bonds, allowing it to form long chains.
C Carbon can form more than four covalent bonds, but it can only form short chains.
D Carbon can form up to four covalent bonds, but it can only form short chains.
Solution
The solution is (A). Carbon is found in all living things because it can form up to four
covalent bonds. These strong covalent bonds allow the formation of long chains that
combine to form proteins and DNA.
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2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
What property of carboxyl makes carboxyl-containing molecules hydrophilic? Which
macromolecules contain carboxyl?
A Carboxyl groups release H+, making its parent molecule hydrophilic. It is found in
amino acids and fatty acids.
B Carboxyl groups absorb H+, making its parent molecule hydrophilic. It is found in
phospholipids and triglycerides.
C Carboxyl groups release OH , making its parent molecule hydrophilic. It is found in
phospholipids, phosphates, and triglycerides.
D Carboxyl groups release OH , making its parent molecule hydrophilic. It is found in
phospholipids and DNA.
Solution
28
The solution is (A). The carboxyl group is found in amino acids, some amino acid side
chains, and the fatty acids that form triglycerides and phospholipids. This carboxyl
group ionizes to release hydrogen ions (H+) from the COOH group, resulting in the
negatively charged COO – group, which contributes to the hydrophilic nature of
whatever molecule it is found on.
Compare and contrast saturated and unsaturated triglycerides.
A Saturated triglycerides contain single bonds and are solid at room temperature, while
unsaturated triglycerides contain double bonds and are liquid at room temperature.
B Saturated triglycerides contain double bonds and are solid at room temperature,
while unsaturated triglycerides contain single bonds and are liquids at room
temperature.
C Saturated triglycerides contain single bonds and are liquid at room temperature, while
unsaturated triglycerides contain double bonds and are solid at room temperature.
D Saturated triglycerides contain double bonds and are liquid at room temperature,
while unsaturated triglycerides contain single bonds and are solid at room
temperature.
Solution
The solution is (A). Saturated triglycerides contain no double bonds between carbon
atoms; they are usually solid at room temperature. Unsaturated triglycerides contain
at least one double bond between carbon atoms; they are usually liquid at room
temperature.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
29
What property of water makes it a good insulator within the bodies of endothermic
(warm-blooded) animals?
A Adhesion
B Surface tension
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19
C Heat of vaporization
D Specific heat capacity
Solution
30
The solution is (D). Specific heat is defined as the amount of heat one gram of a
substance must absorb or lose to change its temperature by 1 °C Therefore, warmblooded animals use water to more evenly disperse heat in their bodies. It takes a
large amount of energy to heat or cool water.
The unique properties of water are important in biological processes. For the following
three properties of water, define the property and give one example of how the property
affects living organisms:

Cohesion

Adhesion

High heat of vaporization
A Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules, which helps create surface
tension. Insects can walk on water because of cohesion. Adhesion is the attraction
between water molecules and other molecules. Water moving up from the roots of
plants to the leaves as a result of capillary action is because of adhesion. Heat of
vaporization is the amount of energy required to convert liquid into gas. This property
helps humans maintain homeostasis of body temperature by evaporation.
B Cohesion is the attraction between water and other molecules, which helps create
surface tension. Insects can walk on water because of cohesion. Adhesion is the
attraction between water molecules. Water moving up from the roots of plants to the
leaves as a result of capillary action is because of adhesion. Heat of vaporization is the
amount of energy required to convert liquid into gas. This property helps humans
maintain homeostasis of body temperature by evaporation.
C Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules, which helps create surface
tension. Insects can walk on water because of cohesion. Adhesion is the attraction
between water molecules and other molecules. Water moving up from the roots of
plants to the leaves as a result of capillary action is because of adhesion. Heat of
vaporization is the amount of energy required to convert solid into gas. This property
helps humans maintain homeostasis of body temperature by evaporation.
Solution
The solution is (A). Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules, which helps
create surface tension. Insects can walk on water because of cohesion. Adhesion is
the attraction between water molecules and other molecules. Water moving up
from the roots of plants to the leaves as a result of capillary action is because of
adhesion. Heat of vaporization is the amount of energy required to convert liquid
into gas. This property helps humans maintain homeostasis of body temperature by
evaporation.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
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2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
2.1 Atoms, Isotopes, Ions, and Molecules: The Building Blocks
31
At a time when the theory of evolution was controversial (the year following the Scopes
Monkey Trial), Macallum (Physiological Reviews, 2, 1926) made an observation that is still
contested by some who do not see the pattern in the data in the table showing
percentages (g solute/100 g solution) of major biologically important inorganic elements
in a variety of sources.
Source
Na
K
Ca2 
Mg2
Cl
Ocean water
0.306
0.011
0.012
0.0037
0.55
Lobster
0.903
0.0337
0.0438
0.0156
1.547
Dog fish
0.5918
0.02739
0.01609 0.0146
0.9819
Sand shark
0.6173
0.0355
0.0184
0.0172
1.042
Cod
0.416
0.0395
0.0163
0.00589
0.6221
Pollock
0.4145
0.017497 0.01286 0.00608
0.5613
Frog
0.195
0.0233
0.00627 0.00155
0.2679
Dog lymph
0.3033
0.0201
0.0085
0.0023
0.4231
Blank
blank
blank
blank
blank
Blood
0.302
0.0204
0.0094
0.0021
0.389
Lung
0.2956
0.02095
0.00839 0.0021
Testes
0.3023
0.01497
0.00842 0.001914 0.3737
Human
0.3425
Abdominal
0.2935 0.0164
0.0091 0.00184 0.3888
cavity
A. Using a spreadsheet, or by sharing calculations with your classmates, construct a
quantitative model of these data from these percentages as ratios of mass fractions
relative to that of sodium, %X/%Na. Of course, you will not be asked to use a spreadsheet
on the AP Biology Exam. However, you may be assessed on the ability to develop a
quantitative model through the transformation of numerical data. The question that led
Macallum to investigate the elemental composition of different species and compare
these with the composition of seawater follows from the central organizing principle of
biology: the theory of evolution.
B. The elements in the table all occur in aqueous solution as ions. Cells expend energy to
produce a charge gradient and an ion gradient that is necessary for basic cellular
functions. Large differences in the concentrations of ions inside versus outside of the cell
results in stresses that the cell must expend energy to relieve. Based on this constraint on
the total number of ions, connect this refined model based on ratios of ion concentration
rather than absolute ionic concentrations to the modern concept of shared ancestry.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
21
Frequently, a follow-up question regarding scientific data on the AP Biology Exam will ask
you to pose questions that are raised by the data. You will be awarded credit for scientific
questions. These questions usually look for a cause-and-effect relationship, and are
testable.
C. Examine relative concentrations of potassium and magnesium ions in terrestrial and
marine organisms. Pose a question that could be investigated to connect concentrations
of these ions to adaptations to a change in the environment.
Macallum noted the high potassium to sodium ratio relative to seawater, and made this
claim about what the ratio implied about the oceans of early Earth:
“At once it is suggested that as the cell is older than its media is [presently] the relative
proportions of the inorganic elements in it are of more ancient origin than the relative
proportions of the same amount of elements which prevail in the media, blood plasma
and lymph or in the ocean and river water of today.”
D. In your own words, summarize the argument that Macallum is using to justify this
claim.
Solution
Sample answer:
A.
Source
K
Ca2 
Mg2
Cl
Ocean water
0.036
0.039 0.012
1.8
Lobster
0.037
0.048 0.017
1.7
Dog fish
0.046
0.027 0.025
1.7
Sand shark
0.057
0.030 0.028
1.7
Cod
0.095
0.039 0.014
1.5
Pollock
0.042
0.031 0.015
1.35
Frog
0.12
0.032 0.0080 1.4
Dog lymph
0.07
0.028 0.0076 1.4
blank
blank
Blood
0.067
0.031 0.0070 1.3
Lung
0.0715 0.028 0.0071 1.2
Testes
0.049
0.028 0.0063 1.2
Abdominal
cavity
0.056
0.031 0.0062 1.3
Human
blank
blank
Table of Ratios %ion/%Na
B. The hypothesis that all animal life originated in the oceans seems to be supported
by the observation that the ratios of ions in the tissues of terrestrial animals are
similar to those found in ocean water. The absolute amounts of ions may vary from
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
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2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
animal to animal, however, relatively similar ratios point to inherited cellular
mechanisms that require similar ratios of ions.

C. The lower concentrations of K and Mg2 in terrestrial animals compared to
those found in ocean water can be attributed to adaptation to life in air rather than
a reflection of concentrations present in ancient oceans. One question to pose

would be why the concentrations of K and Mg2 changed over time in the oceans.
Examination of ancient sediments, and studies of how the weathering of rock adds
salts into the ocean may provide insights into the composition of ancient oceans.
D. The proportion of ions in the blood and tissues of terrestrial animals are a
reflection of the composition of salts in the marine environment existing at the time
when animals moved to land. It is not tied to present day ocean composition.
2.2 Water
32
Approximately half the energy that flows through Earth’s biosphere is captured by
phytoplankton, photosynthetic microscopic organisms in the surface waters of the
oceans. Scientists think the growth of phytoplankton in the Atlantic Ocean is limited by
the availability of nitrogen, whereas growth in the Pacific Ocean is limited by the
availability of iron.
The concentration of oxygen (O2) in the atmosphere of early Earth was low and, therefore,
so was the concentration of dissolved oxygen in the early ocean. Because insoluble iron
oxides (rust) do not form in the absence of oxygen, soluble iron ions  Fe2+  were more
available in the early ocean than at present. Nitrogen (N2), while always abundant in the
atmosphere, was not biologically available until the evolution of molybdenum-based
enzymes that allow nitrogen fixation.
The graphs (Anbar and Knoll, Science, 297, 2002) show models of concentrations of two
trace elements, iron (Fe) and molybdenum (Mo), in ocean waters (first), as well as the
concentration of various elements dissolved in seawater versus within cells (second). The
model describes the change over time of these elements from early Earth (>1.85 billion
years ago, Gya) to a modern era (<1.25 Gya) and a period of transition between these.
Surface waters of the oceans lie to the left of the vertical double line while deep ocean
water lies to the right. Modern concentrations of dissolved iron and molybdenum (relative
to dissolved carbon) are shown.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
23
A. The principal chemical processes of life today have been conserved through evolution
from early Earth conditions. Using this fact, justify the selection of these data shown in
the graphs in the construction of a model of ocean photosynthetic productivity.
Iron and molybdenum are two of 30 elements that are required by the chemical processes
supporting life on Earth. Concentrations of these two and 15 other elements are shown in
the second graph. Of these elements, the three most abundant in cells are also found in
seawater in approximately the same concentrations. By increasing the mass of
phytoplankton in the ocean, we may be able to compensate for the increasing
concentration of carbon produced by the combustion of gas, oil, and coal.
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2 | The Chemical Foundation of Life
B. Select, with justification, the element or elements that, if added in large amounts to
the ocean, could boost the growth of phytoplankton.
C. Before implementing a large-scale geo-engineering effort to avert the effects of climate
change due to carbon pollution, we must test the legitimacy of this solution. Describe a
plan for collecting data that could be used to evaluate the effect of enrichment on
phytoplankton productivity.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The first graph shows the concentration of rate-limiting elements, including iron
and molybdenum, available for photosynthesis. At the surface molybdenum is
abundant. Iron is less available, perhaps because it reacts with oxygen in the
atmosphere to form insoluble iron oxide that sinks.
B. The second graph shows that iron, manganese, and cobalt are also abundant in
the ocean than in the cells. This means cells will have a hard time obtaining enough
of these elements, and adding more would increase productivity. Manganese is an
essential component of the reaction center of photosystem II where it is involved in
the splitting of water molecules.
C. In controlled laboratory conditions, supplemental metal could be added to
phytoplankton grown and the productivity could be measured. It is important to
stress that the oceans are vast areas with different local conditions. The unintended
effects of overgrowth of phytoplankton must also be addressed. Eutrophication, or
overgrowth of algae leading to dead zones in lakes and coastal areas, occurs when
excess nitrogen is present in the water.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
3 | Biological Macromolecules
25
3 | BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Dehydration synthesis leads to the formation of what?
A Monomers
B Polymers
C Carbohydrates only
D Water only
Solution
2
The solution is (B). Polymers are formed through dehydration synthesis, during
which monomers combine to release a water molecule.
What is removed during the formation of nucleic acid polymers?
A Carbon
B Hydroxyl groups
C Phosphates
D Amino acids
Solution
3
The solution is (C). Unlike proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, the molecule that is
released in the formation of nucleic acid polymers is pyrophosphate (two phosphate
groups bound together).
During the breakdown of polymers, which reaction takes place?
A Condensation
B Covalent bond
C Dehydration
D Hydrolysis
Solution
4
The solution is (D). Hydrolysis is a reaction in which a water molecule is used during
the breakdown of another compound or a polymer.
Energy is released as a result of which chemical reaction?
A Condensation
B Dehydration synthesis
C Hydrolysis
D Dissolution
Solution
The solution is (C). Hydrolysis reactions typically release energy that can be used to
power cellular processes.
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3 | Biological Macromolecules
In the metabolism of the cell, why is hydrolysis used?
A Hydrolysis is used to break down polymers.
B Hydrolysis is used to form linkages in DNA.
C Hydrolysis is used to produce proteins.
D Hydrolysis is used to synthesize new macromolecules.
Solution
6
The solution is (A). Polymers can be broken down by hydrolysis, or the addition
of water.
Plant cell walls contain what in abundance?
A Cellulose
B Glycogen
C Lactose
D Starch
Solution
7
The solution is (A). The cell walls of plants are mostly made of cellulose, which
provides structural support to the cell.
What makes up the outer layer of some insects?
A Carbohydrate
B Protein
C RNA
D Triglyceride
Solution
8
The solution is (A). Arthropods like insects have an outer skeleton, called the
exoskeleton, which protects their internal body parts. The exoskeleton is mainly
made up of chitin, a nitrogen-containing polysaccharide.
What is an example of a monosaccharide?
A Cellulose
B Fructose
C Lactose
D Sucrose
Solution
9
The solution is (B). Fructose is a simple ketose monosaccharide found in
many plants.
Cellulose and starch are examples of —
A disaccharides
B lipids
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27
C monosaccharides
D polysaccharides
Solution
10
The solution is (D). A long chain of monosaccharides linked by glycosidic bonds
is known as a polysaccharide, which can contain the same or different
monosaccharides. Starch is the stored form of sugars in plants and is made up
of a mixture of amylose and amylopectin, while cellulose is made up of glucose
monomers that are linked by  -1-4 glycosidic bonds.
What type of bond joins the molecules in the disaccharide lactose, and what molecule is
joined with glucose to form lactose?
A A glycosidic bond between glucose and lactose
B A glycosidic bond between glucose and galactose
C A hydrogen bond between glucose and sucrose
D A hydrogen bond between glucose and fructose
Solution
11
The solution is (B). Lactose is a disaccharide consisting of the monomers glucose and
galactose, which are joined together by a glycosidic bond.
What is structurally different about cellulose when compared to starch?
A An extra hydrogen atom is left on the monomer.
B
 -1,4 glycosidic linkages are used.
C
 -1,6 glycosidic linkages are used.
D An extra hydroxyl group is removed during synthesis.
Solution
12
The solution is (B). Starch is made up of glucose monomers that are joined by  -1-4
or  -1-6 glycosidic bonds. Cellulose is made up of glucose monomers that are linked
by  -1-4 glycosidic bonds only.
What are classified as lipids?
A Disaccharides and cellulose
B Essential amino acids
C mRNA and DNA
D Oils and waxes
Solution
13
The solution is (D). Lipids are a group of naturally occurring molecules that include
oils, waxes, and other hydrophobic substances.
What is cholesterol specifically classified as?
A A lipid
B A phospholipid
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3 | Biological Macromolecules
C A steroid
D A wax
Solution
14
The solution is (C). Cholesterol is a steroid having four linked carbon rings with a
short tail. It is mainly synthesized in the liver and is the precursor to many steroid
hormones.
Which fat serves as an animal’s major form of energy storage?
A Cholesterol
B Glycerol
C Phospholipid
D Triglycerides
Solution
15
The solution is (D). Triglycerides, stored in adipose tissue, are a major form of energy
storage in animals. Fat cells are designed for continuous synthesis and breakdown of
triglycerides in animals.
Which hormones are made from cholesterol?
A Estradiol and testosterone
B Insulin and growth hormone
C Progesterone and glucagon
D Prolactin and thyroid hormone
Solution
16
The solution is (A). Cholesterol is the precursor to many steroid hormones such
as testosterone and estradiol, which are secreted by the gonads and adrenal
endocrine glands.
Which characteristic is NOT true for saturated fats?
A They are solid at room temperature.
B They have single bonds within the carbon chain.
C They contain mostly hydrogen and carbon atoms.
D They tend to dissolve in water easily.
Solution
The solution is (D). Saturated fats are solid at room temperature, and have single
bonds between carbon and hydrogen atoms. However, they are nonpolar molecules.
Water is a polar solvent, so it is not true that saturated fats do not dissolve in water.
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29
Which fat has the least number of hydrogen atoms?
A Trans fat
B Saturated fat
C Unsaturated fat
D Wax
Solution
18
The solution is (C). Unlike saturated fats, in which extensive hydrogenation leads to
close packing of molecules and results in a solid state, unsaturated fats contain the
least number of hydrogen atoms, which results in multiple bonds between carbon
atoms and loose packing of molecules.
Of what are phospholipids important components?
A The double bond in hydrocarbon chains
B The plasma membrane of animal cells
C The ring structure of steroids
D The waxy covering on leaves
Solution
19
The solution is (B). Phospholipids are major constituents of the plasma membrane,
the outermost layer of animal cells. Phospholipids are responsible for the dynamic
nature of the plasma membrane.
What is diacylglycerol 3-phosphate?
A A phospholipid
B A phosphatidylcholine
C A phosphatidylserine
D A phosphatidate
Solution
20
The solution is (D). A phosphate group alone attached to a diglycerol does not
qualify as a phospholipid; it is phosphatidate (diacylglycerol 3-phosphate), the
precursor of phospholipids.
What is the basic structure of a steroid?
A Four fused hydrocarbon rings
B Glycerol with three fatty acid chains
C Two fatty-acid chains and a phosphate group
D Two six-carbon rings
Solution
The solution is (A). All steroids have four linked carbon rings and some of them
have a short tail. Cholesterol and many hormones such as estrogen and cortisol
are steroids.
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3 | Biological Macromolecules
Besides its use in hormone production, for what does the body use cholesterol?
A mRNA transport
B Production of bile salts
C Water reabsorption in the kidney
D Wax production
Solution
22
The solution is (B). Cholesterol is also the precursor of bile salts, which help in the
emulsification of fats and their subsequent digestion.
Where is cholesterol found in cell membranes?
A Attached to the inner side of the membrane
B Attached to the outer side of the membrane
C Floating in the phospholipid tail layer
D Penetrating both lipid layers
Solution
23
The solution is (D). Cholesterol is a component of the plasma membrane of animal
cells and is found within the phospholipid bilayer. The plasma membrane of each
cell is made up of a continuous double layer of phospholipids, interwoven with
cholesterol and proteins.
Which type of body cell would have a higher amount of cholesterol in its membrane?
A A cartilage cell
B A liver cell
C A red blood cell
D A spleen cell
Solution
24
The solution is (C). Blood cells tend to travel all along the blood vessels of the body
and therefore require flexibility to travel. The cholesterol embedded in their
membrane provides them with the required flexibility.
What is a function of proteins in cells?
A Energy storage
B Gene storage and access
C Membrane fluidity
D Structure
Solution
The solution is (D). Proteins provide structure and support for cells. They also fulfill
many other functions. For example, they allow the body to move (e.g., actin),
catalyze reactions as enzymes, act as cellular messengers and receptors, and provide
defense against pathogens as antibodies.
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What type of protein facilitates or accelerates chemical reactions?
A An enzyme
B A hormone
C A membrane transport protein
D A tRNA molecule
Solution
26
What type of amino acids would you expect to find on the surface of proteins that must
interact closely with water?
Solution
27
The solution is (A). Enzymes accelerate, or catalyze, chemical reactions. Almost all
metabolic processes in the cell need enzymes to occur at rates fast enough to
sustain life. Enzymes increase the rate of a reaction by lowering its activation
energy.
Amino acids that contain acidic, basic, or polar side groups are most likely to be
found on the surface of water-soluble proteins. Proteins with these charged ide
groups can interact more readily with water than if the protein had a neutral net
charge.
What are the monomers that make up proteins called?
A Amino acids
B Chaperones
C Disaccharides
D Nucleotides
Solution
28
The solution is (A). Amino acids are organic compounds (monomers) that combine to
form proteins. There are 20 amino acids, 10 of which are referred to as essential
amino acids in humans because the body cannot synthesize them and they must be
supplied by the diet.
Where is the linkage made that combines two amino acids?
A Between the R group of one amino acid and the R group of the second
B Between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of the other
C Between the six-carbon of both amino acids
D Between the nitrogen atoms of the amino groups in the amino acids
Solution
The solution is (B). A peptide bond is formed by dehydration between the amino
group of one amino acid and the carboxyl group of a second amino group. Each
amino acid has the same fundamental structure, which consists of a central carbon
atom, also known as the alpha   carbon, bonded to an amino group (NH2), a
carboxyl group (COOH), and a hydrogen atom. The fourth position bound to the
central carbon is occupied by a side chain that distinguishes the amino acids from
each other.
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The  -helix and the  -pleated sheet are part of which protein structure?
A The primary structure
B The secondary structure
C The tertiary structure
D The quaternary structure
Solution
30
The solution is (B). The local folding of the polypeptide in some regions gives rise to
the secondary structure of the protein. The  -helix and  -pleated sheets are the
secondary structure of proteins that forms because of hydrogen bonding between
carbonyl and amino groups in the peptide backbone.
Which structural level of proteins is most often associated with their biological function?
A The primary structure
B The secondary structure
C The tertiary structure
D The quaternary structure
Solution
31
The solution is (C). Tertiary structure is generally stabilized by nonlocal interactions,
most commonly by the formation of a hydrophobic core, but also through salt
bridges, hydrogen bonds, disulfide bonds, and even posttranslational modifications.
Therefore, the tertiary structure is what controls the basic function of the protein.
Some proteins acquire their biological functions only in their quaternary structures,
for example, antibodies.
What may cause a protein to denature?
A Changes in pH
B High temperatures
C The addition of some chemicals
D All of the above
Solution
32
The solution is (D). If the protein is subject to changes in temperature, pH, or
exposure to chemicals, the protein structure may change, losing its shape without
losing its primary sequence, in a process known as denaturation.
What is a protein’s chaperone?
A A chemical that assists the protein in its enzymatic functions
B A second protein that completes the quaternary structure
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C A chemical that helps the protein fold properly
D A chemical that functions as a cofactor for the protein
Solution
33
The solution is (C). Proteins receive assistance in the folding process from protein
helpers known as chaperones that associate with the target protein during the
folding process. They prevent aggregation of polypeptides, and then disassociate
themselves from the protein once the target protein is folded.
What are the building blocks of nucleic acids?
A Nitrogenous bases
B Nucleotides
C Peptides
D Sugars
Solution
34
The solution is (B). DNA and RNA are nucleic acids made up of monomers known as
nucleotides. Each nucleotide is made up of three components: a nitrogenous base, a
pentose sugar, and a phosphate group.
What may a nucleotide of DNA contain?
A Ribose, uracil, and a phosphate group
B Deoxyribose, uracil, and a phosphate group
C Deoxyribose, thymine, and a phosphate group
D Ribose, thymine, and a phosphate group
Solution
35
The solution is (C). Each nucleotide consists of a pentose sugar (deoxyribose in DNA
and ribose in RNA), a nitrogenous base (adenine, cytosine, guanine, or thymine), and
a phosphate group.
What is DNA’s structure described as?
A A step ladder
B A double helix
C A tertiary protein-like structure
D A barber pole
Solution
The solution is (B). DNA has a double-helical structure with the two strands running
in opposite directions (antiparallel), connected by hydrogen bonds and
complementary to each other.
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What is found in RNA that is NOT in DNA?
A Deoxyribose and adenine
B Fructose and thymine
C Glucose and quinine
D Ribose and uracil
Solution
37
The solution is (D). The nucleotide molecule RNA consists of ribose sugar. Also, in
RNA, uracil replaces thymine and pairs with adenine (U-A).
What is the smallest type of RNA?
A mRNA
B miRNA
C rRNA
D tRNA
Solution
38
The solution is (B). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are the smallest RNA molecules and their
role involves the regulation of gene expression.
Where is the largest amount of DNA found in a eukaryotic cell?
A Attached to the inner layer of the cell membrane
B In the nucleus
C In the cytoplasm
D On ribosomes
Solution
The solution is (B). DNA in the form of nucleosomes is found inside the nucleus.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
39
The word hydrolysis is defined as the lysis of water. How does this apply to polymers?
A Polymers break apart by separating water into hydrogen and a hydroxyl group that are
added to the monomers.
B Polymers are synthesized by using the energy released by the breaking of water
molecules into hydrogen and a hydroxyl group.
C Polymers are separated into monomers, producing energy and water molecules.
D Polymers are hydrolyzed into monomers using water in a process called dehydration
synthesis.
Solution
The solution is (A). In the process of hydrolysis, water is separated into a hydrogen
atom and a hydroxyl group. These are added to the separated monomers to
complete their structures.
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What role do electrons play in dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis?
A Electrons are added to OH and H ions in dehydration synthesis. They are removed
from OH and H in hydrolysis.
B Electrons are transferred from OH and H ions to monomers in dehydration synthesis.
They are taken up by the H and OH ions from monomers in hydrolysis.
C Electrons are removed from OH and H in dehydration synthesis. They are added to OH
and H in hydrolysis.
D Electrons are transferred from monomers to H and OH ions in hydrolysis. They are
transferred from OH and H to monomers in dehydration synthesis.
Solution
41
The solution is (A). Electrons are added to the hydroxyl group and the hydrogen ion
during dehydration synthesis to constitute water. During hydrolysis, they are
removed from the OH and H of water to create ions to reconstitute monomers.
Which bodily process would most likely be hindered by a lack of water in the body?
A Digestion
B Protein synthesis
C DNA copying
D Breathing
Solution
42
The solution is (A). Digestion would be negatively affected by an inability to perform
hydrolysis. Digestion requires hydrolysis to break larger polymers within food
molecules into monomers.
Why is it impossible for humans to digest food that contains cellulose?
A There is no energy available in fiber.
B An inactive form of cellulase in the human digestive tract renders it undigested and
removes it as waste.
C The acidic environment in the human stomach makes it impossible to break the bonds
in cellulose.
D Human digestive enzymes cannot break down the  -1,4 glycosidic linkage in
cellulose, which requires a special enzyme absent in humans.
Solution
The solution is (D). Human digestive enzymes cannot break down the  -1-4 linkage.
It requires a special enzyme, cellulase, which is secreted by bacteria and protists in
the digestive tract of herbivores.
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Which statement describes some of the differences between cellulose and starch?
A Cellulose is unbranched and starch is branched. Both molecules are found in animals.
B Starch is unbranched and cellulose is branched. Both molecules are found in plants.
C Starch is branched and cellulose is unbranched. Both molecules are found in plants.
D Cellulose is branched and starch is unbranched. Both molecules are found in animals.
Solution
44
The solution is (C). Starch contains branches and cellulose does not. Both molecules
are made by plants but neither is made by animals.
Which statement best describes the production of sucrose, maltose, and lactose?
A Glucose and fructose combine to form sucrose. Glucose and galactose combine to
form lactose. Two glucose monomers combine to form maltose.
B Glucose and fructose combine to form sucrose. Glucose and galactose combine to
form maltose. Two glucose combine to form lactose.
C Two glucose combine to form lactose. Glucose and galactose combine to form
sucrose. Glucose and fructose combine to form maltose.
D Two galactose combine to form sucrose. Fructose and glucose combine to form
lactose. Two glucose combine to form maltose.
Solution
45
The solution is (A). Glucose and fructose are combined to form sucrose. Glucose and
galactose are combined to form lactose. Two glucose monomers are combined to
form maltose.
What are the four classes of lipids? Provide a common example for each one.
A Lipids like margarine, waxes like the coating on feathers, phospholipids like cell
membrane constituents, steroids like cholesterol
B Lipids like phosphatidylserine, waxes like phosphatidic acid, phospholipids like oleic
acid, steroids like epinephrine
C Lipids like phosphatidic acid, waxes like margarine, phospholipids like
phosphatidylcholine, steroids like testosterone
D Lipids like cholesterol, waxes like the coating on feathers, phospholipids like
phosphatidylserine, steroids like margarine
Solution
46
The solution is (A). Margarine is a fat with higher trans fatty acid content, wax is
present as a feather-coating material, cell membranes are made of phospholipids,
and cholesterol is a steroid.
What are three functions that lipids serve in plants and/or animals?
A Lipids serve in the storage of energy, as a structural component of hormones, and as
signaling molecules.
B Lipids serve in the storage of energy, as carriers for the transport of proteins across
the membrane, and as signaling molecules.
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C Lipids serve in the breakdown of stored energy molecules, as signaling molecules, and
as structural components of hormones.
D Lipids serve in the breakdown of stored energy molecules, as signaling molecules, and
as channels for protein transport.
Solution
47
The solution is (A). Lipids serve as a source of long-term energy storage, and as a
structural component of some hormones in animals. Hormones are signaling
molecules. A class of lipids, the phospholipids, is a major constituent of cell
membranes in both plants and animals.
How are trans fats created? Why have they been banned from some restaurants?
A Trans fat is produced by the hydrogenation of oil that makes it more saturated and
isomerized. It increases LDL in the body.
B The dehydrogenation of oil forms trans fat, which contains single bonds in its
structure. It increases HDL in the body.
C Trans fat is produced by the dehydrogenation of oils, which makes it unsaturated. It
increases LDL in the body.
D The hydrogenation of oil makes the trans fat, which contains double bonds in its
structure. It decreases the HDL in the body.
Solution
48
The solution is (A). Trans fats resemble saturated fats in their chemical and physical
characteristics, and they increase LDL. They are produced by bubbling hydrogen gas
through unsaturated lipids under pressure, adding hydrogen atoms to the fatty acids
in the lipids.
How do phospholipids contribute to cell membrane structure?
A Phospholipids orient their heads toward the polar molecules and tails in the interior of
the membrane, forming a bilayer.
B Phospholipids orient their tails toward the polar molecules of water solutions and
their heads toward in the interior of the membrane, forming a bilayer.
C Phospholipids orient their heads toward the nonpolar molecules and their tails toward
the interior of the membrane, forming a bilayer.
D Phospholipids orient their tails toward the polar molecules and their heads toward the
nonpolar side of the membrane, forming a bilayer.
Solution
The solution is (A). The hydrophilic head orients toward polar molecules such as
water or the cytoplasm of the cell, whereas the hydrophobic tails of the molecules
orient toward other nonpolar molecules. This forms the middle of the membrane,
with heads on the outermost and innermost surfaces of the cell membrane.
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What type of compound functions in hormone production, contributes to membrane
flexibility, and is the starting molecule for bile salts?
A All steroid molecules help in the mentioned functions.
B Cholesterol, which is a lipid and also a steroid, functions here.
C Glycogen, which is a multi-branched polysaccharide of glucose, is the compound.
D Phosphatidylcholine, which is a phospholipid with a choline head group, serves these
functions.
Solution
50
The solution is (B). Cholesterol is a steroid and is involved in hormone production,
membrane flexibility, and production of bile salts.
What part of the cell membrane gives flexibility to the structure?
A Carbohydrates
B Cytoskeleton filaments
C Lipids
D Proteins
Solution
51
The solution is (C). Lipids add flexibility to the membrane, allowing it to bend and
twist as necessary.
How do the differences in amino acid sequences lead to different protein functions?
A Different amino acids produce different proteins because of the secondary bonds
they form.
B Differences in amino acids lead to the recycling of proteins, which produces other
functional proteins.
C Different amino acids cause rearrangements of amino acids to produce a functional
protein.
D Differences in amino acids cause post-translational modification of the protein, which
reassembles to produce a functional protein.
Solution
52
The solution is (A). Differences in amino acid sequences result in different
configurations of the finished protein. This allows different protein shapes to bind
with different chemicals, giving each protein its function.
What causes the changes in protein structure through its three or four levels of structure?
A The primary chain forms secondary  - helix and  - pleated sheets that fold onto each
other forming the tertiary structure.
B The primary structure undergoes alternative splicing to form secondary structures that
fold on other protein chains to form tertiary structures.
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C The primary structure forms secondary  - helix and  - pleated sheets. These further
undergo phosphorylation and acetylation to form the tertiary structure.
D The primary structure undergoes alternative splicing to form a secondary structure,
and then disulfide bonds give way to tertiary structures.
Solution
53
The solution is (A). The primary structure is based on the bonds between individual
amino acids while the secondary structure is based on the formation of alpha and
beta pleated sheets. The tertiary structure describes the folding of the secondary
structure.
What structural level of proteins is functional? Why?
A The secondary structure is functional as it attains its two-dimensional shape, which
has the necessary bonds.
B The tertiary structure is functional, as it possesses the geometric shape showing the
necessary loops and bends.
C The tertiary structure is functional as it has the non-covalent and covalent bonds along
with the subunits attached at the right places, which help it function properly.
D The quaternary structure is functional, as it has the essential set of subunits.
Solution
54
The solution is (B). The folding pattern is what creates the shape of the protein,
which determines its use as well as, in the case of enzymes, what substrates it can
bind to.
How does a chaperone work with proteins?
A Chaperones assist proteins in folding.
B Chaperones cause the aggregation of polypeptides.
C Chaperones associate with proteins once the target protein is folded.
D Chaperones escort proteins during translation.
Solution
55
The solution is (A). Chaperones (or chaperonins) associate with the target protein
during the folding process. They act by preventing aggregation of polypeptides that
make up the complete protein structure, and they disassociate from the protein
once the target protein is folded.
What is a difference between DNA and RNA?
A DNA is made from nucleotides, while RNA is not.
B DNA contains deoxyribose and thymine, while RNA contains ribose and uracil.
C DNA contains adenine, while RNA contains guanine.
D DNA is double stranded, while RNA may be double stranded in animals.
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Solution
56
The solution is (B). Both DNA and RNA are made of nucleotides containing a sugar
(deoxyribose in DNA, ribose in RNA), a nitrogenous base (DNA has thymine, RNA has
uracil). Both also have adenine, cytosine, guanine, and a phosphate group.
Which molecule carries information in a form that is inherited from one generation to
another?
A DNA
B mRNA
C Proteins
D tRNA
Solution
57
The solution is (A). Hereditary information is stored in the sequence of nucleotides
found in DNA.
What are the four types and functions of RNA?
A mRNA is a single-stranded transcript of DNA. rRNA is found in ribosomes. tRNA
transfers specific amino acids to a growing protein strand. miRNA regulates the
expression of mRNA strands.
B mRNA is a single-stranded transcript of rRNA. rRNA is translated in ribosomes to make
proteins. tRNA transfers specific amino acids to a growing protein strand. miRNA
regulates the expression of the mRNA strand.
C mRNA regulates the expression of the miRNA strand. rRNA is found in ribosomes.
tRNA transfers specific amino acids to a growing protein strand. miRNA is a singlestranded transcript of DNA.
D mRNA is a single-stranded transcript of DNA. rRNA transfers specific amino acids to a
growing protein strand. tRNA is found in ribosomes. miRNA regulates the expression
of the mRNA strand.
Solution
The solution is (A). Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a single-stranded copy of the
sequencing in DNA. It leaves the nucleus and attaches to ribosomes for protein
synthesis. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) plus protein make up the ribosomes, which are
used as points of protein synthesis. Transfer RNA (tRNA) is a single-stranded RNA
that carries or transfers specific amino acids to the growing protein chain. MicroRNA
(miRNA) is a single-stranded RNA that has been folded back on itself. This is trimmed
into a short strand of about 20 nucleotide pairs. One of the strands is degraded,
while the other binds onto protein. The miRNA-protein complex can attach to mRNA
with complementary sequences and functions to regulate the expression of that
mRNA strand.
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TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
58
Urey and Miller constructed an experiment to illustrate the early atmosphere of Earth and
possible development of organic molecules in the absence of living cells. Which
assumption did Urey and Miller make regarding conditions on Earth?
A Electric sparks occurred to catalyze the reaction.
B The composition of the gases in the atmosphere
C There was sufficient oxygen for creating life.
D It produced water-soluble organic molecules.
Solution
59
The solution is (B). They assumed the composition of gases in the atmosphere
included methane, ammonia, and hydrogen gases.
Urey and Miller proposed that a series of reactions occurred that ultimately resulted in
amino acid formation. What is true based on their theory?
A Hydrogen, methane, water, and ammonia combined to create amino acids.
B Hydrogen, methane, and oxygen combined to create macromolecules.
C Nitrogenous bases combined to form monomers, then RNA.
D Periodic elements combined to create molecules, then DNA.
Solution
60
The solution is (A). Their experiment resulted in the spontaneous formation of
amino acids, which form from hydrogen, nitrogen, and other compounds.
How does Urey and Miller's model support the claim that simple precursors present on
early Earth could have assembled into the complex molecules necessary for life?
A The simple molecules assembled to form amino acids and nucleic acids.
B The organic molecules assembled to form large complexes, such as water and
methane.
C The inorganic molecules assembled to form amino acids and nucleic acids.
D The inorganic molecules assembled to form large complexes, such as water and
methane.
Solution
61
The solution is (A). Miller and Urey’s experiment resulted in the production of
organic molecules, such as amino acids and nucleic acids, from the building blocks of
water, methane, ammonia, and hydrogen gas. This was done in the absence of living
organisms, but could be used for the development of them.
Which statement most accurately describes the importance of the condensation stage
during Urey and Miller’s experiment?
A Condensed water enabled the formation of monomers.
B Condensation and evaporation simulated lightning storms.
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C Condensation and evaporation simulated the water cycle.
D Condensed water enabled the formation of polymers.
Solution
62
The solution is (C). Condensation and evaporation are main components of the
water cycle.
According to the findings of the Urey and Miller experiment, the primitive atmosphere
consisted of water in the form of steam, methane, ammonia, and hydrogen gases. If there
was so much hydrogen gas in the early atmosphere, why is there so little now?
A Hydrogen gas is so light with a molecular weight of 1 that the excess diffused into
space over time and is now absent from the atmosphere.
B Hydrogen combined with ammonia to make ammonium.
C It was all used up in the production of organic molecules.
D The excess hydrogen gas was dissolved in the early oceans.
Solution
63
The solution is (A). Hydrogen gas is so light (molecular weight of 1) that the excess
diffused into space over time and is now absent from the atmosphere.
Could the primitive atmosphere illustrated by the Urey and Miller experiment be
reproduced on today’s Earth? Why or why not?
A The primitive atmosphere cannot be created due to the oxidizing atmosphere and lack
of hydrogen.
B The primitive atmosphere can be created because the atmosphere is reducing and
Earth has sufficient hydrogen to reproduce the conditions.
C The primitive atmosphere cannot be created due to the presence of abundant water
and hydrogen in the atmosphere.
D The primitive atmosphere can be created because the atmosphere is oxidizing and has
less hydrogen.
Solution
64
The solution is (A). The atmosphere reproduced in the Urey and Miller experiment
could not exist on present-day Earth. Most of the hydrogen gas has been used or
diffused into space. The presence of large amounts of oxygen has created an
oxidizing atmosphere that would break down any organic molecules that might be
produced.
What is structurally different between starch and cellulose that gives them different
physical properties?
A Cellulose is formed by  - 1-4 glycosidic linkages and crosslinks, making it rigid, while
starch has  - 1-4 and  - 1-6 glycosidic linkages without the tight crosslinks of
cellulose.
B Cellulose has rigid  - 1-4 glycosidic linkages, while starch has less rigid  - 1-4
glycosidic linkages.
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C Cellulose has amylose and amylopectin, making it more rigid than starch.
D Starch has amylose and amylopectin that make it more rigid than cellulose.
Solution
65
The solution is (B). Starch is made up of glucose monomers that are joined by  - 1-4
or  - 1-6 glycosidic bonds. Cellulose is made up of glucose monomers that are
linked by  - 1-4 glycosidic bonds.
Complex polymers are built from combinations of smaller monomers. What type of
reaction is illustrated in the figure, and what is the product of the reaction?
A A synthesis reaction producing glucose
B A hydrolysis reaction producing fructose
C A condensation reaction producing lactose
D A dehydration reaction producing water
Solution
The solution is (D). Two six-carbon rings with hydroxyl groups are shown. The
hydroxyl group on one is highlighted red, and the hydrogen of a hydroxyl group of
the other is highlighted red. An arrow points to two five carbon rings connected by
an oxygen. The molecule is sucrose and is formed by the condensation of glucose
and fructose.
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The fatty acids of triglycerides are classified as saturated, unsaturated, or trans fat. What
about the structure of these compounds gives them their physical characteristics?
A Saturated fats and trans fats contain the greatest possible number of hydrogen atoms,
while unsaturated fats do not.
B Saturated and unsaturated fats have stable configurations, while trans fats are
transient.
C Unsaturated fats and trans fats have some double-bonded carbon atoms, while
saturated fats do not.
D Unsaturated and trans fats are the same; fatty acids are only found on opposite sides
of a trans fat.
Solution
67
The solution is (C). Unsaturated fats and trans fats have some double-bonded carbon
atoms, while saturated fats do not.
Carbohydrates serve various functions in different animals. Arthropods, like insects,
crustaceans, and others, have an outer layer, called the exoskeleton, which protects their
internal body parts. This exoskeleton is made mostly of chitin. Chitin is also a major
component of the cell walls of fungi, the kingdom that includes molds and mushrooms.
Chitin is a polysaccharide.
What is the major difference between chitin and other types of polysaccharides?
A Chitin is a nitrogen-containing polysaccharide, with repeating units of N-acetyl-  -Dglucosamine, a modified sugar.
B Chitin is similar to amylase, but with sulfur linkages between the monomers.
C Chitin is similar to inulin, a polysaccharide with fructose plus additional glucose
monomers.
D Chitin contains phosphate groups that give it a stiffness not found in other
polysaccharides.
Solution
68
The solution is (A). Chitin is a nitrogen-containing polysaccharide, with repeating
units of N-acetyl-  -D-glucosamine, a modified sugar.
Which categories of amino acids would you expect to find on the surface of a soluble
protein, and which would you expect to find in the interior?
A Nonpolar and charged amino acids will be present on the surface and polar in the
interior of the membrane, whereas nonpolar will be found in the membraneembedded proteins.
B Nonpolar and uncharged proteins will be found on the surface with nonpolar in the
interior, while only nonpolar will be found in the embedded proteins.
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C Polar and charged amino acids will be found on the surface, whereas nonpolar will be
found in the interior.
D Polar and charged amino acids will be found on the surface of a membrane protein,
whereas nonpolar will be found in the interior. The membrane protein will be polar
and hydrophobic.
Solution
69
The solution is (C). Polar amino acids—such as proline, asparagine, and glutamine—
would be found at the surface of a soluble protein, while nonpolar amino acids—
such as leucine, methionine, and glycine—would be oriented toward the interior.
You have been identifying the sequence of a segment of a protein. The sequence to date
is: leucine-methionine-tyrosine-alanine-glutamine-lysine-glutamate. You insert arginine
between the leucine and methionine.
What effect would this insertion have on the segment?
A Arginine is a negatively charged amino acid and could attach to the glutamate at the
end of the segment.
B Inserting arginine places a positively charged amino acid in a portion that is nonpolar,
creating the possibility of a hydrogen bond in this area.
C There would be no effect other than an additional amino acid.
D The arginine could attach to the lysine and bend the protein chain at this point.
Solution
70
The solution is (B). Inserting arginine places a positively charged amino acid in a
portion that is nonpolar, creating the possibility of a hydrogen bond in this area.
What happens if even one amino acid is substituted for another in a polypeptide? Provide
a specific example.
A The change will definitely not be sufficient to have any effect on the function and
structure of the protein.
B The amino acid may not show any significant effect on the protein structure and
function, or it may have a significant effect, as in the case of hemoglobin in individuals
with sickle cell trait.
C These changes would increase the possibility of having extra bends and loops in the
proteins, as seen in Leber congenital disease.
D These changes would modify the structures of proteins, making them nonfunctional.
Solution
The solution is (B). There are two possibilities when one amino acid is substituted
for another: there may be no effect on the protein if the amino acid’s position was
not critical to the tertiary structure of the protein, or it may cause an extra bond
to be made or not made that would significantly alter the functional structure. A
classic example of a single amino acid change that significantly modifies the function
of a protein is in the case of sickle cell hemoglobin in which a valine replaces a
glutamic acid.
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71
HIV is an RNA virus that affects CD4 cells, also known as T helper cells, in the human body.
Which mechanism is most likely responsible for the fast rate at which HIV can spread?
A Recombination
B Mutation
C Reassortment
D Replication errors
Solution
72
The solution is (B). The high rate of mutations allows HIV to develop resistance to
antiviral drugs. Furthermore, as the virus mutates, it is not recognized any longer by
existing antibodies and is not tagged for destruction.
For many years, scientist believed that proteins were the source of heritable information.
There are many thousands of different proteins in a cell, and they mediate the cell’s
metabolism, producing the traits and characteristics of a species. Researchers working
with DNA viruses proved that it is DNA that stores and passes on genes. They worked with
viruses that have an outer coat of protein and a DNA strand inside.
How did scientists prove that it was DNA, not protein, that is the primary source of
heritable information?
A The DNA and protein of the virus were tagged with different isotopes and exposed to
the host cell whereas only the DNA was transferred to the host.
B The DNA was tagged with an isotope, which was retained in the virus, proving it to be
the genetic material.
C The viral protein was tagged with an isotope, and the host cell was infected by it. This
protein was transferred to the host.
D The viral DNA, when sequenced, was found to be present in the host cell, proving it to
be the hereditary material instead of protein.
Solution
The solution is (A). Researchers tagged the DNA and protein coat of the virus with
different isotopes. Then, they exposed host cells to the virus and determined the
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47
tagged proteins did not enter the cell, but the tagged viral DNA did. The virus was
replicated in the host cells, showing that the DNA was responsible for the passing of
genetic information.
73
The genetic code is based on each amino acid being coded for by a distinctive series of
three nucleic acid bases called a codon. The following is a short segment of DNA, using the
slash symbol ( / ) to separate the codons for easy viewing:
ATC/GTT/GAA/CTG/TAG/GAT/AAA
A change has occurred in the segment resulting in the following:
ATC/GTT/GTA/CTG/TAG/GAT/AAA
What kind of change has occurred?
A A substitution of T for A, resulting in a coding change for the third codon
B An addition of C for G, lengthening the strand and changing every codon past the
addition
C A deletion of an A, resulting in a shortening and changing every codon past the
deletion
D No change has occurred; the same base was replaced with the same base.
Solution
74
The solution is (A). In the third codon, A has been substituted by T, which may or
may not change the amino acid.
A change in DNA on a chromosome affects all proteins made from that gene for the life of
the cell. A change in the RNA involved in protein production is short lived.
What is the difference between the effects of the changes in the two types of nucleic
acids?
A DNA is the genetic material that is passed from parent cells to daughter cells and to
future generations.
B DNA would not affect the individuals as the proteins made are finally altered and
modified. RNA would cause harm to the person as the RNA encoded by the DNA and is
not altered.
C DNA is the genetic material and is transferred from one generation to another, making
use of repair mechanisms for every mutation. The RNA does not use a repair
mechanism.
D DNA, when mutated, makes use of the repair mechanisms and can be repaired,
whereas RNA is not repaired and is transferred in generations.
Solution
The solution is (A). The DNA in the chromosome will last the life of the cell, and
possibly beyond, as shown in the DNA harvested from archeological research. Any
protein made from the information on the chromosome will reflect the change in
DNA. The effect is permanent and will possibly cause the expression of a genetic
disease. If the change happened in a gamete, the change may be transmitted to an
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3 | Biological Macromolecules
offspring. Any change in the type of RNA lasts only as long as that strand of RNA is
intact. All RNA is eventually degraded and replaced with new strands, depending on
the needs of the cell. Any change in the RNA will only have an effect until it
disappears with the degradation of that RNA. RNA changes alone are not
permanent.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
3.1 Synthesis of Biological Macromolecules
75
The capture of radiant energy through the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into
carbohydrates is the engine that drives life on Earth. Ribose, C5H10O5, and hexose,
C6H12O6, form stable 5- and 6-carbon rings.
The numbering of the carbons on these rings is important in organizing the description
of the role these molecules play in biological energy transfer and information storage
and retrieval. Glycolysis is a sequence of chemical reactions that converts glucose to two
3-carbon compounds called pyruvic acid.
A. Create visual representations to show how when bonds in the glucose molecules are
broken between carbon number 1 and the oxygen atom and between carbons 3 and 4,
two molecules of pyruvic acid are produced.
Several enzymes in the cell are involved in converting glucose to pyruvic acid. These
enzymes are proteins whose amino acid sequences provide these functions. This protein
structure is information that was inherited from the cell’s parent and is stored in
deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). The “deoxyribo” component of that name is a shorthand for
2-deoxyribose.
B. Create a visual representation of 2-deoxyribose, 5-phosphate by replacing the OH at
carbon 2 with a hydrogen atom and replacing the OH at carbon 5 with a hydrogen
phosphate ion, HPO32– , whose structure is shown in problem AP3.2. Use your
representation to show that both phosphorylation (the addition of a phosphate ion) at
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49
carbon 5 and removal of the hydroxide at carbon 2 produce water molecules in an
aqueous solution where hydrogen ions are abundant.
DNA is a polymer formed from a chain with repeated 2-deoxyribose, 5-phosphate
molecules.
C. Create a visual representation of three 2-deoxyribose, 5-phosphate molecules forming
a chain in which an oxygen atom in the phosphate that is attached to the 5-carbon
replaces the OH on the 3-carbon of the next ribose sugar.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Drawing should show that by breaking the molecule of glucose between carbon 1
and the oxygen atom and between carbons 3 and 4 two molecules of 3 carbon
atoms are produced: one molecule will contain carbons 1, 2, and 3. The second
molecule will contain carbons 4, 5, and 6. Hydrogen atoms are lost in oxidation
reactions.
B. A molecule of deoxyribose phosphate is shown.
When this molecule forms, an OH group is lost from position two and position five.
Each OH group can react with a hydrogen ion to form water.
C.
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3.2 Carbohydrates
76
Cells are bounded by membranes composed of phospholipids. A phospholipid consists of
a pair of fatty acids that may or may not have carbon-carbon double bonds, fused at the
carboxylic acid with a three-carbon glycerol that is terminated by a phosphate, as shown
in the figure below. Most cell membranes comprise two phospholipid layers with the
hydrophilic phosphate ends of each molecule in the outer and inner surfaces. The
hydrophobic chains of carbon atoms extend into the space between these two surfaces.
The exchange of matter between the interior of the cell and the environment is mediated
by this membrane with selective permeability.
A. Pose questions that identify

The important characteristics of this lipid bilayer structure

The molecules that must be acquired from the environment and eliminated from
the cell

Relationships between the structures of these molecules and the structure of the
bilayer
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Because the plasma cell membrane has both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties, few
types of molecules possess structures that allow them to pass between the interior of the
cell and the environment through passive diffusion. The fluidity of the membrane affects
passive transport, and the incorporation of other molecules in the membrane, in
particular cholesterols, has a strong effect on its fluidity. Fluidity is also affected by
temperature.
Measurements of the speed of movement of oxygen molecules, O2, through three types
of membranes were made (Widomska et al., Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, 1,768, 2007)
and compared to the speed of movement of O2 through water. These measurements
were carried out at four different temperatures. One type of membrane was obtained
from the cells in the eyeball of a calf (lens lipid). Synthetic membranes composed of
palmitic acid with cholesterol (POPC/CHOL) and without cholesterol (POPC) were also
used. The results from these experiments are shown in the table.
Material
15 °C
25 °C
35 °C
45 °C
Lens lipids
15 cm/s
30 cm/
65 cm/s
110 cm/s
POPC/CHOL
15 cm/s
30 cm/s
65 cm/s
110 cm/s
POPC
55 cm/s
100 cm/s 155 cm/s 280 cm/s
Water
45 cm/s
55 cm/s 65 cm/s 75 cm/s
B. Represent these data graphically. The axes should be labeled, and different symbols
should be used to plot data for each material.
C. Analyze the data by comparing transport of oxygen through the biological membrane,
water, and the synthetic membranes. Consider both membrane composition and
temperature in your analysis.
The plasma membrane separates the interior and the exterior of the cell. A potential to do
work is established by defining regions inside and outside the cell with different
concentrations of key molecules and net charges. In addition to the membrane defining
the cell boundary, eukaryotic cells have internal membranes.
D. Explain how internal membranes significantly increase the functional capacity of the
cells of eukaryotes relative to those of prokaryotes.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Phospholipids orient themselves in solution forming a bilayer that allows stable
interaction with the polar inside and outside of the cell while separating the two
environments.
Nutrients must be acquired from the environment and waste must be eliminated.
Ions must move across the membrane to maintain homeostasis. Certain gases, such
as oxygen and carbon dioxide, must also enter or leave the cell. Gases and can cross
freely the membrane. The membrane is also permeable to small hydrophobic
molecules, but is impermeable to ions and polar molecules. However, small polar
molecules can enter or leave the cell through transporters. Ions can enter or leave
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3 | Biological Macromolecules
through channels. Large polar molecules can be packaged into lipid vesicles that fuse
with the membrane, allowing the molecules to move across.
B. By convention, the independent variable is plotted on the x-axis and the
dependent is plotted on the y-axis. In this graph, temperature is the independent
variable and rate of diffusion is the dependent variable. Each medium should be
represented by a separate line. The graph should have a title, the axes should be
labeled and show units. A legend showing the symbol for each medium should be
included.
C. The speeds and slopes for the plots representing the lens membrane and
POPC/CHOL are similar. The speed of diffusion of oxygen in water is the least
affected by change in temperature as should be expected. Both the speed of
diffusion in and the slope are greater in POPC.
D. The increase in membrane surface increases the potential to do work by allowing
different types of concentration gradients to be established inside the same cell.
3.3 Lipids
77
Proteins are polymers whose subcomponents are amino acids connected by peptide
bonds. The carboxylic acid carbon, O=C–OH , of one amino acid can form a bond with the
amine, NH2 , of another amino acid. In the formation of this peptide bond, the amine
replaces the OH to form O=C–NH2 . The other product of this reaction is water, H2O .
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Amino acids can be synthesized in the laboratory from simpler molecules of ammonia
(NH3), water (H2O), methane (CH4), and hydrogen (H2) if energy is provided by processes
that simulate lightning strikes or volcanic eruptions (Miller, Science, 117, 1953; Johnson et
al., Science, 322, 2008).
A. The synthesis of amino acids in solutions under laboratory conditions consistent with
early Earth was a step toward an explanation of how life began. Pose a question that
should have been asked but was not until 2014 (Parker et al., Angewandte Chemie, 53,
2014), when these solutions that had been stored in a refrigerator were analyzed.
The diversity and complexity of life begins in the variety of sequences of the 20 common
amino acids.
B. Apply mathematical reasoning to explain the source of biocomplexity by calculating the
possible variations in a polymer composed of just three amino acids.
Polarity in a bond between atoms occurs when electrons are distributed unequally.
Polarity in a molecule also is caused by charge asymmetry. Life on Earth has evolved
within a framework of water, H2O, one of the most polar molecules. The polarities of the
amino acids that compose a protein determine the properties of the polymer.
The electric polarity of an amino acid in an aqueous solution depends on the pH of the
solution. Here are three forms of the general structure of an amino acid.
C. Qualitatively predict the relationship between solution pH and the form of the amino
acid for three solutions of pH: pH < 7, pH = 7, and pH > 7.
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The properties of proteins are determined by interactions among the amino acids in the
peptide-bonded chain. The protein subcomponents, especially amino R (variable) groups,
can interact with very strong charge-charge forces, with attractive forces between groups
of atoms with opposite polarities and with repulsive forces between groups of atoms
with the same or no polarity. Attractive polar forces often arise between molecules
through interactions between oxygen and hydrogen atoms or between nitrogen and
hydrogen atoms.
D. Consider particular orientations of pairs of three different amino acids. Predict the
relative strength of attractive interaction of all pairs; rank them and provide your
reasoning.
In an amino acid, the atoms attached to the  -carbon are called the R group.
Interactions between R groups of a polypeptide give three-dimensional structure to the
one-dimensional, linear sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide.
E. Construct an explanation for the effect of R-group interactions on the properties of a
polymer with drawings showing molecular orientations with stronger and weaker polar
forces between R groups on asparagine and threonine and between asparagine and
alanine.
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Solution
55
Sample answer:
A. Can amino acids form in the absence of volcanic eruptions and lightning (rare
events) if common inorganic molecules can act as catalysts and facilitate synthesis of
amino acids from ammonia, methane, water, and hydrogen?
B. The number of possible variations if of the 20 possible amino acids form a peptide
is 20  20  20  8,000 because each amino acid added independently from the pool
of 20 amino acids.
C. At acidic pH when pH < 7, excess H+ ions will bind to amino acids. The prevalent
form will be the structure on the right with an ionized carboxyl group and NH2
bound to the alpha carbon.
At neutral pH, pH=7, the center structure which is electrically neutral is prevalent.
At basic pH, pH > 7, the structure on the left, with a positively charged amine group
NH3  and a carboxyl group, is prevalent.
D. From the strongest to the weakest interactions:
Threonine has a carboxyl group facing an amine on asparagine. Positive and negative
charges form an ionic bond.
Serine and threonine will attract because of hydrogen bonding between the
hydrogen in the hydroxyl group of threonine and the oxygen in the carbonyl group
of serine.
Last the serine and asparagine will attract each other as they are both polar
molecules.
E. The amide R group of asparagine will interact more strongly with the hydroxyl of
threonine because both R groups are polar.
Alanine which has a hydrophobic R group–CH2 will not interact strongly with either
asparagine or alanine side chains.
The asparagine amide group will form hydrogen bonding with the carboxyl group on
the alpha carbon of either threonine or asparagine.
3.4 Proteins
78
The nucleobase part of deoxyribonucleic acid encodes information in each component in
the sequence making up the polymer. There are five nucleobases that are commonly
represented by only a single letter: A (adenine), C (cytosine), G (guanine), T (thymine), and
U (uracil). These molecules form a bond with the 1-carbon of deoxyribose. In this
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3 | Biological Macromolecules
problem, we need to look at the molecules in slightly more detail so that you can develop
the ability to explain why DNA, and sometimes RNA, is the primary source of heritable
information.
Edwin Chargaff and his team isolated nucleobases from salmon sperm and determined
the fraction of each (Chargaff et al., Journal of Biological Chemistry, 192, 1951).
Experiments in which the fraction of all four nucleobases was determined are shown. Also
shown are averages of two standard deviations and the sum of total fractions for each
experiment. Precision is calculated with each average.
Shown below are the chemical structures of these four nucleobases. In these structures,
the nitrogen that attaches to the 2-deoxyribose, 5-phosphate polymer is indicated as N*.
The partial charges of particular atoms are indicated with δ+ and δ−.
A. Analyze Chargaff’s data in terms of the partial charges on these molecules to show
how molecular interactions affect the function of these molecules in the storage and
retrieval of biological information.
Experiment
Adenine
Guanine
Cytosine
Thymine
Total
5
0.28
0.20
0.21
0.27
0.96
6
0.30
0.22
0.20
0.29
1.01
7
0.27
0.18
0.19
0.25
0.89
8
0.28
0.21
0.20
0.27
0.94
11
0.29
0.18
0.20
0.27
0.94
12
0.28
0.21
0.19
0.26
0.94
13
0.30
0.21
0.20
0.30
1.01
Average
0.29 ± 0.02 0.20 ± 0.03
0.20 ± 0.01
0.27 ± 0.02
0.96 ± 0.08
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The interactions between nucleobase molecules are strong enough to produce the
association of pairs observed in Chargaff’s data. However, these pairs are bonded by
much weaker hydrogen bonds, which are chemical bonds within the molecules.
Demonstrating understanding of the replication of DNA requires the ability to explain how
the two polymer strands of the double helix interact and grow. To retrieve information
from DNA, the strands must be separated. The proteins that perform that task interact
with the polymer without forming new chemical bonds. In their paper (Watson and Crick,
Nature, 3, 1953) announcing the structure of the polymer considered in this problem,
Watson and Crick stated, “It has not escaped our notice that the specific pairing we have
postulated immediately suggests a possible copying mechanism for the genetic material.”
Eschenmoser and Lowenthal (Chemical Society Reviews, 21, 1992) asked why the 5-carbon
sugar ribose is used in DNA when the 6-carbon sugar glucose is so common in biological
systems. To answer the question, they synthesized polymeric chains of artificial DNA using
glucose. They discovered that the strength of the interaction between pairs of
nucleobases increased in the DNA with glucose. Paired strands of hexose-based polymers
were more stable.
The AP Biology Curriculum Framework (College Board, 2012) states, “The double-stranded
structure of DNA provides a simple and elegant solution for the transmission of heritable
information to the next generation; by using each strand as a template, existing
information can be preserved and duplicated with high fidelity within the replication
process. However, the process of replication is imperfect.”
B. Based on the findings of Eschenmoser and Lowenthal, why didn’t DNA evolve to use
glucose rather than hexose? What does this have to do with the idea that “replication is
imperfect” in DNA? Thoroughly explain your answers.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Adenine and thymine are present in a similar percentage. Cytosine and guanine
are also present in a similar percentage. The results are reproducible within small
error margins. The molecular interactions between the single two pairs are stabilized
by opposite partial charges.
B. The interactions between the nitrogenous bases should be weak enough for the
two strands of DNA to separate during replication and transcription and specific
enough that adenine pairs only with thymine and cytosine with guanine. More
stable interactions would require too much energy to open the double helix. Weaker
interactions also mean that mismatches between nitrogenous bases are possible,
making replication an imperfect process that may lead to mutations if errors are not
repaired.
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4 | Cell Structure
4 | CELL STRUCTURE
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
When viewing a specimen through a light microscope, what is a method that scientists
use to make it easier to see individual components of cells?
A A beam of electrons
B High temperatures
C Radioactive isotopes
D Special stains
Solution
2
The solution is (D). Special stains are used to enhance visualization of the cell or
certain cellular components under a microscope. Cells may also be stained to
highlight metabolic processes or to differentiate between live and dead cells in
a sample.
What is the basic unit of life?
A Cell
B Organism
C Organ
D Tissue
Solution
3
The solution is (A). The cell is the basic unit of life. All organisms consist of one or
more cells.
Which statement is part of the cell theory?
A All living organisms are made of cells.
B All cells contain DNA that they pass on to daughter cells.
C All cells depend on their surroundings to provide energy.
D All cells have a nucleus.
Solution
4
The solution is (A). The cell theory given by Schleiden and Schwann states the cell is
the basic unit of life and all the living cells are composed of cells. The third tenet of
the cell theory is that every cell originates from another cell. There is no
spontaneous generation.
What could most effectively be visualized with a scanning electron microscope?
A Cells swimming in a drop of pond water
B Details of structures inside cells
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C A three-dimensional view of the surface of a membrane
D The movement of molecules inside the cell
Solution
5
The solution is (C). The SEM uses the electron beam to view the surface of a dried
and fixed specimen. The molecules in the specimen get excited and release
secondary electrons, which are captured by a detector.
Who was the first to clearly identify and name individual cells?
A Anton van Leeuwenhoek
B Matthias Schleiden
C Robert Hooke
D Theodor Schwann
Solution
6
The solution is (C). Robert Hooke coined the term cell when he was viewing cork
tissue through a lens and saw some box-like structures.
Which observation contributed to the cell theory?
A Animal and plant cells have nuclei and organelles.
B Nonliving material cannot give rise to living organisms.
C Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells are surrounded by a plasma membrane.
D Viruses replicate.
Solution
7
The solution is (B). The theory states cells reproduce and give rise to other cells,
which implies nonliving materials cannot give rise to living organisms; that means
that there is no spontaneous generation.
To obtain some materials and remove waste, what process is used by prokaryotes?
A Cell division
B Diffusion
C Flagellar motion
D Ribosomes
Solution
8
The solution is (B). The changes in the concentration help the movement of the
particles and waste across the plasma membrane. This process is known as diffusion,
where molecules move from high to low concentration.
When bacteria lack fimbriae, what are they less likely to do?
A Adhere to cell surfaces
B Retain the ability to divide
C Swim through bodily fluids
D Synthesize proteins
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Solution
9
The solution is (A). Fimbriae, the “attachment pili,” are used by bacteria to adhere to
one another or to surfaces. They can contribute to motility by causing twitching.
What is a difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
A Both cells have a nucleus, but prokaryotic cells lack cytoplasm.
B Both cells have cytoplasm, but prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus.
C Both cells have DNA, but prokaryotic cells lack a cell membrane.
D Both cells have a cell membrane, but prokaryotic cells lack DNA.
Solution
10
The solution is (B). Prokaryotic cells lack a well-defined nucleus where DNA is
surrounded by a nuclear membrane. Instead, DNA is folded into a compact structure
called the nucleoid.
Eukaryotic cells contain complex organelles that carry out their chemical reactions.
Prokaryotes lack many of these complex organelles, although they have a variety of
unique structures of their own. However, most prokaryotic cells can exchange nutrients
with the outside environment faster than most eukaryotic cells. Why is this so?
A Most prokaryotic cells are smaller and have a higher surface-to-volume ratio than
eukaryotic cells.
B Most prokaryotic cells are larger and have a higher surface-to-volume ratio than
eukaryotic cells.
C Most prokaryotic cells are smaller and have a lower surface-to-volume ratio than
eukaryotic cells.
D Prokaryotic cells are larger and have a lower surface-to-volume ratio than
eukaryotic cells.
Solution
11
The solution is (A). Due to their small size (0.1 to 5 µm in diameter), ions and organic
molecules that enter prokaryotic cells can quickly diffuse to other parts of the cell.
Likewise, waste products produced within a prokaryotic cell can also quickly diffuse
out. By contrast, eukaryotic cells have developed different structural adaptations to
enhance intracellular transport.
What is surrounded by one phospholipid bilayer?
A Lysosomes
B Ribosomes
C Nucleolus
D Nucleus
Solution
The solution is (D). The nucleus is surrounded by a single phospholipid bilayer, the
nuclear membrane. Protein-lined channels called nuclear pores allow traffic of
molecules such as RNA through the nuclear membrane.
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61
Peroxisomes got their name because hydrogen peroxide is —
A a cofactor for the organelles’ enzymes
B incorporated into their membranes
C produced during their oxidation reactions
D used in their detoxification reactions
Solution
13
The solution is (C). Certain enzymes found in peroxisomes use molecular oxygen to
remove hydrogen from specific organic substrates, producing hydrogen peroxide.
Because of the production of hydrogen peroxide, the organelle has been named
peroxisome.
In plant cells, what carries out the function of the lysosomes?
A Nuclei
B Peroxisomes
C Ribosomes
D Vacuole
Solution
14
The solution is (D). The vacuole plays a role similar to lysosomes and fulfills many
functions. It contains digestive enzymes, isolates harmful materials, stores waste
products and secondary compounds such as pigments in petals, latex, and alkaloids
that deter predators. It helps maintain the pressure within a cell by changing its
content of water, contributes to the balance of pH, exports products, and stores
proteins for seed germination.
What is found in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?
A Mitochondrion
B Nucleus
C Ribosomes
D Centrosomes
Solution
15
The solution is (C). Prokaryotes and eukaryotes both require proteins for their
survival; thus, both contain ribosomes, the protein-synthesizing machinery found in
both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
Which structure is NOT found in prokaryotic cells?
A Plasma membrane
B Chloroplast
C Nucleoid
D Ribosome
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Solution
16
The solution is (B). Chloroplasts and other organelles are found only in the
eukaryotic cells. Chloroplasts and mitochondria originated in engulfed bacteria that
were not digested by the host; they lost their autonomy and became symbionts.
Where would you find DNA, the genetic material, in an animal cell?
A In the centriole
B Only in the mitochondria
C In the mitochondria and the nucleus
Solution
17
The solution is (C). DNA is present in the nucleus as well as mitochondrion.
Mitochondria contain their own DNA and ribosomes. Most DNA is located in the
nucleus.
What is most likely to have the greatest concentration of smooth endoplasmic
reticulum (SER)?
A A cell that secretes enzymes
B A cell that destroys pathogens
C A cell that makes steroid hormones
D A cell that engages in photosynthesis
Solution
18
The solution is (C). Steroid-secreting cells are characterized by abundant SER. For
example, cells in the gonads and the adrenal gland have an extensive network of SER
because they synthesize cholesterol as a precursor for steroid hormones or take up
this substrate from plasma lipoproteins. Many of the enzymes for sterol and steroid
synthesis are localized in the SER.
Which sequence correctly lists in order the steps involved in the incorporation of a protein
within a cell membrane?
A Synthesis of the protein on the ribosome; modification in the Golgi apparatus;
packaging in the endoplasmic reticulum; modification in the vesicle
B Synthesis of the protein on the lysosome; modification in the Golgi; packaging in the
vesicle; distribution in the endoplasmic reticulum
C Synthesis of the protein on the ribosome; modification in the endoplasmic reticulum;
tagging in the Golgi; distribution via the vesicle
D Synthesis of the protein on the lysosome; packaging in the vesicle; distribution via the
Golgi; modification in the endoplasmic reticulum
Solution
The solution is (C). The protein is synthesized by ribosomes and modified by the
endoplasmic reticulum. The sorting, tagging, packaging, and distribution of lipids and
proteins takes place in the Golgi apparatus, which is then distributed by vesicles.
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63
What is NOT a component of the endomembrane system?
A Endoplasmic reticulum
B Golgi apparatus
C Lysosome
D Mitochondrion
Solution
20
The solution is (D). The endomembrane system does not include the membranes of
mitochondria or chloroplasts because these organelles have separate DNA. These
were actually engulfed bacteria that evolved into symbionts.
What has the ability to disassemble and reform quickly?
A Intermediate filaments and microtubules
B Microfilaments and intermediate filaments
C Microfilaments and microtubules
D Only intermediate filaments
Solution
21
The solution is (C). Microfilaments, such as actin, and microtubules found in
flagellum have the capacity to polarize and depolarize quickly to perform their
functions.
What does NOT play a role in intracellular movement?
A Intermediate filaments and microtubules
B Microfilaments and intermediate filaments
C Microfilaments and microtubules
D Only intermediate filaments
Solution
22
The solution is (D). Recall that intermediate filaments provide the cell its shape and
help in fastening organelles in place.
Which components of the cytoskeleton are responsible for the contraction of muscles?
A Intermediate filaments
B Microfilaments
C Microtubules
Solution
The solution is (B). Microfilaments are made up of actin filaments, which serve as a
track for movement of a motor protein called myosin. When actin and myosin slide
past each other, the muscles contract.
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4 | Cell Structure
What type of junctions prevents the movement of chemicals between two adjacent
animal cells?
A Desmosomes
B Gap junctions
C Plasmodesmata
D Tight junctions
Solution
24
The solution is (D). Tight junctions composed of occludins and claudins are essential
for forming an impermeable barrier to fluids. They are typically found in cells of the
epithelial tissues that line exposed internal and external surfaces in animal bodies.
For example, cells in the intestinal mucosa are joined by tight junctions to prevent
leakage of intestinal content directly into the underlying tissues.
Gap junctions are formed by —
A gaps in the cell wall of plants
B protein complexes that form channels between cells
C tight, rivet-like regions in the membranes of adjacent cells
D a tight knitting of membranes
Solution
25
The solution is (B). Gap junctions are made of protein complexes that make way for
the movement of the substances across the cells. For example, cardiac muscle cells
are connected by gap junctions that allow rapid transfer of the electric signal for
synchronized muscle contraction.
Some animal cells produce an extensive extracellular matrix. You would expect their
ribosomes to synthesize large amounts of which proteins?
A Actin
B Collagen
C Myosin
D Tubulin
Solution
26
The solution is (B). Collagen is interwoven with proteoglycans, and collectively these
molecules form the extracellular matrix. Actin, myosin, and tubulin are found inside
the cells and are part of the cytoskeleton.
Which molecule is typically found in the extracellular matrix?
A Nucleic acids such as DNA
B Peptidoglycans
C Cellulose
D Proteoglycans
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Solution
65
The solution is (D). Proteoglycans are a major component of the extracellular matrix.
Nucleic acids are found inside the cell, and cellulose forms the cell wall of plant cells.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
27
Which element of the cell theory has practical applications in health care because it
promotes the use of sterilization and disinfection?
A All cells come from preexisting cells.
B All living organisms are composed of one or more cells.
C A cell is the basic unit of life.
D A nucleus and organelles are found in prokaryotic cells.
Solution
28
The solution is (A). All cells come from preexisting cells. If all microorganisms are
removed or killed, then the environment, medical devices, or other items are sterile
or, at least, have fewer potential pathogens.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of light microscopes? What are the
advantages and disadvantages of electron microscopes?
A Advantage: In light microscopes, the light beam does not kill the cell. Electron
microscopes are helpful in viewing intricate details of a specimen and have high
resolution. Disadvantage: Light microscopes have low resolving power. Electron
microscopes are costly and require killing the specimen.
B Advantage: Light microscopes have high resolution. Electron microscopes are helpful
in viewing surface details of a specimen. Disadvantage: Light microscopes kill the cell.
Electron microscopes are costly and low resolution.
C Advantage: Light microscopes have high resolution. Electron microscopes are helpful
in viewing surface details of a specimen. Disadvantage: Light microscopes can be used
only in the presence of light and are costly. Electron microscopes use a short
wavelength of electrons and hence have lower magnification.
D Advantage: Light microscopes have high magnification. Electron microscopes are
helpful in viewing surface details of a specimen. Disadvantage: Light microscopes can
be used only in the presence of light and have lower resolution. Electron microscopes
can be used only for viewing ultra-thin specimens.
Solution
The solution is (A). The advantages of light microscopes are that they are easily
obtained, and the light beam does not kill the cells. However, typical light
microscopes are somewhat limited in the amount of detail they can reveal. Electron
microscopes are ideal because you can view intricate details; however, they are
bulky, costly, and preparation for the microscopic examination kills the specimen.
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Mitochondria are observed in plant cells that contain chloroplasts. Why do you find
mitochondria in photosynthetic tissue?
A Mitochondria are not needed but are an evolutionary relic.
B Mitochondria and chloroplasts work together to use light energy to make sugars.
C Mitochondria participate in the Calvin cycle/light-independent reactions of
photosynthesis.
D Mitochondria are required to break down sugars and other materials for energy.
Solution
30
The solution is (D). The cell needs energy constantly. When light is available, the cell
can produce energy directly from photosynthesis; but, in the dark, it generates
energy as ATP mainly through respiration, which involves the activity of
mitochondria.
In what situation(s) would the use of a light microscope be ideal? Why?
A A light microscope is used to view the details of the surface of a cell, as it cannot be
viewed in detail by the transmission microscope.
B A light microscope allows visualization of small cells that have been stained.
C A standard light microscope is used to view living organisms with little contrast to
distinguish them from the background, which would be harder to see with the
electron microscope.
D A light microscope reveals the internal structures of a cell, which cannot be viewed by
transmission electron microscopy.
Solution
31
The solution is (B). Light microscopes are advantageous for viewing living organisms,
but since individual cells are generally transparent, their components are not
distinguishable unless they are colored with special stains. Staining, however, usually
kills the cells.
The major role of the cell wall in bacteria is protecting the cell against changes in osmotic
pressure, pressure caused by different solute concentrations in the environment.
Bacterial cells swell but do not burst in low solute concentrations.
What happens to bacterial cells if a compound that interferes with the synthesis of the
cell wall is added to an environment with low solute concentrations?
A Bacterial cells will shrink due to the lack of cell wall material.
B Bacterial cells will shrink in size.
C Bacterial cells may burst due to the influx of water.
D Bacterial cells remain normal; they have alternative pathways to synthesize cell walls.
Solution
The solution is (C). The cells will burst because of the movement of water inside the
cell because there is no cell wall protection against bursting. Important antibiotics
such as penicillin kill bacteria by interfering with the cell wall synthesis.
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67
There is a lower limit to cell size. What determines how small a cell can be?
A The cell should be large enough to escape detection.
B The cell should be able to accommodate all the structures and metabolic activities
necessary to survival.
C The size of the cell should be large enough to reproduce itself.
D The cell should be large enough to adapt to the changing environmental conditions.
Solution
33
The solution is (B). A cell must be large enough to accommodate all the structures
and metabolic activities that are required to sustain life. A smaller size also facilitates
predation and reduces the ability to bind to surfaces.
Which statement is a possible explanation for the presence of a rigid cell wall in plants?
A Plants remain exposed to changes in temperature and thus require rigid cell walls to
protect themselves.
B Plants are subjected to variations in osmotic pressure, and a cell wall helps them
against bursting or shrinking.
C Plant cells have a rigid cell wall to protect themselves from grazing animals.
D Plant cells have a rigid cell wall to prevent the influx of waste material.
Solution
34
The solution is (B). Plant cells are subject to extreme changes in osmotic pressures.
The rigid cell wall protects tissues against excessive shrinking or bursting of cells.
Bacteria do not have organelles, yet the same reactions that take place on the
mitochondria inner membrane, the phosphorylation of ADP to ATP, and chloroplasts,
photosynthesis, take place in bacteria.
Where do these reactions take place?
A These reactions take place in the nucleoid of the bacteria.
B These reactions occur in the cytoplasm present in the bacteria.
C These reactions occur on the plasma membrane of bacteria.
D These reactions take place in the mesosomes.
Solution
The solution is (C). ATP formation and photosynthesis occur on the plasma
membrane. In some photosynthetic bacteria such as the cyanobacteria,
photosynthesis occurs on loose internal membranes.
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What are the structural and functional similarities and differences between mitochondria
and chloroplasts?
A Similarities: double membrane, intermembrane space, ATP production, contain DNA.
Differences: Mitochondria have inner folds called cristae; chloroplast contains
accessory pigments in thylakoids, which form grana and stroma.
B Similarities: DNA, intermembrane space, ATP production, and chlorophyll. Differences:
Mitochondria have a matrix and inner folds called cristae; chloroplast contains
accessory pigments in thylakoids, which form grana and a stroma.
C Similarities: double membrane and ATP production. Differences: Mitochondria have
intermembrane space and inner folds called cristae; chloroplast contains accessory
pigments in thylakoids, which form grana and a stroma.
D Similarities: double membrane and ATP production. Differences: Mitochondria have
intermembrane space, inner folds called cristae, ATP synthase for ATP synthesis, and
DNA; chloroplast contains accessory pigments in thylakoids, which form grana and
a stroma.
Solution
36
The solution is (A). Both are enveloped in a double membrane, have an
intermembrane space, and make ATP. Mitochondria and chloroplasts have DNA, and
mitochondria have inner folds called cristae and a matrix, while chloroplasts have
chlorophyll and accessory pigments in the thylakoids that form stacks (grana) and
a stroma.
Is the nuclear membrane part of the endomembrane system? Why or why not?
A The nuclear membrane is not a part of the endomembrane system, as the
endoplasmic reticulum is a separate organelle of the cell.
B The nuclear membrane is considered a part of the endomembrane system, as it is
continuous with the Golgi body.
C The nuclear membrane is part of the endomembrane system, as it is continuous with
the rough endoplasmic reticulum.
D The nuclear membrane is not considered a part of the endomembrane system, as the
nucleus is a separate organelle.
Solution
37
The solution is (C). Because the external surface of the nuclear membrane is
continuous with the rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is part of the
endomembrane system, it is part of the endomembrane system.
What happens to the proteins that are synthesized on free ribosomes in the cytoplasm?
Do they go through the Golgi apparatus?
A These proteins move through the Golgi apparatus and enter in the nucleus.
B These proteins go through the Golgi apparatus and remain in the cytosol.
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C The proteins do not go through the Golgi apparatus and move into the nucleus for
processing.
D The proteins do not go through the Golgi apparatus and remain free in the cytosol.
Solution
38
The solution is (D). Most of the proteins synthesized on free ribosomes stay in the
cytosol. They do not go through the Golgi apparatus to be tagged for export or
integration in membranes.
What are the similarities and differences between the structures of centrioles and
flagella?
A Centrioles and flagella are made of microtubules but show different arrangements.
B Centrioles are made of microtubules, but flagella are made of microfilaments, and
both show the same arrangement.
C Centrioles and flagella are made of microfilaments. Centrioles have a 9 + 2
arrangement.
D Centrioles are made of microtubules, flagella are made of microfilaments, and both
have different structures.
Solution
39
The solution is (A). Centrioles and flagella are made of microtubules. Centrioles have
two rings of nine microtubule “triplets” arranged at right angles to one another.
Flagella, in turn, show 9 + 2 arrangement.
Inhibitors of microtubule assembly, vinblastine for example, are used for cancer
chemotherapy. How does an inhibitor of microtubule assembly affect cancerous cells?
A The inhibitors restrict the separation of chromosomes by the mitotic spindle.
B The inhibition of microtubules interferes with the synthesis of proteins.
C The inhibitors bind the microtubule to the nuclear membrane.
D The inhibitors interfere with energy production.
Solution
40
The solution is (A). Cancerous cells divide rapidly. By inhibiting microtubules’
movement, cell division stops because the chromosomes cannot be separated by
the centrioles.
How do cilia and flagella differ?
A Cilia are made of microfilaments and flagella of microtubules.
B Cilia are helpful in the process of engulfing food. Flagella are involved in the
movement of the organism.
C Cilia are short and found in large numbers on the cell surface, whereas flagella are
long and fewer in number.
D Cilia are found in prokaryotic cells and flagella in eukaryotic cells.
Solution
The solution is (C). Cilia and flagella are alike in that they are made up of
microtubules. Cilia are short, hair-like structures that exist in large numbers and
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usually cover the entire surface of the plasma membrane. In contrast, flagella are
long, hair-like structures; when flagella are present, a cell has just one or two.
41
In which human tissues would you find desmosomes?
A Bone cells and cartilage cells
B Muscle cells and skin cells
C Nerve cells and muscle cells
D Secretory cells and muscle cells
Solution
42
The solution is (B). Muscle and skin cells undergo most of the mechanical stress, thus
show the presence of desmosomes.
If there is a mutation in the gene for collagen, such as the one involved in Ehlers-Danlos
syndrome, and the individual produces defective collagen, how would it affect
coagulation?
A The syndrome affects the clotting factors and platelet aggregation.
B The syndrome leads to hypercoagulation of blood.
C Coagulation is not affected because collagen is not required for coagulation.
D The syndrome occurs due to the breakdown of platelets.
Solution
43
The solution is (A). The Ehlers-Danlos syndrome affects the connective tissues and
indirectly the coagulation process as well. It manifests in type I to type X, which
show the malfunctioning of different clotting factors and platelet aggregation. This
leads to impaired coagulation, causing patients to bruise and bleed easily. The
research on this disease is ongoing.
How does the structure of a plasmodesma differ from that of a gap junction?
A Gap junctions are essential for transportation in animal cells, and plasmodesmata are
essential for the movement of substances in plant cells.
B Gap junctions are found to provide attachment in animal cells, and plasmodesmata
are essential for the attachment of plant cells.
C Plasmodesmata are essential for communication between animal cells, and gap
junctions are necessary for attachment of cells in plant cells.
D Plasmodesmata help in transportation, and gap junctions help in attachment in
plant cells.
Solution
The solution is (A). A plasmodesma is a channel between the cell walls of two
adjacent plant cells. Plasmodesmata allow materials to pass from the cytoplasm of
one plant cell to the cytoplasm of an adjacent cell. A gap junction is a protein-lined
pore that allows water and small molecules to pass between adjacent animal cells.
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TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
44
Which organism appears first in the fossil record?
A Archaea
B Fish
C Protists
D Plants
Solution
45
The solution is (A). The earliest fossils reported so far are layered structures called
stromatolites from Greenland dating from 3.7 billion years ago and hydrothermal
vent structures from Canada dating from 3.7 to 4.2 billion years ago. Both structures
are of microbial origin.
Why is it challenging to study bacterial fossils and determine if the fossils are members of
the domain Archaea rather than Bacteria?
A Bacteria lack rigid structures and thus do not form fossils.
B Bacteria have rigid structures, but their fossil impression is scarce.
C Fossils of bacteria are rarely found because bacteria were not abundant in the past.
D Fossils of bacteria changes over time due to the presence of new bacteria living
on them.
Solution
46
The solution is (A). Bacteria do not easily form fossils because they lack rigid
structures such as shells or skeletons. It is hard to identify the biochemical features
that differentiate archaea from bacteria in fossils.
Pictured are two cells along with their radius.
What does cell (b) likely have when compared to cell (a)?
A Smaller surface area and larger volume
B Larger surface area and smaller volume
C Smaller surface area-to-volume ratio
D Larger surface area-to-volume ratio
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Solution
47
The solution is (C). Cell (b) will have the lowest ratio and would not exchange
materials as rapidly as cell (a).
Consider the shapes. The diameter of the sphere is equal to 1 mm and the side of the
cube is also equal to 1 mm.
What is the ratio of the surface-to-volume ratios for the sphere and the cube?
A 3:1
B 4:1
C 1:1
D 2:1
Solution
The solution is (C). The surface area-to-volume ratio of circle to square will be the
same. Remember that the diameter (D), not the radius (r), is equal to 1 mm.
Therefore, r  D / 2 .
For the sphere:
area  4 r 2  4  D / 2  mm2   D2 mm2   mm2
2
volume   4 / 3  r 3   4 / 3   D / 2  mm3  4 / 3  D / 2   4 / 3 D3 / 8 mm3  1 / 6 mm3
3
3
area/volume   / 1 / 6 mm1  6 mm1
For the cube:
area  6  s2  6  1  6 mm2
volume  s3  1 mm3
area/volume  6 mm1
48
Consider the shapes. The diameter of the sphere is equal to 1 mm and the side of the
cube is also equal to 1 mm.
What is true regarding the surface-to-volume ratios of the cube and the sphere?
A The sphere will have a higher surface area than the cube.
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B The sphere will have a higher volume than the cube.
C The sphere will have a higher surface area-to-volume ratio than the cube.
D Their surface area-to-volume ratios will be equal.
Solution
The solution is (D). Remember that the diameter (D), not the radius (r), is equal to 1
mm. Therefore, r  D / 2 .
For the sphere:
area  4 r 2  4  D / 2  mm2   D2 mm2   mm2
2
volume   4 / 3  r 3   4 / 3   D / 2  mm3  4 / 3  D / 2   4 / 3 D3 / 8 mm3  1 / 6 mm3
3
3
area/volume   / 1 / 6 mm1  6 mm1
For the cube:
area  6  s2  6  1  6 mm2
volume  s3  1 mm3
area/volume  6 mm1
49
What is the major consideration in setting the lower limit of cell size?
A The cell must be large enough to fight the pathogens.
B The cell must be large enough to attach to a substrate.
C The lower limit should be small enough for the cell to move in the fluid efficiently.
D The cell size must be small as to fit all the processes and structures to support life.
Solution
50
The solution is (D). The cells must be large enough to include all of the necessary
structures and materials, including DNA, ribosomes, enzymes, and other cellular
structures, determining the lower end of the scale. It should be able to support life.
Which structure has the same general structure in the domains Archaea, Bacteria, and
Eukarya, pointing to a common origin?
A Centriole
B Cytoplasmic membrane
C Golgi apparatus
D Nucleus
Solution
The solution is (B). Cytoplasmic membrane is found in all the three domains. The
centriole, Golgi apparatus, and the nucleus are found only in the domain Eukarya.
Archaea and Bacteria are prokaryotes.
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4 | Cell Structure
Why does the structure of the cytoplasmic membrane point to a common ancestor?
A The presence of a cytoplasmic membrane in every organism does not point to a
common ancestry.
B The similar arrangement of phospholipids and proteins points to common ancestry.
C The lipid nature of the membrane makes it the most primitive trait.
D The similar effect of temperature on the membrane makes it the ancestral trait.
Solution
52
The solution is (B). The similar arrangement of macromolecules, phospholipids, and
embedded proteins in the lipid bilayer makes it a primitive trait. Archaea, Bacteria,
and Eukarya display a closely related general architecture of the plasma membrane.
Which organelles would be present in high numbers in the leg muscles of a marathon
runner?
A Centrioles
B Chloroplasts
C Mitochondria
D Peroxisome
Solution
53
The solution is (C). Mitochondria produce the required energy in the form of ATP to
run a marathon. The higher number of mitochondria is needed to sustain a
prolonged activity.
Macrophages ingest and digest many pathogens. Which organelle plays a major role in
the activity of macrophages?
A Chloroplast
B Lysosome
C Nucleus
D Peroxisome
Solution
54
The solution is (B). Lysosomes contain the hydrolytic enzymes that digest the
ingested pathogen. The pathogens are engulfed in a vesicle called a phagosome that
fuses with a lysosome in the cytoplasm forming, a phagolysosome where digestion
takes place. This process is called phagocytosis.
You are looking at a sample under a light microscope and observe a new type of cell. You
come to the conclusion that it is a bacterium and not a eukaryotic cell.
What would you observe to come to this conclusion?
A The cell has a cell wall.
B The cell has a flagellum.
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C The cell does not have a nucleus.
D The cell is small.
Solution
55
The solution is (C). Only a bacterial cell would lack a nucleus. Plant and fungal cells,
and some protists have cell walls. Flagella are found in both prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells. Bacteria are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells, but there are
notable exceptions. The bacterium Thiomargarita namibiensis can be seen with the
naked eye.
Thiomargarita namibiensis is a large single-cell organism, which can reach lengths of
700 μm. The cell is classified as a bacterium.
What is the main argument to justify the classification?
A This organism shows simple diffusion for the uptake of nutrients and is thus classified
as a bacterium.
B This organism does not show presence of any cell organelles and is thus classified as a
bacterium.
C This organism appears pearl-like and exists in long chains and is thus classified as a
bacterium.
D This organism demonstrates characteristics of gram-negative bacteria and is thus
classified as a bacterium.
Solution
56
The solution is (B). Like the other prokaryotes, Thiomargarita namibiensis does not
possess a nucleus or any other organelles thus is classified as a bacterium.
Radioactive amino acids are fed to a cell in culture for a short amount of time. This is
called a pulse. You follow the appearance of radioactive proteins in the cell
compartments.
In which organelles and in what order does radioactivity appear?
A Endoplasmic reticulum - lysosomes - Golgi body - vesicle - extracellular region
B Endoplasmic reticulum - vesicles - Golgi body - vesicles - extracellular region
C Golgi Body - vesicles - endoplasmic reticulum - vesicles - extracellular region
D Nucleus - endoplasmic reticulum - Golgi body - vesicle - extracellular region
Solution
57
The solution is (B). Radioactive proteins will first appear associated with the rough
endoplasmic reticulum where proteins are synthesized on ribosomes; then in
vesicles in transit to the Golgi apparatus; in the Golgi apparatus itself where they are
modified for export; and finally, in vesicles associated with exocytosis.
The extracellular matrix interacts with which cellular structure?
A Cytoskeleton
B Lysosome
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C Nucleus
D Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
Solution
58
The solution is (A). The cytoskeleton, which provides the cell with rigidity and shape,
is made up of microfilaments and intermediate filaments that interact with the
extracellular matrix.
Which structure or structures allow bacteria to move about?
A Fimbriae only
B Flagella only
C Flagella and fimbriae
D Plasmid and capsule
Solution
59
The solution is (C). Flagella, made of flagellin, and fimbriae, made of pilin, are both
involved in the movement of the bacteria in the fluid or on surfaces such as rocks, or
the mucous membranes lining body cavities.
Cells lining the intestine absorb a lot of nutrients. How did those cells adapt to their
function?
A Cells use cilia to move nutrients to their surface.
B Cells grow much larger than adjacent cells to increase intake.
C Cells are flat and thin to absorb more nutrients.
D Membrane folds called microvilli increase the surface area.
Solution
The solution is (D). The microvilli are the cellular membrane protrusions of the
intestinal membrane, which increase the surface area for maximum absorption.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
4.3 Eukaryotic Cells
60
Describe structural and functional similarities between mitochondria and chloroplasts
that provide evidence of common ancestry.
Solution
Both organelles are enclosed by a pair of phospholipid membranes with folds that
define inner and outer regions. Both have their own DNA and ribosomes. These
similarities are unlikely to have arisen independently and therefore provide evidence
of a common ancestor. Core conserved properties include information storage using
DNA, electron transport chains in both respiration and photosynthesis, ATP-based
energy storage, and inner membrane separation, creating potential gradient due to
a proton gradient associated with membrane-bound proteins facilitating active
transport. These similarities are unlikely to have arisen independently and therefore
provide evidence of a common ancestor.
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Explain how the structural and functional differences between mitochondria and
chloroplasts provide evidence of adaptations among common ancestral organisms.
Solution
62
77
In mitochondria, organic compounds and oxygen are converted to carbon dioxide
and water. In the chloroplast, carbon dioxide and water are converted to organic
compounds and oxygen. This provides evidence of a common ancestor from which
these two organelles diverged. Electrochemically, the function of the mitochondria
and chloroplasts are complementary. In the mitochondria, carbon in organic carbon
compounds is oxidized by oxidative phosphorylation to carbon dioxide with the
synthesis of ATP from ADP. This oxidation is coupled to the reduction of molecular
oxygen to the oxygen in water. In the chloroplast, the carbon of carbon dioxide is
reduced in the synthesis of organic carbon molecules while the oxygen in water is
reduced to molecular oxygen. Electrochemically, the structure of the mitochondria
and chloroplasts are complementary. In the chloroplast, in the space contained by
the inner membrane, referred to as the thylakoid lumen, the concentration of
protons is higher than in the space bounded by the outer and inner membranes. The
proton gradient is established by a light-activated sequence of reduction-oxidation
reactions. This proton gradient is coupled to the synthesis of ATP from ADP by the
thylakoid membrane-bound enzyme ATP synthase. In contrast, the mitochondrion in
the space bounded by the inner membrane, the matrix, has a lower concentration of
protons. This concentration gradient is produced by the active transport associated
with a sequence of reduction-oxidation reactions among membrane-bound proteins.
This gradient is coupled to the synthesis of ATP from ADP by the membrane-bound
enzyme ATP synthase. These differences arise through of the interaction of light
with chromophores. The explanation of these complementary structures and
functions is provided by the theory of endosymbiosis, in which both organelles
diverge from a photosynthetic prokaryotic ancestor.
Examine the differences and similarities in the structural features of animal and plant
cells. Justify the claim that both animals and plants have common ancestors based on
your observations.
Solution
Students could enumerate these structural similarities:

Nucleus with nuclear membrane

Smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum

Plasma membrane

Nucleolus

Golgi apparatus

Mitochondria

Peroxisome
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
Cytoskeleton

Vacuole
Students could enumerate these differences:

Chloroplasts

Lysosomes

Plastids

Cell walls
So many similarities in structure lead to the conclusion that it is unreasonable that
all of these structures arose independently, and so there must be a common
ancestor.
63
What conserved core processes are common to both animals and plants? Construct an
explanation of the differences based on the selective advantages provided in different
environments.
Solution
Students could enumerate the following common core processes:

Information storage and retrieval from a nucleus separated by a nuclear
membrane

Free-energy transduction by mitochondria

Coordinated synthetic processes distributed throughout the cell interior

Post-synthesis processing of proteins at the Golgi apparatus

Structural integrity and transport provided by a cytoskeleton

Peroxisome for recycling waste

Plasma membrane regulation of transport and signaling into and out of
the cell
Students could enumerate the following differences in processes:

Photosynthesis within chloroplasts

Cell rigidity provided by a cell wall and a central vacuole
Students’ explanations of the divergence revealed by process differences should
include

Selective advantage in an environment with high-intensity radiation is
provided by specialized chromophores

Selective advantage in an environment with stresses associated with intense
mechanical forces and/or variations in concentrations of water in the
environment is provided by the external mechanical support provided by a
cell wall
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
Selective advantage where mobility is limited is provided by free-energy
procurement through interaction with radiation

Selective advantage where free-energy resources are distributed is provided
through mobility that arises with deformable cells
4.6 Connections Between Cells and Cellular Activities
64
Louis Sullivan described architectural design as “form follows function.” For example, a
window is designed to add light to a space without heat transport. A door is designed to
allow access to a space. Windows and doors have different functions and therefore take
different forms. Biological systems are not designed, but selected from random trials by
interaction with the environment. Apply Sullivan’s principle to explain the relationship of
function and form for each pair of cellular structures below.
A. Plasma membrane and endoplasmic reticulum
B. Mitochondrion and chloroplast
C. Rough endoplasmic reticulum and smooth endoplasmic reticulum
D. Flagella and cilia
E. Muscle cells and secretory cells
Solution
A. The plasma membrane forms the outer boundary of the cell and regulates the
transport of materials to and from the environment. One function of the
endoplasmic reticulum is to provide a surface on which subcellular structures
manage protein and lipid production for processes inside or outside of the cell.
Therefore, the plasma membrane has a relatively small area-to-volume ratio and
few folds that increase surface area, while the ER is highly convoluted.
B. The function of mitochondria is the synthesis of ATP from ADP using oxygen and
organic carbon compounds. The function of chloroplasts is the synthesis of ATP from
ADP and organic carbon compounds using radiant energy, carbon dioxide, and
water. Therefore, mitochondria have no systems for the capture of light energy,
while chloroplasts do.
C. The function of the rough ER is the synthesis of proteins within ribosomes, while
the function of the smooth ER is the synthesis of materials other than protein.
Therefore, the surface of the rough ER is studded with ribosomes, while the surface
of the smooth ER is not.
D. The function of flagella is motility. The function of the cilia is primarily the
redistribution of materials on the cell surface. Therefore, the structure of the flagella
is elongated and directional, while cilia are shorter and distributed over the surface.
E. The function of muscle cells is movement that is achieved by metabolically active
changes in cell shape. The function of secretory cells such as those of the liver,
pancreas, or glands is the production of protein-rich materials. Therefore, muscle
cells are dense with rough ER, while secretory cells are dense with smooth ER.
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Complex multicellular organisms share nutrients and resources, and their cells
communicate with each other. A society may encourage cooperation among individuals
while discouraging selfish behavior to increase the overall success of the social system,
sometimes at the expense of the individual. Scientific questions are testable and often
attempt to reveal a mechanism responsible for a phenomenon. Pose three questions that
can be used to examine the ways in which a social system regulates itself. Be prepared to
share these in small group discussions with your classmates about the similarities
between these regulatory strategies and the analogous roles of plasmodesmata and gap
junctions in cell communication.
Solution
Sample answers:

How are material resources distributed among individuals in a society?
Students might be drawn to contrast the exchange of time for money and
the exchange of money for goods with withdrawal from a shared cache of
goods. The former is analogous to active transport among cells through
structures such as plasmodesmata in plants and gap junctions in animals,
while the latter is analogous to diffusion over a concentration or pressure
gradient.

How does a society exert control on individuals? Students might be drawn to
contrast the regulation of individual behaviors through a delegated judicial
system with an authoritarian system. The former is analogous to the
coordinated exchange among cells of molecules that regulate the behaviors
of others and is consistent with many relatively small and possibly specialized
cells. The latter is analogous to regulatory control predominantly within the
cell in competition with other cells for resources.

How is information shared within a society? Students might be drawn to
contrast simple cell adhesion and clustering with diffusion of materials
through the extracellular space with active transport along specialized
structures such as plasmodesmata or gap junctions. These are analogous to
the isolation (hermit-like), low-density populations with very low-speed
communication, and high-density populations that are tightly connected.

How are resources allocated for shared infrastructure? Students might be
drawn to contrast societies by rates of taxation. Higher rates of taxation
produce a more structured support for resource sharing analogous to greater
investment of free energy in cytoskeleton.
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
66
Plasmodesmata in vascular plants and gap junctions in animals are examples of
specialized features of cells. Mechanisms by which transport occurs between cells evolved
independently within several eukaryotic clades. Explain, in terms of cellular cooperation,
the selective advantages provided by such structures.
Solution
67
How are individuals within a society differentiated? Students might be drawn
to contrast educational systems. In some societies, individual roles are
differentiated at an early age, and these roles are relatively unchanging. In
other societies, differentiation is deferred and/or roles change over time,
requiring retraining. These would be analogous to cell differentiation and the
ability of some cells under particular environmental conditions to
redifferentiate. In some societies, the roles of individuals are highly
specialized, while in others, roles are very similar. This would be analogous to
the transition to complex multicellular organisms.
Student explanations of the selective advantages provided should include spatial
and temporal coordination: organisms with tissue and/or subcellular structures that
are specialized functions and event timing that are integrated are more efficient
than organisms without these characteristics. Coordination is achieved through cellcell signaling.
Mammalian red blood cells have no nuclei, must originate in other tissue systems, are
relatively long lived, are small with shapes that actively respond to their environment, and
are metabolic anaerobes. Other vertebrates have red blood cells that are usually
nucleated and are often relatively large, aerobic, self-replicating, and short lived.
To connect these facts to biology, you need to ask questions. The questions that you pose
will depend on the path your class is taking through the curriculum. Begin by summarizing
what you know:

What are the functions of a eukaryotic cell nucleus?

What is the approximate average size of a human red blood cell?

What is the range of blood vessel diameters in adult humans?

What is the range of red blood cell size in vertebrates?

What is the average lifetime of a human red blood cell?

How can you show how cell production is stimulated using examples from
particular systems?

How is cell death controlled?

What biochemical cycles are associated with anaerobic and aerobic respiration,
and what are the important differences between these?

What process is involved in the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide into and
out of red blood cells?
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
What behaviors and dynamic homeostatic processes might be associated with
the properties of red blood cells in mammalian and nonmammalian organisms?

What do you know about the evolutionary divergences among vertebrates?
Your summary has revealed some similarities and differences among vertebrate
erythrocyte and circulatory system structures. Scientific questions are testable. They can
be addressed by making observations and measurements and analyzing the resulting
data.
A. Pose three scientific questions that arise from your summaries of what you know
about erythrocytes and capillary size.
B. For each question you pose, predict what you believe would be the answer and provide
reasoning for your prediction.
C. Describe an approach you think can be used to obtain data to test your prediction.
D. In the production of mammalian red blood cells, erythrocytes that have not yet
matured and are still synthesizing heme proteins are surrounded by a macrophage.
Predict the role of the macrophage in the maturation of a red blood cell.
Solution
Sample answers:

What are the functions of a eukaryotic cell nucleus?

The function of the nucleus is storage of genetic information and
transcription of that information into RNA.

What is the approximate, average size of a human red blood cell?

between 5 and 10 micrometers

What is the range of blood vessel diameters in adult humans?

between 3 centimeters and 5 micrometers

What is the range of red blood cell size in vertebrates?

between 1 and 20 micrometers
If only Chapters 3 and 4 have been considered, then the first two bullets are
appropriate. Within these, and with a bit of help from Google, students should be
able to locate these answers.
A and B. The questions that students are able to pose will also depend on the
instructional sequence.

What are selection pressures? Fitness will be determined by oxygen
availability and temperature variation, as well as other factors that are
integrated with the homeostatic strategy of the organism.

What are the trade-offs of a coordinated interaction among tissue systems
versus an autonomous cell production? Cell division does not require the
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integration of tissue systems. So rather than investing in energy costs of
maintenance and communication, self-reproductive red blood cells would be
short lived and large in number, requiring a different type of energy
investment.

Are cells that transport oxygen while not consuming oxygen more efficient?
Efficiency could be measured in terms of energy provided through aerobic
respiration at the target cell per energy required to deliver the resource. The
denominator would include the cost of production for the anucleate strategy
and the cost of aerobic respiration for the nucleated strategy.

Are the structures of capillaries different in mammalian and reptilian or avian
organisms? Thermal regulation and pulmonary structures vary, as well as
heme proteins, and the sizes and densities of capillaries are consistent with
these factors.

How is thermoregulation affected by the cellular structure of the red blood
cell? Anucleate and nucleate strategies are coordinated with thermal
regulation, which is coordinated with temperature variation and behaviors.
How are production and apoptosis of red blood cells different in mammalian
and nonmammalian vertebrates? Mammals generally have red blood cells
without nuclei or mitochondria that are synthesized in bone marrow.
Reptiles and amphibians have nucleated cells with mitochondria, and
multiple organs are reported as the site of synthesis, for example liver and
kidney, depending on maturity. Birds have both nuclei and mitochondria.

How are low oxygen states in tissues communicated to process that control
erythrocyte production? Hypoxia detection is at the level of the tissues that
secrete erythropoietin. It is a well conserved hormone in all vertebrates.
Erythropoietin induces cell division in tissues that produce red blood cells,
such as bone marrow. What do we know about the phylogeny of this
signaling system? Vertebrates differ in whether their red blood cells contain
mitochondria and a nucleus. Mammal red blood cells lack a nucleus and
mitochondria in their mature form, but the red blood cells of fish, reptiles,
and birds contain mitochondria and a nonfunctional nucleus that cannot
divide. We could expect that the ancestors of systems without mitochondria
emerged in a period with low atmospheric oxygen concentrations and that
those with mitochondria emerged where oxygen levels were higher. What do
we know about the phylogeny of mammalian and nonmammalian oxygen
transport? Mollusks, insects, and other invertebrates have an open
circulatory system, though there is a pump. The structure of the pump varies
with the number of chambers and their connection to pulmonary organs. So
the conserved features of oxygen transport are connected among
vertebrates and invertebrates.
C. Data that connect the organism to its environment, including behaviors, and to its
ancestors have been pursued for each of the questions posed above.
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D. The surrounding macrophage forms an erythropoietic niche that increases
availability of iron and, when the nucleus has been isolated, cleans up the debris
through phagocytosis.
68
Mitochondria have DNA that encode proteins related to the structures and functions of
the organelles. The replication appears to occur continuously; however, many questions
about control of replication rate and segregation during mitosis are yet unanswered.
Many diseases are caused by mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitophagy, as the name
suggests, leads to the destruction of mitochondria. Predict whether or not cellular control
mechanisms involving the regulation of mitochondrial DNA by the nucleus exist. Make use
of what you know about selection and homeostasis as they apply to both the organism
and to the organelle.
Solution
Sample answer: Although mitochondria possess DNA and protein-synthesizing
machinery, they are not autonomous. Because mitochondria provide energy for
metabolism through oxidative phosphorylation, the control of the number of
mitochondria in the cell is essential to the maintenance of homeostasis. Therefore,
the cell must control both the biogenesis and the destruction of mitochondria. The
fact that mitochondria cannot replicate outside of the cell also implies that,
ultimately, DNA replication is under the control of the nucleus. It is possible to
predict that mtDNA replication is likely under the control of nuclear-encoded
proteins, for example, mitochondrial transcription factors. Mitophagy is a process by
which the cell regulates organelle number in response to developmental or
physiological signals. This process offers an evolutionary advantage by allowing the
cell to destroy defective or superfluous mitochondria and recycle their content.
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5 | STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF
PLASMA MEMBRANES
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Which plasma membrane component can be either found on its surface or embedded in
the membrane structure
A Carbohydrates
B Cholesterol
C Glycolipid
D Protein
Solution
2
The solution is (D). Proteins can be found either on the surface or embedded in the
membrane structure.
In addition to a plasma membrane, a eukaryotic cell has organelles, such as mitochondria,
that also have membranes. In which way would these membranes differ?
A The proportion of phosphate within the phospholipids will vary.
B Only certain membranes contain phospholipids.
C Only certain membranes are selectively permeable.
D The proportions of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates will vary.
Solution
3
The solution is (D). The membranes differ in proportions of proteins, lipids, and
carbohydrates, depending on the organelle or the cell type. For example, the
myelinated membrane of neurons is rich in lipids. The membranes of mitochondria
contain a high percentage of proteins.
Which characteristic of a phospholipid increases the fluidity of the membrane?
A Cholesterol
B Its head
C Saturated fatty acid tail
D Unsaturated fatty acid tail
Solution
The solution is (D). Unsaturated fatty acids contain some double bonds between
adjacent carbon atoms; a double bond results in a bend in the string of carbons,
resulting in fluidity. Cells adapt to variations in temperature by changing the ratio of
saturated to unsaturated phospholipids in the membranes.
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5 | Structure and Function of Plasma Membranes
How would an organism maintain membrane fluidity in an environment where
temperatures fluctuate from very high to very low?
A Greater proportion of unsaturated phospholipids in the membranes
B Greater proportion of saturated phospholipids in the membranes
C Greater proportion of carbohydrates in the membranes
D Greater proportion of proteins in the membranes
Solution
5
The solution is (A). The unsaturated fatty acids have “kinks” in their tails, which
increases fluidity in the membrane at low temperatures. The membranes with
saturated fatty acid tails in their phospholipids will “freeze,” or solidify.
According to the fluid mosaic model of the plasma cell membrane, what is the location of
carbohydrates in the cell membranes?
A Carbohydrates are in contact with the aqueous fluid both inside and outside the cell.
B Carbohydrates are present only on the interior surface of a membrane.
C Carbohydrates are present only on the exterior surface of a membrane.
D Carbohydrates span only the interior of a membrane.
Solution
6
The solution is (C). Carbohydrates are generally attached to proteins on the outer
surface of the membrane and form glycoproteins, which play an important role in
cell-cell recognition. Carbohydrates can also bind to lipids, forming glycolipids.
What do double bonds in phospholipid fatty acid tails contribute to?
A The fluidity of membranes
B The hydrophobic nature of membranes
C The hydrophilic nature of membranes
D The prevention of high temperatures from increasing the fluidity of membranes
Solution
7
The solution is (A). Double bonds in phospholipid fatty acid tails increase the fluidity
of a membrane because they create a bend in the molecules, preventing the tight
packing of the fatty acid tails and the ensuing rigidity.
What is the principal force driving movement in diffusion?
A Concentration gradient
B Membrane surface area
C Particle size
D Temperature
Solution
The solution is (A). Diffusion is the net movement of a substance from a region of
high concentration to a region of low concentration. The principal driving force in
diffusion is this concentration gradient.
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Which of the following is an example of passive transport across a membrane?
A The movement of H+ into a thylakoid disc during photosynthesis
B The uptake of glucose in the intestine
C The uptake of mineral ions into root hair cells of plants
D The movement of water from the descending loop of a nephron into the interstitium
Solution
9
The solution is (D). Water crosses the collecting duct epithelium by osmosis, which is
passive transport. Protein channels called aquaporin facilitate the movement of
water. Hydrogen ions use the energy of photosynthesis to cross into the thylakoids
against their concentration gradient. They flow out into the stroma through the ATP
synthase along their gradient. The uptake of glucose by the intestine epithelium and
mineral ions into roots are examples of active transport.
Water moves via osmosis across plasma cell membranes in which direction?
A From an area with a high concentration of other solutes to a lower one
B From an area with a high concentration of water to one of lower concentration
C From an area with a low concentration of water to one of higher concentration
D Throughout the cytoplasm
Solution
10
The solution is (B). Osmosis is the spontaneous net movement of water from a
region of higher concentration to lower concentration of water. For example, red
blood cells suspended in distilled water will swell and burst because water is flowing
inside the cells.
What problem is faced by organisms that live in fresh water?
A They will have higher concentrations of body solutes.
B Without compensating mechanisms, their bodies tend to take in too much water.
C They have no way of controlling their tonicity.
D Their bodies tend to lose too much water to their environment.
Solution
11
The solution is (B). The fish are hypertonic to the fresh water environment they live
in; thus, too much water diffuses into their body. Compensating mechanisms include
excreting diluted urine and taking up salt through their gills.
Which of the following questions can be asked about organisms that live in fresh water?
A Will their bodies take in too much water?
B Can they control their tonicity?
C Can they survive in salt water?
D Will their bodies lose too much water to their environment?
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Solution
12
The solution is (A). Organisms contain salts and solutes that make their internal fluid
hypertonic to freshwater. Losing water to their environment is not the challenge
they face. They must limit the intake of water, and they must develop mechanisms
to get rid of excess water.
Why must active transport of molecules across plasma membranes function
continuously?
A Diffusion cannot occur in certain cells.
B Diffusion is constantly moving solutes in opposite directions.
C Facilitated diffusion works in the same direction as active transport.
D Not all membranes are amphiphilic.
Solution
13
The solution is (B). Diffusion allows movement down the concentration gradient to
maintain equilibrium. Active transport must continuously pump solutes against the
concentration gradient to counteract diffusion.
How does the sodium-potassium pump make the interior of the cell negatively charged?
A By expelling anions
B By pulling in anions
C By expelling more cations than it takes in
D By taking in and expelling an equal number of cations
Solution
14
The solution is (C). The sodium-potassium pump transports three sodium ions
outside the cell and takes two potassium ions into the cell, making the interior of the
cell less positively charged, therefore, more negatively charged.
What is the difference between primary and secondary active transport?
A Primary active transport is indirectly dependent on ATP, while secondary active
transport is directly dependent on ATP.
B Primary active transport is directly dependent on ATP, while secondary active
transport is indirectly dependent on ATP.
C Primary active transport does not require ATP, while secondary active transport is
indirectly dependent on ATP.
D Primary active transport is indirectly dependent on ATP, while secondary active
transport does not require ATP.
Solution
The solution is (B). Primary active transport is directly dependent on ATP and
transports compounds against their concentration gradient, whereas secondary
active transport is indirectly dependent on ATP. For example, glucose and sodium
ions are part of a co-transport where a primary Na+/K+ active transport across the
membrane of epithelial cells powers the transport of glucose from the lumen of the
intestine into the cell against a concentration gradient.
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What happens to the membrane of a vesicle after exocytosis?
A It leaves the cell.
B It is disassembled by the cell.
C It fuses with and becomes part of the plasma membrane.
D It is used again in another exocytosis event.
Solution
16
The solution is (C). It fuses with and becomes part of the plasma membrane as the
contents of the vesicle are secreted out of the cell.
In what important way does receptor-mediated endocytosis differ from phagocytosis?
A It transports only small amounts of fluid.
B It does not involve the pinching off of the membrane.
C It brings in only a specifically targeted substance.
D It brings substances into the cell, while phagocytosis removes substances.
Solution
The solution is (C). Receptor-mediated endocytosis brings in only targeted
substances whereas phagocytosis is not specific.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
17
Why do phospholipids tend to spontaneously orient themselves into something
resembling a membrane such as the lipid-bilayer sphere, single-layer lipid sphere, and
lipid-bilayer sheet?
A Phospholipids are amphipathic molecules. The polar head faces toward water, and the
nonpolar fatty acid tails face toward other fatty acid tails.
B Phospholipids are lipophilic molecules. The polar head faces toward water, and the
nonpolar fatty acid tails face toward other fatty acid tails.
C Phospholipids are amphipathic molecules. The nonpolar head faces toward other fatty
acid tails, and the polar fatty acid tails face toward water.
D Phospholipids are hydrophilic molecules. The polar head faces toward water, and the
nonpolar fatty acid tails face toward other fatty acid tails.
Solution
18
The solution is (A). The hydrophobic, nonpolar regions must align with each other for
the structure to have minimal potential energy and, consequently, higher stability.
The fatty acid tails of the phospholipids cannot mix with water, but the phosphate
head of the molecule can. Thus, the head orients to water, and the tail to other
lipids.
The fluid mosaic model described the plasma membrane as a mosaic of components. Why
is it advantageous for the plasma membrane to be fluid in nature?
A Fluidity allows greater flexibility to the cell and the motion of membrane components
required for transport.
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B Fluidity helps only in transport of some materials, but does not contribute to the
flexibility.
C Fluidity helps in maintaining the pH of the intracellular fluid, and helps in maintaining
the physiological pH of the cell.
D Fluidity helps provide mechanical strength to the plasma membrane.
Solution
The solution is (A). The fluid characteristic of the plasma membrane allows greater
flexibility to the cell than it would if the membrane were rigid. It also allows the
motion of membrane components required for some types of membrane transport.
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91
List four components of a plasma membrane and explain their function.
A Phospholipids: form the bilayer; carbohydrates: help in adhesion; cholesterol:
provides flexibility; integral proteins: form transporters; peripheral proteins: part of
the cell’s recognition sites.
B Phospholipids: form the bilayer; carbohydrates: help in adhesion; cholesterol: forms
transporters; integral proteins: provide flexibility; peripheral proteins: part of the cell’s
recognition sites.
C Phospholipids: form the bilayer; carbohydrates: part of the cell’s recognition sites;
cholesterol: provides flexibility to the membrane; integral proteins: form transporters;
intermediate filaments: help in adhesion.
D Phospholipids: form the bilayer; carbohydrates: function as adhesion; cholesterol:
provides flexibility to the membrane; integral proteins: form transporters;
intermediate filaments: part of the cell’s recognition sites.
Solution
The solution is (A). Phospholipids are the main fabric of the membrane. The
hydrophilic heads are in contact with aqueous fluid both inside and outside of the
cell. The hydrophobic tails face each other forming a lipid bilayer.
Carbohydrates are found on the exterior surface of cells and are bound either to
proteins (forming glycoproteins) or to lipids (forming glycolipids) and cell-cell
interactions.
Cholesterol is attached between phospholipids and between the two phospholipid
layers. It tends to dampen the effects of temperature on the membrane.
Integral proteins are embedded in the membrane structure. They include
transporters, channels, enzymes, and so on.
Peripheral proteins are found on the exterior and interior surfaces of membranes.
They include enzymes, transporters, signaling receptors, and so on.
20
Which explanation identifies how the following affect the rate of diffusion: molecular size,
temperature, solution density, and the distance that must be traveled?
A Larger molecules move faster than lighter molecules. Temperature affects the
molecular movement. Density is directly proportional to the molecular movement.
Greater distance slows the diffusion.
B Larger molecules move more slowly than lighter molecules. Increasing or decreasing
temperature increases or decreases the energy in the medium, affecting molecular
movement. Density is inversely proportional to molecular movement. Greater
distance slows the diffusion.
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C Larger molecules move more slowly than lighter molecules. Temperature does not
affect the rate of diffusion. Density is inversely proportional to molecular movement.
Greater distance speeds up the diffusion.
D Larger molecules move more slowly than lighter molecules. Increasing or decreasing
temperature increases or decreases the energy in the medium, affecting molecular
movement. Density is inversely proportional to the molecular movement. Greater
distance speeds up the diffusion.
Solution
21
The solution is (B). Larger molecules move more slowly than lighter ones. It takes
more energy in the medium to move them along. Increasing or decreasing
temperature increases or decreases the energy in the medium, affecting molecular
movement. The denser or more viscous a solution is, the harder it is for molecules to
move through it, causing diffusion to slow down due to friction. Living cells require a
steady supply of nutrients and a steady rate of waste removal. If the distance these
substances need to travel is too great, diffusion cannot move nutrients and waste
materials efficiently enough to sustain life.
Both of the regular intravenous solutions administered in medicine, normal saline and
lactated Ringer’s solution, are isotonic. Why is this important?
A Isotonic solutions maintain equilibrium and avoid the exchange of materials to or from
the blood.
B Isotonic solutions disrupt equilibrium and allow for better exchange of materials in the
blood cells.
C Isotonic solutions increase the pH of the blood and allow for better absorption of
saline in the blood cells.
D Isotonic solutions decrease the pH of the blood and avoid the exchange of materials to
or from the blood cells.
Solution
22
The solution is (A). Injection of isotonic solutions ensures that there will be no
perturbation of the osmotic balance and no water taken from tissues or added to
them from the blood.
If a doctor injected a patient with what was labeled as an isotonic saline solution, but then
the patient died and an autopsy revealed that many red blood cells had burst, would it be
true that the injected solution was really isotonic. Why or why not?
A False, the solution was hypertonic.
B False, the solution was either hypotonic or hypertonic.
C False, the solution was hypotonic.
D True, the solution was isotonic.
Solution
The solution is (C). The solution would have been hypotonic. Hypotonic solutions
have a lower salt concentration compared to the red blood cells; therefore, the cells
have low water potential compared to the saline solution. The water moves from
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the region of high water potential to low water potential, causing the red blood cells
to swell and burst.
23
How does the sodium-potassium pump contribute to the net negative charge of the
interior of the cell?
A The sodium-potassium pump forces out three (positive) Na+ ions for every two
(positive) K+ ions it pumps in; thus, the cell loses a net positive charge of one at every
cycle of the pump.
B The sodium-potassium pump expels three K+ for every two Na+ inside the cells,
creating a net positive charge outside the cell and a net negative charge inside
the cell.
C The sodium-potassium pump helps the development of a negative charge inside the
cell by making the membrane more permeable to negatively charged proteins.
D The sodium-potassium pump helps in the development of a negative charge inside the
cell by making the membrane impermeable to positively charged ions.
Solution
24
The solution is (A). The sodium/potassium pump maintains a negative potential
across the cell membrane by expelling three positive ions (Na+) for every two
positive ions (K+) pumped into the cell. The net result is that there is a deficit in
positive charges. Na+ ions are constantly expelled to balance osmotic pressure
between the cell and its environment; otherwise, the extracellular fluid would
become hypotonic and water would flow into the cells, causing them to swell
and burst.
Potassium is a necessary nutrient to maintain the function of our cells. What would
happen to a person who is deficient in potassium?
A The excess sodium disrupts the membrane components.
B The excess sodium increases action potential generation.
C The cells would not be able to get rid of extra sodium.
D The cells would not be able to bring in sodium.
Solution
25
The solution is (C). Cells typically have a high concentration of potassium in the
cytoplasm and a high concentration of sodium outside of the cells. A deficiency of
potassium would prevent cells from getting rid of sodium using the sodiumpotassium pump.
Which statement describes processes of receptor-mediated endocytosis, exocytosis, and
the changes in the membrane organization involved with each?
A Receptor-mediated endocytosis involves the binding of a ligand to its receptor,
resulting in the formation of a clathrin-coated vesicle that enters the cell. In
exocytosis, waste material is enveloped in a vesicle that fuses with the interior of the
plasma membrane via attachment proteins.
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B In receptor-mediated endocytosis, waste material is enveloped in a membrane that
fuses with the interior of the plasma membrane via attachment proteins. Exocytosis
involves the opsonization of the receptor and its ligand in clathrin-coated vesicles.
C In receptor-mediated endocytosis, waste material is enveloped in a membrane that
fuses with the interior of the plasma membrane via attachment proteins. Exocytosis
involves the opsonization of the receptor and its ligand in caveolae-coated vesicles.
D Receptor-mediated endocytosis involves the opsonization of the receptor and its
ligand in clathrin-coated vesicles that enter the cell. In exocytosis, waste material is
enveloped in a membrane that fuses with the exterior of the plasma membrane via
attachment proteins.
Solution
26
The solution is (A). In receptor-mediated endocytosis, clathrin is attached to the
cytoplasmic side of the plasma membrane. The process involves the inward budding
of plasma membrane vesicles containing proteins with receptor sites specific to the
molecules being absorbed. After the binding of a ligand to the receptor, a signal is sent
through the membrane, leading to membrane coating and formation of a membrane
invagination. The receptor and its ligand are then opsonized in clathrin-coated
vesicles. Exocytosis is the process by which cells expel the contents of secretory
vesicles out of the cell membrane into the extracellular space. Waste material is
enveloped in a membrane, which fuses with the interior of the plasma membrane via
attachment proteins. This fusion opens the membranous envelope on the exterior of
the cell, and the waste material is expelled into the extracellular space.
Describe the process of potocytosis. How does it differ from pinocytosis?
A Potocytosis is a form of receptor-mediated endocytosis where molecules are
transported via caveolae-coated vesicles. Pinocytosis is a form of exocytosis used for
excreting excess water.
B Potocytosis is a form of exocytosis where molecules are transported via clathrincoated vesicles. Pinocytosis is a form of receptor-mediated endocytosis used for
excreting excess water.
C Potocytosis is a form of receptor-mediated endocytosis where molecules are
transported via caveolae-coated vesicles. Pinocytosis is a mode of endocytosis used
for the absorption of extracellular fluid.
D Potocytosis is a form of receptor-mediated endocytosis used for the absorption
of water.
Solution
The solution is (C). Potocytosis is a type of receptor-mediated endocytosis in which
small molecules are transported across the plasma membrane of a cell. The
molecules are transported by caveolae rather than clathrin-coated vesicles.
Pinocytosis is a mode of endocytosis in which small particles are brought into the
cell. It is used primarily for the absorption of extracellular fluids.
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TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
27
One type of mutation in the CFTR protein prevents the transport of chloride ions through
the channel. What is most likely to be observed in the lungs of patients with this
mutation?
A Dehydrated epithelial cells
B Dehydrated mucus
C Mucus with excess water
D Mucus with a high electrolyte concentration
Solution
28
The solution is (B). When the normal movement of chloride ions is prevented, water
that follows by osmosis does not move to produce freely flowing mucus. The result
is cells that line the airways of the lungs secrete mucus that is thick and sticky.
Arsenic poisoning disrupts ATP production by inhibiting several of the enzymes in the
oxidative phosphorylation pathway. Some of the symptoms of arsenic poisoning are
similar to cystic fibrosis (CF; a hereditary disorder that results in difficulty breathing and
frequent lung infections).
What impact may arsenic poisoning have on components of the plasma membrane and
transport that would result in CF-like symptoms?
A Arsenic poisoning disrupts ATP production, leading to a decreased transport of Cl ions
by epithelial cells. This leads to decreased electrolyte concentration in the mucus and
retention of water into the cells. The mucus becomes dehydrated, as in CF.
B Arsenic poisoning disrupts the Na+/ Cl pump, leading to decreased transport of Cl–
ions out of the epithelial cells. This increases the electrolyte concentration in the
mucus and movement of water out of the cells. The mucus becomes hydrated, as
in CF.
C Arsenic poisoning affects the oxidative phosphorylation pathway, leading to a
decreased transport of Na+ ions out of the epithelial cells. This leads to increased
electrolyte concentration in the mucus and movement of water into the cells. The
mucus becomes dehydrated, as in CF.
D Arsenic poisoning disrupts the binding sites for Cl ions, leading to a decreased
transport of Cl– ions outside the epithelial cells. This leads to decreased electrolyte
concentration in the mucus and movement of water out of the cells. The mucus
becomes hydrated, as in CF.
Solution
The solution is (A). The CFTR protein requires ATP to transport Cl ions out of
epithelial cells to the covering mucus. Arsenic poisoning disrupts ATP production;
therefore, Cl ions will not be transported out of epithelial cells, total electrolyte
concentration in the mucus will not increase, and water will not move out of
epithelial cells to mucus via osmosis. The mucus will become dehydrated, as seen
in CF.
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5 | Structure and Function of Plasma Membranes
In individuals with a normally functioning CFTR protein, which substances are transported
via active transport?
A Cl
B Mucus
C Na+
D Water
Solution
30
The solution is (A). The CFTR protein transports Cl ions out of epithelial cells and
into mucus in the intercellular space using ATP hydrolysis. Water follows by osmosis,
maintaining a fluid mucus in the passageways of the body, e.g., in the lungs and
digestive tract.
The sodium-potassium (Na+/K+) pump functions like an anti-porter transporting Na+ and K+
icons across membranes using ATP. This protein spans the membrane with intracellular
and extracellular domains. It has a binding site for Na+, K+, and ATP. An experiment was
conducted to determine the locations of these binding sites. Artificial cells were created
and incubated in buffers containing ATP, ouabain (or g-strophanthin, a cardiac glycoside),
Na+, and K+ in varying combinations inside and outside of the cells, as indicated in the
given table. The transport of Na+ and K+ was measured to determine the activity of the
Na+/K+ pump.
ATP
present
inside
Experiment cells?
ATP
present
outside
cells?
Ouabain
present
inside
cells?
Ouabain
present
outside Was Na+
cells?
transported?
Was K+
transported?
1
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
2
Yes
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
3
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
4
No
No
No
No
No
No
5
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
No
No
6
Yes
No
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
No
7
Yes
No
No
Yes
Which of the following conclusions is supported by the data?
A Ouabain does not disrupt ATP binding to the Na+/K+ pump.
B ATP is required for the transport of Na+ and not for transport of K+.
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C The ATP binding site of the Na+/K+ pump is located on the intracellular domain of
the pump.
D The ATP binding site of the Na+/K+ pump is located on the extracellular domain of
the pump.
Solution
31
The solution is (C). The ATP binding site of the Na+/K+ pump is located on the
intracellular domain of the pump. If ATP is not present extracellularly but present
inside the cell, the exchange takes place. If there is no ATP inside the cell, there is no
exchange. If ATP is present outside the cell but not inside, the exchange does not
take place whether ouabain is present or absent. There is no evidence presented
that ATP cannot bind to the pump in the presence of ouabain.
Paramecia are unicellular protists that have contractile vacuoles to remove excess
intracellular water. In an experimental investigation, Paramecia were placed in salt
solutions of increasing osmolarity. The rate at which a Paramecium’s contractile vacuole
contracted to pump out excess water was determined and plotted against the osmolarity
of the solutions, as shown in the graph.
Which of the following is the correct explanation for the data?
A At higher osmolarity, lower rates of contraction are required because more salt
diffuses into the Paramecium.
B In an isosmotic salt solution, there is no diffusion of water into or out of the
Paramecium, so the contraction rate is zero.
C The contraction rate increases as the osmolarity decreases because the amount of
water entering the Paramecium by osmosis increases.
D The contractile vacuole is less efficient in solutions of high osmolarity because of the
reduced amount of ATP produced from cellular respiration.
Solution
The solution is (C). The contraction rate increases as the osmolarity of the solution
decreases because water will diffuse into the paramecium’s cytoplasm. The
increased contraction rate pumps the incoming water out of the cell.
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5 | Structure and Function of Plasma Membranes
What is most likely to happen if Paramecia are moved from a hypertonic solution to
solutions of decreasing osmolarity?
A The rate of contraction would increase with decreasing osmolarity because more
water diffuses into the Paramecium.
B The rate of contraction would decrease with decreasing osmolarity because more
water diffuses into the Paramecium.
C The rate of contraction would increase with decreasing osmolarity because more salt
diffuses into the Paramecium.
D The rate of contraction would decrease with decreasing osmolarity because more salt
diffuses into the Paramecium.
Solution
33
The solution is (A). The rate of contraction would increase with decreasing
osmolarity because more water diffuses into the Paramecium.
Describe the Na+/K+ pump, labeling the binding sites for Na+, K+, and ATP. Explain how the
data indicate the location of the binding sites for Na+ and K+ on the pump. Based on the
data in the table, which statement describes the location of the binding sites for Na+ and
K+ on the pump?
ATP
present
inside
Experiment cells?
ATP
present
outside
cells?
Ouabain
present
inside
cells?
Ouabain
present
outside Was Na+
cells?
transported?
Was K+
transported?
1
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
2
Yes
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
3
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
4
No
No
No
No
No
No
5
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
No
No
6
Yes
No
Yes
No
No
Yes
7
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
No
+
A The binding of Na occurs on the outer surface of the cell, as its transportation
remains unaffected by the presence of ouabain. The binding of K+ occurs on the
inner surface of the cell, as its transportation is blocked when ouabain is present
inside the cell.
B The binding of K+ occurs on the outer surface of the cell, and its transportation is
blocked when ouabain is present outside the cell. The binding of Na+ occurs on the
inner surface of the cell, and its transportation is blocked by the presence of ouabain.
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C The binding of K+ occurs on the outer surface of the cell, and the binding of Na+ occurs
on the inner surface of the cell because they are not transported when ATP is absent.
D The binding of Na+ occurs on the outer surface of the cell, and the binding of K+ occurs
on the inner surface of the cell because they are not transported when ATP is absent.
Solution
34
The solution is (B). K+ binds to the outer surface of the cell while Na+ binds to the
inner surface of the cell. The addition of ouabain to the outside of the cells inhibits
transport of K+ only, while ouabain inside the cell inhibits Na+ transport.
An experiment was set up to determine the movement of molecules through a dialysistubing bag into water. A dialysis-tubing bag containing 5% lactose and 5% fructose was
placed in a beaker of distilled water, as illustrated in the given figure. After four hours,
fructose is detected in the distilled water outside of the dialysis-tubing bag, but lactose is
not.
What conclusions can be made about the movement of molecules in this experiment?
A Fructose, being a monosaccharide, diffused through the dialysis bag into the
distilled water. However, lactose, being a disaccharide, could not diffuse through
the dialysis bag.
B Fructose was homogenized by lactose, allowing the fructose to diffuse through the
dialysis bag and into the distilled water. Lactose is not homogenized, so it could not
pass through the dialysis bag.
C Fructose and lactose are oppositely charged and separated out due to the force of
repulsion.
D Fructose diffused because of the pore specificity of the semipermeable membrane,
not because of its concentration gradient.
Solution
The solution is (A). Fructose is a monosaccharide, so it will be able to cross the
membrane of the bag. Lactose is a disaccharide and is unable to cross the
membrane. Therefore, fructose is observed in the distilled water outside of the
dialysis-tubing bag, but lactose is not.
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5 | Structure and Function of Plasma Membranes
This is the 3D structure of clathrin, with an individual subunit highlighted in blue. What is
a functional reason for this structure?
A Clathrin stabilizes the section of the membrane forming the vesicle.
B Clathrin is heat resistant.
C The interlocking clathrin subunits provide a rigid cell structure.
D Clathrin fuses with the trans Golgi apparatus.
Solution
36
The solution is (A). Clathrin stabilizes the membrane-forming lattice of the vesicle.
Which of the following statements appropriately describe the role of clathrin in
neutrophils based on your understanding of phagocytosis?
A Clathrin tethers the antigen to the cytoskeleton.
B Clathrin opposes phagocytosis.
C Clathrin marks the antigen on the invading cell for phagocytosis by neutrophils.
D Clathrin stabilizes the inward facing surface of the plasma membrane, which engulfs
the antigen.
Solution
37
The solution is (D). Clathrin is involved in the engulfing of the antigen once the
neutrophils bind to the target.
Mast cells produce signals that activate inflammation. Neutrophils are phagocytic white
blood cells. Monocytes are the largest type of white blood cell that engulf pathogens.
Based on the information provided in the chapter, which cell types produce endosomes?
A Monocytes and mast cells
B Neutrophils, monocytes, and mast cells
C Neutrophils and mast cells
D Neutrophils and monocytes
Solution
The solution is (D). Neutrophils and monocytes produce endosomes for degrading
the pathogens. Mast cells are not phagocytic.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
5.2 Passive Transport
38
Membrane fluidity is influenced by the number of C-C double bonds (unsaturation) in the
hydrocarbon tails of the lipids composing cell membranes. Fluidity is also dependent on
temperature. The transit of materials through the cell membrane is controlled by fluidity.
To maintain homeostasis, all organisms, including the simple bacterium E. coli, must sense
the temperature of the environment and adapt to changes.
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Samples of E. coli were grown at four different temperatures, and then researchers
determined the fatty acid composition of their plasma membranes. The data are shown in
the given table.
Fatty Acid
10 °C 20 °C 30 °C 40 °C
Myristic
17%
14%
14%
16%
Palmitic
18%
25%
29%
48%
Palmitoleic
26%
24%
23%
9%
Oleic
38%
34%
30%
12%
Ratio (U/S)
Fatty acid compositions of the plasma membrane of E. coli were incubated at the
temperatures shown. Myristic and palmitic acid are saturated, while palmitoleic and oleic
acids each have one C-C double bond.
Blank
Blank
Blank
Blank
A. Analyze the data to calculate the ratio of the fraction of unsaturated (U) to the fraction
of saturated (S) fatty acids in the plasma membrane, and complete the table.
B. Graph the ratio U/S versus growth temperature.
C. Explain the response of E. coli to the temperature of the environment.
D. We know that the temperature of the environment is sensed by E. coli through the
temperature-dependent confirmation of enzymes that convert a single bond in the lipid
tail to a double bond, and vice versa. Explain how the discovery of a mutant strain of
E. coli could lead to this insight.
Solution
Teaching Tip—This question connects concepts drawn from Big Ideas 2, 4, and 1.
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5 | Structure and Function of Plasma Membranes
A. The ratio is calculated here as the sum of the percent unsaturated fatty acid
divided by the sum of the percent saturated fatty acid.
Fatty acid
10 °C
20 °C
30 °C
40 °C
Myristic
17%
14%
14%
16%
Palmitic
18%
25%
29%
48%
Palmitoleic
26%
24%
23%
9%
Oleic
38%
34%
30%
12%
Ratio (U/S)
1.8
1.5
1.2
0.32
B.
C. The organism has a composition of the plasma membrane in which unsaturation
increases with decreasing temperature. Homeostasis is maintained by response to
the environment.
D. A mutant was discovered in which the enzyme that converts a single bond to a
double is defective. This organism cannot synthesize unsaturated fatty acids;
therefore, it is not adapted for life at lower temperatures and dies.
39
Aquaporins, which allow for the movement of water across a cell membrane, are gated.
Both low and high pH within a plant cell can cause alterations of the membrane-spanning
protein. Describe the advantage of this feedback mechanism.
Predict how conditions of flooding or drought could activate this mechanism.
Solution
To maintain the pressure within a plant cell, water concentration must be regulated.
When water is transported into the cell, the pH drops, and a negative feedback loop
changes the configuration of the membrane-spanning peptides; the gate closes.
When water concentrations with the cell are low, the pH is high, and the gate opens.
In flooding or drought conditions, the regulation cannot simply be reversed. Instead,
drought stress and flooding have been shown to induce (drought) and suppress
(flooding) the synthesis of proteins that provide the channel.
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5.3 Active Transport
40
Rice plants grown in high-salt environments can actively transport sodium ions into the
vacuole by the antiporter movement of protons out of the vacuole. In a study aimed at
the development of salt-tolerant rye, researchers produced several varieties of transgenic
rye. Measurements of height and stem diameter for the transgenic varieties (TG1–TG4)
are compared with the wild-type varieties WT1 and WT2. Shown in the table are the
means and standard deviations from measurements of a very large sample size.
Variety
Height (cm)
Stem Thickness (cm)
WT1
9.667 ± 0.333
1.975 ± 0.095
WT2
11.867 ± 0.376 2.238 ± 0.204
TG1
15.420 ± 1.146 2.723 ± 0.261
TG2
15.600 ± 0.909 2.903 ± 0.323
TG3
14.925 ± 0.767 2.633 ± 0.073
TG4
16.100 ± 0.682 3.160 ± 0.169
A. Analyze the data. Are the heights and stem thicknesses in the transgenic plants
significantly different than in the wild-type plant? Justify your claim with evidence.
B. Are the heights and stem thicknesses among the transgenic plants significantly
different? Justify your claim with evidence.
C. Plants from which these data were taken were grown in 10 mM NaCl solutions. Pose
one question that researchers can investigate by growing the same varieties in a series of
lower salinity conditions.
D. The Na+/H+ antiporter is an active transport system. Briefly explain negative feedback
regulation of the movement of sodium into the vacuole of rye cells.
Solution
A. In each transgenic variety, the height of the plant is significantly different from
the wild-type varieties. A comparison of the intervals of two measurements is not
significant if the intervals overlap. (More sensitive tests of significance are out of
scope on the AP Biology Exam.) Stem thickness is more complex. TG1 and WT2
nearly overlap, so stem thickness might not be significantly different for TG1. In each
of the other cases, one may be confident that the transgenic varieties have thicker
stems.
B. Overlap of the measurement intervals occurs for each, so they are not different.
C. Since the goal is the development of salt-tolerant rye plants, the question
underlying this project is probably, “Does introduction of the genes that express the
antiporter movement of sodium and hydrogen increase yield?” But a preliminary
question that can lead to a selection among the transgenic varieties might be, “Do
height or stem thickness depend on the salt concentration in the environment?”
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5 | Structure and Function of Plasma Membranes
D. An antiporter is bidirectional. As sodium diffuses into the vacuole, hydrogen ions
diffuse out along their concentration gradient. Hydrogen ions are pumped into the
vacuole by and ATPase-driven process. As the pH of cytoplasm falls, the antiport
process halts.
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6 | METABOLISM
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Energy can be taken in as glucose, and then has to be converted to a form that can be
easily used to perform work in cells. What is the name of the latter molecule?
A Anabolic molecule
B Cholesterol
C Electrolyte
D Adenosine triphosphate
Solution
2
The solution is (D). Sugars are stored in the body, usually as starch or glycogen.
Glucose forms the basic unit of these sugars, which serve as a source of energy. ATP
contains potential for a quick burst of energy that can be harnessed to perform
cellular work.
When cellular respiration occurs, what is the primary molecule used to store the energy
that is released?
A AMP
B ATP
C mRNA
D Phosphate
Solution
3
The solution is (B). ATP is considered the energy currency of cells. It contains the
potential for a quick burst of energy that can be harnessed to perform cellular work.
DNA replication involves unwinding two strands of parent DNA, copying each strand to
synthesize complementary strands, and releasing the resulting two semiconserved
strands of DNA. Which description is accurate for this process?
A This process is anabolic.
B This process is catabolic.
C This process is both anabolic and catabolic.
D This process is metabolic, but it is neither anabolic nor catabolic.
Solution
The solution is (A). This is an anabolic process. An anabolic process is one in which
simpler molecules combine to form complex molecules with input of energy.
Synthesis of new DNA strands from nucleic acid building blocks is an anabolic
process.
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4
6 | Metabolism
Which process is a catabolic process?
A Digestion of sucrose
B Dissolving sugar in water
C DNA replication
D RNA translation
Solution
5
The solution is (A). Digestion of sucrose is a catabolic process because sucrose, being
a disaccharide, is a complex molecule. Its digestion produces the simpler compounds
glucose and fructose with the release of energy.
What food molecule used by animals for energy and obtained from plants is most directly
related to the use of sun energy?
A Glucose
B Protein
C Triglycerides
D tRNA
Solution
The solution is (A). Glucose is synthesized by plants when light energy is converted
to chemical energy through the process of photosynthesis. Glucose is then passed
on to the food chain and is then used as a part of the animal cell’s cellular
respiration reactions, in which it is first broken down in the process of glycolysis to
make ATP, the chemical energy the cell uses to perform work. The image below
shows how plants absorb solar energy and use it to drive the process of
photosynthesis, thereby producing glucose and oxygen as by-products which are
then used for the animal cell’s cellular respiration needs.
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
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107
What reaction will release the largest amount of energy to help power another reaction?
A AMP to ATP
B ATP to ADP
C DNA to proteins
D Glucose to starch
Solution
7
The solution is (B). The hydrolysis of ATP is the reaction yielding the largest amount
of energy to help another power reaction. ATP hydrolysis occurs when a molecule of
ATP (the cell’s energy currency) reacts with a molecule of water, leading to the
transformation of ATP into ADP (adenosine triphosphate) and inorganic phosphate
(Pi). Several reactions in the cell are coupled with this hydrolysis reaction, thus
leading to a large number of reactions being powered by this reaction.
Consider a pendulum swinging. Which type(s) of energy is/are associated with the
pendulum in the following instances?
1. The moment at which it completes one cycle, just before it begins to fall back
toward the other end
2. The moment that it is in the middle between the two ends
3. Just before it reaches the end of one cycle, before step 1
A 1. Potential and kinetic
2. Potential and kinetic
3. Kinetic
B 1. Potential
2. Potential and kinetic
3. Potential and kinetic
C 1. Potential
2. Kinetic
3. Potential and kinetic
D 1. Potential and kinetic
2. Kinetic
3. Kinetic
Solution
8
The solution is (C). The energy possessed by the pendulum after completion of one
cycle would be potential since it is at some elevation and energy is in stored form.
When the pendulum is in between the two ends, then it is in motion and thus
possesses kinetic energy.
Which of the following best describes energy?
A The transfer of genetic information
B The ability to assemble a large number of functional catalysts
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6 | Metabolism
C The ability to store solar output
D The ability to do work
Solution
9
The solution is (D). The ability to do work or cause some change is called energy.
What is the ultimate source of energy on this planet?
A Glucose
B Plants
C Metabolic pathways
D The sun
Solution
10
The solution is (D). The main source of energy for this planet is the sun. Solar energy
includes light, radio waves, and X-rays, all of which provide energy on Earth.
Which molecule is likely to have the most potential energy?
A ATP
B ADP
C Glucose
D Sucrose
Solution
The solution is (D). Sucrose is a disaccharide molecule made of glucose and fructose.
The stored potential energy in it would be the greatest.
11 Which of the following is the best way to judge the relative activation energies between
two given chemical reactions?
A Compare the G values between the two reactions.
B Compare their reaction rates.
C Compare their ideal environmental conditions.
D Compare the spontaneity between the two reactions.
Solution
12
The solution is (B). The activation energy of a particular reaction determines the rate
at which it will proceed. The higher the activation energy, the slower the chemical
reaction will be. Thus, relative activation energies between two chemical reactions
can be judged by comparing their reaction rates.
Which term in the Gibbs free energy equation denotes enthalpy?
A
G
B
H
C
S
D T
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manual
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Solution
13
109
The solution is (B). Total energy change in a system is called enthalpy and is denoted
by H .
Which chemical reaction is more likely to occur?
A Dehydration synthesis
B Endergonic
C Endothermic
D Exergonic
Solution
14
The solution is (D). Exergonic reactions can occur spontaneously, and free energy is
released from the reaction.
Which comparison or contrast between endergonic and exergonic reactions is false?
A Both endergonic and exergonic reactions require a small amount of energy to
overcome an activation barrier.
B Endergonic reactions have a positive G, and exergonic reactions have a negative G.
C Endergonic reactions consume energy, and exergonic reactions release energy.
D Endergonic reactions take place slowly, and exergonic reactions take place quickly.
Solution
15
The solution is (A). Both endergonic and exergonic reactions require a small amount
of energy to overcome an activation barrier.
Is each system high or low entropy?
1. Perfume the instant after it is sprayed into the air
2. An unmaintained 1950s car compared with a brand new car
3. A living cell compared with a dead cell
A 1. Low
2. High
3. Low
B 1. Low
2. High
3. High
C 1. High
2. Low
3. High
D 1. High
2. Low
3. Low
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Solution
16
The solution is (A). The entropy in case (1) would be low, since the disorder of the
perfume is low immediately after it is sprayed; (2) would be high because, over time,
the disorder in a 1950s car would increase; and (3) would be low because a living cell
would have less disorder in comparison to dead cell.
What counteracts entropy?
A Energy release
B Endergonic reactions
C Input of energy
D Time
Solution
17
The solution is (C). Input of energy lowers the entropy of the system and decreases
the disorder. Thus, input of energy counteracts high entropy and makes the system
stable.
What is the best example of the first law of thermodynamics?
A A body getting warmer after exercise
B A piece of fruit spoiling in the fridge
C A power plant burning coal and producing electricity
D An exothermic chemical reaction
Solution
18
The solution is (C). A power plant burning coal and producing electricity is an
example of the first law of thermodynamics. Energy is transformed from one form to
another.
What is the difference between the first and second laws of thermodynamics?
A The first law involves creating energy, while the second law involves expending it.
B The first law involves expending energy, while the second involves creating it.
C The first law involves conserving energy, while the second law involves the inability to
recapture energy.
D The first law discusses creating energy, while the second law discusses the energy
requirement for reactions.
Solution
19
The solution is (C). The first law of thermodynamics states that energy can neither
be created nor destroyed. It is just transformed from one state to other. The second
law of thermodynamics states that every energy transfer involves some loss of
energy in an unusable form, such as heat energy, resulting in a more disordered
system.
What best describes the effect of inputting energy into a living system?
A It decreases entropy within the system.
B It fuels catabolic reactions.
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C It causes enthalpy.
D The energy is used to produce carbohydrates.
Solution
20
The solution is (A). This is the best answer because inputting energy into a living
system will allow cells to perform a variety of functions that decrease entropy, such
as moving substances against their concentration gradient, repairing damage to cells
and molecules, and storing energy as ATP.
Why is ATP considered the energy currency of the cell?
A It accepts energy from chemical reactions.
B It holds energy at the site of release from substrates.
C t is a protein.
D It can transport energy to locations within the cell.
Solution
21
The solution is (A). This is the best answer because inputting energy into a living
system will allow cells to perform a variety of functions that decrease entropy, such
as moving substances against their concentration gradient, repairing damage to cells
and molecules, and storing energy as ATP.
What is ATP made from?
A Adenosine + high-energy electrons
B ADP + pyrophosphate
C AMP + ADP
D The conversion of guanine to adenosine
Solution
22
The solution is (B). An ATP molecule is made from the addition of pyrophosphate to
an ADP molecule, which contains two phosphate groups.
What is true about the energy released by the hydrolysis of ATP?
A It is equal to 57 kJ/mol .
B The cell harnesses it as heat energy to perform work.
C It is primarily stored between the alpha and beta phosphates.
D It provides energy to coupled reactions.
Solution
23
The solution is (D). When ATP is used in a reaction, it transfers its third phosphate
with energy to the chemical reaction. It phosphorylates another molecule and
makes the energy available. Also, ATP hydrolysis performs work in cells by energy
coupling.
What part of ATP is broken to release energy for use in chemical reactions?
A The adenosine molecule
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6 | Metabolism
B The bond between the first and second phosphates
C The bond between the first phosphate and the adenosine molecule
D The bond between the second and third phosphates
Solution
The solution is (D). The terminal phosphate bond of ATP is broken upon hydrolysis
of ATP to ADP. This phosphate molecule, also referred to as the phosphate, is
linked to the other two phosphates of ATP via high-energy bonds called
phosphoanhydride bonds.
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113
What does an allosteric inhibitor do?
A Binds to an enzyme away from the active site and changes the conformation of the
active site, increasing its affinity for substrate binding.
B Binds to an active site and blocks it from binding substrate.
C Binds to an enzyme away from the active site and changes the conformation of the
active site, decreasing its affinity for the substrate.
D Binds directly to the active site and mimics the substrate.
Solution
25
The solution is (C). An allosteric inhibitor binds to an enzyme away from the active
site and changes the conformation of the active site, decreasing its affinity for the
substrate. An allosteric inhibitor is a molecule that binds to an enzyme, thus
inhibiting the enzyme’s activity. An allosteric inhibitor may be a competitive or
noncompetitive inhibitor.
What happens if an enzyme is NOT functioning in a chemical reaction within a living
organism that needs it?
A The reaction stops.
B The reaction proceeds, but much more slowly.
C The reaction proceeds faster without the interference.
D There is no change in the reaction rate.
Solution
26
The solution is (B). The reaction proceeds, but much more slowly. If the enzyme
needed for the reaction is not be available, then the reaction will occur slowly,
potentially so slowly that an organism may die before the reaction is complete.
Which of the following is NOT true about enzymes?
A They increase the G of reactions.
B They are usually made of amino acids.
C They lower the activation energy of chemical reactions.
D Each one is specific to the particular substrate, or substrates, to which it binds.
Solution
27
The solution is (A). They increase G of reactions. Enzymes have no effect on G
of a reaction, that is, they do not change it even if a reaction is exergonic or
endergonic.
Which analogy best describes the induced-fit model of enzyme-substrate binding?
A A hug between two people
B A key fitting into a lock
C A square peg fitting through the square hole and a round peg fitting through the
round hole of a children’s toy
D The fitting together of two jigsaw puzzle pieces
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Solution
28
The solution is (B). The enzyme changes its configuration to bind to the transition
state of the substrate, which validates the lock and key analogy.
What is the function of enzymes?
A To increase the G of reactions
B To increase the H of reactions
C To lower the entropy of the chemicals in the reaction
D To lower the activation energy of a reaction
Solution
The solution is (D). Enzymes are proteins that accelerate chemical reactions by
lowering their activation energies. As such, enzymes are catalysts of chemical
reactions, causing an increase in the rate at which reactions occur.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
29
What is the connection between anabolic and catabolic chemical reactions in a metabolic
pathway?
A Catabolic reactions produce energy and simpler compounds, whereas anabolic
reactions involve the use of energy to make more complex compounds.
B Catabolic reactions produce energy and complex compounds are formed, whereas in
anabolic reactions, free energy is used by complex compounds to make simpler
molecules.
C Catabolic reactions use energy and gives simpler compounds, whereas in anabolic
reactions, energy is produced and simpler compounds are used to make complex
molecules.
D Catabolic reactions produce energy and water molecules, whereas in anabolic
reactions, this free energy is used by simpler compounds to make only proteins and
nucleic acids.
Solution
The solution is (B). Catabolic reactions give out energy and simpler compounds,
whereas in anabolic reactions, free energy is used by simpler compounds to make
complex molecules. Anabolic reactions depend on energy to complete their
reactions. This energy is obtained as a result of catabolic reactions, so each one
leads to the next, with the energy coming from one to run the next one. A catabolic
reaction occurs when a complex compound breaks down, giving simpler molecules
with the release of energy. The energy released is used to power the anabolic
reactions, where simpler molecules use the energy to form complex molecules.
Therefore, one reaction leads to another.
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115
Does physical exercise involve anabolic processes, catabolic processes, or both? Give
evidence for your answer.
A Physical exercise involves both catabolic and anabolic processes. Glucose is broken
down into simpler compounds during physical activity. The simpler compounds are
then used to provide energy to the muscles for contraction by the anabolic pathway.
B Physical exercise is just a catabolic process. Glucose is broken down into simpler
compounds during physical activity, and the simpler compounds are then used to
provide energy to the muscles for contraction.
C Physical activity involves only anabolic processes. Glucose is broken down into simpler
compounds during physical activity, and the simpler compounds are then used to
provide energy to the muscles for contraction by anabolic pathways.
D Physical exercise involves both anabolic and catabolic processes. Cellulose is broken
down into simpler compounds during physical activity. The simpler compounds are
then used to provide energy to the muscles for contraction by anabolic pathways.
Solution
31
The solution is (A). Physical exercise involves both catabolic and anabolic reactions.
Glucose must be broken down in metabolic pathways, which are both catabolic and
anabolic, and used to supply energy to muscles for contraction. Glucose is broken
down to provide energy to the body. This is a catabolic process, and the simpler
molecules use that energy to form complex compounds. This is an anabolic pathway.
How do chemical reactions play a role in energy transfer?
A Energy from the breakdown of glucose and other molecules in animals is released as
ATP, which transfers energy to other reactions.
B Energy from the breakdown of glucose and other molecules in animals is released in
the form of NADP, which transfers energy to other reactions.
C Energy is released in the form of glucose from the breakdown of ATP molecules. These
ATP molecules transfer energy from one reaction to other.
D Energy is released in the form of water from the breakdown of glucose. These
molecules transfer energy from one reaction to other.
Solution
32
The solution is (A). Energy must be stored in a cell in the form of a bond between
two molecules; it cannot be stored in the cell as free energy. The energy is attached
to a chemical such as ATP, which transfers the energy from one reaction to another
and from one area of a cell to another safely. Energy never exists in the living cells as
free energy. These ATP molecules are obtained from the metabolism of glucose.
What are two cellular functions that require energy?
A Phagocytosis helps amoebae take up nutrients, and pseudopodia help the
amoebae move.
B Phagocytosis allows amoebae to move, and pseudopodia help in the uptake of
nutrients.
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C Phagocytosis helps amoebae take up nutrients, and cilia help amoebae move.
D Phagocytosis helps amoebae in cell division, and pseudopodia help amoebae move.
Solution
33
The solution is (A). Phagocytosis helps amoebae in uptake of nutrients, and
pseudopodia help the amoebae move. Amoebae take up some nutrients through
phagocytosis and combine the resulting vacuoles with lysosomes to digest materials,
as humans do. Amoebae move by constricting actin and myosin within the cell, just
as human muscles move. The protrusion in cytoplasm that helps in movement is
called pseudopodia.
What is the conversion of energy that takes place when the sluice of a dam is opened?
A Potential energy stored in the water held by the dam will convert to kinetic energy
when the water falls through the opening of the sluice.
B Kinetic energy stored in the water held by the dam will convert to potential energy
when the water falls through the opening of the sluice.
C Potential energy stored in the water held by the dam will convert to electrical energy
when the water falls through the opening of the sluice.
D Hydrothermal energy stored in the water held by the dam will convert to kinetic
energy when the water falls through the opening of the sluice.
Solution
34
The solution is (A). The potential energy of the water held in the reservoir behind
the dam converts to kinetic energy as it falls through the opening of the sluice.
Potential energy is referred to the energy stored in a system due to its position.
Therefore, water held in a dam possesses potential energy, whereas kinetic energy is
referred to as energy possessed by the motion of the object. When the sluice of the
dam is opened, the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy.
What is the difference between a spontaneous reaction and one that occurs
instantaneously?
A A spontaneous reaction is one that releases free energy and moves to a more stable
state. Instantaneous reactions occur rapidly with a sudden release of energy.
B A spontaneous reaction is one that uses free energy and moves to a more stable state.
Instantaneous reactions occur rapidly with a sudden release of energy.
C A spontaneous reaction is one that releases free energy and moves to a more stable
state. Instantaneous reactions occur rapidly within a system by the uptake of energy.
D A spontaneous reaction is one that occurs rapidly with the sudden release of energy.
Instantaneous reactions release free energy and move to a more stable state.
Solution
The solution is (A). A spontaneous reaction occurs without the input of energy and
decreases the free energy of a system, making the system more stable and releasing
that energy to do work. An instantaneous reaction occurs very rapidly with a sudden
release of energy. A spontaneous reaction does not require energy to carry out the
reaction. It releases free energy that is used by the system to move to a stable state.
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The difference lies in the duration of reactions: spontaneous reactions can take
seconds to years, while instantaneous reactions occur right away.
35
Which option describes the position of the transition state on a vertical energy scale, from
low to high, relative to the position of the reactants and products, for both endergonic
and exergonic reactions?
A The transition state of the reaction exists at a lower energy level than the reactants.
Activation energy is always positive, regardless of whether the reaction is exergonic or
endergonic.
B The transition state of the reaction exists at a higher energy level than the reactants.
Activation energy is always positive, regardless of whether the reaction is exergonic or
endergonic.
C The transition state of the reaction exists at a lower energy level than the reactants.
Activation energy is always negative, regardless of whether the reaction is exergonic
or endergonic.
D The transition state of the reaction exists at an intermediate energy level than that of
the reactants. Activation energy is always positive, regardless of whether the reaction
is exergonic or endergonic.
Solution
36
The solution is (B). The transition state of the reaction exists at a higher energy state
than the reactants and, thus, activation energy is always positive regardless of
whether the reaction is an exergonic or endergonic reaction.
Imagine an elaborate ant farm with tunnels and passageways through the sand where
ants live in a large community. Now imagine that an earthquake shook the ground and
demolished the ant farm.
In which scenario, before or after the earthquake, was the ant farm system in a state of
higher or lower entropy? Why?
A The ant farm is in the state of higher entropy after the earthquake, and energy must
be spent to bring the system to low entropy.
B The ant farm is in the state of lower entropy after the earthquake, and energy must be
spent to bring the system to high entropy.
C The ant farm is in the state of higher entropy before the earthquake, and energy is
given out of the system after the earthquake.
D The ant farm is in the state of lower entropy before the earthquake, and energy is
given out of the system after the earthquake.
Solution
The solution is (A). The ant farm is in a state of higher entropy (disorder) after the
earthquake. The tunnels have been destroyed, and energy must be spent to rebuild
them. Entropy is defined as the measure of randomness or disorder. Therefore, after
the earthquake, the randomness or disorder increases, leading to higher entropy.
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Energy should be given to the system to rebuild the tunnels and passageways to
lower the entropy.
37
Energy transfers take place constantly in everyday activities. Think of two scenarios:
cooking on a stove and driving. How does the second law of thermodynamics apply to
these scenarios?
A Heat is lost into the room while cooking and into the metal of the engine during
gasoline combustion.
B Heat gained while cooking helps to make the food, and heat released due to gasoline
combustion helps the car accelerate.
C The energy given to the system remains constant during cooking, and more energy is
added to the car engine when the gasoline combusts.
D The energy given to the system for cooking helps to make food, and energy in the car
engine remains conserved when gasoline combustion takes place.
Solution
38
The solution is (A). In both examples, there is an input of energy that results in work
being done—cooking and moving the car—and loss of heat as a result. The heat loss
travels into the room during cooking and into the metal of the engine during
gasoline combustion. Energy must be continuously put into the systems to maintain
the activities. Run out of natural gas or propane, and the cooking stops. Run out of
gasoline, and the car stops. The second law of thermodynamics states that no
energy transfer is efficient, and some form of energy in the form of heat is released.
While cooking, heat is lost and travels into the room. The engine metal heats up
during gasoline combustion. If propane or gas runs out, then both of the activities
would stop.
What does it mean for a system to be at a higher level of entropy? How can it be
reduced?
A Higher level of entropy refers to a higher state of disorder in the system, and it can be
reduced by input of energy to lower the entropy.
B Higher level of entropy refers to a higher state of symmetry in the system, and it can
be reduced by the release of energy to lower the entropy.
C Higher level of entropy refers to low disorder in the system, and it can be reduced by
input of energy to increase the entropy.
D Higher level of entropy refers to a higher state of disorder in the system, and it can be
reduced by providing a catalyst to lower the entropy.
Solution
The solution is (A). The system has lost energy and is in a higher state of disorder.
Energy or work must be invested into the system to restore order and lower
entropy. When a system is in a state of disorder, then it possesses high entropy. The
entropy can be reduced by input of energy, which reduces the randomness and
lowers the entropy of the system.
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119
When the air temperature drops and rain turns to snow, which law of thermodynamics is
exhibited?
A First law of thermodynamics
B Second law of thermodynamics
C Third law of thermodynamics
D Zeroth law of thermodynamics
Solution
40
The solution is (A). This is an example of the first law of thermodynamics. Energy is
being transferred as the atmosphere gets colder and the water in rain solidifies into
snow. The first law of thermodynamics states that energy can neither be created nor
destroyed. It is transferred from one state to another. Energy is being transferred as
the atmosphere gets colder and the rainwater solidifies into snow.
How does ATP supply energy to chemical reactions?
A ATP dissociates, and the energy released by breaking a phosphate bond within ATP is
used for phosphorylation of another molecule. ATP hydrolysis also provides energy to
power coupling reactions.
B ATP uses energy to power exergonic reactions by hydrolysis of ATP molecules. The
free energy released as a result of ATP breakdown is used to carry out metabolism of
products.
C ATP uses energy to power endergonic reactions by dehydration of ATP molecules. The
free energy released as a result of ATP breakdown is used to carry out metabolism of
products.
D ATP uses the energy released from coupling reactions, and that energy is used to
power the endergonic and exergonic reactions.
Solution
41
The solution is (A). ATP transfers its third phosphate with its energy to the chemical
in the reaction, phosphorylating that chemical and making the energy available.
When ATP is used in a reaction, it transfers its third phosphate with energy to the
chemical reaction. It phosphorylates another molecule and makes the energy
available. Also, ATP hydrolysis performs work in cells by energy coupling.
Is the EA for ATP hydrolysis relatively low or high? Explain your reasoning.
A EA for ATP hydrolysis is low because considerable energy is released.
B EA for ATP hydrolysis is high because considerable energy is released.
C EA for ATP hydrolysis is intermediate because considerable energy is released.
D EA for ATP hydrolysis is high because a low amount of energy is released.
Solution
The solution is (B). The EA of ATP hydrolysis is high due to the high energy level of
the compound and the ultimate energy release.
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What is phosphorylation as it occurs in chemical reactions?
A The attachment of a phosphate to another molecule to facilitate a chemical reaction
B The uptake of a phosphorous molecule by an ATP molecule to power chemical
reactions
C The release of a third phosphorous molecule of ATP during hydrolysis
D The breakdown of a pyrophosphate molecule which gives phosphate ions
Solution
43
The solution is (A). Phosphorylation is the attachment of a high-energy phosphate
from ATP to another molecule to facilitate a chemical reaction.
If a chemical reaction could occur without an enzyme, why is it important to have one?
A Enzymes are important because they give the desired products only from the reaction.
B Enzymes are important because the products are obtained consistently with time.
C Enzymes are important because they do not disturb the concentration of the
products.
D Enzymes are important because energy remains conserved and no loss of energy
occurs.
Solution
44
The solution is (A). Chemical reactions can occur without an enzyme catalyzing
them, but not at a rate consistent with life. Enzymes speed up reactions that allow
chemicals to be available for an organism’s growth and maintenance. However,
enzymes are also very specific to their host molecules. This ensures that only
reactions whose products are needed will be catalyzed.
How does enzyme feedback inhibition benefit a cell?
A Feedback inhibition benefits the cell by blocking the production of the products
by changing the configuration of enzymes. This will prevent the cells from
becoming toxic.
B Feedback inhibition benefits the cell by blocking the production of the reactants
by changing the configuration of enzymes. This will prevent the cells from
becoming toxic.
C Feedback inhibition benefits the cell by blocking the production of the products
by changing the configuration of reactants. This will prevent the cells from
becoming toxic.
D Feedback inhibition benefits the cell by blocking the production of the products
by reducing the reactants. This will prevent the cells from becoming toxic.
Solution
The solution is (A). Feedback inhibition allows the cell to maintain a relatively
constant level of a product without having to degrade the enzyme. The products
bind to the allosteric site of the enzyme and change its configuration. The reaction
eventually stops. This way, overproduction of the product does not occur, which
would be toxic.
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121
What type of reaction allows chemicals to be available for an organism’s growth and
maintenance in a timely manner?
A Enzymatically facilitated reactions
B Redox reactions
C Catabolic reactions
D Hydrolysis of ATP
Solution
The solution is (A). Enzymatically facilitated reactions occur at a speed that brings
reactants together to provide the biochemical molecules needed for life. The
reactions would occur without the enzymes, but not fast enough to supply the
products needed by cells. Enzymes catalyze a reaction and accelerate the rate of
chemical reaction. Therefore, the products are made in timely manner and can be
available on time for an organism’s growth and maintenance.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
46
Cell metabolism is a complex process that uses many types of chemicals in a variety of
processes. Which statement is true?
A A loss of free nucleotides would result in cancer.
B A loss of assorted carbohydrates would result in mitosis.
C A loss of triglycerides would result in cell death.
D A loss of enzymes would result in cell death.
Solution
47
The solution is (D). A lack of enzymes would result in an extreme slowdown of
metabolic pathways because reactions would only be able to occur spontaneously.
Since reactions occurring spontaneously do not necessarily occur quickly, the cell
would die as necessary processes slowed or halted.
Which pair of descriptors of chemical reactions go together?
A Anabolic and exergonic
B Exergonic and dehydration synthesis
C Endergonic and catabolic
D Hydrolysis and exergonic
Solution
48
The solution is (D). A hydrolysis reaction involves addition of water to break bonds,
thus liberating energy.
What is the underlying principle that supports the idea that all living organisms share the
same core processes and features?
A All organisms must harvest energy from their environment and convert it to ATP to
carry out cellular functions.
B Plants produce their own energy and pass it on to animals.
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C Herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores coexist for the survival of all.
D Glucose is the primary source of energy for all cellular functions.
Solution
49
The solution is (A). All organisms must harvest energy from their environment and
convert it to ATP to carry out cellular functions. It is a requirement of life that
organisms metabolize energy.
It has been accepted that life on Earth started out as single-celled, simple organisms,
which then evolved into complex organisms. How did evolution proceed to produce such
a wide variety of living organisms from a simple ancestor?
A Prokaryotes produced the fungi, then the protists, which then branched to plants and
animals.
B Protists evolved first, then the prokaryotes, which branched into the fungi, plants, and
animals.
C Prokaryotes produced the protists, which branched into the fungi, plants, and animals.
D Prokaryotes produced the protists, then the fungi, which branched into plants and
animals.
Solution
50
The solution is (C). Prokaryotes produced the protists, which branched into the
fungi, plants, and animals. Single-celled organisms that are the prokaryotes
appeared first on Earth. They produced multicellular organisms called protists. The
protists further branched into fungi, plants, and animals.
Plants make glucose through a pathway called photosynthesis. The amount of energy
captured from light can be expressed as the number of energy-containing molecules used
to make one molecule of glucose.
Which option best states the number of each molecule needed?
A 54 molecules of ATP and 18 molecules of NADPH
B 18 molecules of ATP and 12 molecules of NADPH
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C 24 molecules of ATP and 18 molecules of NADPH
D 12 molecules of ATP and 18 molecules of NADPH
Solution
51
The solution is (B). The amount of energy needed to make one molecule of glucose
from 6 molecules of carbon dioxide is 18 molecules of ATP and 12 molecules of
NADPH, or a total of 54 molecules of ATP.
What is an anabolic pathway? What is an example of an anabolic pathway used by cells in
their metabolism?
A Anabolic pathways involve the breakdown of nutrient molecules into usable forms. An
example is the harvesting of amino acids from dietary proteins.
B Anabolic pathways involve the breakdown of nutrient molecules into usable forms. An
example is the use of glycogen by the liver to maintain blood glucose levels.
C Anabolic pathways build new molecules out of the products of catabolic pathways. An
example is the separation of fatty acids from triglycerides to satisfy energy needs.
D Anabolic pathways build new molecules out of the products of catabolic pathways. An
example is the linkage of nucleotides to form a molecule of mRNA.
Solution
52
The solution is (D). Anabolic pathways build new molecules out of the products
of catabolic pathways. An example is the linkage of nucleotides to form a molecule
of mRNA.
If glucose is broken down through aerobic respiration, a number of ATP molecules can be
made from the energy extracted. How many molecules of ATP are possible?
A 2 to 4
B 36 to 38
C 10 to 12
D 24 to 30
Solution
53
The solution is (B). When glucose is broken down through aerobic respiration, 36–
38 molecules of ATP can be produced. Two molecules are obtained from the Krebs
cycle, and 34 molecules of ATP are produced from the electron transport chain.
Plants must have adequate resources to complete their functions. If they do not have
what they need, there are changes in the organism’s metabolism. What happens to the
metabolism of a plant that does not have adequate sunlight?
A Photosynthesis slows and less glucose is produced for energy use.
B The plant switches to anaerobic metabolism.
C The plant goes into a dormant state until the sunlight returns.
D The plant flowers quickly to reproduce while it can.
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Solution
54
The solution is (A). Photosynthesis slows and less glucose is produced for energy use.
Sunlight is an extremely important requirement for the plants to carry out the
photosynthesis reaction and manufacture their food. When the sunlight is not
adequate, the rate of photosynthesis decreases and, as a result, less glucose is
produced for energy use.
Water deficiency is arguably the easiest deficiency to detect in plants. This is because
plants that lack water will wilt since water within the plant’s cells helps to support the
plant’s weight. Plant cells become water deficient because their cells use the water for
metabolic processes.
What happens to the metabolism of a plant that does NOT have adequate water?
A Photosynthesis is inhibited, less glucose is produced, and water used by the cells is not
replaced.
B The plant increases its breakdown of glucose to create more water at the end of the
process.
C The plant will stop photosynthesizing for long periods of time until it has enough
water to do so.
D The cell will bring in more carbon dioxide to compensate for the lack of water,
allowing glucose synthesis to continue.
Solution
55
The solution is (A). Photosynthesis is inhibited, less glucose is produced, and water
that leaves the cells is not replaced, causing wilting of the plant. When adequate
water is not present, photosynthesis will decrease or stop altogether. This is because
water is an important reactant in the photosynthesis reaction. As a result, the
product of the photosynthesis reaction, glucose, will decrease. Wilting of plants will
occur as a result of diminished water in the cells.
Enzymes facilitate chemical reactions that result in changes to a substrate. How does the
induced-fit model of enzymes and substrates explain their function?
A Both enzymes and substrates undergo dynamic changes, inducing the transitions state
of the substrate.
B The enzyme induces a change in the substrate but is not changed itself during the
reaction.
C The substrates attach to the enzyme, and the chemical reaction proceeds.
D The enzyme changes shape to fit the substrate, causing the transition state to occur.
Solution
The solution is (A). Both enzymes and substrates undergo dynamic changes, inducing
the transition state of the substrate. When the enzyme and substrate come
together, their interaction causes a mild shift in the enzyme’s structure. This
confirms an ideal binding arrangement between the enzyme and the transition state
of the substrate.
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125
Enzyme inhibitors play an important part in the control of enzyme functions, allowing
them to continue, or inhibiting them for a period of time. Which inhibitor affects the
initial rate, but does NOT affect the maximal rate?
A Allosteric
B Competitive
C Noncompetitive
D Uncompetitive
Solution
The solution is (B). The effect of competitive inhibition is to increase the substrate
concentration required to achieve a given reaction speed. So, the rate of the
reaction will increase.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
6.1 Energy and Metabolism
57
Activation energy is required for a reaction to proceed, and it is lower if the reaction is
catalyzed. Sucrose (table sugar) is a disaccharide. When we eat sucrose, it is converted to
carbon dioxide and water, as with other carbohydrates.
1. Identify whether the breakdown of sucrose is endergonic or exergonic. Explain
the reasoning for your identification.
2. Based on your identification, explain whether cubes of sugar can be stored in a
sugar bowl, by creating a diagram similar to Figure 6.10.
3. If table sugar is placed in a spoon held over a high flame, the sugar is charred and
becomes a blackened mixture composed primarily of carbon. Create a visual
representation that includes a chemical equation to explain the role of the
flame in this process.
4. In terms of your answers to questions 1‒3, predict whether sugar cubes in a
bowl placed in a dish of water can be stored on a table, and justify your
prediction.
5. [Extension] The energy of activation of a chemical reaction can be determined
by measurement of the effect of temperature on reaction rate. The natural
logarithm of the reaction rate constant is a linear function of the inverse of the
temperature in Kelvin degrees. The negative of the slope of that graph is the
energy of activation divided by the universal ideal gas constant,
R  8.314 J/Kmol . Using the following data (R. Wolfenden and Yang Yean,
Journal of the American Chemical Society, 2008 Jun 18; 130(24): 7,548–7,549),
evaluate the energy of activation of the following reaction:
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sucrose → fructose + glucose
Temperature (K)
ln(rate)
440
3.8
4.5
5
6
423
403
388
A. Construct a graph of ln(rate) versus 1/T(K) and determine the energy of activation for
the uncatalyzed reaction.
B. Based on the data, explain the importance of enzymes for time scales characteristic of
living systems on Earth—that is to say, life as we know it.
The time scale required for half of the molecules of initial sucrose to remain can be
estimated. The relationship between the half-life and the activation energy is:
t1 2  0.69  10EA 2.3RT
At a temperature of 300 K, approximately room temperature, RT is equal to 2,494 J/mole.
Solution
Sample answer:
1. The breakdown of sucrose to fructose and glucose is an exergonic process.
One could calculate the free-energy change and find that it was negative.
One may also note that this is an important process in digestion in which
higher free energy is degraded to lower states, which are then converted to
even lower free-energy states; respiration is a cascade. While there are
chemical reactions within respiration that are endergonic, they must be
coupled to exergonic reactions. One may misconceive that a process such as
the degradation of sucrose, which in living systems is catalyzed by an
enzyme, is endergonic and coupled to the exergonic configuration changes in
the catalytic protein. However, the protein configuration is restored,
returning to its own initial free-energy state, cyclically. So, while the catalyst
changes the kinetics (the rate) of the reaction, it does not drive the reaction
forward.
2. This means that if the sugar cube can be isolated from biological systems that
could catalyze the conversion, the sugar cube would be stable. The diagram
in Figure 6.10 would then represent the free energy of the sucrose sugar
cube at the left and the glucose and fructose products at the right.
Separating these is a free-energy barrier.
3. If we place the sugar cube on a teaspoon and expose it to a flame, the energy
provided by the flame will allow the system to move to another, lower freeenergy state consisting of a mixture of carbon, carbon monoxide, carbon
dioxide, and water.
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4. If we place the sugar cube in a glass of water and allow microbial life to
participate, then the sugar becomes a nutrient. The catalytic power of the
proteins expressed by the microbes will allow the system to move to the
lower state.
5. A graph can be constructed from the data according to the model suggested.
-3,00
0,0022
-3,50
-4,00
0,0023
0,0024
0,0025
0,0026
1/T(K)
y = -6 846,00x + 11,77
-4,50
-5,00
ln(rate)
-5,50
-6,00
A. Multiplying the slope by 8.314 J/molK gives an energy of activation of 57 kJ/mole.
B. We can conclude from the data that this is a very large energy of activation for
transformation and that the time scale characteristic of life as we know it would not
be consistent with respiration conducted by uncatalyzed processes.
58
Physical exercise involves both anabolic and catabolic processes. For each process,
explain an expected outcome and describe an example of a specific exercise that can lead
to the expected outcome.
Solution
Sample answer: Physical exercise can lead to weight loss through the respiration of
energy stored in tissues. Exercise can also lead to the synthesis of new tissue and
likely weight gain. The former process is catabolic, and the latter is anabolic.
6.2 Potential, Kinetic, Free, and Activation Energy
59
Explanations in science are often constructed by analogy. Explanations of the behavior of
a poorly understood phenomenon can often be constructed by analogy to a phenomenon
that is well understood. For each of the following cellular functions that require free
energy, describe a parallel human activity and identify a source of free energy for that
activity. For example, the synthesis of proteins can be expected to proceed as an
assembly of a small set of subcomponents, just as the construction of a building is
accomplished by gathering and joining materials. It is consistent with our analogy to
expect that there must be a free-energy resource that is consumed in the synthesis of
proteins, just as hydrocarbon fuels are a source of energy for the construction of a
building.
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Solution
6 | Metabolism
Students might propose one of the following analogies to guide the understanding
of the behavior of a biological system:

Storing and retrieving genetic information: We expect the storage of
biological information to be analogous to the storage of cultural data, such as
texts, in which information is contained in the arrangement of
subcomponents, such as letters, numbers, notes, or colors. Though the
subcomponents of the information may be few, the retrieval of cultural data
can lead to nearly infinite forms of expression, and the process of data
retrieval is complex and elegant. Likewise, arrangements of a very small
number of nucleotides can be translated into the diversity of life.

Sending chemical messages: We expect the coordination of subsystems
within an organism to be accomplished by messaging. We expect the
subcomponents of the messages to be simple and highly redundant. We
expect the sequence and timing of messages to be as important as the
information provided by the message. All of these features are characteristic
of human communication systems and of the cell-cell signaling that
coordinates cell behavior and integrates tissue systems.

Digesting food: Harvesting, preparing, cooking, and delivering food involves
multiple specialized actors in coordinated action. We expect metabolism to
be an analogous process of energy harvesting and delivery. The output from
each step has coevolved with its input. Some processes, such as hunting and
gathering, have relatively low efficiency, but are less demanding in terms of
specialization and coordination. In some processes, highly organized physical
structures are required by the system. By analogy, glycolysis has a lower
efficiency than the Krebs cycle, which involves the complex structure of the
mitochondria.

Regulating transport: Transport of materials can involve containerized
passage through a system of locks in which free energy is consumed. This is
analogous to the conformational changes of a protein spanning a cell
membrane. At the other end, less complex materials can simply leak through
a barrier. And between these are the porins whose channels are like streams
that may be dammed.
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6.3 The Laws of Thermodynamics
60
Each process in the figure shows examples of endergonic and exergonic processes.
1. Identify each process as endergonic or exergonic and provide reasoning for your
identification that includes your definition of the system.
2. For each process, does entropy increase or decrease? Explain your reasoning in
terms of changes in the amount of order within the system.
3. For each process, is there an input of energy? Explain your reasoning in terms of
(a) the source of the energy input into the system and (b) the interaction
between the system and its environment that provides that input of energy.
Solution
There are many answers to these questions, and the answers depend on how one
defines the system.
The photo shows a compost pile. (1) If we consider the contents bound by the
wooden box to be the system and the process to be the decomposition of the
compost, then the system is exergonic. Although the process of photosynthesis is
endergonic through coupling to radiant energy, the respiration processes that
dominate the behavior of the system are all leading to the decomposition of
complex organic structures to produce much less ordered products—carbon dioxide
and water. (2) The entropy of the system increases as order decreases. (3) If the
compost pile is immersed in cold air for a sufficient period of time, respiration might
cease. Gardeners do work on the system to keep that from happening during the
winter. They frequently stir the compost pile to maintain conditions that support
microbial life. If the compost pile becomes too warm, it can also create unstable
conditions. So, without energy inputs, the compost pile may not be self-sustaining.
Even without the work done on the system by the gardener, there is an energy
exchange through heating between the compost pile and its surroundings.
The photo shows chicks hatching. (1) and (2) Considering the chick to be the system,
the system is strongly exergonic. The new tissue that is rapidly growing is at a much
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higher free energy than the nutrient materials within the shell. Considering the shell
to be the system, the process is clearly endergonic; the shell must be broken by that
beak, and the highly symmetric shell is more ordered than the shell fragments.
Considering the chick and the shell to be the system, the system is exergonic; we
know that the process will advance as free energy of the shell and its nutrients are
coupled to the free energy of the growing chick. (3) However, without heating, the
system may not continue to function, so changes in S are not sufficient.
The photo shows sand art. (1) and (2) If we consider the ordered ridges relative to
the planar surface to be the system, then it is highly ordered, and, as we are told in
the caption, this order is in the process of degrading. In the transformation from the
ordered to the disordered state, the products have a lower free energy than the
reactants. The system is exergonic even if a barrier prevented wind, water, or other
environmental disruptions the system. The barrier would prevent kinetic and not
thermodynamic effects, and the system would ultimately degrade, though very
slowly. (3) The possibility of spontaneous disorder, even in the sealed system, shows
that no energy input is needed to drive the process.
The photo shows spheres rolling down a hill. Considering a sphere to be the system,
(1) and (2,) we see that the process is spontaneous only if (3) there is an input from
the gravitational work done on the sphere. So, for that system, the process of rolling
is endergonic. Considering a sphere and the Earth to be the system, we see that the
process is a spontaneous rearrangement of parts within the system; the center-ofmass of the sphere-Earth system spontaneously decays from the slightly high freeenergy state of the sphere at the top of the hill. But (3) there is no work done on the
system after the sphere has been placed at the top of the hill.
61
Energy transfers occur constantly in daily activities. Think of two scenarios: cooking on a
stove and driving a car. For each scenario, describe the system and explain how the
second law of thermodynamics applies to the system in terms of energy input and change
in entropy.
Solution
Sample answer: Cooking on a stove involves the transfer of energy as heating from
combustion of fuel to pan and then from the pan to contents of the pan. Considering
the pan and then the contents of the pan to be the system, energy is added to the
system from the surroundings through heating. In this process, the transport of heat
energy creates atomic-scale disorder as the speeds of atomic increase and the
correlations of their motions decrease. Driving a car is very different. Considering
the car to be the system, the entropy of the system decreases as the speed and
direction of the system become more ordered. The second law is consistent with
this behavior since the entropy of the surroundings increases though the
decomposition of high-energy fuels to low free-energy exhaust. In fact, we
have become aware that the entropy production of driving is a central challenge
of our era.
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131
Consider a simple process that illustrates the change in entropy when energy is
transferred. Take a block of ice as a system with a temperature of 0 °C. This is water as a
solid, so it has a high structural order. This means that the molecules are in a fixed
position. As a result, the entropy of the system is low.
1. Take a block of ice as a system with a temperature of 0 °C. This is water as a
solid, so it has a high structural order. This means that the molecules are in a
fixed position. As a result, the entropy of the system is low.
2. Allow the ice to melt at room temperature. Describe changes in the motion and
interactions of water molecules before and after melting. Explain where the
energy came from whose transfer produced melting. Predict the effect of the
energy transfer on the entropy on the system, and justify your prediction.
3. Heat the water until the temperature reaches the boiling point. Explain what
happens to the entropy of the system when the water is heated.
4. Continue to heat the water at the constant temperature of the boiling point.
Describe changes in the motion and interactions of water molecules before and
after boiling. Predict the effect of the energy transfer on the entropy of the
system, and justify your prediction.
5. [Extension/Connection] Molecules of water have simple responses to heating:
The molecules move faster and interact less strongly with other neighboring
molecules. Consider the primary producers of an aquatic ecosystem in summer.
Describe the source of energy transfer to the system of photosynthetic plants
and algae. Predict changes in the system in response. Explain what happens to
the entropy of this trophic level when energy transfer occurs. Now consider the
primary producers and their aqueous environment as the system. Explain what
happens to the entropy of this system composed of photosynthetic organisms
and their abiotic environment.
6. Predict the change in entropy of the system when both autotrophs and their
abiotic environment are considered. Justify your prediction. Predict the signs of
the entropy changes in both biotic and abiotic components of this system.
Predict the relative magnitudes of these entropy changes, and justify your
prediction.
Solution
Sample answer:
1. N/A
2. Heating causes the molecules to become less aligned and slightly decrease
the volume in which they are constrained to move; liquid water has a slightly
higher density that water ice. However, as melting occurs, there is no change
in average speed since melting occurs at constant temperature. The more
disordered system has a higher entropy and the increase is paid through
transfer of energy from the surrounding environment.
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3. As the system continues to gain heat energy from the surroundings, the
speeds of the molecules and disorder increase, so the entropy of the system
increases.
4. When the boiling temperature is reached, further energy transport through
heating causes a second change of phase and the system is vaporized.
Increasing disorder and increasing volume increase the entropy of the
system. Collisions with other molecules broaden the distribution of kinetic
energies of molecules within the system, but the average temperature
remains unchanged until the system is entirely vaporized.
5. Energy is transferred to the photosynthetic system primarily as sunlight. The
response of the system is the synthesis of materials, reproduction, and
growth. Order increases, and so does entropy. If we include the abiotic
environment, water, and atmospheric gases, it must be that the entropy
decreases. This is a requirement of the second law of thermodynamics.
6. The magnitude of the entropy increase in the abiotic environment must be
larger than the magnitude of the entropy decrease in the biotic environment.
Otherwise, the behavior of the system overall violates the second law. Some
students may suggest that since it is a law and laws are made to be broken,
this provides insufficient evidence. Remind them that in a system, “law” has
a different meaning: laws are never broken, by definition. However,
scientists are always trying to find ways to break scientific laws and disprove
theories. When this occurs, a new theory that increases our understanding of
the world results.
6.4 ATP: Adenosine Triphosphate
63
The sodium-potassium pump is an example of free-energy coupling. The free energy
derived from exergonic ATP hydrolysis is used to pump sodium and potassium ions across
the cell membrane. The hydrolysis of one ATP molecule releases 7.3 kcal/mol of free
energy  G  –7.3 kcal/mol. If it takes 2.1 kcal/mol of free energy to move one Na+
across the membrane  G  2.1 kcal/mol , how many sodium ions could be moved by
the hydrolysis of one ATP molecule? Show your calculations to provide reasoning for
your answer.
Solution
Sample answer: Assume that only these two processes need to be considered.
1 ATP 
7.3kcal 1Na+

 3.5Na+
1 ATP 21kcal
The factors display the reasoning. If 7.3 kcal are available for each ATP and 2.1 kcal
are required to transport 1 sodium ion, the number of sodium ions transported per
ATP is the ratio.
64
Is the EA for ATP hydrolysis in cells likely relatively low or high compared to the EA for the
combustion of gasoline in an internal combustion engine?
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1. Explain your reasoning in terms of the relative stabilities of ATP and gasoline
compared to air in which no catalysts are present.
2. Describe how the role of the enzyme ATPase in the hydrolysis of ATP in a cell
differs from a spark in the cylinder of an internal combustion engine.
3. Describe a strategy for collecting data that can be used to measure the energies
of activation (EA) of each of these two processes with instruments that can
measure concentrations of reactions produced in each system.
Solution
Sample answer: The spark of the internal combustion engine is similar to a catalyst
in that the free energy of the original state is recovered through the generation of
electrical energy by the rotational motion produced by the spark. However, in the
absence of a spark, gasoline can spontaneously combust at temperatures above its
ignition temperature. The activation energy can be estimated as comparable with
RT, where R is the universal gas constant and T is the ignition temperature, roughly 5
kJ/mole. The activation energy of ATP hydrolysis is usually quoted as 57 kJ/mole.
Rather than look up the numbers, it would be useful to consider the likelihood that
ATP will spontaneously become ADP. Metabolic and cellular integrity would suffer
since these processes are regulated by the availability of ATP.
6.5 Enzymes
65
Vitamin B12 is a coenzyme involved in a wide variety of cellular processes. Synthesis of
vitamin B12 occurs only in bacteria; in animals, these bacteria populate anaerobic
environments in the gut. Consequently, vegan diets in developing nations and diets
common to developing nations provide no source of B12. Researchers (Ghosh et al.
http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2016.00001) found that rats whose diets contained
limited (L) and no (N) B12 displayed symptoms that were not observed in the control
group (C) whose diet included B12 and was otherwise identical. Chemical analysis of
adipocytokines in the plasma after feeding periods of 4 and 12 weeks are shown in the
following table.
Adipocytokines
Tissue of Origin
Feeding duration
(weeks)
C
L
N
Leptin (pg/L)
4
5.7 ± 0.21
5.8 ± 0.25
6.1 ± 0.25
Adipose
12
5.8 ± 0.39
6.5 ± 0.36
9.9 ± 0.68
MCP-1 (mg/L)
4
43.0 ± 1.18 44.4 ± 1.95 46.9 ± 2.08
Monocytes
12
43.2 ± 2.47 45.3 ± 3.02 49.5 ± 1.27
IL-6 (mg/L)
4
150 ± 3.2
154 ± 4.5
184 ± 8.0
Monocytes
12
151 ± 6.7
176 ± 11.0 185 ± 8.2
The sample size for these data is small: n = 6 within each group. Also shown in the table
are cells in which these cytokine messages originate. Adipose cells store fats. Monocytes
are white blood cells of the immune system. Over the 12 weeks of feeding, the weights of
all three groups were equivalent, while the percent of body fat increased relative to the
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control for the rats fed a diet of limited and no B12: 40 percent (N) and 20 percent (L),
respectively.
A. Identify which adipocytokines show significant increases relative to the control group,
after only 4 weeks of treatment. Justify your identification.
B. Identify which adipocytokines show only significant increases relative to the control
group, after 12 weeks of treatment. Justify your identification.
C. Identify which adipocytokines show significant increases relative to the control group,
after 4 weeks of treatment but no further increase after 12 weeks. Justify your
identification.
Adipocytokines are chemical messengers that regulate metabolism and blood vessel
production and dilation. High concentrations of adipocytokines are commonly found
among individuals with abnormal autoimmune response. Monocyte chemoattractant
protein 1 (MCP-1) is involved in the trafficking or guiding of monocytes to damaged tissue,
as in a wound. In mice, leptin receptors of cells in the hypothalamus suppress hunger.
Interleukin (IL-6) is released to initiate and then regulate inflammation in response to an
infection. (The mice in this study were not infected or wounded.)
D. Construct an explanation, with reasoning based on the evidence provided by these
data, for the observed variations in adipocytokines. Many noncommunicable diseases are
associated with abnormal autoimmune responses, and the number of diseases that
involve abnormal autoimmune response is increasing. Many autoimmune diseases, such
as diabetes and heart disease, occur in developed nations at a much higher frequency
than in developing nations.
E. Evaluate, based on these data concerning the effect of restrictions on the availability of
B12, the following question: Does the increased lack of exposure to pathogens in
developed nations lead to reduced or abnormal immune response?
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Leptin and IL-6 are likely to be significantly different than the control group for
the N diet. The intervals of the measured values of these cytokines do not overlap
with those of the control measurements. With such a small sample size, the
conclusion of significance would be very similar to that obtained with a t-test. And
application of a t-test is out of scope for the AP Biology Exam.
B. After 12 weeks of treatment, both leptin and IL-6 are significantly different than
the control. Justification for this claim is the same as given in (A).
C. The increase in concentrations of leptin continues to rise during the longer
treatment period. However, the concentration of IL-6 stops increasing. Again, the
claim is based on a comparison of the intervals of measured values.
D. During the treatment, the percent body fat of the animals whose diets are
deficient in B12 increases relative to the control. The constancy of MCP-1 is
consistent with the absence of wounding that would evoke an inflammatory
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response. The increase in leptin is consistent with the increase in adipose tissue. The
interleukin increase indicates that the physiological state of the animals deficient in
B12 have responded as if the system is infected. Adipose cells or their secretion
products are provoking an immune response from the host.
E. Students may need to reread the problem narrative to obtain information about
the source of B12. Populations in developed nations may be less exposed to
bacteria. Consequently, there may be a diminished supply of B12, or other dietary
supplements provided by a higher and more diverse population of gut bacteria. The
evaluation of this question should connect the role and origin of B12 with the
example of autoimmune diseases and obesity in developed nations. Good scientific
questions can be pursued experimentally, taking into account all of the available
data and are congruent with other good questions. This question is a good scientific
question and is referred to as the hygiene hypothesis.
66
Using an example, explain how enzyme feedback inhibition regulates a cellular process.
Solution
Students might consider stability. A system under negative feedback remains at the
set point. They might consider efficiency. A system under negative feedback uses
resources on demand rather than consume free energy to produce redundant,
unused subcomponents. Students might focus on the enzyme part of this question
and respond that, without catalysis, the system must be greatly simplified or
operate on a time scale that is inconsistent with life. Students might focus on the
specific part of the question and point out that the investment in greater
information content allows more precise communication.
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7 | CELLULAR RESPIRATION
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
What is the most important energy currency used by cells?
A ATP
B ADP
C AMP
D Adenosine
Solution
2
The solution is (A). ATP has high-energy bonds between its phosphate molecules,
allowing energy to be stored by cells within ATP molecules.
What happens when a chemical is reduced during a reaction?
A The compound is reduced to a simpler form.
B An electron is added to the chemical.
C A hydrogen atom is removed from the substrate.
D It acts as a catabolic reaction.
Solution
3
The solution is (B). Addition of an electron to a substrate causes its reduction, and
the donor is said to be oxidized.
Which molecules are oxidizing agents?
A FAD+ and NAD+
B FADH2 and NADH
C FAD and FADH2
D NAD+ and NADH
Solution
4
The solution is (A). FAD+ and NAD+ have a tendency to accept 2H+ and 2e− to become
reduced and form FADH2 and NADH2, respectively.
Which reaction releases energy?
A AMP + phosphate → ADP + H2O
B ADP + phosphate → ATP + H2O
C ATP + H2O → ADP + phosphate
D AMP + H2O → ATP + phosphate
Solution
The solution is (C). Hydrolysis of ATP releases energy and frees an inorganic
phosphate. This energy is used for various chemical reactions.
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137
During the second half of glycolysis, what occurs?
A ATP is used up.
B Fructose is split in two.
C ATP is produced.
D Glucose becomes fructose.
Solution
6
The solution is (C). During the pay-off phase of glycolysis, substrate level
phosphorylation takes place twice, creating a net of 2 ATP molecules per glucose.
GLUTs are integral membrane proteins that assist in the facilitated diffusion of glucose
into and out of cells. What reaction in glycolysis prevents glucose from being transported
back out of the cell?
A Hexokinase dephosphorylates glucose using ATP, creating a glucose molecule that
can’t cross the hydrophilic portion of the plasma membrane.
B Hexokinase phosphorylates glucose using ADP, creating a glucose molecule that can’t
cross the hydrophobic interior of the plasma membrane.
C Hexokinase dephosphorylates glucose using ADP, creating a glucose molecule that
can’t cross the hydrophilic portion of the plasma membrane.
D Hexokinase phosphorylates glucose using ATP, creating a glucose molecule that can’t
cross the hydrophobic interior of the plasma membrane.
Solution
7
The solution is (D). Hexokinase phosphorylates glucose using ATP. The negative
charge of the phosphate prevents the passage of phosphorylated glucose through
the hydrophobic interior of the plasma membrane.
How many ATP molecules are used and produced per molecule of glucose during
glycolysis?
A The first half of glycolysis uses 2 ATPs, and the second half of glycolysis produces
4 ATPs.
B The first half of glycolysis produces 2 ATPs, and the second half of glycolysis uses
4 ATPs.
C The first half of glycolysis uses 4 ATPs, and the second half of glycolysis produces
2 ATPs.
D The first half of glycolysis produces 4 ATPs, and the second half of glycolysis uses
2 ATPs.
Solution
The solution is (A). The enzymes hexokinase and PFK utilize 2 ATPs each in the first
half of the cycle. The second half produces 4 ATPs by substrate-level
phosphorylation. This occurs twice.
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7 | Cellular Respiration
What is removed from pyruvate during its conversion into an acetyl group?
A Oxygen
B ATP
C Vitamin B
D Carbon dioxide
Solution
9
The solution is (D). During the oxidation of pyruvate, a molecule of carbon dioxide
along with NADH is produced.
What do the electrons added to NAD+ do in aerobic respiration?
A They become part of a fermentation pathway.
B They go to another pathway for ATP production.
C They energize the acetyl group in the citric acid cycle.
D They are converted to NADP.
Solution
10
The solution is (B). NADH undergoes oxidative phosphorylation and enters the
electron transport chain to produce ATP.
GTP, which can be converted to ATP, is produced during which reaction of the citric
acid cycle?
A Isocitrate into α-ketoglutarate
B Succinyl-CoA into succinate
C Fumarate into malate
D Malate into oxaloacetate
Solution
11
The solution is (B). During the citric acid cycle, two oxidative decarboxylation
reactions occur, producing 2 CO2 and 2 NADH. In addition, two dehydrogenation
reactions producing 1 NADH and 1 FADH2 and 1 substrate-level phosphorylation
occur. GTP is produced during the fifth reaction of the citric acid cycle. This reaction
is catalyzed by the enzyme succinyl-CoA synthetase.
How many NADH molecules are produced on each turn of the citric acid cycle?
A One
B Two
C Three
D Four
Solution
12
The solution is (C). The citric acid cycle produces 3 NADH with the help of 2 oxidative
decarboxylations and 1 dehydrogenation.
What compound receives electrons from NADH?
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A FMN
B Ubiquinone
C Cytochrome c1
D Oxygen
Solution
The solution is (A). Complex I (NADH dehydrogenase) contains an FMN subunit that
immediately accepts electrons from NADH and passes them to CoQ.
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7 | Cellular Respiration
Chemiosmosis involves the movement of what? Where does it occur?
A Electrons across the cell membrane
B Hydrogen atoms across a mitochondrial membrane
C Hydrogen ions across a mitochondrial membrane
D Glucose through the cell membrane
Solution
14
The solution is (C). Hydrogen ions produced during the electron transport chain are
pumped across the inner mitochondrial membrane. These ions help maintain the
correct pH gradient for the efficient production of ATP.
What is the function of an electron in the electron transport chain?
A To dephosphorylate ATP, producing ADP
B To power active transport pumps
C To reduce heme in complex III
D To oxidize oxygen
Solution
15
The solution is (B). As electrons move across the electron transport chain, hydrogen
ions are pumped across the inner membrane of the mitochondria.
What would be the outcome if hydrogen ions were able to diffuse through the
mitochondrial membrane into the mitochondria without the need for integral membrane
proteins?
A ATP would not be produced.
B Pyruvate would not be produced.
C Citric acid would not be produced.
D Carbon dioxide would not be produced.
Solution
16
The solution is (A). ATP is produced with the help of ATP synthase embedded as
integral proteins in the inner mitochondrial membrane. These structures allow a
sequential passage of H+ ions into the matrix, generating ATP.
Which fermentation method can occur in animal skeletal muscles?
A Lactic acid fermentation
B Alcohol fermentation
C Mixed acid fermentation
D Propionic fermentation
Solution
The solution is (A). The animal muscle cells contain lactate dehydrogenase, the
enzyme responsible for the formation of lactic acid.
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141
Which molecules are produced in glycolysis and used in fermentation?
A Acetyl-CoA and NADH
B Lactate, ATP, and CO2
C Glucose, ATP, and NAD+
D Pyruvate and NADH
Solution
18
The solution is (D). Each glucose molecule produces 2 pyruvate and 2 NADH
molecules. These are further used in the fermentation process to form either lactate
or ethanol.
What are the products of alcohol fermentation?
A Methane and NADH
B Lactic acid and FAD+
C Ethanol and NAD+
D Pyruvic acid and NADH
Solution
19
The solution is (C). Ethanol and NAD+ are produced. Pyruvate first forms the
acetaldehyde that further utilizes NADH to form ethanol and NAD +.
In the first step of glycolysis, what is glucose transformed into?
A Glucose-6-phosphate
B Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate
C Dihydroxyacetone phosphate
D Phosphoenolpyruvate
Solution
20
The solution is (A). Conversion of glucose into glucose-6-phosphate is the first step
of glycolysis.
What is beta-oxidation?
A The main process used to break down glucose
B The main process used to assemble glucose
C The main process used to break down fatty acids
D The main process used to remove amino groups from amino acids
Solution
21
The solution is (C). Beta-oxidation involves breaking down fatty acids using two
carbon fragments from the carboxyl end of fatty acids. It occurs in the mitochondria,
and the  - carbon of fatty acids is oxidized.
Which statement about catabolic pathways is false?
A Carbohydrates can feed into oxidative phosphorylation.
B Glycerol can be broken down into glucose and feed into glycolysis.
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C Amino acids can feed into pyruvate oxidation.
D Fatty acids can feed into the citric acid cycle.
Solution
22
The solution is (A). As carbohydrates eventually transform into glucose, they can be
fed into glycolysis. Oxidative phosphorylation is only performed by the electron
transport chain by oxidizing NADH.
What impact, if any, do high levels of ADP have on glycolysis?
A They increase the activity of enzymes involved with glycolysis.
B The high levels decrease the activity of enzymes involved with glycolysis.
C They have no effect on the activity of any enzymes involved with glycolysis.
D The high levels slow down all pathways involved with glycolysis.
Solution
23
The solution is (A). ADP is an activator and a positive regulator of certain enzymes
like phosphofructokinase-1.
The control of which enzyme exerts the greatest control of glycolysis?
A Hexokinase
B Phosphofructokinase
C Glucose-6-phosphatase
D Aldolase
Solution
24
The solution is (A). Hexokinase is responsible for phosphorylating glucose into
glucose-6-phosphate which traps and prevents its passage through the plasma
membrane. Therefore, hexokinase is needed for glycolysis to start.
What does NOT occur as ATP concentration increases relative to ADP?
A Decreased activity of phosphofructokinase
B Increased activity of pyruvate kinase
C Decreased activity of isocitrate dehydrogenase
D Slowdown of the electron transport chain
Solution
The solution is (B). In high levels of ATP, the pyruvate kinase activity tends to
decrease because it is a negative regulator/inhibitor of pyruvate kinase. Acetyl-CoA
also shows this inhibition.
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CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
25
Why is it beneficial for cells to use ATP rather than directly use the energy stored in the
bonds of carbohydrates to power cellular reactions? What are the greatest drawbacks to
harnessing energy from the bonds of several different compounds?
A ATP is readily available in the form of a single unit that provides a consistent,
appropriate amount of energy. The cell would need to tailor each reaction to each
energy source if it harvested energy from different compounds.
B ATP energy cannot activate the ROS-dependent stress response, whereas food
molecules are responsible for activating ROS.
C ATP is low in energy, but food molecules possess higher levels of energy that cells
can use.
D ATP is readily available to cells, unlike compounds that have to first be phosphorylated
to release their energy.
Solution
26
The solution is (A). ATP provides the cell with a way to handle energy in an efficient
manner. The molecule can be charged, stored, and used as needed. Moreover, the
energy from hydrolyzing ATP is delivered in a consistent amount. Harvesting energy
from the bonds of several different compounds would result in energy deliveries of
different quantities.
What role does NAD+ play in redox reactions?
A NAD+, an oxidizing agent, can accept electrons and protons from organic molecules
and get reduced to NADH.
B NAD+, a reducing agent, can donate its electrons and protons to organic molecules.
C NAD+, an oxidizing agent, can accept electrons from organic molecules and get
reduced to NADH2.
D NAD+, a reducing agent, can donate its electrons and protons to inorganic molecules.
Solution
27
The solution is (A). NAD+ is the oxidized form of the molecule. It is an oxidizing agent;
NAD+ can accept electrons from organic molecules. After NAD+ accepts two
electrons and a proton, it becomes NADH, which is the reduced form of the
molecule. NAD+ has a tendency to accept electrons and protons to become reduced
to NADH. This reduced form can further act as a reducing agent. Therefore, NAD can
play an oxidizing as well as a reducing role in redox reactions.
In the following general reaction, how are electrons transferred? Explain the role of each
species. Remember that R represents a hydrocarbon molecule and RH represents the
same molecule with a particular hydrogen identified.
RH + NAD+ → NADH + R
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A RH acts as a reducing agent and donates its electrons to the oxidizing agent NAD+,
forming NADH and R.
B NAD+, the oxidizing agent, donates its electrons to the reducing agent RH, forming
R and NADH.
C RH acts as an oxidizing agent and donates electrons to the reducing agent NAD +,
producing NADH and R.
D NAD+, the reducing agent, accepts electrons from the oxidizing agent RH, producing
NADH and R.
Solution
28
The solution is (B). NAD+ is the oxidizing agent, which can accept electrons from RH,
the reducing agent. This causes NAD+ to be reduced to NADH and RH to be oxidized
to R. RH, the reducing agent, has electrons to donate, and the oxidizing agent, NAD +,
has a tendency to accept electrons, which in turn produces NADH and R as products.
Nearly all organisms on Earth carry out some form of glycolysis. How does this fact
support or not support the assertion that glycolysis is one of the oldest metabolic
pathways?
A To be present in so many different organisms, glycolysis was probably present in a
common ancestor rather than evolving many separate times.
B Glycolysis is present in nearly all organisms because it is an advanced and recently
evolved pathway that has been widely used because it is so beneficial.
C Glycolysis is absent in a few higher organisms. This contradicts the assertion that it is
one of the oldest metabolic pathways.
D Glycolysis is present in some organisms and absent in others, which may or may not
support the assertion that it is one of the oldest metabolic pathways.
Solution
29
The solution is (A). If glycolysis evolved relatively late, it likely would not be as
universal in organisms as it is. It probably evolved in very primitive organisms and
persisted, with the addition of other pathways of carbohydrate metabolism that
evolved later.
Red blood cells (RBCs) do not perform aerobic respiration, but they do perform glycolysis.
Why do all cells need an energy source, and what would happen if glycolysis were blocked
in a red blood cell?
A Cells require energy to perform certain basic functions. Blocking glycolysis in RBCs
causes imbalance in the membrane potential, leading to cell death.
B Cells need energy to perform cell division. Blocking glycolysis in RBCs interrupts the
process of mitosis, leading to nondisjunction.
C Cells maintain the influx and efflux of organic substances using energy. Blocking
glycolysis stops the binding of CO2 to the RBCs, causing cell death.
D Cells require energy to recognize attacking pathogens. Blocked glycolysis inhibits the
process of recognition, causing invasion of the RBCs by a pathogen.
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Solution
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145
The solution is (A). All cells must consume energy to carry out basic functions such as
pumping ions across membranes. A red blood cell would lose its membrane
potential if glycolysis were blocked, and it would eventually die.
What is the primary difference between a circular pathway and a linear pathway?
A The reactant and the product are the same in a circular pathway, but different in a
linear pathway.
B The circular pathway components get exhausted, whereas those of the linear pathway
do not and are continually regenerated.
C Circular pathways are not suited for amphibolic pathways, whereas linear pathways are.
D Circular pathways contain a single chemical reaction that is repeated, while linear
pathways have multiple events.
Solution
31
The solution is (D). In a circular pathway, the final product of the reaction is also the
initial reactant. The pathway is self-perpetuating, as long as any of the intermediates
of the pathway are supplied. Circular pathways are able to accommodate multiple
entry and exit points, thus being particularly well suited for amphibolic pathways. In
a linear pathway, one trip through the pathway completes the pathway, and a
second trip would be an independent event.
Cellular respiration breaks down glucose and releases carbon dioxide and water. Which
step in the oxidation of pyruvate produces carbon dioxide?
A Removal of a carboxyl group from pyruvate releases carbon dioxide. The pyruvate
dehydrogenase complex comes into play.
B Removal of an acetyl group from pyruvate releases carbon dioxide. The pyruvate
decarboxylase complex comes into play.
C Removal of a carbonyl group from pyruvate releases carbon dioxide. The pyruvate
dehydrogenase complex comes into play.
D Removal of an acetyl group from pyruvate releases carbon dioxide. The pyruvate
dehydrogenase complex comes into play.
Solution
32
The solution is (D). Two molecules of pyruvate are produced by glycolysis. A carboxyl
group is removed from pyruvate, releasing a molecule of carbon dioxide. This step
proceeds twice because there are two pyruvate molecules produced at the end of
glycolysis. A carboxyl group is released with the help of pyruvate dehydrogenase,
releasing carbon dioxide.
What three steps are included in the breakdown of pyruvate?
A Pyruvate dehydrogenase removes a carboxyl group from pyruvate, producing carbon
dioxide. Dihydrolipoyl transacetylase oxidizes a hydroxyethyl group to an acetyl group,
producing NADH. Finally, an enzyme-bound acetyl group is transferred to CoA,
producing a molecule of acetyl-CoA.
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B Pyruvate dehydrogenase oxidizes a hydroxyethyl group to an acetyl group, producing
NADH. It further removes a carboxyl group from pyruvate, producing carbon dioxide.
Finally, dihydrolipoyl transacetylase transfers an enzyme-bound acetyl group to CoA,
forming an acetyl-CoA molecule.
C Pyruvate dehydrogenase transfers enzyme-bound acetyl group to CoA, forming an
acetyl CoA molecule. It then oxidizes a hydroxyethyl group to an acetyl group,
producing NADH. Dihydrolipoyl transacetylase removes a carboxyl group from
pyruvate, producing carbon dioxide.
D Pyruvate dehydrogenase removes a carboxyl group from pyruvate, producing carbon
dioxide. Dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase transfers enzyme-bound acetyl groups to CoA,
forming an acetyl-CoA molecule. Finally, a hydroxyethyl group is oxidized to an acetyl
group, producing NADH.
Solution
33
The solution is (A). Step 1. A carboxyl group is removed from pyruvate, releasing a
molecule of carbon dioxide. The result is a two-carbon hydroxyethyl group bound to
the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase. Step 2. The hydroxyethyl group is oxidized to
an acetyl group, and the electrons are picked up by NAD+, forming NADH. Step
three: The enzyme-bound acetyl group is transferred to CoA, producing a molecule
of acetyl-CoA.
How do the roles of ubiquinone and cytochrome c differ from the other components of
the electron transport chain?
A CoQ and cytochrome c are mobile electron carriers, while NADH dehydrogenase and
succinate dehydrogenase are bound to the inner mitochondrial membrane.
B CoQ and cytochrome covalently bind electrons, while NADH dehydrogenase and
succinate dehydrogenase are bound to the inner mitochondrial membrane.
C CoQ and cytochrome c are bound to the inner mitochondrial membrane, while NADH
dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase are mobile electron carriers.
D CoQ and cytochrome c covalently bind electrons, while NADH dehydrogenase and
succinate dehydrogenase are mobile electron carriers.
Solution
34
The solution is (A). CoQ and cytochrome c are transport molecules and referred to as
small electron carriers. Ubiquinone (CoQ) is the only component of the electron
transport chain that is not a protein. Also, the other components of the electron
transport chain are large complexes anchored to the inner mitochondrial
membrane.
What accounts for the different number of ATP molecules that are formed through
cellular respiration?
A Transport of NADH from cytosol to mitochondria is an active process that decreases
the number of ATP produced.
B The ATPs produced are utilized in the anaplerotic reactions that are used for the
replenishment of the intermediates.
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C Most of the ATPs produced are rapidly used for the phosphorylation of certain
compounds found in plants.
D A large number of ATP molecules are used in the detoxification of xenobiotic
compounds produced during cellular respiration.
Solution
35
The solution is (A). Few tissues except muscle produce the maximum possible
amount of ATP from nutrients. The intermediates are used to produce needed
amino acids, fatty acids, cholesterol, and sugars for nucleic acids. When NADH is
transported from the cytoplasm to the mitochondria, an active transport mechanism
is used, which decreases the amount of ATP that can be made. The electron
transport chain differs in composition between species, so different organisms will
make different amounts of ATP from their electron transport chains.
Which statement best describes complex IV in the electron transport chain?
A Complex IV consists of an oxygen molecule held between the cytochrome and copper
ions. The electrons flowing finally reach the oxygen, producing water.
B Complex IV contains a molecule of flavin mononucleotide and iron-sulfur clusters. The
electrons from NADH are transported here to coenzyme Q.
C Complex IV contains cytochrome b, c, and Fe-S. Here, the proton motive Q cycle
takes place.
D Complex IV contains a membrane-bound enzyme that accepts electrons from FADH2
to make FAD. This electron is then transferred to ubiquinone.
Solution
36
The solution is (A). The cytochromes in complex IV hold an oxygen molecule very
tightly between the iron and copper ions until the oxygen is completely reduced.
The reduced oxygen then picks up two hydrogen ions from the surrounding medium
to make water.
What is the primary difference between fermentation and anaerobic respiration?
A Fermentation uses only glycolysis, and its final electron acceptor is an organic
molecule, whereas anaerobic respiration uses glycolysis, TCA, and the ETC, but finally
gives electrons to an inorganic molecule.
B Fermentation uses glycolysis, TCA, and ETC, but finally gives electrons to an inorganic
molecule, whereas anaerobic respiration uses only glycolysis, and its final electron
acceptor is an organic molecule.
C Fermentation uses glycolysis, and its final electron acceptor is an inorganic molecule,
whereas anaerobic respiration uses glycolysis, TCA, and ETC, but finally gives electrons
to an organic molecule.
D Fermentation uses glycolysis, TCA, and ETC, but finally gives electrons to an organic
molecule, whereas anaerobic respiration uses only glycolysis, and its final electron
acceptor is an inorganic molecule.
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Solution
37
The solution is (A). Fermentation uses glycolysis only. Anaerobic respiration uses all
three parts of cellular respiration, including the parts in the mitochondria like the
citric acid cycle and electron transport; it also uses a different final electron acceptor
instead of oxygen gas.
What type of cellular respiration is represented in the following equation, and why?
CO2 + H2 + NADH → CH4 + H2O + NAD+
A Anaerobic respiration, because the final electron acceptor is inorganic
B Aerobic respiration, because oxygen is the final electron acceptor
C Anaerobic respiration, because NADH donates its electrons to a methane molecule
D Aerobic respiration, because water is being produced as a product
Solution
38
The solution is (A). NAD+ is regenerated from NADH using an inorganic molecule
(carbon dioxide) as a final electron acceptor.
Would you describe metabolic pathways as inherently wasteful or inherently economical,
and why?
A Metabolic pathways are economical due to feedback inhibition. Also, intermediates
from one pathway can be utilized by other pathways.
B Metabolic pathways are wasteful because they perform uncoordinated catabolic and
anabolic reactions that waste some of the energy that is stored.
C Metabolic pathways are economical due to the presence of anaplerotic reactions that
replenish the intermediates.
D Metabolic pathways are wasteful because most of the energy produced is utilized in
maintaining the reduced environment of the cytosol.
Solution
39
The solution is (A). They are very economical. The substrates, intermediates, and
products move between pathways and do so in response to finely tuned feedback
inhibition loops that keep metabolism balanced overall. Intermediates in one
pathway may occur in another, and they can move from one pathway to another
fluidly in response to the needs of the cell.
What lipids are connected to glucose catabolism pathways, and how are they connected?
A Cholesterol and triglycerides can be converted to glycerol-6-phosphate that continues
through glycolysis.
B Glucagon and glycogen can be converted to 3-phosphoglyceraldehyde, which is an
intermediate of glycolysis.
C Chylomicrons and fatty acids get converted to 1,3-bisphosphoglycerate that continues
in glycolysis, forming pyruvate.
D Sphingolipids and triglycerides form glucagon that can be fed into glycolysis.
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Solution
40
149
The solution is (A). Triglycerides can be both made and broken down through parts
of the glucose catabolism pathways. Glycerol can be phosphorylated to glycerol-3phosphate, which continues through glycolysis.
How does citrate from the citric acid cycle affect glycolysis?
A Citrate and ATP are negative regulators of phosphofructokinase-1.
B Citrate and ATP are negative regulators of hexokinase.
C Citrate and ATP are positive regulators of phosphofructokinase-1.
D Citrate and ATP are positive regulators of hexokinase.
Solution
41
The solution is (A). Citrate from the citric acid cycle indicates that an alternative
energy source is available and thus inhibits phosphofructokinase-1. ATP is another
negative regulator of PFK-1.
Why might negative feedback mechanisms be more common than positive feedback
mechanisms in living cells?
A Negative feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis, whereas positive feedback
drives the system away from equilibrium.
B Positive feedback mechanisms maintain a balanced amount of substances, whereas
negative feedback restricts them.
C Negative feedback turns the system off, making it deficient in certain substances.
Positive feedback balances out these deficits.
D Positive feedback brings substance amounts back to equilibrium, while negative
feedback produces excess amounts of the substance.
Solution
The solution is (A). Negative feedback mechanisms control the process by turning
the system off at the appropriate step. Positive feedback accelerates the processes,
taking the system away from equilibrium.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
42
The table shows the amount of oxygen consumed (third column) by different animals
(first column) at different temperatures. This type of apparatus measures the change in
volume of air to detect the removal of oxygen. However, organisms produce carbon
dioxide as they take in oxygen. To provide accurate measurements, what would you need
to add to the setup?
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A A substance that removes carbon dioxide gas
B A plant that will add oxygen to allow an animal to breathe
C A glucose reserve
D A substance that adds carbon dioxide gas
Solution The solution is (A). A substance to remove carbon dioxide should be added, as the
respirometer measures the change in the gas volume. The animals produce carbon
dioxide that, if not removed, would bias the results.
43
According to the data, the crickets at 25 °C have greater oxygen consumption per gram of
tissue than do the crickets at 10 °C. This trend in oxygen consumption is the opposite of
that in mice.
The difference in trends in oxygen consumption among crickets and mice is due to what?
A Their difference in size
B Their mode of nutrition
C Their difference in metabolic heat production
D Their mode of ATP production
Solution
44
The solution is (C). Crickets are ectotherms, meaning that their metabolic rate is
generally higher at higher ambient temperatures. This is why the crickets at 25 °C
have a higher metabolic rate, as evidenced by higher oxygen consumption, than
crickets at a lower temperature.
Where in a cell does glycolysis take place in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes?
A The cytosol
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B The mitochondria
C The plasma membrane
D The nucleus
Solution
45
The solution is (A). Glycolysis occurs in the cytosol in eukaryotes as well as in
prokaryotes.
A new species of obligate anaerobe, a bacterium, has been found that lives in hot, acidic
conditions. While other pathways may also be present, which metabolic pathway is the
most likely to be present in this species?
A Aerobic respiration
B The citric acid cycle
C Oxidative phosphorylation
D Glycolysis
Solution
46
The solution is (D). Glycolysis is a metabolic pathway that is common to almost all
organisms.
What evidence provides the strongest support that glycolysis is an older and more
conserved pathway than the citric acid cycle?
A Glycolysis is the primitive pathway, found in all three domains. It also occurs in
anaerobic conditions and in the cytosol.
B This pathway occurs in the cytosol, is found in all animals and plants, and does not
require oxygen.
C Glycolysis takes place in anaerobic conditions, can metabolize cholesterol and fatty
acids, and occurs even in methanogens.
D This pathway only occurs in the mitochondria. It is highly flexible because it is found in
almost all organisms.
Solution
47
The solution is (A). Glycolysis is found in all three domains, while the citric acid cycle
is not. This suggests that glycolysis is the more primitive pathway.
What is Structure X in the graphic?
A The inner mitochondrial membrane
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B The mitochondrial matrix
C A eukaryotic plasma membrane
D The cytosol
Solution
48
The solution is (A). The phospholipid bilayer membrane is the inner mitochondrial
membrane. The embedded structures depict the complexes of the electron
transport chain.
What would be the most direct result of blocking Structure Z in the graphic?
A Cytochrome c would not pass electrons from complex III to complex IV.
B Ubiquinone would not pass electrons from complex III to complex IV.
C NADH would not be converted to NAD+, and the electron transport chain would stop.
D No protons would be pumped across the membrane.
Solution
The solution is (A). Structure Z is cytochrome c. If it gets blocked, then electrons
wouldn’t be able to pass from complex III to complex IV.
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153
Where do the electrons moving along the membrane in the figure come from, and where
do the electrons end up?
A The electrons are released by NADH and FADH2 and finally accepted by oxygen to form
water.
B The electrons are given off by water and finally accepted by NAD + and FAD+ to
produce the energy currencies NADH and FADH2.
C The electrons are emitted by ubiquinone and are, in turn, transferred from complex I
to complex II. Water finally accepts the electrons.
D The electrons are given out by NADH and FADH2 and are, in turn, finally accepted by
H2O.
Solution
50
The solution is (A). The electrons come from NADH and FADH2, which are produced
during glycolysis and the citric acid cycle. The electrons from NADH and FADH join
with H+ and O2 to form water.
Glucose catabolism pathways are sequential and lead to the production of energy. What
is the correct order of the pathways for the breakdown of a molecule of glucose as shown
in the formula?
C6H12O6 + O2 → CO2 + H2O + energy
A Oxidative phosphorylation → citric acid cycle → oxidation of pyruvate → glycolysis
B The oxidation of pyruvate → citric acid cycle → glycolysis → oxidative phosphorylation
C Glycolysis → oxidation of pyruvate → citric acid cycle → oxidative phosphorylation
D Citric acid cycle → glycolysis → oxidative phosphorylation → oxidation of pyruvate
Solution
The solution is (C). Glycolysis produces pyruvate, and then this pyruvate undergoes
oxidation to produce CO2 and acetyl-CoA, the latter of which enters the citric acid
cycle to produce more ATP, NADH, and FADH. NADH and FADH2 donate electrons to
the electron transport chain to produce ATP and water molecules through oxidative
phosphorylation.
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Which statement most directly supports the claim that different species of organisms use
different metabolic strategies to meet their energy requirements for growth,
reproduction, and homeostasis?
A During cold periods, pond-dwelling animals can increase the number of unsaturated
fatty acids in their cell membranes, while some plants make antifreeze proteins to
prevent ice crystal formation in their tissues.
B Bacteria lack introns, while many eukaryotic genes contain many of these intervening
sequences.
C Carnivores have more teeth that are specialized for ripping food, while herbivores
have more teeth specialized for grinding food.
D Plants generally use starch molecules for storage, while animals use glycogen and fats
for storage.
Solution
52
The solution is (D). Having different mechanisms of storing energy (starch molecules
in plants, glycogen in animals) is a way to strategize the conservation and use of
energy. According to their requirements, these organisms can then use the stored
energy in a sustainable way.
Which statement best describes how the citric acid cycle relates to glycolysis, oxidative
phosphorylation, and chemiosmosis?
A Glycolysis produces pyruvate, which is converted to acetyl-CoA and enters the citric
acid cycle. This cycle produces NADH and FADH2, which donate electrons to the
electron transport chain to pump protons and produce ATP through chemiosmosis.
Production of ATP using an electron transport chain and chemiosmosis is called
oxidative phosphorylation.
B The citric acid produces pyruvate, which converts to glucose to enter glycolysis. This
pathway produces NADH and FADH2, which enter oxidative phosphorylation to
produce ATP through chemiosmosis.
C Citric acid produces NADH and FADH2, which undergo oxidative phosphorylation. This
produces ATP by pumping protons through chemiosmosis. The ATP produced is
utilized in large amounts in the process of glycolysis.
D Glycolysis produces pyruvate, which directly enters the citric acid cycle. This cycle
produces the energy currency that undergoes the electron transport chain to produce
water and ATP.
Solution
The solution is (A). Pyruvate is produced by glycolysis during the catabolism of
glucose. Pyruvate is converted to acetyl-CoA, which enters the citric acid cycle and is
oxidized to CO2. The electrons extracted are picked up by NAD+ and FAD+, and then
carried by NADH and FADH2 to the electron transport chain of oxidative
phosphorylation. NADH and FADH2 transfer their electrons to the electron
transporters embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane. As the electrons move
through the electron transport chain, the energy produced is used to pump protons
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from the mitochondrial matrix to the intermembrane space. These protons then
diffuse back through the inner mitochondrial membrane through ATP synthase during
chemiosmosis. This facilitates the addition of a phosphate to ADP, forming ATP.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
7.1 Energy in Living Systems
53
Combustion of carbohydrates, like in a fireplace, is a reduction-oxidation reaction in which
the carbon atom is oxidized and the oxygen atom is reduced, producing water and carbon
dioxide. Oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis are also reduction-oxidation reactions
that produce the same products. Explain the differences and similarities among these
abiotic and biotic processes in terms of the changes in entropy and heat that contribute to
the free energy extracted from chemical bonds, the spontaneity of each, and the role of
catalysis.
Solution
This question is very open ended and could be used as the basis for small group
discussion. Sample answers:

A fire generates almost entirely heat and a large increase in entropy, so the
resulting free energy is negligible. Oxidative phosphorylation produces very little
heat, so the bond energy is captured as free energy. Glycolysis is less efficient,
and the heat produced is useful for thermoregulation.

Both the abiotic and biotic processes are exergonic.

The development of elegant catalysis and structural features for metabolism and
its regulation is very different from the unregulated and random fire. But all of
these processes have activation energies, including the spark.
7.3 Oxidation of Pyruvate and the Citric Acid Cycle
54
A. [Extension] Living systems require free energy to carry out cellular functions and
employ various strategies to capture, use, and store free energy. Explain the advantage
that the higher energy efficiency per kilogram of the Krebs cycle provides to you
compared to a metabolism based on glycolysis alone. Your explanation should make use
of all the following facts:

G for glycolysis is 135 kJ/mole of glucose.

G for aerobic respiration is 2,880 kJ/mole glucose.

The basal metabolic rate of mammals is often represented as 300 kJ/day  m0.75 .

The molar mass of glucose is 180 g/mole.
B. Explain the bioenergetic difference between aerobic and anaerobic respiration in terms
of the difference between free-energy production and power. Your explanation should
make use of all the following facts:
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
Power is the rate of free-energy production.

Cancer cells derive most of their free energy from glycolysis.

Enzymes of the citric acid (Krebs) cycle form coordinate complexes on the
cytoskeleton within the mitochondria.
C. The life cycle of the human parasite Trypanosoma brucei is divided between the body
of the tsetse fly and the human blood stream. The parasite causes “sleeping sickness” in
Sub-Saharan Africa. Within the human bloodstream, the parasite depends on glycolysis,
with enzymes compartmentalized in a membrane-bound organelle called the glycosome.
In the insect host, the parasite utilizes glycolysis as well as substrate-level and oxidative
phosphorylation. Explain the advantage of a life cycle in the human host that employs
anaerobic respiration with a rate of free-energy production that is enhanced by
compartmentalization in the glycosome and a life cycle in the insect host that is aerobic.
D. Predict the advantages of a biological system that uses both glycolysis and oxidative
phosphorylation. Your prediction should make use of all the following facts:
Solution

Signaling can be used to detect low-oxygen environments and to regulate
response.

Some cells, such as muscle and blood cells, must function in both low- and highoxygen environments.

Glycolysis is reversible.

The citric acid cycle is not reversible.

Thermoregulation is needed for homeostasis.
It is very hard for students to learn to construct explanations. They need to
remember that it must be testable and account for all of the available facts.
Identifying the facts that must be included in an explanation helps them to develop
the habit of organizing the evidence. Sample answer:
A. Basal metabolic rate is calculated by the student to be between 4,000 and
7,000 kJ/day. Dividing that by the free energy conversion for glucose shows that
about 40 moles of glucose, or 7.6 kg or 17 lb, would need to be consumed per day.
In contrast, the same calculation gives about 1 lb/ day for aerobic respiration.
G
 300 kJ/kg 0.75day  m0.75  5640 kJ/day assuming 50 kg
day
5640 kJ 1 mole glucose
180 g
 41.8 mole glucose 
 7.5 kg glucose
day
135 kJ
mole glucose
That’s about 1,500 teaspoons per day, or about 2 teaspoons per waking minute. One
measure of efficiency might be the ability to work other than feed one’s self.
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B. Thermodynamics is really thermostatics. Often the rate matters more. Cancer
cells are growing rapidly, so we know that the rate of energy consumption is high.
However, they are also primarily using glycolysis for this production. I read that
there are effects of mitochondrial damage and restricted blood flow (and so
hypoxic). The student should puzzle over this and read about it—there is a wellknown concept called the Warburg model that looks at the effect that a switch to
anaerobic respiration has on cancer cells.
On the other hand, we know that the Krebs cycle is highly coordinated and not
diffusion limited. The need for structural support is often discussed, and there is
work that shows the attachment of clusters of enzymes in a coordinated manner to
the cytoskeleton. However, the idea of a metabolon is of growing interest. The
glycolytic complex metabolon is now discussed.
C. A connection to compartmentalization can be made with Trypanosoma. And to
make it all as ambiguous as biology is, there is an order of organisms that have a
specialized organelle for glycolysis. The claim is made that Trypanosoma brucei
(sleeping sickness) has a metabolic rate 50 times higher than is common for
glycolysis. This compartmentalization compensates for the lower output of
anaerobic respiration. The advantage of anaerobic respiration in the human host is
that venal blood is depleted of oxygen. The insect host has no similar
inhomogeneous oxygen supply. Also, the fly’s hemolymph is rich in proline, and the
degradation of this amino acid can be used as input to the Krebs cycle.
D. The selective advantage is provided through a more flexible response to changes
in the environment. The facts here point to the ability to switch to anaerobic
respiration under oxygen depletion, to store fat through gluconeogenesis, and to
use low efficiency metabolism to generate heating.
7.4 Oxidative Phosphorylation
55
Dinitrophenol (DNP) was used in the manufacture of munitions in World War I. In the
1930s, it was used as a weight-loss drug. Use in the United States cannot be regulated by
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because DNP is considered a dietary
supplement. Attempts to ban the drug in the United Kingdom following the death of four
users in 2015 failed in Parliament. DNP is a small molecule that is soluble in the
mitochondrial inner membrane. The hydroxyl group reversibly dissociates a proton.
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A. Predict the effect of DNP on the electrochemical gradient across the inner
mitochondrial membrane.
B. Explain how DNP can be used to reduce weight.
C. The effects of DNP can be reversed by administering glucose. However, treatment with
a combination of glucose and 2-deoxyglucose, which is an inhibitor of glycolysis, does not
reverse the effects of DNP. Explain, in terms of the products of glycolysis, why this
reversal of the effects of DNP was unexpected. (Hint—It might be useful to review the
reactants and products of glycolysis.)
D. Obesity correlates with an epidemic of other health issues, such as elevated blood
pressure, heart disease, and diabetes type II. A slow-release form of DNP (CRMP) is
patented. With slow-release technology, a drug can be delivered in small doses over time
from a pill whose matrix limits solubility. A simple but nonscientific question that can be
raised is: Will a slow-release drug retard progress toward behavioral changes that can
reduce the magnitude of this epidemic? Scientific questions can be pursued by testing the
outcomes predicted by possible answers. Refine this question for discussion in small
groups. Be prepared to justify the merits of your question.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Because DNP makes the inner mitochondrial membrane “leaky” to protons, the
electrochemical gradient across the membrane is disrupted.
B. DNP produces weight loss by partial starvation. The hydroxyl group of DNP is
protonated on the intermembrane space side of the inner membrane where
hydrogen ion concentrations are high. Diffusing through the membrane, the proton
is dissociated in the matrix where the hydrogen ion concentrations are low. The net
effect is the transport of a proton through the membrane. Molecules that have this
effect are called protonophores or proton translocators. The production of ATP and
NADH in the electron transport chain is driven by the electrochemical gradient
produced by the relatively low concentration of protons in the matrix. The transport
of protons to the matrix lowers the electrochemical potential. The ETS is said to be
decoupled.
C. Flooding with glucose increases glycolysis. The fact that treatment with 2deoxyglucose, which inhibits glycolysis, along with glucose supports this implication.
However, for each glucose converted to two pyruvates, two hydrogen ions are
released. The increase in pH shifts the equilibrium in the equation shown further to
the left, which would increase the leakage of protons. The work that first reported
this finding (Nakamura et al., 1989, Cardiovasc. Res. Apr., 23(4):286–94) suggested
increased levels of ATP in the intermembrane space might be responsible. In the
1990s, discoveries of ATP-dependent potassium channels began to be reported.
Transport of potassium into the matrix would repair the electrochemical potential
difference, reversing the effects of DNP. Claims are not made on the Internet that,
when using DNP, you should also take a dose of insulin.
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D. Useful questions will produce predictions that can be tested. The following might
be among those that students pose:
56

What data are available concerning the long-term success rates of dieting or
exercise as diabetes treatment?

If CRMP is patented, will it be regulated as a prescription drug and not a
dietary supplement?

Will mitochondria in all cells, particularly muscle and nerve tissue, be
affected, or can only tissues that have a prominent role in homeostasis, such
as liver or white adipose tissue, be targeted? (Inventors of CRMP use an
ether derivative of DNP that allows it to selectively target the liver.)
As shown in the figure, cyanide inhibits the electron transport chain by competing with O2
molecules for the cytochrome c oxidase heme group. Carbon monoxide (CO) has a similar
effect. Both cyanide and carbon monoxide cause poisoning in victims of smoke inhalation.
A. Predict the effects of these poisons on the following properties of mitochondria just
after exposure: the pH of the intermembrane space, the concentration of NADH, and the
rate of production of ATP in the matrix. Justify your predictions.
B. Rotenone is a poison that blocks the transfer of electrons from Complex I of the
electron transport chain to ubiquinone. Methylene blue is a molecule with many uses
involving its reduction-oxidation properties. Recent studies show the effectiveness of
methylene blue in increasing the body’s metabolic rate and as a treatment for Alzheimer’s
patients. The oxidized form of methylene blue is reduced by NADH, and its reduced form
is oxidized by O2. Explain the use of methylene blue as an antidote for rotenone
poisoning.
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Solution
Sample answer:
A. When the cytochrome is blocked, electrons cannot be transferred to O 2. The
concentration of molecular oxygen increases. The transfer of electrons to
cytochrome is also blocked, and so the NADH concentration increases. Hydrogen
ions cannot be transported over the membrane so the pH of the intermembrane
space drops.
B. Methylene blue is currently a hot supplement available on the web; athletes and
students want improved performance. Measurements of respiration rate indicate
that the effects are real. Since methylene blue is able to act as a redox surrogate for
Complex II and III, the effect of rotenone is counteracted by the transfer of electrons
from NADH to methylene blue to cytochrome.
7.5 Metabolism without Oxygen
57
E. coli are enteric (gut-dwelling) facultative anaerobic bacteria. (Facultative anaerobes can
grow with or without free oxygen. Obligatory anaerobes grow only in the absence of free
oxygen.) Researchers planned to grow cultures of E. coli under a range of conditions to
model the transition from strictly anaerobic to aerobic respiration.
The oxygen content of atmospheres at constant total pressure will be controlled by
volumes of nitrogen and oxygen gases.
Ratios of volume, r  VO2 / VN2 between 0 and 0.25 of shaken growth flasks, can be
measured in terms of optical density, which is the percent of transmission of light through
a sample of the growing E. coli culture. A rule of thumb is that the range of strict
anaerobes is when r  0.01, and the boundary for aerobic respiration is when r = 0.05.
A large number of flasks that can be constantly shaken at fixed temperature, and
from which samples can be taken without atmospheric contamination, are available
for this study.
These results of the experiment will be used to infer growth rates of E. coli along the
entire 7.5-m length of the average human intestine (small intestine and large intestine),
where the oxygen content varies from atmospheric to anaerobic conditions. The retention
time of food in the small intestine, whose average length is 2.5 m, is approximately 4 h.
The retention time of food over the entire length of the intestine is between 24 and 72 h.
A. Describe and apply a mathematical model that can be used to represent the variation
of oxygen environments of a bacterium that is being transported with the food along the
length of the intestine.
B. Design the experimental sampling times in terms of growth intervals of interest in
this study: (i) the time when the bacteria are passing the small-large intestine boundary;
(ii) the time when the bacteria reach the end of the large intestine; and (iii) the time when
the bacteria reach facultative anaerobic conditions, r  0.05.
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C. Sketch a graph that predicts the distribution of aerobic, facultative anaerobic, and
obligatory anaerobic bacteria along the length of the entire intestine based on these
parameters. Keep in mind that anaerobes have a lower respiration rate.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The oxygen ratio must go from 0.25 to 0 over a distance of 7.5 m. To make
progress, begin by assuming the simplest form (you might also use 0.25e − ax since
the ratio cannot be negative)
rO2 = 0.25 – 0.03x,
where x is the distance along the intestine 0  x  7.5 m and rO2 is the oxygen ratio.
To answer Part B, we also need a model that involves the dependence of rO2 on
time. The speed of food through the intestine can be used to obtain the rO 2(t)
relationship. The range of total time is very broad (and that is good because it
introduces conditional modeling) 24 h  t  72 h. So, the speed is between 0.3 and
1 m/h. Then since x  speed  time , we have a second relationship
0.25 – 0.01t  rO2 t   0.25 – 0.03t ,
where t is measured in hours.
B. The times of interest are (i) passing the small-large intestine boundary, x = 2m,
r = 0.19, and 2 h  t  6 h ; (ii) reached the end of the large intestine, 24 h  t  72 h;
and (iii) the boundary to facultative anaerobic conditions, r  0.05; 6 h  t  20 h.
C. A reasonable sketch could look like the following:
7.6 Connections of Carbohydrate, Protein, and Lipid Metabolic Pathways
58
White snakeroot is a plant that contains chemicals that deactivate the enzyme lactate
dehydrogenase. Humans who consume milk from cows or goats that eat white snakeroot
can become ill. Symptoms of milk poisoning include vomiting, abdominal pain, and
tremors, which become worse after exercise. Beyond childhood, most people do not
express the enzyme lactase that catalyzes the breakdown of lactose into glucose and
galactose. Consumption of milk can produce symptoms similar to those of milk poisoning.
After a period of consumption of dairy foods, though, prebiotic adaptation (changes in the
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microbes in the intestine) imparts lactose tolerance. Since dairy foods are a valuable
source of calcium, proteins, and vitamin D, considerable research has been conducted to
characterize adaptation.
Explain the similarities and differences between the effect of milk poisoning by white
snakeroot and lactose intolerance, and the possibility of prebiotic adaptation for each.
Solution
Sample answer: As described in the text, in the absence of an active form of lactate
dehydrogenase in the liver, lactic acid cannot be converted to pyruvate. Lactose,
another component of dairy food, cannot be metabolized without the enzyme
lactase. The human population recently originated in Europe, where dairy food
resources produced selection favoring the production of lactase by adults.
Populations recently originating in Africa and Asia do not express lactase as adults.
However, consumption of dairy products leads to changes in gut bacteria. Such a
prebiotic adaptation could not protect Midwestern residents of the 19th century
against milk poisoning. Both gut bacteria and their human host are susceptible to
disruption by white snakeroot.
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8 | PHOTOSYNTHESIS
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Which component is NOT used by both plants and cyanobacteria to carry out
photosynthesis?
A Carbon dioxide
B Chlorophyll
C Chloroplasts
D Water
Solution
2
The solution is (C). The chloroplast is not a component used by both plants and
cyanobacteria. Photosynthesis occurs in chloroplasts of eukaryotes, while in
prokaryotes like cyanobacteria, photosynthesis occurs within the membrane and
cytoplasm.
Why are chemoautotrophs NOT considered the same as photoautotrophs if they both
extract energy and make sugars?
A Chemoautotrophs use wavelengths of light not available to photoautotrophs.
B Chemoautotrophs extract energy from inorganic chemical compounds.
C Photoautotrophs prefer the blue side of the visible light spectrum.
D Photoautotrophs make glucose, while chemoautotrophs make galactose.
Solution
3
The solution is (B). Chemoautotrophs extract energy from inorganic chemical
compounds. Chemoautotrophs are organisms that use inorganic molecules, rather
than sunlight, as energy sources to synthesize their own food. They are mostly
bacteria and archaea that live in hostile sea environments where they are the
primary producers.
In which compartment of the plant cell do the light-independent reactions of
photosynthesis take place?
A Mesophyll
B Outer membrane
C Stroma
D Thylakoid
Solution
The solution is (C). The light-independent reactions take place in the stroma of the
chloroplast because ATP and NADPH are produced on the stroma side of thylakoid.
Also, Calvin cycle enzymes are found in the stroma, so light-independent reaction
takes place in stroma.
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What is a part of grana?
A The Calvin cycle
B The inner membrane
C Stroma
D Thylakoids
Solution
5
The solution is (D). The stack of the tube-like strands connecting thylakoids is called
granum.
What are two major products of photosynthesis?
A Chlorophyll and oxygen
B Oxygen and carbon dioxide
C Sugars/carbohydrates and oxygen
D Sugars/carbohydrates and carbon dioxide
Solution
6
The solution is (C). The photosynthesis reaction involves the reactants carbon
dioxide and water. The products of the reaction are oxygen, carbohydrates, and
mainly glucose.
What is the primary energy source for cells?
A Glucose
B Starch
C Sucrose
D Triglycerides
Solution
7
The solution is (A). Glucose is a ready source of energy since its carbon atoms are
easily oxidized to form carbon dioxide, releasing energy in the process. It can be
metabolized via aerobic (cellular respiration) and anaerobic (fermentation) means,
whereby the cell uses the by-products of these reactions to produce ATP, the cell’s
energy currency.
Which portion of the electromagnetic radiation originating from the sun is harmful to
living tissues?
A Blue
B Green
C Infrared
D Ultraviolet
Solution
The solution is (D). Ultraviolet waves are high-energy waves that penetrate tissues
and damage cells and DNA. The resulting damage to DNA from ultraviolet radiation
can lead to the formation of thymidine dimers, a mutation that can potentially lead
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to cancer if many are accumulated within a cell and are not repaired through the
cell’s DNA repair mechanisms.
8
The amount of energy in a wave can be measured using what trait?
A Color intensity
B Distance from trough to crest
C The amount of sugar produced
D Wavelength
Solution
9
The solution is (D). The amount of energy is the distance measured by two
successive points in the wave that are characterized by same phase, called the
wavelength.
What portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun has the least energy?
A Gamma
B Infrared
C Radio
D X-rays
Solution
10
The solution is (C). Radio waves possess the least energy in the electromagnetic
spectrum and have long wavelengths.
What is the function of carotenoids in photosynthesis?
A They supplement chlorophyll absorption.
B They are visible in the fall during leaf color changes.
C They absorb excess energy and dissipate it as heat.
D They limit chlorophyll absorption.
Solution
11
The solution is (D). Carotenoids absorb excess energy and dissipate it as heat. In
photosynthesis, carotenoids serve as an efficient molecule for the disposal of excess
energy. Excess energy can damage the leaf; therefore, carotenoids, which reside in
thylakoid membranes, absorb excess energy and dissipate that energy as heat.
Which structure is NOT a component of a photosystem?
A Antenna molecule
B ATP synthase
C Primary electron acceptor
D Reaction center
Solution
The solution is (B). ATP synthase is not a component of photosystem. It is present in
thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts that create ATP during photosynthesis.
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Which complex is NOT involved in producing the electrochemical gradient for ATP
synthesis?
A Antenna complex
B Cytochrome complex
C Photosystem I
D Photosystem II
Solution
13
The solution is (C). Photosystem I is not involved in the establishment of conditions
for ATP synthesis because it captures energy to reduce NADP+ into NADPH.
What can be calculated from a wavelength measurement of light?
A A specific portion of the visible spectrum
B Color intensity
C The amount of energy of a wave of light
D The distance from trough to crest of the wave
Solution
14
The solution is (C). The amount of energy of the wave can be calculated by its
wavelength. It is the distance between two consecutive points of a wave.
Which molecule must enter the Calvin cycle continually for the light-independent
reactions to take place?
A CO2
B RuBisCO
C RuBP
D 3-PGA
Solution
15
The solution is (A). CO2 is required to be fixed and converted into organic form
(glyceraldehyde 3 phosphate to glucose) continually for use by plants. Stage 1 of
carbon fixation initiates in the presence of CO2, which is used to convert inorganic
carbon to an organic compound.
Which order of molecular conversions is correct for the Calvin cycle?
A RuBP + G3P → 3-PGA → sugar
B RuBisCO → CO2 → RuBP → G3P
C RuBP + CO2 → [RuBisCO]3-PGA → G3P
D CO2 → 3-PGA → RuBP → G3P
Solution
The solution is (C). RuBP and CO2 are needed with the enzyme RuBisCO to produce
3-PGA molecules. ATP and NADPH are used to convert 3-PGA molecules into G3P.
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167
Which statement correctly describes carbon fixation?
A The conversion of CO2 into an organic compound
B The use of RuBisCO to form 3-PGA
C The production of carbohydrate molecules from G3P
D The use of ATP and NADPH to reduce CO2
Solution
17
The solution is (A). Carbon fixation is the term used to describe the conversion of
inorganic carbon into organic form. The conversion of CO2 (inorganic form) into an
organic compound (3-PGA) in stage 1 of the Calvin cycle is an example of carbon
fixation.
Which substance catalyzes carbon fixation?
A 3-PGA
B NADPH
C RuBisCO
D RuBP
Solution
18
The solution is (C). RuBisCO is an enzyme that is used to catalyze the reaction
between RuBP molecules and CO2 to produce an organic molecule called G3P. This
comprises stage 1 of the Calvin cycle and is called carbon fixation.
Which pathway is used by both plants and animals?
A Carbon fixation
B Cellular respiration
C Photosystem II
D Photosynthesis
Solution
19
The solution is (B). Both plants and animals perform cellular respiration. The
difference is that animals get their food by eating it, while plants make their own
food by photosynthesis.
Which organism is a heterotroph?
A Cyanobacterium
B Intestinal bacterium
C Kelp
D Pond algae
Solution
The solution is (B). Heterotrophs are essentially organisms that cannot “make” their
own food, and thus must obtain their nutrients through the ingestion or absorption
of organic sources of carbon. Of the available answer choices, intestinal bacteria
such as E. coli are heterotrophic.
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What is the role of ribulose 1,5, bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase, abbreviated
RuBisCO, in photosynthesis?
A It catalyzes the reaction between CO2 and ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP).
B It catalyzes the reaction that produces glyceraldehyde3-phosphate (G3P).
C It catalyzes the reaction that regenerates RuBP.
D It catalyzes the reaction utilizing ATP and NADPH.
Solution
21
The solution is (A). RuBisCO catalyzes the reaction between CO2 and ribulose
bisphosphate (RuBP).
What is the product of the Calvin cycle?
A Glucose
B Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate
C Phosphoglycerate (PGA)
D Sucrose
Solution
The solution is (B). In addition to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate, three molecules of
adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and 2 molecules of NADP are produced. However, the
latter two products are regenerated and are reused in the light-dependent reactions
of photosynthesis.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
22
What are the roles of ATP and NADPH in photosynthesis?
A ATP and NADPH are forms of chemical energy produced from the light-dependent
reactions to be used in the light-independent reactions that produce sugars.
B ATP and NADPH are forms of chemical energy produced from the light-independent
reactions to be used in the light-dependent reactions that produce sugars.
C ATP and NADPH are forms of chemical energy produced from the light-dependent
reactions to be used in the light-independent reactions that produce proteins.
D ATP and NADPH are forms of chemical energy produced from the light-dependent
reactions to be used in the light-independent reactions that use sugars as reactants.
Solution
23
The solution is (A). ATP and NADPH are forms of chemical energy produced from the
light-dependent reactions to be used in the light-independent reactions that
produce sugars. NADPH and ATP are produced during the light-dependent reactions.
The energy captured during photosynthesis is used to convert ADP to ATP and to
reduce NADP to NADPH. The NADPH and ATP thus produced enter the lightindependent reactions.
What is the overall outcome of the light reactions in photosynthesis?
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A NADPH and ATP molecules are produced during the light reactions and are used to
power the light-independent reactions.
B NADPH and ATP molecules are produced during the light reactions and are used to
power the light-dependent reactions.
C Sugar and ATP are produced during the light reactions and are used to power the
light-independent reactions.
D Carbon dioxide and NADPH are produced during the light reactions and are used to
power the light-dependent reactions.
Solution
24
The solution is (A). NADPH and ATP molecules are produced during the light
reactions and are used to power the light-independent reactions. NADPH and ATP
molecules are the end products of the light reactions. The free energy stored in ATP
and NADPH is used to power light-independent reactions. PSII captures energy to
create protein gradients to make ATP, while PSI captures energy to reduce NADP +
to NADPH.
How does the equation relate to both photosynthesis and cellular respiration?
A Photosynthesis uses energy to build carbohydrates, while cellular respiration
metabolizes carbohydrates.
B Photosynthesis uses energy to metabolize carbohydrates, while cellular respiration
builds carbohydrates.
C Photosynthesis and cellular respiration both use carbon dioxide and water to produce
carbohydrates.
D Photosynthesis and cellular respiration both metabolize carbohydrates to produce
carbon dioxide and water.
Solution
The solution is (A). Photosynthesis uses energy to build carbohydrates, while cellular
respiration metabolizes carbohydrates. Energy is needed to fuel the production of
carbohydrates and for the anabolic reactions of metabolism. Photosynthesis absorbs
light energy to build carbohydrates in chloroplasts, and aerobic cellular respiration
releases energy by using oxygen to metabolize carbohydrates in mitochondria and
cytoplasm. In photosynthesis, plants absorb sunlight to build carbohydrates from
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carbon dioxide and water. In cellular respiration, cells metabolize carbohydrates to
release energy. This released energy is used by cells for cellular activities.
25
How is the energy from the sun transported within chloroplasts?
A When photons strike photosystem (PS) II, pigments pass the light energy to
chlorophyll a molecules that excite an electron, which is then passed to the electron
transport chain. The cytochrome complex transfers protons across the thylakoid
membrane and transfers electrons from PS-II to PS-I. The products of the lightdependent reaction are used to power the Calvin cycle to produce glucose.
B When photons strike PS I, pigments pass the light energy to chlorophyll, molecules
that excite electrons, which is then passed to the electron transport chain. The
cytochrome complex then transfers protons across the thylakoid membrane and
transfers electrons from PS-II to PS-I. The products of the light-dependent reaction are
used to power the Calvin cycle to produce glucose.
C When photons strike PS II, pigments pass the light energy to chlorophyll molecules
that in turn excite electrons, which are then passed to the electron transport chain.
The cytochrome complex transfers protons across the thylakoid membrane and
transfers electrons from PS-I to PS-II. The products of the light-dependent reaction are
used to power the Calvin cycle to produce glucose.
D When photons strike PS II, pigments pass the light energy to chlorophyll molecules
that excite electrons, which are then passed to the electron transport chain. The
cytochrome complex transfers protons across the thylakoid membrane and transfers
electrons from PS II to PS I. The products of the light-independent reaction are used to
power the Calvin cycle to produce glucose.
Solution
26
The solution is (A). This is the most accurate description of the chemical processes
involved with photosynthesis. When a photon strikes PS II, pigments pass the light
energy to chlorophyll a molecules that excite an electron, which are then passed to
the electron transport chain. The cytochrome complex transfers protons across the
thylakoid membrane and transfers electrons from PS II to PS I. The products of the
light-dependent reactions are used to power the Calvin cycle to produce glucose.
Explain why X-rays and ultraviolet light wavelengths are dangerous to living tissues.
A UV and X-rays are high-energy waves that penetrate the tissues and damage cells.
B UV and X-rays are low-energy waves that penetrate the tissues and damage cells.
C UV and X-rays cannot penetrate tissues and damage the cells.
D UV and X-rays can penetrate tissues and thus do not damage the cells.
Solution
The solution is (A). UV and X-rays are high-energy waves that penetrate the tissues
and damage cells. X-rays and UV light are higher in energy than the wavelengths
used for photosynthesis. These high-energy waves can penetrate tissues and
damage cells and DNA, explaining why both X-rays and UV rays can be harmful to
living organisms.
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Ultraviolet rays and X-rays prove detrimental for plants’ cell function. They are highenergy waves that penetrate the tissues and cause damage to the cells and DNA
of plants.
27
If a plant were to be exposed to only red light, would photosynthesis be possible?
A Photosynthesis would not take place.
B The rate of photosynthesis would increase sharply.
C The rate of photosynthesis would decrease drastically.
D The rate of photosynthesis would decrease and then increase.
Solution
28
The solution is (B). When a plant is exposed to both red and far-red light, then a
phenomenon called the Emerson effect takes place. There is a sharp increase in the
rate of photosynthesis after chloroplasts are exposed to wavelengths of 670 nm (farred light for PS II) and 700 nm (red light for PS I). The Emerson effect means that
when a plant is exposed to both red light and far-red light, then there is a sharp
increase in the rate of photosynthesis.
Which statement describes the electron transfer pathway from photosystem II to
photosystem I in the light-dependent reactions?
A After splitting water in PS II, high-energy electrons are delivered through the
chloroplast electron transport chain to PS I.
B After splitting water in PS I, high-energy electrons are delivered though the chloroplast
electron transport chain to PS II.
C After the photosynthesis reaction, the released products like glucose help in the
transfer of electrons from PS II to PS I.
D After the completion of the light-dependent reactions, the electrons are transferred
from PS II to PS I.
Solution
29
The solution is (A). After splitting water in PS II, high-energy electrons are delivered
though the chloroplast electron transport chain to PS I. The excited electron
removed from the photosystem must then be replaced. In PS II, the electron comes
from the splitting of water, which releases oxygen as a waste product. In PS I, the
electron comes from the chloroplast electron transport chain. The reaction center of
PS II (called P680) delivers its high-energy electrons, one at a time, to a primary
electron acceptor and through the electron transport chain to PS I. Photolysis of
water releases high-energy electrons and oxygen as a waste product. These highenergy electrons are sent to PS I through the chloroplast electron transport chain
that reduces NADP+ to NADPH.
What will happen to a plant leaf that loses CO2 too quickly?
A There will be no effect on the rate of photosynthesis.
B Photosynthesis will slow down or possibly stop.
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C Photosynthesis will increase exponentially.
D Photosynthesis will decrease and then increase.
Solution
30
The solution is (B). Photosynthesis will slow down or possibly stop. Loss of gases,
especially of CO2, will affect photosynthesis in the leaf, and Calvin cycle will slow
down and eventually stop because of inadequate carbon to fix in the system. A
continuous supply of atmospheric CO2 is thus required.
Carbon in the form of CO2 must be taken from the atmosphere and attached to an
existing organic molecule in the Calvin cycle. Therefore, the carbon is bound to the
molecule. The products of the cycle only occur because of the added carbon.
What are the products of the Calvin cycle, and what is regenerated?
A The product of the Calvin cycle is glyceraldehyde-3 phosphate, and RuBP is
regenerated.
B The product of the Calvin cycle is glyceraldehyde-3 phosphate, and RuBisCO is
regenerated.
C The product of the Calvin cycle is a 3-PGA molecule, and glyceraldehyde-3 phosphate
is regenerated.
D The product of the Calvin cycle is glyceraldehyde-3 phosphate, and oxygen is
regenerated.
Solution
The solution is (A). The product of the Calvin cycle is glyceraldehyde-3 phosphate,
and RuBP is regenerated. The carbon cycle is the cyclical use of carbon in organic
molecules for energy pathways and its release into the atmosphere after these
pathways have been completed. The carbon is then fixed from the atmosphere by
photosynthetic organisms to an organic molecule, and the cycle continues.
The Calvin cycle produces glyceraldehyde-3 phosphate. The cycle must be repeated
three times to yield the product. RuBP is generated from the G3P molecules that
remain in the cycle to fix more CO2.
31
How do desert plants prevent water loss from the heat, which would compromise
photosynthesis?
A By using CAM photosynthesis and by closing stomatal pores during the night
B By using CAM photosynthesis and by opening of stomatal pores during the night
C By using CAM photosynthesis and by keeping stomatal pores closed at all times
D By bypassing CAM photosynthesis and by keeping stomatal pores closed at night
Solution
The solution is (B). Desert plants use CAM photosynthesis to reduce water loss. In
CAM photosynthesis, desert plants open their stomata at night to collect carbon
dioxide from the air. At night, temperatures are cooler, preventing a large amount of
water loss by transpiration. The collected carbon dioxide is then stored within the
leaves as malate. This allows the plants to close their stomata during the day,
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reducing water loss by evapotranspiration while still having a supply of carbon
dioxide to use for photosynthesis.
32
Why are carnivores, such as lions, dependent on photosynthesis to survive?
A Because the prey of lions are generally herbivores, which depend on heterotrophs
B Because the prey of lions are generally smaller carnivorous animals, which depend on
nonphotosynthetic organisms
C Because the prey of lions are generally herbivores, which depend on autotrophs
D Because the prey of lions are generally omnivores, which depend only on autotrophs
Solution
33
The solution is (A). The prey of lions are generally herbivores, which depend on
heterotrophs. These herbivores rely on the plants and other photosynthetic
organisms for food. Therefore, without photosynthetic organisms, the carnivore’s
prey would not be present. Lions generally prey on herbivorous animals, which are
dependent on photosynthetic organisms.
Why does it take three turns of the Calvin cycle to produce G3P, the initial product of
photosynthesis?
A To fix enough carbon to export one G3P molecule
B To fix enough oxygen to export one G3P molecule
C To produce RuBisCO as an end product
D To produce ATP and NADPH for fixation of G3P
Solution
The solution is (A). In stage 3 of the Calvin cycle, RuBP, the molecule that starts the
cycle, is regenerated so that the cycle can continue. All of the extra G3P is used in
this regeneration process. Because the G3P exported from the chloroplast has three
carbon atoms, it takes three turns of the Calvin cycle to fix enough carbon to export
one G3P. G3P is produced after three turns of Calvin cycle because the carbon
dioxide molecule is incorporated one at a time, so the cycle must be completed
three times to produce a single three-carbon (G3P) molecule.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
34
Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are found throughout the eukaryotic world. They
are complementary to each other because they each use products of the other process.
What do the two pathways share?
A Chloroplasts and mitochondria
B Photosystems I and II
C The cytochrome complex
D Thylakoids
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Solution
35
The solution is (C). Photosynthesis and cellular respiration both require the
cytochrome complex for electron transport, but the roles in each process differ.
What evidence exists that the evolution of photosynthesis and cellular respiration support
the concept that there is a common ancestry for all organisms?
A All organisms perform cellular respiration using oxygen and glucose, which are
produced by photosynthesis.
B All organisms perform cellular respiration using carbon dioxide and glucose, which are
produced by photosynthesis.
C All organisms perform cellular respiration using oxygen and lipids, which are produced
by photosynthesis.
D All organisms perform cellular respiration using carbon dioxide and lipids, which are
produced by photosynthesis.
Solution
36
The solution is (A). All organisms perform cellular respiration using oxygen and
glucose, which are produced by photosynthesis. The principal energy source used
throughout the planet is glucose or some form of carbohydrate. The ultimate source
of this chemical is photosynthesis, which is found in every organism that produces
glucose. The process of photosynthesis produces oxygen as a product that is used by
all organisms in cellular respiration. These two pathways form the foundation of
metabolism in nearly all of the organisms in existence. Primitive anaerobic
prokaryotic microorganisms are thought to be the earliest organisms developed,
with others following once photosynthesis allowed oxygen to exist in the
atmosphere. Cellular respiration then became possible and built on some of the
chemical reactions that already existed in photosynthesis.
What are the correct labels for the indicated parts of a chloroplast?
A A. stroma, B. outer membrane, C. granum, D. thylakoid, E. inner membrane
B A. outer membrane, B. stroma, C. granum, D. thylakoid, E. inner membrane
C A. outer membrane, B. stroma, C. granum, D. inner membrane, E. thylakoid
D A. stroma, B. outer membrane, C. inner membrane, D. granum, E. thylakoid
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Solution
37
175
The solution is (B). The correct labels are A. outer membrane, B. stroma, C. granum,
D. thylakoid, E. inner membrane.
What cellular features and processes are similar in both photosynthesis and cellular
respiration?
A Both processes are contained in organelles with single membranes, and both use a
version of the cytochrome complex.
B Both processes are contained in organelles with double membranes, and neither uses
a version of the cytochrome complex.
C Both processes are contained in organelles with double membranes and use a version
of the cytochrome complex.
D Both processes are contained in organelles with single membranes, and neither uses a
version of the cytochrome complex.
Solution
38
The solution is (C). Both processes are contained in organelles with double
membranes (chloroplasts and mitochondria), and both use a version of the
cytochrome complex in their respective electron transport chains.
Why do the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis take place in the thylakoid?
A Photosystem I is anchored to the membrane, but not photosystem II.
B The cytochrome complex requires a membrane for chemiosmosis to occur.
C The light-dependent reactions depend on the presence of carbon dioxide.
D Light energy is absorbed by the thylakoid membrane.
Solution
39
The solution is (B). The cytochrome complex requires a membrane for chemiosmosis
to occur. The cytochrome complex in the thylakoid membrane of chloroplasts
facilitates ATP generation by the movement of hydrogen ions across the thylakoid
membrane. This ATP is further used to power the Calvin cycle.
Metabolic pathways both produce and use energy to perform their reactions. How does
the Calvin cycle help to harness, store, and use energy in its pathway?
A The Calvin cycle harnesses energy in the form of 6 ATP and 6 NADPH that are used to
produce fructose-3-phosphate (F3P) molecules. These store the energy captured from
photosynthesis. The cycle uses this energy to regenerate RuBP.
B The Calvin cycle harnesses energy in the form of 6 ATP and 6 NADPH that are used to
produce glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (GA3P) molecules. These store the energy
captured from photosynthesis. The cycle uses this energy to regenerate RuBP.
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C The Calvin cycle harnesses energy in the form of 3 ATP and 3 NADPH that are used to
produce glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (GA3P) molecules. These store the energy
captured from photosynthesis. The cycle uses this energy to regenerate the RuBP.
D The Calvin cycle harnesses energy in the form of 6 ATP and 3 NADPH that are used to
produce glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (GA3P) molecules. These store energy captured
from photosynthesis. The cycle uses this energy to regenerate RuBP.
Solution
40
The solution is (B). The Calvin cycle harnesses energy in the form of the 6 ATP and 6
NADPH that are used to produce glyceraldehyse-3-phosphate (GA3P) molecules.
These store the energy captured from photosynthesis. The cycle uses this energy to
regenerate the RuBP that starts the cycle.
Based on the diagram, what would most likely cause a plant to run out of NADP?
A Missing the ATP synthase enzyme
B Exposure to light
C Lack of water preventing H+ and NADP+ from forming NADPH
D Not enough CO2
Solution
41
The solution is (D). As you can see in the diagram, CO2 is the only listed option that is
directly involved in the Calvin cycle, which produces NADP+.
As temperatures increase, gases such as CO2 diffuse faster. As a result, plant leaves will
lose CO2 at a faster rate than normal. If the amount of light impacting on the leaf and the
amount of water available is adequate, predict how this loss of gas will affect
photosynthesis in the leaf.
A Loss of gases, mainly CO2 , will not affect photosynthesis in the leaf, as adequate
amounts of water and light are still present which will let the Calvin cycle run
smoothly.
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B Loss of gases, mainly CO2 , will affect photosynthesis in the leaf, as the Calvin cycle will
become faster to compensate for the loss.
C Loss of gases, mainly CO2 , will not affect photosynthesis in the leaf, as stored
reservoirs of CO2 in the leaf can be utilized in such times.
D Loss of gases, mainly CO2 , will affect photosynthesis in the leaf, as the Calvin cycle will
slow down and possibly stop because of inadequate carbon to fix in the system.
Solution
42
The solution is (D). Loss of gases, especially of CO2 , will affect photosynthesis in the
leaf as the Calvin cycle will slow down and eventually stop because of inadequate
carbon to fix in the system. A continuous supply of atmospheric CO2 is thus
required.
How do the cytochrome-complex components involved in photosynthesis contribute to
the electron transport chain?
A Photosystem I excites the electron as it moves down the electron transport chain into
photosystem II.
B Plastoquinone and plastocyanine perform redox reactions that allow the electron to
move down the electron transport chain into photosystem I.
C ATP synthase de-excites the electron as it moves down the electron transport chain
into photosystem I.
D RuBisCO excites the electron as it moves down the electron transport chain into
photosystem II.
Solution
The solution is (B). Plastoquinone and plastocyanine perform redox reactions that
allow the electron to move down the electron transport chain into photosystem I.
The cytochrome complexes perform oxidation-reduction reactions that, in essence,
pass on the electron to the next stop on the ETC.
43
How do membranes in chloroplasts contribute to the organelles’ essential functions?
A The inner membrane contains the chemicals needed for the Calvin cycle and
components of the light-dependent reactions. The thylakoid membrane contains
photosystems I and II, as well as the enzyme NAD+ reductase.
B The inner membrane contains only the chemicals needed for the Calvin cycle. The
thylakoid membrane contains components of the light-dependent reactions,
photosystems I and II, and the enzyme NAD+ reductase.
C The inner membrane contains components of the light-dependent reactions as well as
photosystems I and II. The thylakoid membrane contains the chemicals needed for the
Calvin cycle and the enzyme NAD+ reductase.
D The inner membrane contains the chemicals needed for the Calvin cycle, components
of the light-dependent reactions, and photosystems I and II. The thylakoid membrane
contains the enzyme NAD+ reductase.
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Solution
44
The solution is (A). The inner membrane contains the chemicals needed for the
Calvin cycle and components of the light-dependent reactions. The thylakoid
membrane contains photosystems I and II, as well as the enzyme NAD + reductase.
The inner membrane contains the chemicals needed for the Calvin cycle and
provides a home for the components of the light-dependent reactions. Photosystem
I and II are housed within the thylakoid membrane, as are the enzymes NAD +
reductase, which catalyze the reduction of NADP and ATP synthase, which plays an
important role in ATP production through the chemiosmosis process across the
membrane.
If the absorption spectrum of photosynthetic pigments was restricted to the green
portion of the spectrum, which pigment or pigments would be affected the least?
A Carotenoids
B Chlorophyll a
C Chlorophyll b
D Chlorophyll c
Solution
45
The solution is (A). Carotenoids would not be affected if the absorption spectrum of
photosynthetic pigments were restricted to the green portion of the spectrum,
because carotenoids absorb violet-blue-green light.
How can the passage of energy from light until it is captured in the primary electron
acceptor be described?
A Chlorophyll molecules in the photosystems are excited and pass the energy to the
primary electron acceptor where the energy is used to excite electrons from the
splitting of water.
B Chlorophyll a molecules in the photosystems are excited and pass the energy to the
primary electron acceptor where the energy is used to excite electrons from the
splitting of water.
C Chlorophyll b molecules in the photosystems are excited and pass the energy to the
primary electron acceptor where the energy is used to excite electrons from the
splitting of water.
D Chlorophyll molecules in the photosystems absorb light and get excited in the primary
electron acceptor from where the energy is used to excite electrons from the splitting
of water.
Solution
The solution is (A). The chlorophyll molecules in the photosystem are excited and
pass the energy to the primary electron acceptor where the energy is used to excite
electrons from the split of water. Excitation occurs in chlorophyll a molecules and
then energy is passed to the primary electron acceptor where the energy is used for
exciting electrons from the splitting of water.
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SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
8.2 The Light-Dependent Reaction of Photosynthesis
46
On a hot, dry day, plants close their stomata to conserve water. Explain the connection
between the oxidation of water in photosystem II of the light-dependent reactions and
the synthesis of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3PA) in the light-independent reactions.
Predict the effect of closed stomata on the synthesis of G3PA, and justify the prediction.
Solution
47
The emergence of photosynthetic organisms is recorded in layers of sedimentary rock
known as a banded iron formation. Dark-colored and iron-rich bands composed of
hematite (Fe2O3) and magnetite (Fe3O4) only a few millimeters thick alternate with lightcolored and iron-poor shale or chert. Hematite and magnetite can form precipitates from
water that have high concentrations of dissolved oxygen. Shale and chert can form under
conditions that have high concentrations of carbonates (CO3−2). These banded iron
formations appeared 3.7 billion years ago (and became less common 1.8 billion years
ago). Justify the claim that these sedimentary rock formations reveal early Earth
conditions.
Solution
48
Sample answer: Feedback is used to maintain water within cells by closing stomata.
When water cannot be lost by vaporization, the redox couple between water and
NADP+ is broken: Electrons cannot be delivered to reduce NADP+. The lightindependent reactions then must stop since they are regulated by the supply of
NADPH. The product of the light-independent reactions is G3PA.
Sample answer: These systems indicate formation from waters that fluctuated over
time in the dominant dissolved oxygen-containing chemical species. Based on these,
it may be reasoned that the atmosphere was oscillating between carbon dioxide rich
and oxygen rich. Because oxygen is a product of photosynthesis that consumes
carbon dioxide, the formations can reveal the emergence on early Earth of
photosynthetic organisms. When a high-oxygen atmosphere eventually became
stable, the banded iron formation ceased.
The diagram summarizes the light reactions of photosynthesis.
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The diagram shows light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, including the reaction
centers, electron transport chains, and the overall reactions within each of these. The free
energy per electron is shown for the oxidation-reduction reactions.
The free change of the captured radiant energy is shown.
2NADP  2H  2H2O  3ADP  3Pi  O2  4H  2NADPH  3ATP
A. In the overall mass balance equation for the light reactions shown above, identify the
source of electrons for the synthesis of NADPH.
B. Calculate the number of electrons transferred in this reaction.
C. Using the free energies per electron displayed, calculate the free-energy change of the
light-dependent reactions.
D. Given that the free-energy change for the hydrolysis of ATP is 31.5 kJ/mole and the
free-energy change for the formation of NADPH from NADP+ is 18 kJ/mole, calculate the
total production of free energy for the light reactions.
E. Using this definition of energy efficiency, calculate the efficiency of the light reaction of
photosynthesis: energy efficiency = free energy produced/energy input.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The source of the electrons in the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis is
the oxygen atom in water.
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B. Each oxygen atom loses two electrons, so four electrons are transferred in this
reaction.
C. The free energy per electron of the conversion of NADP+ to NADPH is identified
in the chart as 29 kJ/electron. The free energy per electron of the conversion
of water to molecular oxygen is 77 kJ/electron. The change in free energy is
77 – 29  106 kJ/electron. There are four electrons transferred, so the overall
free energy change is 420 kJ.
D. There are three ATP produced from three ADP with a free energy change of 94.5
kJ. There are two NADPH produced from two NADP+ for a total of 36 kJ. Then the
free energy captured in chemical bonds of ATP and NADPH is 131 kJ.
E. The total free-energy change of 420 kJ  131 kJ  550 kJ . You often see an
estimate of 20 percent efficiency. The radiant-energy input according to the diagram
is 2,800 kJ and 550 / 2800  0.20 . The true photosynthetic efficiency is more difficult
to determine; the number of photons captured is only approximately eight. The free
energies that are available from tables are for pH of 7 and standard temperature
and pressure.
49
Algae can be used for food and fuel. To maximize profit from algae production under
artificial light, researchers proposed an experiment to determine the dependence of the
efficiency of the process used to grow the algae on light intensity (“brightness”) that will
be purchased from the electric company.
The algae will be grown on a flat sheet that will be continuously washed with dissolved
carbon dioxide and nutrients. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) will be used to illuminate the
growth sheet. Photodiodes placed above and below the sheet will be used to detect light
transmitted through and reflected from the algal mat. The intensity of light can be varied,
and the algae can be removed, filtered, and dried. The amount of stored energy in the
algal mats can be determined by calorimetry.
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A. Identify a useful definition of efficiency for this study and justify your choice.
B. Frequencies of light emitted by the LEDs will not be variables but must be specified for
the construction of the apparatus. Identify the frequencies of light that should be used in
the experiment, and justify your choice.
C. Evaluate the claim that the experiment is based on the assumption that there is an
upper limit on the intensity of light used to support growth of algae. Predict a possible
effect on algal growth if light with too great an intensity is used, and justify the prediction.
D. Design an experiment by describing a procedure that can be used to determine the
relationship between light intensity and efficiency.
Solution Sample answer:
A. The product is biomass, and the component of the cost that is considered here is
the price paid for the brightness of light used to grow the algae. So, efficiency could
be defined as the value of the biomass divided by the cost of electrical energy. It
could be defined as the energy contained in the algae divided by the energy used to
produce light. It could be defined as the profit from the sale of the biomass (or its
derivatives) divided by the cost of the power.
B. LEDs with a distribution of wavelengths matched to the absorbance maxima for
chlorophyll a should be chosen.
C. Light with too great an intensity can damage tissue, denature enzymes, etc. Light
produces heat, and thermoregulation is required for homeostasis.
D. Seed the mat with a fixed volume at fixed concentration of algae. At fixed
frequency, irradiate algae for a fixed period of time. Remove the algal mat and
measure biomass. Repeat varying light intensity. Then repeat this sequence at fixed
light intensity, varying pulse frequency.
50
The classical theory of evolution is based on a gradual transformation, the accumulation
of many random mutations that are selected. The biological evidence for evolution is
overwhelming, particularly when one considers what has not changed: core conserved
characteristics.
A. Describe three conserved characteristics common to both chloroplasts and
mitochondria.
Some hypotheses that have been proposed to account for biological diversity are
saltatory, involving sudden changes, rather than gradualist. In defense of the classical
gradualist theory of evolution, nearly all biologists in the late 1960s rejected the theory of
endosymbiosis as presented by Lynn Margulis in 1967.
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B. Suppose that you want to disprove the theory of endosymbiosis.
Explain how the following evidence could disprove the theory:
i.
A “transitional species” with cellular features that are intermediate cells with
and without mitochondria
ii.
A “transitional organelle” with some features, such as compartmentalized
metabolic processes, but not other features, such as DNA
Explain how the following evidence supports the theory of endosymbiosis:
iii.
Bacteria live within your intestines, but you still have a separate identity.
iv.
No one has directly observed the fusion of two organisms in which a single
organism results.
Solution Sample answer:
A. The following could be identified:

DNA and DNA processing

Inner/outer membrane

ATP- and NADH-based energetics

Chemiosmosis including ETS and multiple analogous proteins
B.
i.
A transitional species would have intermediate structural and functional
features. The existence of other gradual variations of this transitional species
would mean that the simplest solution would be gradualist.
ii.
Similarly, a transitional organelle—for example, something like a glycosome
or a metabolon—that, with a molecular phylogeny such as protein
homologues, would disprove endosymbiosis with the accumulation of
sufficient evidence.
iii.
Endosymbiosis is not the same as symbiosis. In this context, the organism has
systems with integrated reproduction and growth in which critical, obligatory
functions are provided by one or the other.
iv.
Evidence of evolution is often obtained by observation of the necessary
consequences of an event without observation of the event. So, absence of
direct evidence is not evidence of absence.
8.3 Using Light Energy to Make Organic Molecules
51
Discovering the carbon-fixation reactions (or light-independent reactions) of
photosynthesis earned Melvin Calvin a Nobel Prize in 1961. The isolation and
identification of the products of algae exposed to 14C revealed the path of carbon in
photosynthesis. 14C was fed to the algal culture in the form of a bicarbonate ion (HCO3−).
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To agitate the culture, air, which contains CO2, was bubbled through the system, so there
were two sources of carbon.
Since Calvin’s experiment, research has focused on the way carbon from a solution
containing bicarbonate ions is absorbed by algae. In aqueous solutions, the bicarbonate
anion (HCO3−) is in equilibrium with dissolved CO2, as shown in the equation.
H  HCO3
H2O  CO2
In a later experiment, Larsson and Axelsson (1999) used acetazolamide (AZ), a carbonate
anhydrase inhibitor, to inhibit enzymes that convert bicarbonate into carbon dioxide.
They also used disulfonate (DIDS), an inhibitor of the transport of anions, such as the
bicarbonate ion, through the plasma membrane.
A. Pose a scientific question that can be pursued with AZ and DIDS in terms of the path of
carbon in photosynthesis.
B. The plasma membrane is permeable to the nonpolar, uncharged carbon dioxide
molecule. However, the concentration of carbon dioxide in solution can be very small.
Explain how the enzyme carbonate anhydrase can increase the availability of carbon
dioxide to the cell.
C. Larsson Sand Axelsson conducted experiments in which the growth medium was fixed
at two different pH levels and determined the effects of AZ and DIDS on the rate of
photosynthesis by measuring oxygen concentrations at various times. The results are
shown in the side-by-side graphs. The arrows indicate the time points during which
HCO3−, AZ, and DIDS were added to each system.
In which system, A or B, is there a strong reliance on the bicarbonate ion as the
mechanism of carbon uptake by the cell? Justify your answer using the data.
D. If both systems are dosed with the same concentrations of bicarbonate ion, in which
system, A or B, is the pH higher? Justify your answer using the data and the bicarbonatecarbon dioxide equilibrium equation.
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Solution Sample answer:
A. If AZ and DIDS are introduced into the light-independent reactions of
photosynthesis in the middle of the reaction, how would the introduction of these
inhibitors impact the amount of carbon produced?
B. The enzyme resides on the exterior surface of the cell and releases carbon dioxide
that is nonpolar and penetrates the membrane. The charged bicarbonate ion does
not passively enter the cell.
C. The data show that as bicarbonate is added, the equilibrium concentration of
carbon dioxide increases and photosynthesis (detected by the production of oxygen)
increases. However, some of that increase is due to the action of the anhydrase
enzyme and the relative amounts of each pathway (entry as CO2 and entry as
HCO3−), which are indicated by the slopes of the curve before and after the addition
of AZ. In system A, the addition of AZ decreased the rate by a factor of almost 10;
thus, under the conditions for system A, most C entered the cell as CO 2—produced
by the surface-bound enzyme. After the addition of AZ, system A gets CO2 from that
dissolved in solution. DIDS has no effect, so in system A there is almost no entry of
bicarbonate into the cell. In system B, carbonate is the predominate source of
carbon. After the addition of DIDS, photosynthesis shuts down.
D. The results described in (C) tell us that system A is at a higher pH where,
according to the equilibrium equation, the concentration of dissolved carbon
dioxides is high. System B is at a higher pH where the concentration of dissolved
carbon dioxide is small.
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9 | CELL COMMUNICATION
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Which property prevents the ligands of cell-surface receptors from entering the cell?
A The molecules bind to the extracellular domain.
B The molecules are hydrophilic and cannot penetrate the hydrophobic interior of the
plasma membrane.
C The molecules are attached to transport proteins that deliver them through the
bloodstream to target cells.
D The ligands are able to penetrate the membrane, directly influencing gene expression
upon receptor binding.
Solution
2
The solution is (B). The molecules are hydrophilic and cannot penetrate the
hydrophobic interior of the plasma membrane. Hydrophobic ligands can easily cross
the lipid bilayer, bringing about changes in gene expression. Hydrophilic ligand
molecules cannot cross the plasma membrane and bind the cell-surface receptor.
The secretion of hormones by the pituitary gland is an example of which type of signaling?
A Autocrine signaling
B Direct signaling across gap junctions
C Endocrine signaling
D Paracrine signaling
Solution
3
The solution is (C). The secretion of hormones by the pituitary gland is an example of
endocrine signaling helping in long-distance signaling.
Why are ion channels necessary to transport ions into or out of a cell?
A Ions are too large to diffuse through the membrane.
B Ions are charged particles and cannot diffuse through the hydrophobic interior of the
membrane.
C Ions bind to hydrophobic molecules within the ion channels.
D Ions bind to carrier proteins in the bloodstream, which must be removed before
transport into the cell.
Solution
The solution is (B). Ions are charged particles and cannot diffuse through the
hydrophobic interior of the membrane. Ions are charged particles and therefore
cannot diffuse through the membrane and require ion channels for their transport.
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Why are endocrine signals transmitted more slowly than paracrine signals?
A The ligands are transported through the bloodstream and travel greater distances.
B The target and signaling cells are close together.
C The ligands are degraded rapidly.
D The ligands do not bind to carrier proteins during transport.
Solution
5
The solution is (A). The ligands are transported through the bloodstream and travel
greater distances. In endocrine signaling, the ligands are transported at long
distances.
Aldosterone is a steroid hormone that regulates reabsorption of sodium ions in the kidney
tubular cells. What is the probable mechanism of action of aldosterone?
A It binds gated ion channels and causes a flow of ions in the cell.
B It binds cell surface receptors and activates synthesis of cAMP.
C It binds to cell surface receptors and activates a phosphorylation cascade.
D It binds to an intracellular receptor and activates gene transcription.
Solution
6
The solution is (D). It binds an intracellular receptor and activates gene transcription.
Aldosterone is a steroid hormone that binds to intracellular receptors and promotes
gene expression.
The gas nitric oxide has been identified as a signaling molecule. Which mechanism of
action would you expect from a gaseous molecule?
A It binds to a G-protein-linked receptor.
B It binds to a receptor tyrosine kinase.
C It binds to a gated ion channel.
D It binds to an intracellular receptor.
Solution
7
The solution is (D). It binds to an intracellular receptor. Nitric oxide is a gas that can
easily diffuse through the cell membrane. It binds to the intracellular receptors and
brings about effector functions.
How do DAG and IP3 originate?
A They are formed by phosphorylation of cAMP.
B They are ligands expressed by signaling cells.
C They are hormones that diffuse through the plasma membrane to stimulate protein
production.
D They are the cleavage products of the inositol phospholipid, PIP2.
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Solution
8
The solution is (D). They are the cleavage products of the inositol phospholipid, PIP2.
The enzyme phospholipase C cleaves PIP2 to form diacylglycerol (DAG) and inositol
triphosphate (IP3).
What property enables the residues of the amino acids serine, threonine, and tyrosine to
be phosphorylated?
A They are polar.
B They are nonpolar.
C They contain a hydroxyl group.
D They occur more frequently in the amino acid sequence of signaling proteins.
Solution
9
The solution is (C). They contain a hydroxyl group. Serine, threonine, and tyrosine
are hydroxyl-group-containing amino acids, which enables them to be easily
phosphorylated.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain that causes long-term responses in neurons
and binds to a G-protein-linked receptor. Which chemical would you expect to increase in
concentration after dopamine binds its receptor?
A ATP
B cAMP
C Calcium ions
D Sodium ions
Solution
10
The solution is (B). When dopamine binds to the G-protein-coupled receptor, ATP is
hydrolyzed by adenylyl cyclase to produce cAMP, which acts as a second messenger.
The hormone insulin binds to a receptor tyrosine kinase on the surface of target cells.
Which step takes place before phosphorylation of tyrosine residues?
A A tyrosine kinase enzyme must be activated.
B GDP is exchanged for GTP.
C The receptor forms a dimer.
D The insulin molecule is internalized in the cytoplasm.
Solution
11
The solution is (C). The receptor forms a dimer in response to ligand binding, which
activates the tyrosine kinase activity of the receptor, leading to autophosphorylation of the tyrosine residues on the receptor.
What is the function of a phosphatase?
A A phosphatase removes phosphorylated amino acids from proteins.
B A phosphatase removes the phosphate group from phosphorylated amino acid
residues in a protein.
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C A phosphatase phosphorylates serine, threonine, and tyrosine residues.
D A phosphatase degrades second messengers in the cell.
Solution
12
The solution is (B). A phosphatase removes the phosphate group from
phosphorylated amino acid residues in a protein. The phosphate group from a
phosphorylated amino acid is removed by a phosphatase that helps in altering the
activity of a protein.
How does NF-κB induce gene expression?
A A small, hydrophobic ligand binds to NF-κB, activating it.
B NF-κB is phosphorylated and is then free to enter the nucleus to bind DNA.
C NF-κB is a kinase that phosphorylates a transcription factor that binds DNA and
promotes protein production.
D Phosphorylation of the inhibitor IκB dissociates the complex between it and NF-κB,
allowing NF-κB to enter the nucleus and stimulate transcription.
Solution
13
The solution is (D). Phosphorylation of the inhibitor Iκ-B dissociates the complex
between it and NF-κB, allowing NF-κB to enter the nucleus and stimulate
transcription. When Iκ-B is bound to NF-κB, this complex cannot enter the nucleus.
When Iκ-B is phosphorylated by PKC, it dissociates from the complex, releasing
NF-κB. NF-κB acts as a transcription factor that enters the nucleus and initiates
transcription.
Apoptosis can occur in a cell under what conditions?
A When a cell is infected by a virus
B When a cell is damaged
C When a cell is no longer needed
D All of the above
Solution
14
The solution is (D). Apoptosis occurs when a cell is no longer needed, is damaged, or
is infected by a virus.
Cancer cells that continue to divide when defective often show changes in what cellular
function?
A Apoptosis
B Their mechanism of glycolysis
C The mechanism of protein biosynthesis
D Replication of DNA
Solution
The solution is (A). Cancer cells show defects in apoptosis. Although they are
defective, they do not undergo cell suicide.
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Epinephrine mediates the fight-or-flight response of the body. One of the effects is to
increase the amount of glucose available to muscles.
What does the signaling pathway triggered by epinephrine cause to occur in liver cells?
A Activation of metabolism
B Cell division
C Inhibition of glucose metabolism by liver cells
D Synthesis of enzymes
Solution
16
The solution is (A). Binding of epinephrine leads to increase in metabolic rate.
Epinephrine signaling results in breakdown of glycogen and an increase in
concentration of glucose.
Which type of molecule acts as a signaling molecule in yeasts?
A Autoinducer
B Mating factor
C Second messenger
D Steroid
Solution
17
The solution is (B). When a haploid yeast cell is ready to mate, it releases a signaling
molecule called mating factor, which binds to the receptors present on the nearby
yeast cells. Binding of mating factor arrests the normal cell cycle of the nearby cell
and the cell enters the signaling cascade that includes protein kinases and GTPbinding proteins that are similar to G-proteins.
When is quorum sensing triggered to begin?
A A sufficient density of bacteria is present.
B Bacteria release growth hormones.
C Bacterial protein expression is switched on.
D Treatment with antibiotics occurs.
Solution
18
The solution is (A). A sufficient density of bacteria is present. When high cell density
is present, more autoinducers are present, which bind to receptors, leading to
enhanced gene expression and more production of autoinducers.
Yeast-releasing mating factor can be classified as which type of signal?
A Autocrine
B Endocrine
C Paracrine
D Gap junction
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Solution
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191
The solution is (C). Paracrine signaling helps communicate with nearby cells. Yeast
cells that are present in close proximity communicate through paracrine signaling.
The bioluminescent bacteria Vibrio fischeri produce luminescence only if the population
reaches a certain density. What is the advantage of an autoinducer?
A An autoinducer allows the producer to act independently of the presence of other
cells.
B An autoinducer does not diffuse away from the cell.
C An autoinducer allows a positive feedback loop, which increases the response in
proportion to the population size.
D An autoinducer presents no advantage for the cell.
Solution
The solution is (C). An autoinducer allows a positive feedback loop, which increases
the response in proportion to the population size. Production of an autoinducer
allows a positive feedback loop for production of more autoinducer, which is directly
proportional to cell density.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
20
What is the difference between intracellular signaling and intercellular signaling?
A Intracellular signaling occurs between cells of two different species. Intercellular
signaling occurs between two cells of the same species.
B Intracellular signaling occurs between two cells of same species. Intercellular signaling
occurs between cells of two different species.
C Intracellular signaling occurs within a cell. Intercellular signaling occurs between cells.
D Intracellular signaling occurs between cells. Intercellular signaling occurs within cells.
Solution
The solution is (C). Intracellular signaling occurs within a cell. Intercellular signaling
occurs between the cells. Signaling between two cells is called intercellular signaling.
Communication that occurs within a cell is called intracellular signaling.
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What are the differences between internal receptors and cell-surface receptors?
A Internal receptors bind to ligands that are hydrophobic, and the ligand-receptor
complex directly enters the nucleus, initiating transcription and translation. Cellsurface receptors bind to hydrophilic ligands and initiate a signaling cascade that
indirectly influences the making of a functional protein.
B Internal receptors bind to ligands that are hydrophilic, and ligand-receptor complex
directly enters the nucleus, initiating transcription and translation. Cell-surface
receptors bind to hydrophobic ligands and initiate a signaling cascade that indirectly
influences the making of a functional protein.
C Internal receptors bind to ligands that are hydrophobic and initiate the signaling
cascade that indirectly influences the making of a functional protein. Cell-surface
receptors bind to hydrophilic ligands, and a ligand-receptor complex directly enters
the nucleus, initiating transcription and translation.
D Internal receptors are integral membrane proteins that bind to hydrophobic ligands,
initiating a signaling cascade, which indirectly influences the making of a functional
protein. Cell-surface receptors bind to hydrophilic ligands, and the ligand-receptor
complex directly enters the nucleus, initiating transcription and translation.
Solution
22
The solution is (A). Their ligands enter the cell to bind the receptor. The complex
formed by the internal receptor and the ligand then enters the nucleus, directly
affecting protein production by binding to the chromosomal DNA and initiating the
transcription of mRNA that codes for proteins. Cell-surface receptors, however, are
embedded in the plasma membrane; their ligands do not enter the cell. Binding of
the ligand to the cell-surface receptor initiates a cell-signaling cascade and does not
directly influence the making of proteins, though it may involve the activation of
intracellular proteins. Internal receptors bind to hydrophobic molecules. Receptorligand complexes directly influence the synthesis of proteins by binding to DNA in
the nucleus. Cell-surface receptors bind to hydrophilic ligands, which cannot cross
the plasma membrane, and lead to a signaling cascade, indirectly influencing the
synthesis of functional proteins.
Cells grown in the laboratory are mixed with a dye molecule that is unable to pass
through the plasma membrane. If a ligand is added to the cells, the dye is observed
entering the cells.
What type of receptor did the ligand bind to on the cell surface?
A G-protein-linked R receptor
B Ligand-gated ion channel
C Voltage-gated ion channel
D Receptor tyrosine kinase
Solution
The solution is (B). An ion channel-linked receptor opened a pore in the membrane,
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gated ion channel receptor will lead to conformational changes in the receptor,
leading to formation of a pore in the membrane that allows the dye to move in
along with the ligand.
23
The same second messengers are used in many different cells, but the response to second
messengers is different in each cell. How is this possible?
A Different cells produce the same receptor, which bind to the same ligands, but have
different responses in each cell type.
B Cells produce variants of a particular receptor for a particular ligand through
alternative splicing, resulting in different responses in each cell.
C Cells contain different genes, which produce different receptors that bind to same
ligand, activating different responses in each cell.
D Cells produce different receptors that bind to the same ligand or the same receptor
that binds to the same ligand with different signaling components, activating different
responses in each cell.
Solution
24
The solution is (D). Different cells produce different proteins, including cell-surface
receptors and signaling pathway components. Therefore, they respond to the same
ligands differently because the second messengers activate different pathways.
Signal integration can also change the end result of signaling. Different receptors in
different cells bind to same ligand and produce different responses.
What would happen if the intracellular domain of a cell-surface receptor was switched
with the domain from another receptor?
A It would activate the pathway normally triggered by the receptor that contributed the
intracellular domain.
B It would activate the same pathway even after the intracellular domain is changed
with the domain from another receptor.
C The receptor will be mutated and become nonfunctional, not activating any pathway.
D The receptor will become mutated and lead to continuous cell signaling, even in the
absence of a ligand.
Solution
25
The solution is (A). The binding of the ligand to the extracellular domain would
activate the pathway normally activated by the receptor donating the intracellular
domain. The intracellular domain determines the response.
How would a chemical that blocks the binding of EGF to the EGFR interfere with the
replication of cancerous cells that overexpress EGFR?
A It will activate the EGFR pathway.
B It will block the EGFR pathway.
C It will have no effect, and the EGFR pathway will continue normally.
D It will lead to overexpression of the EGFR pathway.
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Solution
26
The solution is (B). The chemical would interfere with the activation of the EGFR
pathway. A chemical that blocks the binding EGF to the EGFR would block the EGFR
pathway.
How does the extracellular matrix control the growth of cells?
A Contact of receptors with the extracellular matrix maintains equilibrium of the cell and
provides optimal pH for the growth of the cells.
B Contact of the receptor with the extracellular matrix helps maintain concentration
gradients across membranes, resulting in the flow of ions.
C The extracellular matrix provides nutrients for the cell.
D The extracellular matrix connects the cell to the external environment and ensures
correct positioning of the cell to prevent metastasis.
Solution
27
The solution is (D). Receptors on the cell surface must be in contact with the
extracellular matrix in order to receive positive signals that allow the cell to live. If
the receptors are not activated by binding, the cell will undergo apoptosis. This
ensures that cells are in the correct place in the body and helps prevent invasive cell
growth, such as occurs in metastasis of cancer cells.
Which options gives an example for each one of the following effects of a cell signal: on
protein expression, cellular metabolism, and cell division?
A Protein expression: binding of epinephrine (adrenaline) to a G-protein-linked receptor;
cellular metabolism: the MAP-kinase cascade; cell division: promoted by the binding of
the EGF to its receptor tyrosine kinase
B Protein expression: the MAP-kinase cascade; cellular metabolism: binding of
epinephrine (adrenaline) to a G-protein-linked receptor; cell division: promoted by the
binding of the EGF to its receptor tyrosine kinase
C Protein expression: binding of the EGF to its receptor tyrosine kinase; cellular
metabolism: the MAP-kinase cascade; cell division: FAS-RAS signaling
D Protein expression: RAS signaling; cellular metabolism: binding of the EGF to its
receptor tyrosine kinase promotes an increase; cell division: binding of epinephrine
(adrenaline) to a G-protein-linked receptor
Solution
The solution is (B). Protein expression: The MAP-kinase cascade is initiated by the
binding of a signal to a receptor tyrosine kinase. In the fight-or-flight response
caused by the binding of epinephrine (adrenaline) to a G-protein-linked receptor,
whose signaling pathway activates the enzymes involved in gluconeogenesis,
glycogen breaks down. Binding of the epidermal growth factor to its receptor
tyrosine kinase will start a signaling cascade such as the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway,
which leads to cell proliferation. The MAPK pathway leads to protein expression.
Epinephrine results in increased metabolic rate in cases of fight-or-flight. Epidermal
growth factor promotes cell division and proliferation.
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195
The mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase cascade triggered by RTKs results in cell
division. What are a few possible scenarios of abnormalities in the MAPK pathway leading
to uncontrolled cell proliferation?
A Gain of function mutation in RAS protein, mutation in Iκ-B, loss of function mutation in
genes for MAPK kinase pathway, regulated phosphorylation cascade
B Loss of function mutation in RAS protein and gain of function mutation in RAF protein,
Iκ -B permanently bound to NF-κB, regulated phosphorylation cascade
C RAS protein unable to hydrolyze its bound GTP, loss of function mutation in Iκ-B, gain
of function mutation in genes for MAPK kinase pathway, unregulated phosphorylation
cascade
D Unregulated phosphorylation cascade, loss of function mutation in RAS and RAF
protein, mutation in genes for MAPK kinase pathway, regulated phosphorylation
cascade
Solution
29
The solution is (C). If the RAS protein is locked in the on position because it cannot
hydrolyze GTP, proliferation is not stopped. The Iκ-B molecule cannot bind to NF-κB
and prevent its activity. Overexpression of the genes for the MAPK kinase pathway
components can lead to overgrowth. Every step of the phosphorylation cascade
must be tightly regulated to avoid uncontrolled cell proliferation. If the RAS protein
is unable to hydrolyze its bound GTP, it will remain permanently active, loss of
function mutation in Iκ-B will not allow Iκ-B to bind to NF-κB, rendering it
permanently active, gain of function mutation in genes for MAPK kinase pathway
will lead to overexpression of the pathway, unregulated phosphorylation cascade.
All these situations will lead to uncontrolled cell division.
What characteristics make yeast a good model for learning about signaling in humans?
A Yeasts are prokaryotes. They have a short life cycle, are easy to grow, and share
similarities with humans in certain regulating mechanisms.
B Yeasts are eukaryotes. They have a short life cycle, are easy to grow, and share
similarities with humans in certain regulating mechanisms.
C Yeasts are single-celled organisms. They have a short life cycle, are easy to grow, and
share similarities with humans in certain regulating mechanisms.
D Yeasts are single-celled organisms. They have a complex life cycle like that of humans
and share similarities in regulating mechanisms.
Solution
The solution is (C). Yeasts are eukaryotes and have many of the same systems that
humans do. However, they are single celled, so they are easy to grow, have a short
generation time, and are much simpler than humans.
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Why is signaling in multicellular organisms more complicated than signaling in singlecelled organisms?
A Multicellular organisms coordinate between distantly located cells; single-celled
organisms communicate only with nearby cells.
B Multicellular organisms involve receptors for signaling; single-celled organisms
communicate by fusion of plasma membrane with the nearby cells.
C Multicellular organisms require more time for signal transduction than single-celled
organisms because they show compartmentalization.
D Multicellular organisms require more time for signal transduction than single-celled
organisms because they lack compartmentalization.
Solution
31
Biofilms are a prominent danger in infectious disease treatment today because it is
difficult to find drugs that can penetrate the biofilm. What characteristics would a drug
have if it aimed to prevent bacteria from forming biofilms in the first place? Explain your
answer.
Solution
32
The solution is (A). Multicellular organisms must coordinate many different events in
different cell types, which may be very distant from each other. Single-celled
organisms are only concerned with their immediate environment and the presence
of other cells in the area. Multicellular organisms take more time in signal
transduction than single-celled organisms because they coordinate between cells
that are distantly located.
A drug aimed at preventing biofilm formation would block the receptors of autoinhibitors. By blocking auto-inhibitors, quorum sensing would not occur in bacterial
populations, and these colonies would not turn on genes that form biofilms. These
drugs may cause bacterial populations to increase because the bacteria would
continue to divide even after they reach “quorum”. Therefore, antibacterial drugs
that inhibit bacterial reproduction would have to be used in addition to an autoinhibitor blocker.
Supports the hypothesis that signaling pathways appeared early in evolution and are well
conserved using the yeast mating factor as an example.
A Signaling in yeast uses the RTK pathway and is evolutionarily conserved, like
epinephrine signaling in humans.
B Signaling in yeast uses G-protein-coupled receptors for signaling and is evolutionarily
conserved, like epinephrine signaling in humans.
C Signaling in yeast uses an endocrine pathway and is evolutionarily conserved, like
epinephrine signaling in humans.
D Mating factor in yeast uses an autocrine signaling pathway and is evolutionarily
conserved, like epinephrine signaling in humans.
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Solution
197
The solution is (B). Signaling pathways have been identified in many bacteria,
protists, and fungi. The mating factor signaling pathway in yeast uses a G-proteinlinked receptor, a G-protein that activates a MAPK kinase cascade. Yeast produces
mating factor, which binds to the receptors present on the surrounding yeast cells,
and initiates a cell-signaling cascade including protein kinases and GTP-binding
proteins, which are similar to G-proteins. G-proteins are evolutionarily conserved
since they are used in various signaling mechanism in humans.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
33
Upon ingestion of bacteria, white blood cells release a chemical messenger into the blood
stream that causes the synthesis of inflammation response proteins by liver cells. What is
this is an example of?
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A Autocrine signaling
B Endocrine signaling
C Paracrine signaling
D Synaptic signaling
Solution
34
The solution is (B). The chemical messenger is a hormone secreted by the endocrine
system.
Molecules do not flow between the endothelial cells in the brain capillaries. The
membranes of the cells must be joined by what?
A Gap junctions
B Ligand-gated channels
C Synapses
D Tight junctions
Solution
35
The solution is (D). Tight junctions prevent the flow of molecules between
adjacent cells.
What are the possible benefits of having autocrine signaling?
A Autocrine signaling helps to communicate with distantly located cells.
B Autocrine signaling connects nearby cells.
C Autocrine signaling helps to amplify the signal by inducing more signaling production
from the cell itself.
D Autocrine signaling is specific only for the cell that produced it.
Solution
36
The solution is (C). Autocrine signals may induce a cell to produce more signal
molecules by inducing proliferation and increasing the signal—for example, helper T.
Autocrine signals coordinate responses by groups of identical cells. Cancer cells can
use autocrine signals to escape the normal cell proliferation control and multiply
abnormally. Autocrine signaling involves the action of the hormone on the same cell
from which it was produced and helps in increasing the signal for a better response.
If a chemical is an inhibitor of the enzyme adenylyl cyclase, which step in the G-protein
signaling pathway would be blocked?
A Activation of gene transcription
B Exchange of GTP for GDP
C Ligand-bound receptor activation of G-protein
D Synthesis of cAMP
Solution
The solution is (D). Adenylyl cyclase hydrolyzes ATP to ADP to synthesize cAMP.
Therefore, a chemical that inhibits the activity of adenylyl cyclase will affect the
formation of cAMP.
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199
Thyroid hormone is a lipid-soluble signal molecule that crosses the membrane of all cells.
Why would a cell fail to respond to the thyroid hormone?
A The MAPK cascade leading to cell activation is defective in the target cells.
B The DNA sequence it binds to underwent a mutation.
C There is no intracellular receptor for thyroid hormone in the cell.
D The second messenger does not recognize the signal from the receptor.
Solution
The solution is (C). There is no intracellular receptor for thyroid hormone in the cell.
The thyroid hormone triggers its signaling pathway only in the presence of its
intracellular receptor; it would fail if this receptor were not found.
38
The poison from the krait snake’s bungarotoxin binds irreversibly to acetylcholine
receptors, interfering with acetylcholine binding at the synapse. What is the effect of
bungarotoxin binding on the post synaptic cell?
A cAMP production is inhibited.
B Bungarotoxin G-proteins are not activated.
C Ion movement in the cell is inhibited.
D Phosphorylation cascade is inhibited.
Solution
39
The solution is (C). Ion movement in the cell is inhibited. Bungarotoxin binds
irreversibly to acetylcholine receptors, interfering with acetylcholine binding at the
synapse. Therefore, it will directly inhibit the passage of ions across the postsynaptic
nerve and the signal is not transmitted.
In autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS), lymphocytes that multiplied during
an infection persist in the body and damage tissue. The syndrome is caused by a mutation
in the FAS gene, which encodes a cell-surface receptor.
Which signaling pathway does the receptor initiate?
A Activated metabolism
B Apoptosis
C Cell division
D Cell differentiation
Solution
The solution is (B). The lymphocytes persist because they do not undergo apoptosis;
therefore, it is the pathway affected.
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Place the following events in their sequential order:
1. Protein kinase A is activated.
2. Glycogen breaks down.
3. Epinephrine binds to G-protein-linked receptor.
4. G-protein activates adenylyl cyclase.
5. GTP is exchanged for GDP on the G-protein.
6. ATP is converted into cAMP.
A 1, 3, 5, 4, 6, 2
B 3, 5, 4, 1, 6, 2
C 3, 4, 5, 1, 6, 2
D 3, 5, 4, 6, 1, 2
Solution
41
The solution is (D). Epinephrine binds to G-protein-linked receptor, resulting in the
activation of G-protein by the exchange of GDP with GTP. Activated G-protein
stimulates protein kinase A and leads to glycogen breakdown.
The RAS protein is a G-protein connected with the response to RTKs that initiates the
MAPK kinase cascade when GDP is released and GTP uploaded. Mutations in the RAS
protein that interfere with its GTPase activity are common in cancer.
What is the connection between the inability of RAS to hydrolyze GTP and uncontrolled
cell proliferation?
A RAS, when bound to GTP, becomes permanently inactive even in the presence of the
ligand and no longer regulates cell division.
B RAS, when bound to GTP, becomes permanently active even in the absence of the
ligand and no longer regulates cell division.
C RAS, when bound to GTP, forms a dimer after binding to the ligand and causes
uncontrolled division, but it remains inactive when the ligand is absent.
D RAS, when bound to GTP, does not form a dimer after binding to the ligand but
stimulates downstream signaling to occur and causes uncontrolled cell division.
Solution
The solution is (B). RAS is the first major step in the MAPK kinase cascade. If it is
always active, the transcription signals keep promoting cell division. When RAS is
unable to hydrolyze its bound GTP, it remains permanently active even in the
absence of the ligand, and cell undergoes unregulated division.
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201
Common medications called  - blockers bind to G-protein-linked receptors in heart
muscles, blocking adrenaline. They are prescribed to patients with high blood pressure.
Can you formulate a hypothesis on their mechanism of action?
A Adrenaline has a stimulatory effect on heart rate and blood pressure.  - blockers are
antagonistic to adrenaline and produce an inhibitory effect.
B Adrenaline has both a stimulatory and an inhibitory effect on heart rate and blood
pressure.  - blockers bind to G-protein and stimulate the inhibitory effect of
adrenaline.
C Adrenaline has an inhibitory effect on heart rate and blood pressure.  - blockers have
a synergistic effect along with adrenaline, producing an inhibitory effect.
D Adrenaline has both a stimulatory and an inhibitory effect on heart rate and blood
pressure.  - blockers bind to G-protein and intervene with the inhibitory effect of
adrenaline.
Solution
The solution is (A). Adrenaline promotes rapid heartbeat, increasing cardiac output
and blood pressure. Adrenaline increases heart rate.  - blockers are provided to
patients with high blood pressure because they bind to G-protein and produce an
inhibitory effect, decreasing the blood pressure.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
9.1 Signaling Molecules and Cellular Receptors
43
The figure shows a series of states for typical G-protein signal transduction.
Use this representation to describe the following stages in this signaling process:
A. Between A and B
B. Between B and C
C. Between C and D
D. Between D and E
E. Between E and A
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Solution
Teaching Tip: Prior Knowledge: Chapters 3‒7
Sample answer:
A. Between A and B, the signal ligand attaches to the protein and induces a
conformational change in the  subunit.
B. Between B and C, the GDP dissociates from the protein.
C. Between C and D, the high concentration of GTP within the cell causes the
replacement of GDP with GTP.
D. Between D and E, the  subunit activated by GTP dissociates from the protein.
E. Between E and A, GTP dephosphorylates, returning the  subunit to its original
configuration which then re-associates with protein.
9.2 Propagation of the Signal
44
Tyrosine kinase receptors are pairs of proteins that span the plasma membrane. On the
extracellular side of the membrane, one or more sites are present that bind to signaling
ligands such as insulin or growth factors. On the intracellular side, the ends of peptide
chains on each protein phosphorylate the other member of the pair, providing active
docking sites that initiate cellular responses. The signal is switched off by dissociation of
the ligand. For each ligand-receptor system, the equilibrium constant, k, controls the
distribution of receptor-bound and unbound ligands. In systems with large values of k, a
site is likely to be occupied, even at low concentrations of ligand. When k is small, the
likelihood of binding is low, even when the concentration of ligand is high. To initiate a
new stimulus response cycle for the receptor, the ligand must dissociate. Larger values of
k mean that the receptor is more likely to be occupied and thus unavailable to bind
another ligand.
Some ligand-binding systems have multiple binding sites. For example, hemoglobin binds
four oxygen molecules, whereas myoglobin has only a single binding site. When multiple
binding sites are present, the presence of an already-bound ligand can cooperatively
affect the binding of other ligands on the same protein. For hemoglobin, the binding is
positively cooperative. The affinity of oxygen for heme increases as the number of bound
oxygen molecules increases.
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A. Describe the features in the graph for hemoglobin that demonstrate positive
cooperativity.
B. The insulin receptor (IR) is a tyrosine kinase receptor that has two sites to which insulin
can attach. IR is negatively cooperative. In the graph in (A), the dependence of the bound
fraction on available insulin is similar to the curve for k  1 with negative cooperativity.
Describe the features of this curve in the graph that demonstrate negative cooperativity.
C. When viewed from above the cell surface, the representation shows receptors with one
and two bound insulin molecules. Explain the negative cooperation for this receptor
based on the free energy of conformational changes in the receptor-peptide chains.
D.
E. Explain the advantages in terms of selection of two-site binding with negative
cooperation relative to one-site binding.
F. Three binding curves with negative cooperativity and different values of k are shown on
the graph. Describe conditions in which there is an advantage in having a low value of k
with negative cooperativity.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Positive cooperativity is shown by the slope of the curve. The slope rises and then
falls as the sites become saturated.
B. Negative cooperativity is shown by the slope of the curve. The slope falls
immediately.
C. Free-energy expenditure is required for changes in protein configuration (binding
of the ligand). The second configuration requires more free energy because the
protein is now constrained by the attached insulin.
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D. Two binding sites can increase the range of response of the ligand-receptor
system. Very high concentrations of ligand can be managed when necessary and low
concentrations can be accommodated with less free-energy expenditure. The
affinity for the second ligand will also be lower so that dissociation will be faster and
the receptor will increase the frequency of stimulation-response.
E. As described for (D), if k is large, then the frequency of response-cycle completion
will be smaller. The message sent by the next ligand is wasted unless that receptor
has been restored to the original configuration. A smaller value of k shifts the
receptor toward a condition to receive the next signal.
45
Organisms, including plants, have evolved chemical signaling pathways to direct
physiological responses to environmental changes. Stomata are pores, typically on the
underside of leaves, that regulate CO2, O2, and H2O exchange between plants and the
external environment. This interaction controls photosynthetic rate and transpiration
rate. The opening and closing of stomata are controlled by specialized guard cells that
surround the stomatal pore. The osmotic state within the guard cells determines their
turgor; when the guard cells are flaccid, stomata close. Turgor in the guard cells is
regulated by the active transport of several ions, including K+ and H+, across the plasma
membrane. Several environmental factors can cause stomatal closing: water deficit,
darkness, microbes, ozone, and sulfur dioxide and other pollutants. Intracellular carbon
dioxide concentration and light can trigger stomata to open.
The system is regulated by a phytohormone (plant hormone) called abscisic acid (ABA)
and the amino acid precursor of the synthesis of a second phytohormone called ethylene
(ACC). The second messengers NO and Ca2  in the signal response to changes in the
concentrations of these hormones activate transcription factors that affect ion transport
across guard cell membranes. High CO2 levels and light also alter phytohormone
concentrations.
A. Explain why plants must regulate the opening and closing of stomata. Explain how this
response relates to the capture of free energy for cellular processes.
B. Construct an explanation in terms of the water potential, Y, for the efflux (outward
flow) of H+ during water stress (drought).
C. Consider a scenario involving environmental factors, such as water stress and daylight,
which have opposing effects on the opening and closing of stomata; stomata would be
signaled to close under drought conditions and to open during photosynthesis. Pose two
scientific questions regarding the response of the system, one involving the
phytohormones ABA and ACC, and the second involving the concentration of second
messengers.
D. The data shown in the figure were obtained by treating rockcress (Arabidopsis) with
doses of ABA, ACC, and ABA plus ACC. Using the terms and and or, describe the expected
and unexpected responses of the system just after 10 min and around 45 min, as
displayed by these data.
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E. Researchers are investigating the interactions among multiple signaling pathways, a
phenomenon referred to as “crosstalk.” The same second messengers, NO and Ca2+, are
used in many different signaling pathways. Construct an explanation by analogy to other
phenomena in which combining a small set of events (for example, 0 and 1 in a computer,
the musical scale, or the R, G, and B components of a color) can lead to a vast assortment
of outcomes.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The rate of conversion of carbon dioxide and water to oxygen and C3 or C4 sugars
determines the rate of free-energy production.
B. As ions are pumped through the plasma membrane, the water potential within
the cell increases and the cell swells.
C. Possible answers: Researchers in the field are asking these questions:

If these hormones lead to the same cellular response, then isn’t this
redundant?

If these hormones lead to opposing cellular responses, then isn’t this
something that should have been selected against?

Are the hormones present in a Y/N manner, or are their “quorum-like”
evaluations of their equilibrium concentrations that are operating to allow an
integrated signal—if there are n and m discrete concentration levels for each,
then the information content for a pair of interacting hormones increases as
the number n  m.

Is there time dependence in the response of the system to each receptor
that produces cycles that contain further information? This seems to be the
direction that this work is taking.
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
Does the secondary messenger have a target that is near and the lifetime of
the messenger is short?

Does each signaling pathway operate independently or are there interactions
that lead to additional information? This seems to be the direction that the
field is going, crosstalk among pathways.
Teaching Tip: Like all “pose a question,” this is going to require guidance from the
instructor if good questions are to be produced. By visiting small group discussions
and making clear that the questions have value and can be either good or bad (not
all questions are good questions), students can be encouraged to think scientifically.
D. Clearly the combination of the two produces a surprising effect: just after 10 min,
the signal to close the stomata is sent by both ABA and ACC and, as expected, a
signal ABA and ACC amplifies the effect. However, around 45 min, the stomata close
if the signal is ABA or ACC. But ABA and ACC open the stomata.
E. With just 3 colors, 27 combinations can be made. If there are 16 bits (possible
values of 0 or 1 in the representation of a number on a computer), 65,536 integer
values can be expressed. Thinking of each bit as receptor state (ligand present or not
present) demonstrates the potential range of cell responses.
9.3 Response to the Signal
46
Construct a graphical representation of information as a function of time during the
transduction of a signal along a signaling pathway.
B. Annotate your representation for a specific signaling system, such as the effect of
epinephrine on the free energy released from glucose.
Solution
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9.4 Signaling in Single-Celled Organisms
47
Bacteria and fungi produce several extracellular chemicals, including antibiotics that affect
other organisms in the environment. Antibiotics are also produced industrially in large
bacteria-containing fermentation tanks. However, antibiotics that have been used by
humans to control microbes are now found at subinhibitory concentrations in the
environment. Low levels of antibiotics in the environment are mutagenic for bacteria and
promote the development of antibiotic resistance.
Bacteria produce chemical signals that detect population density and regulate gene
expression, a phenomenon called quorum sensing. Density is signaled by the extracellular
concentration of small amino acid derivatives. To combat antibiotic resistance, an
emerging strategy for the control of bacterial disease is quorum quenching.
A. Describe the advantage of antibiotics to the organisms that produce them.
B. Based on the name of the emerging strategy for controlling bacterial infections,
describe a possible mechanism by which bacteria determine their population density.
Justify the claim that quorum quenching may provide a more sustainable approach to
disease control than the use of antibiotics.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Antibiotics are extracellular chemical signals. They are used as communication
within a species (there are also examples of communication between species called
eavesdropping) and to provide a competitive advantage for resources.
B. The success of genes that produce resistance leads to the long-term selection of
resistant bacterial strains. Even if antibiotic use were better regulated, subinhibitory
concentrations are found to induce mutations, and even with greater restraint, the
long-term effect is the lost effectiveness of these materials in the treatment of
disease associated with bacterial infection. If a molecule controlled behavior rather
than killed bacteria, a selective pressure would less likely drive evolution of bacteria.
The quorum signal would be turned off by a “quorum quencher,” such as an enzyme
that modifies the molecule that is sensed in the detection of a quorum.
A. Use your graph to describe trends in the amount of information rather than the actual
magnitude. In sketching your graph, consider how the shape of the curve would change
during these events:
i.
Extracellular first messenger
ii.
Receptor binding and conformational changes
iii.
Release of second messengers
iv.
Cellular responses
v.
Halt signal and degrade intermediates
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10 | CELL REPRODUCTION
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1 A diploid cell has how many times the number of chromosomes as a haploid cell?
A Four times
B Half
C One-fourth
D Twice
Solution
2
The solution is (D). In a diploid cell, the haploid number doubles when an offspring
receives one set from the father and another set from the mother.
The first level of DNA organization in a eukaryotic cell is maintained by which molecule?
A Cohesin
B Condensin
C Chromatin
D Histone
Solution
3
The solution is (D). The histones are the alkaline proteins present in the eukaryotic
cells that the DNA strands are wound around, thereby packaging the DNA strand
into structural units known as nucleosomes.
What inherited feature, in specific combinations, determines an organism’s traits?
A Cell membranes
B Genes
C Proteins
D RNA
Solution
4
The solution is (B). Each gene is a factor that is inherited from the parents by
offspring and possesses alleles of a single trait.
What are identical copies of chromatin held together by cohesin at the centromere
called?
A Histones
B Nucleosomes
C Chromatin
D Sister chromatids
Solution
The solution is (D). Sister chromatids are held together at the kinetochore region by
cohesin, which assists them in cell division.
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209
Chromosomes are duplicated during what stage of the cell cycle?
A G1 phase
B Prophase
C Prometaphase
D S phase
Solution
6
The solution is (D). In the S phase, DNA replication and centrosome duplication
occur. The DNA replication results in the formation of identical pairs of DNA, known
as sister chromatids.
Which event does NOT occur during some stages of interphase?
A DNA duplication
B Increase in cell size
C Organelle duplication
D Separation of sister chromatids
Solution
7
The solution is (D). Interphase includes G0, G1, S, and G2 phases, which in the end
produces a chromosome made up of sister chromatids. It is in metaphase of the
mitotic phase that separation of sister chromatids occurs.
Attachment of the mitotic spindle fibers to the kinetochores is a characteristic of which
stage of mitosis?
A Anaphase
B Prophase
C Prometaphase
D Metaphase
Solution
8
The solution is (C). During prometaphase, the individual chromosomes bind to the
mitotic spindle at the kinetochore and arrange themselves at the metaphase plate.
The fusing of Golgi vesicles at the metaphase plate of dividing plant cells forms what
structure?
A Actin ring
B Cell plate
C Cleavage furrow
D Mitotic spindle
Solution
The solution is (B). In the plant cells during cytokinesis, the Golgi vesicles, which are
transported to form the phragmoplast at metaphase plate, fuse to form a structure
called a cell plate.
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What would be the outcome of blocking S phase of interphase?
A The cell would enter karyokinesis.
B DNA replication would not occur.
C Centrosomes would be duplicated.
D The cytoskeleton would be dismantled.
Solution
10
The solution is (B). S phase is responsible for the replication or synthesis of DNA,
which, if blocked, would not copy DNA into sister chromatids.
At which cell cycle checkpoint does external forces have the greatest influence?
A G1 checkpoint
B G2 checkpoint
C M checkpoint
D G0 checkpoint
Solution
11
The solution is (A). The G1 checkpoint is influenced as it checks for the presence of
essential nutrients and enzymes. The growth hormones and factors are essential to
inform the cell about the local conditions.
If the M checkpoint is NOT cleared, what stage of mitosis will be blocked?
A Prophase
B Prometaphase
C Metaphase
D Anaphase
Solution
12
The solution is (D). The M checkpoint occurs just before the anaphase. It checks if all
the sister chromatids are properly attached to the kinetochore because the cells will
undergo separation in the anaphase.
Which protein is a positive regulator that phosphorylates other proteins when activated?
A p53
B Retinoblastoma protein (Rb)
C Cyclin
D Cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk)
Solution
The solution is (D). Cdk’s are protein kinases that, with the help of cyclins, have the
ability to phosphorylate other proteins when activated.
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Which negative regulatory molecule can trigger apoptosis if vital cell cycle events do
NOT occur?
A p53
B p21
C Retinoblastoma protein (Rb)
D Cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk)
Solution
14
The solution is (A). p53 is the major negative regulatory molecule since it has the
capacity to put the cell on halt or induce apoptosis during any DNA damage or if the
damage cannot be repaired.
What is the main prerequisite for clearance at the G2 checkpoint?
A The cell has reached a sufficient size.
B The cell has an adequate stockpile of nucleotides.
C An accurate and complete DNA replication has occurred.
D Proper attachment of mitotic spindle fibers to kinetochores has occurred.
Solution
15
The solution is (C). The G2 checkpoint follows S phase, and correctly duplicated
chromosomes will allow cell cycle progression at the G2 checkpoint.
What do you call changes to the order of nucleotides in a segment of DNA that codes for
a protein?
A Proto-oncogenes
B Tumor suppressor genes
C Gene mutations
D Negative regulators
Solution
16
The solution is (C). Gene mutations are responsible for altering the sequence of
nucleotides. The shape and function of protein produced by these genes are likely
altered.
Human papillomavirus can cause cervical cancer. The virus encodes E6, a protein that
binds p53. Based on this fact and what you know about p53, what effect do you think E6
binding has on p53 activity?
A E6 activates p53.
B E6 protects p53 from degradation.
C E6 mutates p53.
D E6 binding marks p53 for degradation.
Solution
The solution is (D). Binding of E6 to p53 leads to the degradation of tumor
suppressor protein, which in turn encourages the development of cancerous growth.
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What is a gene that codes for a positive cell cycle regulator called?
A Kinase inhibitor
B Oncogenes
C Proto-oncogenes
D Tumor suppressor genes
Solution
18
The solution is (C). Proto-oncogenes are proteins that help in cell cycle progression.
If they get mutated, the cell progression may get stopped.
Which molecule is a Cdk inhibitor or is controlled by p53?
A Anti-kinase
B Cyclin
C p21
D Rb
Solution
19
The solution is (C). If DNA damage is found in replication, p53 becomes active and
triggers synthesis of Cdk inhibitors, also known as p21.
Which eukaryotic cell cycle events are missing in binary fission?
A Cell growth
B DNA duplication
C Karyokinesis
D Cytokinesis
Solution
20
The solution is (C). Prokaryotic cells do not possess nuclei, and, hence, they do not
undergo karyokinesis.
Which statement about binary fission is false?
A In both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, the outcome of cell reproduction is a pair of
daughter cells, which are genetically identical to the parent cell.
B Karyokinesis is unnecessary in prokaryotes because there is no nucleus.
C Replication of the prokaryotic chromosome begins at the origin of replication and
continues in both directions at once.
D The mitotic spindle draws the duplicated chromosomes to the opposite ends of the
cell, followed by formation of a septum and two daughter cells.
Solution
The solution is (D). There is no need for a mitotic spindle in prokaryotic cells because
they do not undergo karyokinesis.
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213
The formation of what structure, which will eventually form the new cell walls of the
daughter cells, is directed by FtsZ?
A Contractile ring
B Cell plate
C Cytoskeleton
D Septum
Solution
The solution is (D). The FtsZ triggers the accumulation of proteins at the center of
the cell to promote cell wall synthesis for division. This wall is known as the septum.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
22
How would you compare and contrast a human somatic cell to a human gamete?
A Somatic cells have 46 chromosomes and are diploid, whereas gametes have half as
many chromosomes as found in somatic cells.
B Somatic cells have 23 chromosomes and are diploid, whereas gametes have half as
many chromosomes as are present in somatic cells.
C Somatic cells have 46 chromosomes and are haploid, whereas gametes have 23
chromosomes and are diploid.
D Somatic cells have 46 chromosomes with one sex chromosome. In gametes, 23
chromosomes are present with two sex chromosomes.
Solution
23
The solution is (A). Human somatic cells have 46 chromosomes: 22 pairs and
2 sex chromosomes. This is the 2n, or diploid, condition. Human gametes have
23 chromosomes, one each of 23 unique chromosomes, one of which is a sex
chromosome. This is the n, or haploid, condition. The somatic cells have
46 chromosomes with 22 autosomes and 2 sex chromosomes. They are
considered diploid. But in gametes, 23 chromosomes are found with only
one sex chromosome; they are haploid.
Eukaryotic chromosomes are thousands of times longer than a typical cell. How can
chromosomes fit inside a eukaryotic nucleus?
A The genetic material remains distributed in the nucleus, mitochondria, and
chloroplast.
B The genome is present in a looped structure; thus, it fits the size of the nucleus.
C The DNA remains coiled around proteins to form nucleosomes.
D The genetic material remains bound to the nuclear envelope, forming invaginations.
Solution
The solution is (C). The DNA double helix is wrapped around histone proteins to form
structures called nucleosomes. Nucleosomes and the linker DNA in between them
are coiled into a 30-nm fiber. During cell division, chromatin is further condensed by
packing proteins.
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Briefly describe the events that occur in each phase of interphase.
A G1: assessment for DNA damage; S: duplication of genetic material; G2: duplication
and dismantling organelles
B G1: duplication of organelles; S: duplication of DNA; G2: assessment of DNA damage
C G1: synthesis of DNA; S: synthesis of organelle genetic material; G2: assessment of DNA
damage
D G1: preparation for DNA synthesis; S: assessment of DNA damage; M: division of cell
Solution
25
The solution is (A). During G1, the cell increases in size, the genomic DNA is assessed
for damage, and the cell stockpiles energy reserves as well as the components to
synthesize DNA. During the S phase, the chromosomes, centrosomes, and centrioles
(animal cells) duplicate. During the G2 phase, the cell recovers from the S phase,
continues to grow, duplicates some organelles, and dismantles other organelles.
Chemotherapy drugs, such as vincristine and colchicine, disrupt mitosis by binding to
tubulin (the subunit of microtubules) and interfering with microtubule assembly and
disassembly. Exactly what mitotic structure do these drugs target, and what effect would
that have on cell division?
A The drugs bind tubulin and inhibit the binding of spindle to the chromosome. This can
arrest the cell cycle.
B The drugs bind the tubulin, which leads to an error in the chromosome separation.
This could lead to apoptosis.
C The drugs bind the tubulin, thereby inhibiting their division in S phase. This inhibits cell
division.
D The drugs bind the spindle fiber and hinder the separation of chromatins. This
promotes the division spontaneously.
Solution
26
The solution is (A). The mitotic spindle is formed of microtubules. Microtubules are
polymers of the protein tubulin; therefore, it is the mitotic spindle that is disrupted
by these drugs. Without a functional mitotic spindle, the chromosomes will not be
sorted or separated during mitosis. The cell will arrest in mitosis and die.
Why might a cell that has just completed cytokinesis enter the G0 phase instead of the
G1 phase?
A Some cells are physiologically inhibited from undergoing any division and remain in
the G0 phase to provide assistance to their neighboring cells.
B Some cells reproduce only under certain conditions and, until then, they remain in the
G0 phase.
C Suspected DNA damage can lead the cell to undergo the G0 phase.
D The lack of important components of cell division makes cells stay in the G0 phase.
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Solution
27
215
The solution is (B). Many cells temporarily enter G0 until they reach maturity. Some
cells are only triggered to enter G1 when the organism needs to increase that
particular cell type. Some cells only reproduce following an injury to the tissue.
Some cells never divide once they reach maturity.
Which general conditions must be met at each of the three main cell cycle checkpoints?
A G1 checkpoint: assessment of DNA damage; G2: assessment of new DNA;
M checkpoint: segregation of sister chromatids in anaphase
B G1 checkpoint: energy reserves for S phase; G2 checkpoint: assessment of new DNA;
M checkpoint: attachment of spindle to kinetochore
C G1 checkpoint: assessment of DNA damage; G2 checkpoint: energy reserves for
duplication; M checkpoint: attachment of spindle to kinetochore
D G1 checkpoint: energy reserves for S phase; S checkpoint: synthesis of DNA,
G2 checkpoint: assessment of new DNA
Solution
28
The solution is (B). The G1 checkpoint monitors adequate cell growth, the state of
the genomic DNA, adequate stores of energy, and materials for S phase. At the
G2 checkpoint, DNA is checked to ensure that all chromosomes were duplicated and
there are no mistakes in newly synthesized DNA.
What is the role of the positive cell cycle regulators compared to that of the negative
regulators?
A Positive regulators promote the cell cycle, but negative regulators block the cell cycle.
B Positive regulators block the cell division in cancerous cells, but negative regulators
promote in such cells.
C Positive regulators promote the cell cycle, but negative regulators arrest the cell cycle
until certain events have occurred.
D Positive regulators show positive feedback mechanisms, but negative regulators show
negative feedback in the cell cycle.
Solution
29
The solution is (C). Positive cell regulators, such as cyclin and Cdk, perform tasks that
advance the cell cycle to the next stage. Negative regulators such as Rb, p53, and
p21 block the progression of the cell cycle until certain events have occurred.
What occurs at the M checkpoint? What would happen if the M checkpoint failed?
A The M checkpoint checks for proper attachment of sister chromatids, and, if it fails,
then cells may undergo nondisjunction of chromosomes.
B The M checkpoint checks if the DNA is damaged and promotes its repair. If it fails,
then the daughters end up with damaged DNA.
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C The M checkpoint ensures the proper duplication of DNA, and, if it fails, the cells may
undergo nondisjunction of chromosomes.
D The M checkpoint ensures that all the components required for cell division are
available, and, if it fails, the cell cycle will be inhibited.
Solution
The solution is (A). The M checkpoint determines whether all the sister chromatids
are correctly attached to the spindle microtubules. Normally, the cycle will not
proceed until the kinetochores of each pair of sister chromatids are attached to at
least two spindle fibers arising from opposite poles of the cell. This ensures that the
sister chromatids separate during anaphase and that each daughter cell contains the
proper amount of DNA.
If the M checkpoint fails, then it is possible that sister chromatids might not separate
during mitosis. If the spindle microtubules only attach to one sister chromatid and
the cell cycle is not halted by the M checkpoint, then both sister chromatids will be
pulled to one pole during anaphase (nondisjunction). The result will be one daughter
cell with too many chromosomes and one daughter cell with too few chromosomes
(aneuploidy).
30
Which regulatory mechanisms might be lost in a cell producing faulty p53?
A Assessment of damaged DNA, recruiting repair enzymes, and binding of spindle to
kinetochore
B Quality of DNA, triggering apoptosis, and recruiting repair enzymes
C Quality of DNA, binding of spindle to kinetochore, and assessment of DNA repair
D Triggering apoptosis, recruiting repair enzymes, and proper binding of spindle to
kinetochore
Solution
31
The solution is (B). Regulatory mechanisms that might be lost include monitoring of
the quality of the genomic DNA, recruiting of repair enzymes, and the triggering of
apoptosis. DNA damage and quality are detected by p53. It triggers apoptosis in case
of damage, and it recruits enzymes.
p53 can trigger apoptosis if certain cell cycle events fail. How does this regulatory
outcome benefit a multicellular organism?
A The apoptosis helps in controlling the consumption of energy by the extra cells.
B The apoptosis inhibits the production of faulty proteins, which could be produced due
to the DNA damage.
C The process of apoptosis stops the invasion of viruses in the other cells.
D The cells are killed due to the production of reactive oxygen species produced, which
could harm the organism.
Solution
The solution is (B). If a cell has damaged DNA, the likelihood of producing faulty
proteins is higher. The daughter cells of such a damaged parent cell would also
produce faulty proteins, which might eventually become cancerous. If p53
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recognizes this damage and triggers the cell to self-destruct, the damaged DNA is
degraded and recycled. No further harm comes to the organism. A healthy cell is
triggered to divide instead. Apoptosis is a vital mechanism, as p53 checks for the
DNA damage in the cell, which could produce faulty proteins when expressed. This
could prove fatal for a multicellular organism.
32
Which processes do eukaryotic cell division and binary fission have in common?
A DNA duplication, division of cell organelles, division of the cytoplasmic contents
B DNA duplication, segregation of duplicated chromosomes, and division of the
cytoplasmic contents
C Formation of a septum, DNA duplication, division of the cytoplasmic contents
D Segregation of duplicated chromosomes, formation of a septum, division of cell
organelles
Solution
33
The solution is (B). The common processes of eukaryotic cell division and binary
fission are DNA duplication, segregation of duplicated chromosomes, and division of
the cytoplasmic contents.
The formation of what structure, that will eventually form the new cell walls of the
daughter cells, is directed by FtsZ?
A Contractile ring
B Cell plate
C Cytoskeleton
D Septum
Solution
The solution is (D). The FtsZ triggers the accumulation of proteins at the center of
the cell to promote cell wall synthesis for division. This wall is known as the septum.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
34
Which statement cannot be inferred from the karyotype shown?
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A The cell contains DNA.
B The cell contains 46 chromosomes.
C The cell is diploid.
D The cell is prokaryotic.
Solution
35
The solution is (D). The cell is prokaryotic. Prokaryotes have a single circular
chromosome, not multiple chromosomes.
How can DNA, which in humans measures approximately 2 m, fit inside a human cell that
is about 10 μm? How does the organization of the genetic material in eukaryotes differ
from that of prokaryotes?
A The DNA is found wrapped around histones to form nucleosomes, which further
compact and ultimately form linear chromosomes. The prokaryotic genome is found
as a loop and in eukaryotes as a double-stranded linear structure.
B The DNA is wrapped around the nucleosomes to show a compact structure. The
eukaryotes show a loop structure, and prokaryotes show a double-stranded linear
genome.
C The genetic material shows ringed heterochromatin structure. The prokaryotes show
multiple loops, and eukaryotes show a condensed chromatin.
D The genetic material is wrapped around histones. The prokaryotes have a condensed
structure in nucleoids, but eukaryotes have a double-stranded linear structure.
Solution
The solution is (D). DNA is compacted to fit in a cell. In the first level of compaction,
short stretches of the DNA double helix wrap around a core of histone proteins,
forming a nucleosome that is linked by linker DNA. The next level of compaction
occurs as the nucleosomes and linker DNA are coiled into a 30-nm chromatin fiber.
In the third level of packing, a variety of fibrous proteins are used to pack the
chromatin.
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In eukaryotes, the genome consists of several double-stranded linear DNA molecules
forming chromosomes. In prokaryotes, the genome is composed of a single doublestranded DNA molecule in the form of a loop or circle.
36
Which statement about structure 1 on the karyotype is NOT true?
A Structure 1 consists of homologous chromosomes.
B The two parts of structure 1 will have genes in different loci.
C The two parts of structure 1 originate from different parents.
D The two parts of structure 1 will have slightly different sequences of nucleotides.
Solution
37
The solution is (B). The two parts of structure 1 will have genes in different loci.
Homologous chromosome will have genes in the same loci. However, the loci may
have different variations of the genes.
Based on the karyotype provided, the nondisjunction of which chromosome causes Down
syndrome?
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A Chromosome 21
B Chromosome 22
C X chromosome
D Y chromosome
Solution
38
The solution is (A). The figure depicts three copies of chromosome 21, while the
other chromosomes have two chromatids. This condition is found in Down
syndrome and occurs during anaphase I when one pair of homologous
chromosomes fails to separate.
What is the sequence of mitotic cell cycle for one pair of chromosomes that is undergoing
normal mitotic division?
A Anaphase - metaphase - prophase - cytokinesis
B Anaphase - prophase - metaphase - cytokinesis
C Prophase - anaphase - metaphase - cytokinesis
D Prophase - metaphase - anaphase - cytokinesis
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Solution
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The solution is (D). The figure shows the sequence prophase – metaphase –
anaphase – cytokinesis.
There is a cell labeled prophase, with two chromosomes. During prophase, spindle
fibers emerge from centrosomes and the nuclear envelope breaks down. A cell
labeled metaphase shows the two chromosomes are lined up at the center of the
cell. A cell labeled anaphase shows one chromosome and a sister chromatid pulled
to one pole of the cell and just a sister chromatid pulled to the other pole. Finally, in
cytokinesis, two cells are depicted; one has a full chromosome and a sister
chromatid, the other has only a single sister chromatid.
39
In a study on cell division, researchers culture synchronously dividing human cells with
thymidine, which causes the cells to arrest at the G1 boundary. The cells are then placed
in medium lacking thymidine, which releases the block, and the cells begin to divide again.
Starting with Sample A and ending with Sample D, the DNA content of the cells is
measured at different times after thymidine is removed. Results for four samples (A–D)
are shown in the graph.
Which sample presents the expected results for cells in S phase?
A Sample A
B Sample B
C Sample C
D Sample D
Solution
The solution is (B). Sample B shows relative content of DNA that has been doubled.
This doubling of the DNA content happens only in S phase, which immediately
follows G1.
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In a study on cell division, researchers culture synchronously dividing human cells with
thymidine. This causes the cells to arrest at the G1 boundary. The cells are then placed in
medium lacking thymidine, which releases the block, and the cells begin to divide again.
Starting with Sample A and ending with Sample D, the DNA content of the cells is
measured at different times after thymidine is removed. Results for four samples (A-D)
are shown in the graph. Explain what is happening in terms of the cell cycle and DNA
content in sample B.
A All the contents of the cell have been doubled.
B The DNA content of the cell has doubled.
C Two cells have been fused.
D The cells are showing the semiconservative mechanism of cell division
Solution
41
The solution is (B). Sample B occurred after the S phase of the cell cycle, which
causes the DNA content of the cell to double after all DNA is copied.
Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS1) is a rare hereditary disorder that leads to a predisposition to
cancer. This hereditary disorder is linked to mutations in the tumor-suppressor gene
encoding the transcription factor p53. p53 acts at the G1 checkpoint. If damaged DNA is
detected, p53 halts the cell cycle. As p53 levels rise, the production of p21 is triggered.
p21 enforces the halt in the cell cycle. A variant of Li-Fraumeni, called LFS2, is thought to
occur due to a mutation of the CHK2 gene, which is also a tumor-suppressor gene. CHK2
regulates the action of p53. Which of the following cascades is most likely to occur in a
normal cell that does not contain the LFS mutation?
A 1. Cell cycle progression
2. p53
3. p21
4. CHK2
B 1. p53
2. p21
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3. CHK2
4. Cell cycle progression
C 1. p21
2. p53
3. CHK2
4. Cell cycle progression
D 1. CHK2
2. p53
3. p21
4. Cell cycle progression
Solution
The solution is (D). CHK2 is a kinase that checks for the DNA damage and
phosphorylates the p53 to produce p21 (inhibitor of Cdk’s). After the repair process,
the cell cycle progresses.
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The insulin growth factor (IGF-1) promotes cell proliferation as shown in the diagram.
The expression of which protein in the diagram is controlled through negative feedback?
A Active Cdk4
B Cyclin D1
C Cyclin D1/Cdk4 complex
D IGF-1
Solution
43
The solution is (C). The Cdk4 bound to cyclin becomes active, and this is responsible
for inhibiting the cyclin D1-Cdk4 complex.
Why are p53, p21, and CHK2 considered tumor-suppressor genes, NOT proto-oncogenes?
Give an example of a proto-oncogene.
A p53, p21, and CHK2 suppress the proteins that regulate the cell cycle, whereas protooncogenes, like phosphorylated Rb, help in cell cycle progression.
B p53, p21, and CHK2 are negative cell cycle regulators, whereas Cdk’s are protooncogenes, which could cause cancer when mutated.
C p53, p21, and CHK2 suppress the proteins that regulate the cell cycle, whereas Rb is
considered a proto-oncogene because it is the most primitive.
D The three proteins help stop the formation of tumors, whereas Cdk’s are called protooncogenes because they are the most primitive of all.
Solution
The solution is (A). A proto-oncogene is a segment of DNA that codes for one of the
positive cell cycle regulators. If such a gene becomes mutated, producing a hyperactivated protein product, it is considered an oncogene. A tumor-suppressor gene is
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a segment of DNA that codes for one of the negative cell cycle regulators. If such a
gene becomes mutated such that the protein product becomes less active, the cell
cycle will run unchecked. A single oncogene can initiate abnormal cell division;
however, tumor suppressors lose their effectiveness only when both copies of the
gene are damaged. The Cdk gene is considered a proto-oncogene. The three
proteins are tumor suppressor proteins; they regulate the cell cycle and any
mutation in these will cause tumor. The Cdk gene, if it undergoes mutation, would
lead to cancer and is called a proto-oncogene as a result.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
10.2 The Cell Cycle
44
Many biological processes are synchronized with the 24-h rotational period of Earth.
Circadian (24-h) periodicity is common across phyla. One of these processes is the cell
cycle. The currently accepted explanation is that the low-oxygen atmosphere of early
Earth had no ozone layer to filter out the solar ultraviolet radiation that damages DNA.
Completing the S phase of the cell cycle at night provided a selective advantage. The
internal clock controlling the cell cycle and the circadian clock became synchronized.
Research has demonstrated that changes in one clock, either the circadian clock or
the cell cycle clock, disrupt timing in the other. The question was, which clock controls
the other?
Researchers have found that the circadian clock, which can be observed by fluorescent
markers on proteins that carry the circadian signal, can be disrupted by changes in light,
nutrition, or exposure to the steroid dexamethasone. Nutrition can also disrupt the cell
cycle clock. Rat fibroblasts (cells constantly undergoing mitosis) were cultured on medium
containing different levels of fetal bovine serum (FBS) with and without the addition of
dexamethasone. Confluence is a phenomenon that occurs in tissue culture when the
surface of the growth medium becomes covered with cells and the cells stop dividing. The
circadian and cell cycle periods were measured.
Run
FBS
Dexamethasone Confluence
Circadian
Period (h)
Cell Cycle
Period (h)
A
0%
No
No
24 ± 0.5
24 ± 0.5
B
10%
No
No
21.9 ± 1.1
21.3 ± 1.3
C
15%
No
No
19.4 ± 0.5
18.6 ± 0.6
D
10%
Yes
No
24.2 ± 0.5
20.1 ± 0.94
E
20%*
Yes
No
21.25 ± 0.36
19.5 ± 0.42
F
20%
Yes
No
29 ± 1.05
16.05 ± 0.48
G
10%
Yes
Yes
24 ± 0.5
n/a
*Subsets of samples with 20% FBS and dexamethasone were clustered around two means
for each measured period.
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A. Based on these data, describe the connections between the circadian period and the
cell cycle period for each of the experimental conditions.
B. Based on these data, justify the claim that, in cells that are actively dividing, the
circadian period is set by the cell cycle period rather than the reverse.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The periods of both clocks when dexamethasone is absent are initially identical.
Growth on FBS is known to accelerate the cell cycle. The circadian period is equal to
the cell cycle period, implying causation. Higher concentrations of the nutrient are
consistent with this. When the circadian rhythm is disrupted by dexamethasone, the
cell cycle period is unaffected, though the circadian period is lengthened (runs B and
D). This is consistent with only one (E) of the measurements made at higher FBS
levels. Finally, when the cell cycle stops, the circadian period returns to its original
value.
B. Conclusion: The circadian clock is always expressed, but during periods of rapid
cell division, the circadian period becomes synchronized with the cell cycle period;
although at much shorter cell cycle periods, the circadian period becomes erratic.
Teaching note—This is a very surprising result in this field. Studies suggest a
correlation between disruption of the circadian clock, for example a shift to latenight working hours, and cancer. This would involve entrainment of the cell cycle by
the circadian cycle, and the opposite is shown by this work to be the case.
45
Cells in different tissues of a fully developed human show significant variations in the
length of time that they remain in the G0 phase of the cell cycle: muscle (lifetime), nerve
(lifetime), adipose (years), liver (years), erythrocyte (months), bone osteoclasts (weeks),
leukocyte (days), and epidermal (hours). For each of these types of tissues, propose a
reason based on internal and external factors and function that might account for the
differences among their longevities.
Solution
46
Sample answer:

Muscle: constrained by available space in a developed tissue

Nerve: constrained by function because it is the intercellular connections
that imbue function

Adipose, liver, erythrocyte: Replacement rate is proportional to stresses.

Leukocyte: constrained by the demands of phagocytosis

Epidermal: hours; includes skin, stomach, and lung—all tissues in contact
with a hostile chemical environment
Describe the essential components and results of mitosis and the activities that occur
during interphase to prepare the cell for mitosis.
Solution
Sample answer: During G1, the cell increases in size, the genomic DNA is assessed for
damage, and the cell stockpiles energy reserves as well as the components to
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synthesize DNA. During the S phase, the chromosomes, the centrosomes, and the
centrioles (animal cells) duplicate. During the G2 phase, the cell recovers from the S
phase, continues to grow, duplicates some organelles, and dismantles other
organelles.
10.4 Cancer and the Cell Cycle
47
Cancer comprises many diseases with a common cause: uncontrolled cell growth. Cancer
is a complex response to a host of environmental mutagens as well as the accumulation
of random mutations. Since the “war on cancer” began in 1971, the death rate due to
cancer has changed very little despite the discovery of several tumor-suppressor genes,
including p53.
A. Briefly describe the multiple functions of p53, including the role of p53 in apoptosis.
B. A principle of biology is that “form follows function.” The protein p53, which has
multiple functions, is named for its molecular mass—approximately 53 kDa. This is not a
large polymer by comparison with other proteins; for example, ATP synthase, which has
only one function, has a molecular mass of approximately 550 kDa. Based on analogies to
processes involved in cellular signaling, create a model(s) to explain how so many
functions can be supported by a single, relatively simple structure.
C. Mutational signatures of p53 are shown in the figure (G.P. Pfeifer et al., Nature, 21(48),
2002) for the three types of cancer with the highest death rates in the United States: lung
(~225,000 deaths in 2016), breast (246,000), and colorectal (381,000).
These data can be obtained by sequencing the gene that encodes p53. Approximately
85 percent of lung cancers occur in smokers. Based on these data, calculate how many
deaths due to lung cancer among nonsmokers were reported in 2016. How much does
smoking increase the likelihood of death due to lung cancer?
D. As shown under each graph in the figure, particular transversions (replacement of a
pyrimidine by a purine of vice versa) or transitions (replacement of a purine or pyrimidine
by the alternative purine or pyrimidine) are features of specific mutational signatures.
Based on these data, identify the transversion or transition that seems to be induced by
cigarette smoke.
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E. Using your answer to (B), predict possible mechanisms—that is, transversion or
transition—for the different mutational signatures among lung cancers of smokers and
those of other cancers, and for the very similar mutational signatures of lung cancers of
nonsmokers and of breast and colorectal cancers. The partitioning of function along the
length of the protein can lead to functional and nonfunctional segments. It is believed
that the transversions due to smoking are caused by polyaromatic hydrocarbons. The
hotspots for these mutations lie in the segment that binds to DNA. The transition hotspots
are in segments that regulate apoptosis.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. As described in the text, p53 detects DNA damage, stops the cell cycle at G1/S,
activates DNA repair, and initiates apoptosis.
B. p53 achieves multifunctionality with several segments of amino acid sequence
responsible for different functions. Segments activate transcription factors that lead
to the expression of genes, much as a signal receptor can produce messengers that
lead to expression. These segments activate expression of enzymes that achieve the
other functions. In addition, a large segment binds to DNA to manage checks of
integrity and initiate repair.
C. If 85 percent of the 225,000 lung cancer deaths occur among smokers, then
0.85  225,000 deaths can be attributed to death due to lung cancer triggered by
smoking. Nonsmokers may also have lung cancer, and the ratio is 0.85/0.15, which is
a factor of between 5 and 6. Second-hand smoke is sometimes suggested as the
cause of the disease in nonsmokers, although other mutagens such as asbestos
fibers are thought to be causes.
D. The population of smokers with lung disease shows a significant increase in the
G  T transversion. Guanine is a pyrimidine, and thymine is a purine. This
replacement creates kinks that are much less likely to be silent mutations than are
the transitions. Cancer is often modeled as the result of an accumulation of
mutations, and the dominant mutations among the nonsmoker lung, breast, and
colon-rectal cancers are transitions.
E. The partitioning of function along the length of the protein can lead to functional
and nonfunctional segments. It is believed that the transversions due to smoking are
caused by polyaromatic hydrocarbons. The hotspots for these mutations lie in the
segment that binds to DNA. The transition hotspots are in segments that regulate
apoptosis.
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11 | MEIOSIS AND SEXUAL REPRODUCTION
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
How many and what type of daughter cells does meiosis produce?
A Four haploid
B Four diploid
C Two haploid
D Two diploid
Solution
2
The solution is (A). In meiosis, there are two rounds of nuclear division—meiosis I
and meiosis II. This results in four nuclei and four daughter cells, each with half the
number of chromosomes from the parents.
What structure is most important in forming the tetrads?
A Centromere
B Chiasmata
C Kinetochore
D Synaptonemal complex
Solution
3
The solution is (D). The synaptonemal complex is a protein lattice that forms
between homologous chromosomes and is a key part in forming the tetrad and
maintaining the synapsis between the strands. It disassembles at the end of
prophase I.
At which stage of meiosis are sister chromatids separated from each other?
A Anaphase I
B Anaphase II
C Prophase I
D Prophase II
Solution
4
The solution is (B). The sister chromatids are pulled apart by the kinetochore
microtubules and move toward opposite poles during anaphase II.
At metaphase I, homologous chromosomes are connected only at what structures?
A Chiasmata
B Kinetochores
C Microtubules
D Recombination nodules
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Solution
5
The solution is (A). Chiasmata—sites where crossing over has occurred—are formed
during prophase I and link the homologous chromosomes until they are separated in
anaphase 1.
What phase of mitotic interphase is missing from meiotic interkinesis?
A G0 phase
B G1 phase
C G2 phase
D S phase
Solution
6
The solution is (D). The S phase, or synthesis phase, is where the DNA of the
chromosomes is replicated. It is not present in interkinesis, which is a brief interlude
between meiosis I and II in some species.
What part of meiosis is most similar to mitosis?
A Reduction division
B Interkinesis
C Meiosis I
D Meiosis II
Solution
7
The solution is (D). Mitosis and meiosis II are similar processes since the number of
chromosomes is conserved in both and no genetic variation is introduced.
What is NOT true during crossing over?
A Chiasmata are formed.
B Nonsister chromatids exchange genetic material.
C Recombination nodules mediate cross-over events.
D Spindle microtubules guide the movement of chromosomal material.
Solution
8
The solution is (D). Spindle microtubules are not directly involved with crossing over.
During which phase does the second round of genetic variation occur during meiosis?
A Anaphase I
B Metaphase I
C Prophase II
D Genetic variation only occurs during prophase I.
Solution
The solution is (B). The random assortment of homologous chromosomes at the
metaphase plate is the second mechanism that introduces variation into the
gametes or spores.
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231
Which type of life cycle has both a haploid and a diploid multicellular stage?
A Alternation of generations
B Asexual
C Diploid-dominant
D Haploid-dominant
Solution
10
The solution is (A). Species with a life cycle that alternates alternate between
haploid and diploid multicellular stages.
What is a source of variation in asexual reproduction?
A Crossing over of chromosomes
B Mutation of DNA
C Random assortment of chromosomes
D There is no variation in asexual reproduction.
Solution
11
The solution is (B). A mutation is a change that occurs in the nucleotides of the DNA.
It is a source of genetic variation, often the only source, in organisms that reproduce
asexually.
What is a likely evolutionary advantage of sexual reproduction over asexual reproduction?
A Sexual reproduction involves fewer steps.
B Sexual reproduction results in variation in the offspring.
C Sexual reproduction is more metabolically efficient.
D Sexual reproduction uses up fewer resources in a given environment.
Solution
12
The solution is (B). Sexual reproduction increases genetic variability by shuffling
combinations of genes and chromosomes. This can provide an evolutionary
advantage.
What is a disadvantage of sexual reproduction over asexual forms of reproduction?
A Half the population is capable of carrying offspring.
B Identical offspring are not produced.
C Adaptation to rapidly changing environments is more difficult.
D Mutation rates are slower.
Solution
The solution is (A). This is one disadvantage of sexual reproduction—that only half of
the population (the females) can carry offspring. Reproduction tends to be slower.
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11 | Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction
Fungi typically display which type of life cycle?
A Alternation of generations
B Asexual
C Diploid-dominant
D Haploid-dominant
Solution
14
The solution is (D). Fungi have haploid-dominant life cycles. The haploid multicellular
stage produces specialized haploid cells that fuse to form a diploid zygote, which
immediately undergoes meiosis to produce haploid cells.
What is a haploid cell produced in a diploid-dominant organism by meiosis called?
A Gamete
B Gametophyte
C Spore
D Sporophyte
Solution
The solution is (A). Gametes are unicellular haploid cells produced in diploiddominant organisms. They fuse with other gametes during fertilization to produce
diploid zygotes.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
15
What happens to tetrads after they form?
A Prophase I of meiosis forms the tetrads. They line up at the midway point between the
two poles of the cell to form the metaphase plate. There is an equal chance of a
microtubule fiber encountering a maternally or a paternally inherited chromosome.
Orientation of each tetrad is independent of the orientation of other tetrads.
B Prophase II of meiosis forms the tetrads. They line up at the midway point between
the two poles of the cell to form the metaphase plate. There is an equal chance of
microtubule fiber encountering maternally or paternally inherited chromosome.
Orientation of each tetrad is independent of the orientation of other tetrads.
C Prophase I of mitosis forms the tetrads. They line up at the midway between the two
poles of the cell to form the metaphase plate. There is an equal chance of a
microtubule fiber encountering a maternally or a paternally inherited chromosome.
Orientation of each tetrad is independent of the orientation of other tetrads.
D Prophase I of meiosis forms the tetrads. They line up at the midway between the two
poles of the cell to form the metaphase plate. There is a chance of microtubule fiber
encountering a maternally inherited chromosome. Orientation of each tetrad is
independent of the orientation of other tetrads.
Solution
The solution is (A). The tetrads line up at the midway point between the two poles of
the cell to form the metaphase plate. There is an equal chance of a microtubule fiber
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encountering a maternally or a paternally inherited chromosome. Orientation of
each tetrad is independent of the orientation of other tetrads. In prophase I of
meiosis, the homologous chromosomes form the tetrads. In metaphase I, these pairs
line up at the midway point between the two poles of the cell to form the
metaphase plate. Because there is an equal chance that a microtubule fiber will
encounter a maternally or paternally inherited chromosome, the arrangement of the
tetrads at the metaphase plate is random. Any maternally inherited chromosome
may face either pole. Any paternally inherited chromosome may also face either
pole. The orientation of each tetrad is independent of the orientation of the other
tetrads. When the microtubules pull the tetrads apart, the sister chromatids remain
attached to each other.
16
What distinguishes metaphase I from metaphase II?
A Metaphase I occurs when chromosomes appear in homologous pairs on the spindle.
Metaphase II has a single line of chromosomes on the spindle. A pair of chromosomes
is pulled apart and migrates toward a pole in anaphase I, while in anaphase II, sister
chromatids separate. Telophase I reconstitutes the nucleus and loosens the
chromosomes, while telophase II mimics telophase I.
B Prophase I condenses the chromosomes and eliminates the nuclear membrane. The
microtubules arrange in a spindle. Prophase II mimics prophase I. Metaphase I occurs
when chromosomes appear in homologous pairs on the spindle. Metaphase II has a
single line of chromosomes on the spindle. Pairs of chromosomes are pulled apart and
migrate toward the poles during anaphase I, while in anaphase II, sister chromatids
separate. Telophase I reconstitutes the nucleus and condenses the chromosomes,
while telophase II mimics telophase I.
C Prophase I condenses the chromosomes and adds a nuclear membrane. The
microtubules arrange in a spindle. Prophase II mimics prophase I. Metaphase I occurs
when chromosomes appear in homologous pairs on the spindle. Metaphase II has a
single line of chromosomes on the spindle. A pair of chromosomes is pulled apart and
migrates toward the poles in anaphase I, while in anaphase II, sister chromatids
separate. Telophase I reconstitutes the nucleus and loosens the chromosomes, while
telophase II mimics telophase I.
D Prophase I condenses the chromosomes and eliminates the nuclear membrane. The
microtubules arrange in a spindle. Prophase II mimics prophase I. Metaphase I occurs
when chromosomes appear in homologous pairs on the spindle. During metaphase II,
the chromosomes line up in a double line across the spindle. Each pair of
chromosomes is pulled apart and migrates toward the poles in anaphase I, while in
anaphase II, sister chromatids separate. Telophase I reconstitutes the nucleus and
loosens the chromosomes, while telophase II mimics telophase I.
Solution
The solution is (A). The difference in metaphase between meiosis I and II reflects
how meiosis I involves the separation of homologous chromosomes and meiosis II
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represents the splitting of sister chromatids. This causes the differences in alignment
between metaphase I and II and the subsequent differences in later phases.
17
Though the stages of meiosis have the same names as the stages of mitosis, they exhibit
fundamental differences. What are the main differences between the two processes?
A Meiosis differs from mitosis in that the number of chromosomes is halved and genetic
variation is introduced in meiosis, but not in mitosis.
B Meiosis differs from mitosis in that the number of chromosomes is halved and genetic
variation is reduced in meiosis, but not in mitosis.
C Metaphase and telophase portions of meiosis and mitosis are the same. Meiosis and
mitosis are also the same, except for the number of chromosomes. Anaphase I and
anaphase II are different.
D Prophase and telophase portions of meiosis and mitosis are the same. Meiosis II and
mitosis are also the same and have the same number of chromosomes. Anaphase I
and anaphase II are different.
Solution
The solution is (A). Meiosis cycles through two rounds of cell division, while mitosis
happens once. Meiosis I differs from mitosis in that the number of chromosomes is
halved, and crossing over (in prophase I) and independent assortment (in
metaphase I) adds genetic variation. Meiosis II is essentially the same as mitosis; the
number of chromosomes does not change, and no more genetic variation is
introduced. However, the end result is four haploid cells instead of the two diploid
cells that are produced in mitosis. Also, an S phase does not precede meiosis II as it
does in mitosis.
In meiosis, the number of chromosomes is halved in order to make haploid gametes,
rather than the diploid body cells produced during mitosis. Genetic variation is
introduced during meiosis through crossing over. In mitosis, the resulting cells are
genetic clones.
18
How does the orientation of homologous chromosomes during metaphase I of meiosis
contribute to greater variation in gametes?
A The random alignment of homologous chromosomes at the metaphase plate ensures
the random destination of the chromosomes in the daughter cells.
B Because homologous chromosomes dissociate from the spindle fibers during
metaphase I, they move randomly to the daughter cells.
C The homologous chromosomes are paired tightly during metaphase I and undergo
crossover as the synaptonemal complex forms a lattice around them.
D Recombination of maternal and paternal chromosomes occurs in metaphase I,
because the homologous chromosomes are not connected at their centromeres.
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Solution
19
235
The solution is (A). The pairs of homologous chromosomes that line up in
metaphase I are randomly oriented: maternal or paternal chromosomes may be on
either side of the cell’s equator and encounter a microtubule that will pull them
randomly to either daughter cell. So, the gametes made from meiosis contain a
mixture of chromosomes originally derived from both parents, but randomly
assorted.
How does the Red Queen’s catchphrase, “It takes all the running you can do to stay in the
same place,” describe coevolution between competing species?
A When a sexually reproducing species and an asexually reproducing species compete
for the same resources, they both “run [evolve] in the same place” because the
increased genetic variation in the sexually reproducing species balances the loss in
energy it uses to find and attract mates.
B When one species gains an advantage with a favorable variation, selection increases
on another species with which it competes. This species must also develop an
advantage or it will be outcompeted. The two species “run [evolve] to stay in the same
place.”
C When one species develops a mutation that decreases its ability to survive, a
competing species will become better able to survive even though it has not changed
in any way. In effect, this species “runs [evolves] to stay in the same place.”
D When two asexually reproducing species encounter rapid environmental change, the
species that is also able to reproduce sexually will outcompete the other. This way it
can “run [evolve] to stay in the same place.”
Solution
The solution is (B). When one species gains an advantage with a favorable variation,
selection increases on another species with which it competes. This species must
also develop an advantage or it will be outcompeted. The two species “run [evolve]
to stay in the same place.” Each tiny advantage gained by favorable variation gives a
species an edge over close competitors, predators, parasites, or even prey. The only
method that will allow a coevolving species to maintain its own share of the
resources is to also continually improve its fitness. As one species gains an
advantage, this increases selection on the other species; it must also develop an
advantage or it will be outcompeted. The net effect is like running to stay in the
same place.
The evolution of two competing species is tightly connected. If one species has a
mutation that enables it to take advantage of its competitor in any way, the other
species will survive only if it also evolves a way to take the same or another
advantage. Neither one “wins”; each must “run in place” just to survive. The
variations that result from meiosis enable coevolution to happen, often quickly.
20
Which three processes lead to variation among offspring that have the same two parents?
A Genetic recombination, fertilization, meiosis
B Crossing over, random chromosome assortment, genetic recombination
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C Meiosis, crossing over, genetic recombination
D Fertilization, crossing over, random chromosome assortment
Solution
21
The solution is (D). Random (or independent) assortment mixes the chromosomes
derived from each parent. Crossing over creates a genetic combination that did not
exist prior to the exchange. Fertilization occurs randomly between an egg and a
large number of available sperm. All three produce genetic variation.
Compare the three main types of life cycles in multicellular organisms and give an
example of an organism that employs each.
A In a diploid dominant cycle, the multicellular diploid stage is present, as in humans.
Haploid-dominant life cycles have a multicellular haploid stage, as in fungi. In
alternation of generations, haploid-dominant and diploid-dominant stages alternate,
as in plants.
B In a diploid-dominant cycle, the unicellular diploid stage is present, as in humans. In a
haploid-dominant life cycle, a unicellular haploid stage is present, as in fungi. In
alternation of generations, haploid-dominant and diploid-dominant stages alternate,
as in plants.
C In a diploid-dominant cycle, a multicellular haploid stage is present, as in humans. In a
haploid-dominant life cycle, a multicellular diploid stage is present, as in fungi. In
alternation of generations, haploid-dominant and diploid-dominant stages alternate,
as in plants.
D In a diploid-dominant cycle, a multicellular diploid stage is present, as in algae. In a
haploid-dominant life cycle, a multicellular haploid stage is present, as in plants. In
alternation of generations, haploid-dominant and diploid-dominant stages alternate,
as in fungi.
Solution
The solution is (A). In a diploid dominant cycle, the multicellular diploid stage is
present, as in humans. Haploid-dominant life cycles have a multicellular haploid
stage, as in fungi. In alternation of generations, haploid-dominant and diploiddominant stages alternate, as in plants. There are three main categories of life cycles
in multicellular organisms: (1) diploid-dominant, in which the multicellular diploid
stage is the most obvious life stage; humans are an example; (2) haploid-dominant,
in which the multicellular haploid stage is the most obvious life stage; examples
include fungi and some algae; and (3) alternation of generations, in which the two
stages are apparent to different degrees depending on the group, as with plants and
some algae.
In diploid-dominant life cycles, the multicellular diploid stage is present such as with
most animals, including humans; haploid-dominant, in which the multicellular
haploid stage is the most obvious life stage, such as with all fungi and some algae;
and alternation of generations, in which the two stages are apparent to different
degrees depending on the group, as with plants and some algae.
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TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
22
Reproductive cells in most species are different from the cells that make up the rest of the
organism. What are the body cells called, and how are they different from the
reproductive cells?
A Body cells are called gametes and have half the number of chromosomes found in
reproductive cells.
B Body cells are called somatic cells and have the same number of chromosomes as
reproductive cells.
C Body cells are called somatic cells and have double the number of chromosomes
found in reproductive cells.
D Body cells are called gametes and have double the number of chromosomes found in
reproductive cells.
Solution
23
The solution is (C). Body cells are called somatic cells and have double the number of
chromosomes found in reproductive cells. When the haploid reproductive cells
merge during fertilization, the diploid number of chromosomes is restored, and the
cells produced by subsequent mitotic divisions are somatic.
Spores are structures produced by some plants and all fungi. What is true about them?
A Spores are haploid reproductive cells that can produce haploid organisms through
mitosis.
B Spores are haploid precursors to gametes that give rise to gametes when
environmental conditions are favorable.
C Spores are haploid reproductive cells that can produce diploid cells without
fertilization.
D Spores are haploid cells formed only during asexual reproduction and so are not
formed by meiosis.
Solution
24
The solution is (A). Spores are haploid reproductive cells that can form multicellular
haploid organisms after rounds of mitosis. They can also fuse with other spores to
produce diploid zygotes.
In prophase I, the homologous chromosomes are paired up and linked together. What
binds the chromosomes together and maintains their alignment?
A Cohesin proteins
B Tetrads
C The centromere
D Synaptonemal complex
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Solution
25
The solution is (D). The synaptonemal complex is a protein lattice that forms
between homologous chromosomes during prophase I when the chromosomes
undergo synapsis.
One of the ways that sexual reproduction enhances the diversity of offspring from the
same parents is through a process called crossing over. What entities does this occur
between during prophase I?
A Sister chromatids
B Tetrads
C Nonhomologous chromosomes
D Nonsister chromatids of homologous chromosomes
Solution
26
The solution is (D). Exchange of genetic material between nonsister chromatids of
homologous chromosomes is called crossing over.
There are three sources of genetic variation in sexual reproduction. Which one is NOT
considered random?
A All are random.
B Crossing over
C Egg and sperm fertilization
D Tetrad alignment on the meiotic spindle
Solution
27
The solution is (A). Fertilization, crossing over during prophase 1, and tetrad
alignment during metaphase I are all random events.
Which one of the three types of life cycles of sexually reproducing organisms does NOT
have a multicellular haploid stage?
A Alternation of generations
B Diploid-dominant
C Haploid-dominant
D They all have a multicellular haploid stage in their life cycles.
Solution
28
The solution is (B). In diploid-dominant organisms, haploid cells are produced, and
fertilization occurs when the male and female gametes fuse. There is no
multicellular haploid life stage.
How are spores produced in haploid-dominant and alternation of generation life cycles?
A By gametophytes
B By germ cells
C Through mitosis
D Through meiosis
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Solution
29
239
The solution is (D). During sexual reproduction, specialized haploid cells form a
diploid zygote. The zygote undergoes meiosis to form four haploid cells called
spores.
What is one thing that is true of haploid-dominant life cycles but NOT of alternation of
generation life cycles?
A Meiosis
B (+) and (−) mating types
C Spores
D A free-living haploid stage
Solution
The solution is (B). Haploid-dominant organisms, such as fungi and some algae,
spend the dominant part of their life cycles as multicellular haploids. During sexual
reproduction, specialized haploid cells from two individuals—designated the (+) and
(−) mating types—join to form a diploid zygote. The zygote immediately undergoes
meiosis to form four haploid cells, called spores. The spores undergo mitosis to form
the multicellular haploid individual. Organisms that alternate generations, like
plants, have both haploid and diploid multicellular life stages. In some organisms,
like ferns, both stages are free living. In others, only one stage is free living. Meiosis
occurs in both life cycles, so both exhibit genetic variation through crossing over,
chromosome assortment, and fertilization.
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12 | Mendel's Experiments and Heredity
12 | MENDEL'S EXPERIMENTS AND
HEREDITY
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Mendel performed hybridizations by transferring pollen to the female ova from what part
of the male plant?
A Anther
B Pistil
C Stigma
D Seed
Solution
2
The solution is (A). Mendel performed hybridization by transferring the pollen from
the anther of the male plant.
What is one of the seven characteristics that Mendel observed in pea plants?
A Flower size
B Leaf shape
C Seed texture
D Stem color
Solution
3
The solution is (C). One of the seven contrasting characteristics used by Mendel in
pea plants was seed texture.
Imagine you are performing a cross involving garden pea plants. What F1 offspring would
you expect if you cross true-breeding parents with green seeds and yellow seeds? Yellow
seed color is dominant over green.
A 100 percent yellow-green seeds
B 100 percent yellow seeds
C 50 percent yellow, 50 percent green seeds
D 25 percent green, 75 percent yellow seeds
Solution
The solution is (B). A cross between true breeding plants with green and yellows
seeds would result in 100 percent yellow seeds because yellow is dominant over
green color.
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241
Consider a cross to investigate the pea pod texture trait, involving constricted or inflated
pods. Mendel found that the traits behave according to a dominant/recessive pattern in
which inflated pods were dominant.
If you performed this cross and obtained 650 inflated-pod plants in the F2 generation
bred from true-breeding stock, approximately how many constricted-pod plants would
you expect to have?
A 600
B 165
C 217
D 468
Solution
The solution is (C). The phenotypic ratio of a monohybrid cross is 3 : 1. The predicted
number of constricted pods in the F2 generation will be 217.
650
 217
3
5
The observable traits expressed by an organism are described as its —
A alleles
B genotype
C phenotype
D zygote
Solution
6
The solution is (C). The observable traits of an organism are referred as its
phenotype.
A recessive trait will be observed in individuals that are what for that trait?
A Diploid
B Heterozygous
C Homozygous or heterozygous
D Homozygous
Solution
7
The solution is (D). Homozygous individuals will express the recessive trait.
If black and white true-breeding mice are mated and the result is all gray offspring, what
inheritance pattern would this be indicative of?
A Codominance
B Dominance
C Incomplete dominance
D Multiple alleles
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Solution
8
The solution is (C). The phenotype produced is a combination of the dominant and
recessive phenotypes. The offspring produced has an intermediate phenotype
between black and white and hence show incomplete dominance.
The ABO blood groups in humans are controlled by the IA, IB, and I alleles. The IA allele
encodes the A blood group antigen, IB encodes B, and I encodes O. Both A and B are
dominant to O. If a heterozygous blood type A parent (iAi) and a heterozygous blood type
B parent (iBi) mate, one-quarter of their offspring will have AB blood type (IAIB) in which
both antigens are expressed equally.
Therefore, the ABO blood groups are an example of —
A codominance and incomplete dominance
B incomplete dominance only
C multiple alleles and incomplete dominance
D multiple alleles and codominance
Solution
9
The solution is (D). ABO blood groups in humans are expressed from the IA, IB, and I
alleles and therefore are examples of multiple alleles. Since both the alleles IA and IB
express simultaneously resulting in AB blood group, the ABO blood group is also an
example of codominance.
In a mating between two individuals that are heterozygous for a recessive lethal allele
that is expressed in utero, what genotypic ratio—homozygous dominant : heterozygous :
homozygous recessive—would you expect to observe in the offspring?
A 1:2:1
B 3:1:1
C 1:2:0
D 0:2:1
Solution
10
The solution is (C). The genotypic ratio 1 : 2 : 0 will be obtained after mating
between two heterozygous individuals for a recessive lethal allele since the offspring
with the homozygous recessive allele will not survive in utero.
The forked line and probability methods make use of what probability rule?
A Monohybrid rule
B Product rule
C Sum rule
D Test cross
Solution
The solution is (B). The values along each forked pathway can be multiplied because
each gene assorts independently.
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243
In pea plants, smooth seeds (S) are dominant to wrinkled seeds (s). The Punnett square
shows a genetic cross of two plants that are heterozygous for the seed shape trait.
What is the missing genotype?
A SS
B Ss
C sS
D ss
Solution
12
The solution is (D). The ss genotype is obtained when the s allele of one parent
combines with s allele of another parent.
If the inheritance of two traits fully obeys Mendelian laws of inheritance, where may you
assume that the genes are located?
A On any autosomal chromosome or chromosomes
B On Y chromosomes
C On the same chromosome
D On separate chromosomes
Solution
13
The solution is (D). If the inheritance of two traits fully follows the Mendelian laws of
inheritance, the genes assort independently, so they are located on separate
chromosomes.
How many different offspring genotypes are expected in a trihybrid cross between
parents heterozygous for all three traits? How many phenotypes are expected if the traits
behave in a dominant and recessive pattern?
A 64 genotypes; 16 phenotypes
B 16 genotypes; 64 phenotypes
C 8 genotypes; 27 phenotypes
D 27 genotypes; 8 phenotypes
Solution
The solution is (D). There are 27 genotypes and 8 phenotypes expected in a trihybrid
cross. Review Table 12.5: General Rules for Multihybrid Crosses.
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12 | Mendel's Experiments and Heredity
Four-o’clock flowers may be red, pink, or white. In the crossing of true-breeding red and
true-breeding white plants, all the offspring are pink. What is the correct genotype of the
offspring if the red parent has genotype RR and the white parent has genotype rr? Use a
Punnett square.
A RR and Rr
B Rr and rr
C Rr only
D RR only
Solution
15
The solution is (C). Rr is the only possible genotype of the offspring obtained from a
cross of true-breeding red and true-breeding white plants.
Which cellular process underlies Mendel’s law of independent assortment?
A Chromosomes align randomly during meiosis.
B Chromosomes can exchange genetic material during crossover.
C Gametes contain half the number of chromosomes of somatic cells.
D Daughter cells are genetically identical to parent cells after mitosis.
Solution
16
The solution is (A). The law of independent assortment states that allele pairs
separate independently at the time of gamete formation. This means that traits are
transmitted to offspring independently of one another.
While studying meiosis, you observe that gametes receive one copy of each pair of
homologous chromosomes and one copy of the sex chromosomes. This observation is the
physical explanation of Mendel’s law of —
A dominance
B independent assortment
C random distribution of traits
D segregation
Solution
17
The solution is (D). The law of segregation states that the two copies of each
hereditary factor segregate during the production of gametes. The offspring acquires
one factor from each parent as a result of segregation.
In some primroses, the petal color blue is dominant. A cross between a true-breed blue
primrose and a white primrose yields progeny with white petals. A second gene at
another locus prevented the expression of the dominant coat color.
What is this an example of?
A Codominance
B Hemizygosity
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C Incomplete dominance
D Epistasis
Solution
18
The solution is (D). A cross between a true-breed blue primrose and a white
primrose which yields a progeny with white petals is an example of epistasis since
the white color allele masks or interferes with the expression of the blue color allele.
Purple flowers (P) are dominant over red flowers (p), and long pollen grains are dominant
over round pollen grains. When purple flowers and long pollen grain plants were crossed
with plants with white flowers and round pollen grains, all the F1 plants showed purple
flowers and long pollen grains. The F1 plants were crossed and the results are in the table.
What conclusions about the physical relationship between the traits can be drawn from
the experiment?
A The traits are probably linked.
B The traits follow the law of independent assortment.
C The traits are located on different chromosomes.
D There was epistasis.
Solution
19
The solution is (A). The probability of having purple flowers and long pollen grains is
higher. Therefore, it is likely that the genes for purple flower color and long pollen
grains are in close proximity, and the probability for them to be inherited together
is higher.
When the expression of one gene pair masks or modifies the expression of another, what
do the genes show?
A Codominance
B Epistasis
C Incomplete dominance
D Partial linkage
Solution
The solution is (B). The antagonistic interaction between two genes, such that one
gene masks or interferes with the expression of another gene, is called epistasis.
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CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
20
Why is the garden pea an excellent system for studying inheritance?
A The garden pea has flowers that close tightly to promote cross-fertilization.
B The garden pea has flowers that close tightly to prevent cross-fertilization.
C The garden pea does not mature in one season and is a perennial plant.
D Male and female reproductive parts attain maturity at different times, promoting selffertilization.
Solution
21
The solution is (B). The garden pea has flowers that close tightly during selfpollination. This helped to prevent accidental or unintentional fertilizations that
could have diminished the accuracy of Mendel’s data. Garden peas naturally adopt
ways to promote self-fertilization and prevent cross-fertilization. Self-fertilization
leads to true breeding lines that avoid the appearance of unexpected traits in
offspring that might occur if the plants were not true breeding.
How would you perform a reciprocal cross to test stem height in the garden pea?
A First cross is performed by transferring the pollen of a heterozygous tall plant to the
stigma of a true-breeding dwarf plant. Second cross is performed by transferring the
pollen of a heterozygous dwarf plant to the stigma of a true-breeding tall plant.
B First cross is performed by transferring the pollen of a true-breeding tall plant to the
stigma of a true-breeding dwarf plant. Second cross is performed by transferring the
pollen of a true-breeding dwarf plant to the stigma of a true-breeding tall plant.
C First cross is performed by transferring the pollen of a true-breeding tall plant to the
stigma of a heterozygous dwarf plant. Second cross is performed by transferring the
pollen of a heterozygous dwarf plant to the stigma of a true-breeding tall plant.
D First cross is performed by transferring the pollen of a heterozygous tall plant to the
stigma of a heterozygous dwarf plant. Second cross is performed by transferring the
pollen of a heterozygous tall plant to the stigma of a heterozygous dwarf plant.
Solution
22
The solution is (B). Two sets of P parents would be used. In the first cross, pollen
would be transferred from the anther of a true-breeding tall plant to the stigma of a
true-breeding dwarf plant. In the second cross, pollen would be transferred from the
anther of a true-breeding dwarf plant to the stigma of a true-breeding tall plant. For
each cross, F1 and F2 offspring would be analyzed to determine whether offspring
traits were affected according to which parent donated each trait.
Flower position in pea plants is determined by a gene with axial and terminal alleles.
Given that axial is dominant to terminal, what are the possible F1 and F2 genotypes and
phenotypes from a cross involving parents that are homozygous for each trait? Express
genotypes with conventional genetic abbreviations.
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A F1: all AA-axial; F2: AA-axial and aa-terminal
B F1: all aa-terminal; F2: AA-axial and Aa-terminal
C F1: AA-axial and Aa-terminal; F2: all AA-axial
D F1: all Aa-axial; F2: AA-axial, Aa-axial, and aa-terminal
Solution
23
The solution is (D). Because axial is dominant, the gene would be designated A. F1
would be all heterozygous Aa with an axial phenotype. F2 would have possible
genotypes of AA, Aa, and aa; these would correspond to axial, axial, and terminal
phenotypes, respectively. F1 genotypes will all be hybrids (Aa) of both parents.
Therefore, all the flowers in F1 will be axial. F2 genotypes will segregate in the ratio
of 1AA : 2Aa : 1aa. Therefore, the F2 generation will contain both axial and terminal
flower in the ratio 3 : 1.
Use a Punnett square to predict the offspring in a cross between a dwarf pea plant
(homozygous recessive) and a tall pea plant (heterozygous). What is the phenotypic ratio
of the offspring?
A 1 tall : 1 dwarf
B 1 tall : 2 dwarf
C 3 tall : 1 dwarf
D 1 dwarf : 4 tall
Solution
24
The solution is (A). The Punnett square would be 2 × 2 and will have t and t along the
top, and T and t along the left side. Clockwise from the top left, the genotypes listed
within the boxes will be Tt, Tt, tt, and tt. The phenotypic ratio will be 1 tall : 1 dwarf
after crossing a homozygous recessive dwarf pea plant and a heterozygous tall pea
plant.
Can a human male be a carrier of red-green color blindness?
A Yes, males can be the carriers of red-green color blindness since color blindness is
autosomal dominant.
B No, males cannot be the carriers of red-green color blindness since color blindness is
X-linked.
C No, males cannot be the carriers of red-green color blindness since color blindness is
Y-linked.
D Yes, males can be the carriers of red-green color blindness since color blindness is
autosomal recessive.
Solution
The solution is (B). No, males either have colored vision or are color blind. They
cannot be carriers because an individual needs two X chromosomes to be a carrier.
This is an example of hemizygosity.
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12 | Mendel's Experiments and Heredity
What are the genotypes and genotypic proportions of a cross between AABBCc and
Aabbcc parents? Use the probability method for your calculations.
A Possible genotypes are AABBcc, AaBbCc, and AaBbcc, and the ratio is 1 : 2 : 1.
B Possible genotypes are AABbcc, AaBbCc, and AaBbcc, and the ratio is 1 : 3 : 1.
C Possible genotypes are AABbCc, AABbcc, AaBbCc, and AaBbcc, and the ratio is
1 : 1 : 1 : 1.
D Possible genotypes are AABbcc, AaBbCC, and AaBbcc, and the ratio is 1 : 1 : 1.
Solution
26
The solution is (C). Considering each gene separately, the cross at A will produce
offspring of which half are AA and half are Aa; B will produce all Bb; C will produce
1
1
1
half Cc and half cc. Proportions then are    1    , or AABbCc; continuing
4
2
2
1
1
1
for the other possibilities yields AABbcc, AaBbCc, and AaBbcc. The
4
4
4
proportions therefore are 1 : 1 : 1 : 1.
How does the segregation of traits result in different combinations of gametes at the end
of meiosis?
A The chromosomes randomly align during anaphase I at the equator. Separation of
bivalent chromosomes occurs during metaphase I of meiosis I. Similarly, separation of
sister chromatids occurs at metaphase II of meiosis II. At the end of meiosis II, four
different gametic combinations are produced, each containing a haploid set of
chromosomes.
B The chromosomes randomly align during metaphase I at the equator, and separation
of homologous chromosomes occurs during anaphase I. Similarly, separation of sister
chromatids occurs at anaphase II of meiosis II. At the end of meiosis II, four different
gametic combinations are produced, each containing a haploid set of chromosomes.
C The chromosomes randomly align during prophase I at the equator, and separation of
sister chromatids occurs during metaphase I of meiosis I. Similarly, separation of
bivalent chromosomes occurs at metaphase II of meiosis II. At the end of meiosis II,
four different gametic combinations are produced, each containing a diploid set of
chromosomes.
D The chromosomes randomly align during prophase I at the equator, and separation of
bivalent chromosomes occurs during anaphase I of meiosis I. Similarly, separation of
homologous chromosomes occurs at metaphase II of meiosis II. At the end of meiosis
II, four different gametic combinations are produced, each containing a diploid set of
chromosomes.
Solution
The solution is (B). The chromosomes randomly align during metaphase I at the
equator, and separation of homologous chromosomes occurs during anaphase I.
Similarly, separation of sister chromatids occurs at anaphase II of meiosis II. At the
end of meiosis II, four different gametic combinations are produced, each containing
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a haploid set of chromosomes. Four different combinations of gametes are
produced: RT, Rt, rT, and rt. Separation of bivalent chromosomes occurs at anaphase
I of meiosis I, resulting in two daughter cells. Separation of sister chromatids occurs
at anaphase II of meiosis II, resulting in four different gametic combinations each
containing a haploid set of chromosomes.
27
In Section 12.3 Laws of Inheritance, an example of epistasis was given for summer squash.
Cross white WwYy heterozygotes to demonstrate the phenotypic ratio of 12 white:
3 yellow : 1 green that was given in the text.
A Twelve offspring are white because the W gene is epistatic to the Y gene. Three
offspring are yellow, because w is not epistatic. The green offspring is obtained when
the recessive form of both genes (wwyy) is present.
B Twelve offspring are white because W gene is hypostatic to Y gene. Three offspring
are yellow because Y is epistatic to w. The green offspring is obtained when the
dominant form of both the genes (WWYY) is present.
C Twelve offspring are white because W gene is dominant. Three offspring are yellow
because Y is dominant and w is recessive. The green offspring is obtained when the
recessive form of both the genes (wwyy) is present, showing codominance.
D Twelve offspring are white because W is epistatic to Y gene. Three offspring are yellow
because Y is hypostatic to w. The green offspring is obtained when the recessive form
of both the genes (wwyy) are present, showing codominance.
Solution
The solution is (C). The cross can be represented as a 4 × 4 Punnett square, with the
following gametes for each parent: WY, Wy, wY, and wy. For all 12 of the offspring
that express a dominant W gene, the offspring will be white. The three offspring that
are homozygous recessive for w but express a dominant Y gene will be yellow. The
remaining wwyy offspring will be green.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
28
The trait for widow’s peak can be considered a monoallelic dominant trait in humans. If a
man with a widow’s peak and a woman with a straight hairline have a child together,
what is the probability that the child will inherit the widow’s peak if the father’s mother
had a straight hairline?
A 0.25
B 0.50
C 0.75
D 1
Solution
The solution is (B). The father is heterozygous dominant for the trait (Ww), and the
mother is homozygous recessive (ww). The offspring produced from such parents
would be 50 percent Ww (widow’s peak) and 50 percent ww (straight hairline). The
probability of having a child with the dominant trait is 50 percent, or 0.50.
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12 | Mendel's Experiments and Heredity
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251
Don’t like brussels sprouts? Blame your genes. The chemical PTC (phenylthiocarbamide),
which is nearly identical to a compound found in the cabbage family, tastes very bitter to
some people. Others cannot detect a taste. The ability to taste PTC is incompletely
dominant and is controlled by a gene on chromosome 7. A woman who finds brussels
sprouts mildly distasteful—in other words, who can taste PTC weakly—has a child with a
man who hates brussels sprouts—in other words, who can taste PTC strongly.
What is the probability that their son likes brussels sprouts—in other words, cannot
taste PTC?
A 0
B 0.25
C 0.50
D 1
Solution
30
The solution is (A). The mother is a weak taster for PTC test as she does not like
brussels sprouts, which means she is heterozygous for the trait (Tt). The father is a
strong taster (TT) for PTC taste, so he hates brussels sprouts. Therefore, the
probability of their child (Tt-weak taster) liking brussels sprouts will be 0.
Tay-Sachs disease is an autosomal recessive disorder that causes severe problems in
neurons. Children who receive two copies of the gene rarely live beyond the age of five.
There is no cure for the disease. During a genetic screening, a couple is told that both
partners carry the recessive gene.
What kind of issue must the couple confront?
A Scientific
B Financial
C Ethical
D Educational
Solution
31
The solution is (C). Parents will have to consider if it is right to undergo prenatal
screening and terminate a pregnancy, which may be unethical.
A couple has three daughters. What is the probability that the next child they have will be
a daughter?
A 0%
B 25%
C 50%
D 100%
Solution
The solution is (C). The probability that the couple’s next child will be a daughter will
be 50 percent because there are equal chances of having a son or a daughter.
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12 | Mendel's Experiments and Heredity
What is the probability that a couple will have three daughters?
A
1
2
B
1
3
C
1
6
D
1
8
Solution
33
1
. Therefore, the probability
2
1 1 1 1
that a couple will have three daughters is    .
2 2 2 8
The solution is (D). The probability of having a girl is
Petunias can be blue, red, or violet. When a blue flower is crossed with a red flower, all
the resulting flowers are violet. When a violet flower is crossed with a red flower, about
half of the flowers are violet and half are red.
How do you characterize the color trait?
A Complete dominance
B Codominance
C Incomplete dominance
D Sex linked
Solution
34
The solution is (C). A cross between a blue (BB) flower and a red (RR) flower
produces all violet (BR) flowers as a result of incomplete dominance. Both alleles
when present produce intermediate inheritance, in which one allele for the trait is
not completely expressed over its paired allele.
Petunias can be blue, red, or violet. When a blue flower is crossed with a red flower, all
the resulting flowers are violet. Two violet petunias are crossed.
What is the most probable result of the cross?
A 75 percent blue and 25 percent red
B 50 percent blue and 50 percent red
C 75 percent red and 25 percent blue
D 25 percent blue, 50 percent violet, and 25 percent red
Solution
The solution is (D). This is a case of incomplete dominance where one allele for
the trait is not completely expressed over its paired allele, resulting in an
intermediate phenotype (violet). The cross between two violet petunia flowers
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(BR) will produce 25 percent blue flowers (BB), 75 percent violet flowers, and
25 percent red flowers (RR).
35
Fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) with a wild-type phenotype have gray bodies and red
eyes. Certain mutations can cause changes to these traits. Mutant flies may have a black
body and/or cinnabar eyes. To study the genetics of these traits, a researcher crossed a
true-breeding wild-type male fly with a true-breeding female fly with a black body and
cinnabar eyes. All of the F1 progeny displayed a wild-type phenotype.
Which statement is correct about the traits observed?
A Gray body and cinnabar eyes are dominant.
B Eye color is sex linked.
C Body color is sex linked.
D Gray body and red eyes are dominant.
Solution
36
The solution is (D). A cross between wild-type males (GGRR) and mutant females
(ggrr) produce all wild-type progenies (GgRr), showing that gray body is dominant
over black body, and red eyes are dominant over cinnabar eyes.
Female flies from the F1 generation were crossed with true-breeding male flies with black
bodies and cinnabar eyes. The table represents the predicted outcome and the data
obtained from the cross.
Which assumption led to the predicted numbers?
A The traits assort independently.
B The traits are located on the X chromosome.
C The traits are on the same chromosome.
D The female flies were homozygous for wild-type alleles.
Solution
37
The solution is (A). All the phenotypes are observed in equal numbers (1 : 1 : 1 : 1).
Therefore, the traits follow the law of independent assortment.
Cats can be black, yellow, or calico (black and yellow patches). Coat color is carried on the
X chromosome.
What type of inheritance is color coat in cats?
A Codominance
B Incomplete dominance
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C Codominance, sex linked
D Incomplete dominance, sex linked
Solution
38
The solution is (C). Coat color is governed by two alleles, black (B) and yellow (Y).
When both alleles are present, they exhibit codominance. The development of
colored patches requires two X chromosomes, and hence under normal conditions,
the calico phenotype is observed in females and not in males.
Cats can be black, yellow, or calico (black and yellow patches). Coat color is carried on the
X chromosome. A yellow cat is crossed with a black cat. Assume that the offspring are
both male and female.
What are the phenotypes of the offspring and in what proportions?
A All the cats are yellow.
B All the cats are black.
C All the cats are calico.
D There is not enough information to answer the question.
Solution
The solution is (D). The question does not state the sex of either parent cat.
Information is missing.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
12.2 Characteristics and Traits
39
The gene SLC24A5 encodes an antiporter membrane protein that exchanges sodium for
calcium (R. Ginger et al., JBC, 2007). This process has a role in the synthesis of the
melanosomes that cause skin pigmentation. A mutation in this gene affecting a single
amino acid occurs in humans. The homozygous mutant gene is found in 99 percent of
humans with European origins. Both the wild type and mutant display codominance.
A. Representing the wild-type form of the gene as +/+ and the mutant form of the gene as
m/m for two homozygous parents, construct a Punnett square for this cross using the first
grid below. Annotate your representation to identify the phenotypes with high (H),
intermediate (I), and low (L) melanosome production. Use the second grid to represent an
F2 generation from the offspring of the first cross. Use annotation to show the phenotype.
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F1
m
+
m
Blank
+
blank
blank
blank
Blank
Blank
Blank
Blank
Blank
Blank
blank
F2
B. Draw sister chromatids at anaphase II for both parents in the F1 generation, and
annotate your drawing to identify each genotype of the gametes using the cells of the
Punnett square.
C. Explain which of Mendel's laws is violated by codominance.
D. Suppose that these data were available to evaluate the claim that the wild-type and
mutant forms of SLC24A5 are codominant:
F2
blank
blank
Phenotype
Observed
Expected
H
1,206
I
2,238
blank
blank
L
1,124
Complete the table. Explain the values expected in terms of the genotype of the offspring.
blank
E. Using a  2 statistic at the 95 percent confidence level, evaluate the claim that the wildtype and mutant forms of SCLO24A5 are codominant. The definition of the statistic
 
2
C
Oi  Ei 
2
Ei
,
where  is the chi-square test statistic, c is the significant level of the test (we will use
0.05), O is the observed value for variable i, and E is the expected value for variable i. The
chi-square statistic table is provided in the AP Biology Exam.
p
1
2
3
0.05
3.84
5.99
7.82
4
5
6
9.49
11.07
12.59
Degrees of Freedom
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8
14.07
15.51
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Solution
Sample answer:
A.
F1
m
m
+
+/m
I
+/m
I
+
+/m
I
+/m
I
F2
m
m
m/m
+
L
+/m
I
+
+/m I +/+
H
B. The drawing shows a pair of chromatids for each parent on which there only wildtype on one pair and only mutant on the other.
C. Mendel thought that genes were either dominant or recessive. He did not
consider the idea that both traits can be dominant at once.
D. Heterozygotes express the both alleles.
E.
Phenotype
Observed
Expected
(o − e)2/e
H
1,206
1,142
3.59
I
2,238
2,284
0.93
L
1,124
1,142
0.28
The sum of the last column is 4.80, which is less than 5.99 (using the table of critical
values provided at the Exam), so the claim of codominance cannot be rejected based
on these data.
40
Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is a genetic disorder in which lipids with very high molecular
weights are not metabolized and accumulate within cells. Accumulation of these fats in
the brain damages the myelin that surrounds nerves. This progressive disease has two
causes: an autosomal recessive allele, which causes neonatal ALD, and a mutation in the
ABCD1 gene located on the X chromosome. A controversial treatment is the use of
Lorenzo’s oil, which is expensive; despite this treatment, neurological degradation persists
in many patients. Gene therapy as a potential treatment is currently in trials but is also
very costly.
An infant patient exhibits symptoms of neonatal ALD, which are difficult to distinguish
from the X-linked form of the disease. The infant’s physician consults electronic health
records to construct a pedigree showing family members who also presented symptoms
similar to ALD. The pedigree is shown in this diagram. The infant patient is circled.
Symbols for males (o) and females (m) are filled when symptoms are present.
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A. Using the pedigree, explain which form of ALD (neonatal or X linked) is present in
the infant.
B. Sharing of digital records among health providers is one method proposed to improve
the quality and reduce the cost of health care in the United States. The privacy of
electronic health records is a concern. Pose three questions that must be addressed in
developing policies that balance the costs of treatments and diagnoses, patient quality of
life, and risks to individual privacy.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The disease is not X linked. It might be neonatal. The great aunt disproves
sex linked.
Autosomal recessive:
X linked:
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B. Questions might arise from these types of considerations:
41

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services cited 380 breaches of
healthcare records involving 500 or more patients in 2011. Are these records
secure? Who is responsible for their security?

Insurance companies have traditionally charged rates that are fixed by preexisting conditions. Access to care could be affected. Should rates be
adjusted to genome as they are now according to certain habits?

Potential employers may have an interest in these records. Can employers
gain access? Will the precedent of mandatory drug testing be broadened?

These records might have prosecutorial value that affects the rights of both
the accused and the accuser. My DNA is admissible for forensic purposes, so
will it also be used to infer guilt or innocence of intent or “natural
tendencies.”

In some scenarios (the movie Gattaca, for example) the meaning of “health
records” could evolve with unintended consequences if the whole genome is
recorded. In the most efficient societies, your role is matched to your
abilities—can these be evaluated without my participation?
Two genes, A and B, are located adjacent to each other (linked) on the same
chromosome. In the original cross (P0), one parent is homozygous dominant for both traits
(AB), whereas the other parent is recessive (ab).
Characteristic
Alleles
Chromosome
Seed color
Yellow (I)/green (i)
1
Seed coat and
flowers
Colored (A)/white (a)
1
Mature pods
Smooth (V)/wrinkled (v)
4
Flower stalk
From leaf axils (Fa)/umbellate
at top of plant (fa)
4
Height
>1m (Le)/−0.5 m (le)
4
Unripe pods
Green (Gp)/yellow (gp)
5
Mature seeds
Smooth (R)/wrinkled (r)
7
A. Describe the distribution of genotypes and phenotypes in F1.
B. Describe the distribution of genotypes and phenotypes when F1 is crossed with the
ab parent.
C. Describe the distribution of genotypes and phenotypes when F1 is crossed with the AB
parent.
D. Explain the observed non-Mendelian results in terms of the violation of the laws
governing Mendelian genetics.
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Solution
259
Sample answer:
A. AB × ab where AB and ab can be treated as a single gene results in only AaBb.
B. The possible gametes from AaBb when treated as a single gene are AB and ab. So,
the result of xab is AaBb and aabb. The phenotype is 1 : 1 with equal probabilities
doubly dominant and doubly recessive.
C. The possible gametes from AaBb when treated as a single gene are AB and ab. So,
the result of xAB is AABB and AaBb. All offspring are dominant in both genes.
D. Mendelian genetics assumes that the genes assort independently. If they cannot
crossover—because they are adjacent—then the outcomes are as described and
non-Mendelian.
12.3 Laws of Inheritance
42
Gregor Mendel’s 1865 paper described experiments on the inheritance of seven
characteristics of Pisum sativum, shown in the first column in the table below. Many years
later, based on his reported outcomes and analysis of the inheritance of a single
characteristic, Mendel developed the concepts of genes, their alleles, and dominance.
These concepts are defined in the second column of the table, using conventional symbols
for the dominant allele for each characteristic. Even later, the location of each of these
genes on one of the seven chromosomes in P. sativum was determined, as shown in the
third column.
A. Before the acceptance of what Mendel called “factors” as the discrete units of
inheritance, the accepted model was that the traits of progeny were “blended” traits of
the parents. Evaluate the evidence provided by Mendel’s experiments in disproving the
blending theory of inheritance.
B. Mendel published experimental data and analysis for two experiments involving the
inheritance of more than a single characteristic. He examined two-character inheritance
of seed shape and seed color. He also reported three-character inheritance of seed shape,
seed color, and flower color. Evaluate the evidence provided by the multiple-character
experiments. Identify which of the following laws of inheritance depend upon these
multiple-character experiments for support:
i.
During gamete formation, the alleles for each gene segregate from each other so
that each gamete carries only one allele for each gene.
ii.
Genes for different traits can segregate independently during the formation of
gametes.
iii.
Some alleles are dominant, whereas others are recessive. An organism with at
least one dominant allele will display the effect of the dominant allele.
iv.
All three laws can be inferred from the single-character experiments.
C. As shown in the table, some chromosomes contain the gene for more than one of the
seven characteristics Mendel studied, for example, seed color and flowers. The table
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below shows, with filled cells above the dashed diagonal line, the combinations of
characteristics for which Mendel reported results. In the cells below the dotted diagonal
line, identify with an X each cell where deviations from the law or laws identified in part B
might be expected.
D. Explain the reasons for the expected deviations for those combinations of
characteristics identified in part C.
E. In one of the experiments reported by Mendel, deviations from the law identified in
part B might be expected. Explain how the outcomes of this experiment were consistent
with Mendel’s laws.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Characters are always in one of two forms for these experiments. There is no
progeny with intermediate characters.
B. The correct choice is ii. Independent assortment requires that genes are not
correlated. This can only be tested by considering the distribution of outcomes from
more than one gene.
C.
D. Deviations are expected if the genes are on the same chromosome.
E. Outcomes from the two-character experiment involving seed shape and color
showed independent assortment, although they are on the same chromosome.
Recombination through crossing over restores the independence.
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43
261
A dihybrid cross involves two traits. A cross of parental types AaBb and AaBb can be
represented with a Punnett square:
This representation clearly organizes all of the possible genotypes and reveals the
9 : 3 : 3 : 1 distribution of phenotypes and a 4 × 4 grid of 16 cells. Expressed as a fraction
of the 16 possible genotypes of the offspring, the phenotypic ratio describes the
probability of each phenotype among the offspring:
3 (AA, Aa, aA) × 3 (BB, bB, Bb)/16 = 9/16
3 (AA, Aa, aA) × 1 (bb) /16 = 3/16
1 (aa) × 3 (BB, bB, Bb) = 3/16
1 (aa) × 1 (bb) = 1/16
A. Using the probability method, calculate the likelihood of these phenotypes from each
dihybrid cross:

Recessive in the gene with alleles A and a from the cross AaBb × aabb

Dominant in both genes from the cross AaBb × aabb

Recessive in both genes from the cross AaBb × aabb

Recessive in either gene from the cross AaBb × aabb
A Punnett square representation of a trihybrid cross, such as the self-cross of AaBbCc,
is more cumbersome because there are eight columns and rows (2 × 2 × 2 ways to
choose parental genotypes) and 64 cells. A less tedious representation is to calculate the
number of each type of genotype in the offspring directly by counting the unique
permutations of the letters representing the alleles. For example, the probability of the
cross AaBbCc × AaBbCc is 3 (AA, Aa, aA) × 3 (BB, Bb, bB) × 3 (CC, Cc, cC)/64 = 27/64.
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B. Using the probability method, calculate the likelihood of these phenotypes from each
trihybrid cross:

Recessive in all traits from the cross AaBbCc × aabbcc

Recessive in the gene with alleles C and c and dominant in the other two traits
from the cross AaBbCc × AaBbCc

Dominant in the gene with alleles A and a and recessive in the other two traits
from the cross AaBbcc × AaBbCc
C. The probability method is an easy way to calculate the likelihood of each particular
phenotype, but it doesn’t simultaneously display the probability of all possible
phenotypes. The forked line representation described in the text allows the entire
phenotypic distribution to be displayed. Using the forked line method, calculate the
probabilities in a cross between AABBCc and Aabbcc parents:
Solution

All traits are recessive: aabbcc.

Traits are dominant at each loci, A? B? C?

Traits are dominant at two genes and recessive at the third.

Traits are dominant at one gene and recessive at the other two.
Sample answer:
A.

Recessive in the gene with alleles A and a from the cross AaBb × aabb:
1 (aa) × 2 (bb or Bb) /4 = 1/2

Dominant in both genes from the cross AaBb × aabb:
1 (Aa) × 0 (bb) /4 + 1 (Bb) × 0 (aa) /4 = 0

Recessive in both genes from the cross AaBb × aabb:
1 (aa) × 1 (bb) /4 = 1/4

Recessive in either gene from the cross AaBb × aabb:
[1 (aa) × 2 (Bb or bb) + 1 (Aa) × 2 (bb)]/4 = 1

Recessive in all traits from the cross AaBbCc × aabbcc:
1 (aa) × 1 (bb) × 1 (cc) /8 = 1/8

Recessive in the gene with alleles C and c and dominant in the other two
traits from the cross AaBbCc × AaBbCc:
1 (cc) × 3 (AA, Aa, aA) ו 3 (BB, Bb, bB) = 9/64

Dominant in the gene with allele A and a and recessive in the other two traits
from the cross AaBbcc × AaBbCc:
1 (bb) × 1 (cc) × 3 (AA, Aa, aA) /64 = 3/64
B.
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C. We count the ways of particular phenotypes

Having all recessive: aabbcc—just one way

Having all dominant at each: A? B? C?—3 ways for each, such as AA, Aa, and
aA—27 ways

Having dominant at two genes and recessive at the third: A?B?cc, A?bbC?,
and aaB?C? is 9 + 9 + 9 = 27

Having dominant at one gene and recessive at the other two: A?bbcc,
aaB?cc, and aabbC? is 3 + 3 + 3 = 9
The probability of each phenotype is equal to the number of ways of making it from
the genotypes divided by the total number of genotypes:
All dominant: 27/64 = 0.42
Dominant A and recessive at B and C: 3/64 = 0.047
Dominant B and recessive at A and C: 3/64 = 0.047
Dominant C and recessive at A and B: 3/64 = 0.047
Dominant A and B and recessive at C: 9/64 = 0.14
Dominant A and C and recessive at B: 9/64 = 0.14
Dominant B and C and recessive at A: 9/64 = 0.14
All recessive: 1/64 = 0.0156
The sum of the probabilities of each outcome is equal to 1.
44
Construct a representation showing the connection between the process of meiosis and
the transmission of six possible phenotypes from parents to F2 offspring. The phenotypes
are labeled A, a, B, b and C, c. Expression of each phenotype is controlled by a separate
Mendelian gene. Your representation should show the proportion of every possible
combination of phenotypes (e.g., ABC, AbC, etc.) that will be present in the F2 offspring.
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Solution
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13| MODERN UNDERSTANDINGS OF
INHERITANCE
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
When comparing humans (or in Drosophila), are X-linked recessive traits observed more
frequently in males, in similar numbers between males and females, more frequently in
females, or is the frequency different depending on the trait?
A In more males than females
B In more females than males
C In males and females equally
D In different distributions depending on the trait
Solution
2
The solution is (A). Affected males result from mothers who are affected
(homozygous) or who are carriers (heterozygous) for the X-linked recessive trait.
Males possess only one X chromosome; therefore, males will always have the
affected trait if obtained from a carrier or affected mother.
Which recombination frequency corresponds to perfect linkage and violates the law of
independent assortment?
A 0
B 0.25
C 0.5
D 0.75
Solution
3
The solution is (A). The recombination frequency ranges from 0 percent (linked
genes) to 50 percent (unlinked genes). Zero represents genes in close proximity to
each other and segregated together, thus violating Mendel’s law of independent
assortment.
Which recombination frequency corresponds to independent assortment and the absence
of linkage?
A 0
B 0.25
C 0.5
D 0.75
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Solution
4
The solution is (C). The 0.50 recombination frequency corresponds to the absence of
linkage. Genes undergoing recombination assort independently of each other into
one of two gamete cells.
Based on the diagram, which statement is true?
A Recombination of the body color and red/cinnabar eye alleles will occur more
frequently than recombination of the alleles for wing length and aristae length.
B Recombination of the body color and aristae length alleles will occur more frequently
than recombination of red/brown eye alleles and the aristae length alleles.
C Recombination of the gray/black body color and long/short aristae alleles will not
occur.
D Recombination of the red/brown eye and long/short aristae alleles will occur more
frequently than recombination of the alleles for wing length and body color.
Solution The solution is (D).
Recombination of the red/brown eye and long/short aristae alleles will occur more
frequently than recombination of the alleles for wing length and body color because of
the greater map distance between the red/brown eye and long/short aristae.
5 Which code describes position 12 on the long arm of chromosome 13?
A 13p12
B 13q12
C 12p13
D 12q13
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Solution
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The solution is (B). 13q12 code describes position 12 on the long arm of
chromosome 13.
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13 | Modern Understandings of Inheritance
Assume a pericentric inversion occurred in one of two homologs prior to meiosis. The
other homolog remains normal. During meiosis, what structure, if any, would these
homologs assume in order to pair accurately along their lengths?
A V formation
B Cruciform
C Loop
D A pairing would not be possible.
Solution
The solution is (C). A loop is formed during a crossover between a chromosome with
pericentric inversion and its normal homologous chromosome. This results in the
formation of chromatids with deletions or entire segments missing.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
7
Which statement best describes the Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance?
A The theory was proposed by Charles Darwin. It describes the units of inheritance
between parents and offspring, as well as the processes by which those units control
offspring development.
B The theory was proposed by Boveri-Sutton. It describes linkage, recombination, and
crossing over, and states that Mendelian genes have specific loci on chromosomes,
which undergo segregation and independent assortment.
C The theory was proposed by Charles Darwin. It states the Mendelian genes have two
alternate forms and undergo independent assortment. It helped increase the
understanding of linkage and recombination.
D The theory was proposed by Boveri-Sutton. It describes the units of inheritance
between parents and offspring as well as the processes by which those units control
offspring development.
Solution
8
The solution is (B). The theory was proposed by Boveri-Sutton. It describes linkage,
recombination, and crossing over and states the Mendelian genes have specific loci
on chromosomes, which undergo segregation and independent assortment.
In a test cross for two characteristics (dihybrid cross), can the predicted frequency of
recombinant offspring be 60 percent? Why or why not?
A No, the predicted frequency of recombinant offspring ranges from 0 percent (for
linked traits) to 50 percent (for unlinked traits) because of both parental and
nonparental cases.
B Yes, the predicted frequency of recombinant offspring can be 60 percent if genes are
located very far from each other.
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C Yes, the predicted frequency can be 60 percent if crossing over occurs during every
meiotic event.
D No, the predicted frequency can never be 60 percent due to the presence of
mutations such as deletions.
Solution
9
The correct solution is (A). No. The predicted frequency of recombinant offspring
ranges from 0 percent (for linked traits) to 50 percent (for unlinked traits).
Which statement best describes how nondisjunction can result in an aneuploid zygote?
A Nondisjunction only occurs when homologous chromosomes do not separate during
meiosis I, resulting in the formation of gametes containing n + 1 and n − 1
chromosomes.
B Nondisjunction only occurs when sister chromatids do not separate in meiosis II,
resulting in the formation of gametes containing n + 1 and n − 1 chromosomes.
C Nondisjunction is the failure of homologous chromosomes to separate during meiosis
I or the failure of sister chromatids to separate during meiosis II, leading to the
formation of n + 1/n − 1/n chromosomes.
D Nondisjunction occurs when the sister chromatids fail to separate during mitosis II,
resulting in the formation of gametes containing n + 1 and n − 1/n chromosomes.
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Solution
10
The solution is (C). Nondisjunction is the failure of homologous chromosomes to
separate during meiosis I or the failure of sister chromatids to separate during
meiosis II, leading to the formation of n + 1/n − 1/n chromosomes.
Which answer correctly identifies the various chromosomal aberrations and their worstcase negative consequences?
A Nondisjunction - aneuploid gametes; duplication - physical and mental abnormalities;
deletion - lethal to a diploid organism; inversion - chromosomal breaks in gene; and
translocations - effects depend on how positions of genes are altered
B Nondisjunction - physical and mental abnormalities; inversion - genetic imbalance;
duplication - aneuploid gametes; translocations - chromosomal breaks in the gene;
and deletion - effects depend on how positions of genes are altered
C Deletion - aneuploid gametes; translocations - physical and mental abnormalities;
duplication - effects depend on positions of genes; nondisjunction - causes genetic
imbalance lethal to a diploid organism; and aneuploidy - leads to various syndromes
D Nondisjunction - chromosomal breaks in gene; duplication - physical and mental
abnormalities; deletion - genetic imbalance lethal to a diploid organism; inversion aneuploid gametes; and translocations - effects depend on positions of genes
Solution
The solution is (A). Nondisjunction - aneuploid gametes; duplication - physical and
mental abnormalities; deletion - lethal to a diploid organism; inversion chromosomal breaks in gene; translocations - effects depend on how positions of
genes are altered.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
11
The following figure represents a Drosophila linkage map for genes A–E. The numbers
between the gene loci are the relative map units between each gene.
Based on the linkage map, which two genes are most likely to segregate together?
A Genes A and B
B Genes B and C
C Genes C and D
D Genes D and E
Solution
The solution is (C). Genes C and D are at minimum distance from each other and,
therefore, are most likely to segregate together.
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A test cross was made between true-breeding EEWW flies and eeww flies. The resulting
F1 generation was then crossed with eeww flies. One hundred offspring in the F2
generation were examined, and it was discovered that the E and W genes were not linked.
Which is the correct genotype of the F2 offspring if the genes were linked and if the genes
were NOT linked?
A Linked: 50 percent EEWW and 50 percent eeww; not linked: 25 percent EeWw, 25
percent, Eeww 25 percent eeWw, and 25 percent eeww
B Linked: 25 percent Eeww, 50 percent eeWw; not linked: parental genotypes EeWw
and eeww
C Linked: genotypes EeWw and eeww, and recombinant genotypes Eeww and eeWw in
the F2 generation are nearly the same irrespective of their linkage
D Linked: mostly with parental genotypes, Eeww and eeWw; unlinked: 25 percent EeWw
and eeww with 75 percent Eeww and eeWw
Solution
13
The solution is (A). The predicted genotypes are (parental): EEWW, eeww;
(recombinants): Eeww, eeWw. If the genes are not linked, each genotype should be
found in 25 progeny. If the genes were linked, there would be more progeny with
the parental genotypes than the recombinant genotypes.
A cross was made with true-breeding AABB flies and true-breeding aabb flies. The
resulting F1 generation then was crossed with true-breeding aabb flies. Based on the
linkage map, which F2 generation genotype ratio is most likely to be observed?
A Number observed: AaBb (46), Aabb (4), aaBb (4), Aabb (46)
B Number observed: AaBb (4), Aabb (46), aaBb (46), Aabb (4)
C Number observed: AaBb (25), Aabb (25), aaBb (25), Aabb (25)
D Number observed: AaBb (50), Aabb (0), aaBb (0), Aabb (50)
Solution
The solution is (C). This is a case of test cross. Therefore, the ratio obtained will be
1 : 1 : 1 : 1 (25 : 25 : 25 : 25).
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Which symptom is most likely associated with the disorder shown in the karyotype?
A Lethality
B Infertility
C Heart and bleeding defects
D Short stature and stunted growth
Solution
15
The solution is (B). The karyotype represents the 47 XXY condition, known as
Klinefelter syndrome. This syndrome leads to infertility.
Which option describes the disorder shown in the karyotype and the social, ethical, or
medical issue related to the disorder?
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A Down syndrome (47 XY +21) causes intellectual disability, vision problems, congenital
heart disease, and susceptibility to cancer. Healthcare providers often do not discuss
the positive aspects of raising a child with Down syndrome and often provide out-ofdate information.
B Klinefelter syndrome (47 XXY) causes intellectual disability, vision problems,
congenital heart disease, and susceptibility to cancer. Arguments often are made
against abortion of an affected fetus.
C Klinefelter syndrome (47 XXY) causes sterility and reduced testosterone production.
Arguments often are made against informing insurance companies about a diagnosis
of this disease.
D Down syndrome (47 XY +21) causes sterility and lower testosterone production.
Arguments often are made against informing insurance companies about a diagnosis
of this disease.
Solution
16
The solution is (C). The karyotype shows Klinefelter syndrome, with 47 XXY. Medical
issues related to the disorder include sterility, and lower testosterone production.
An ethical issue concerned with the disorder is whether information about genetic
diagnosis should be given to insurance companies.
Which gene order is the most likely outcome of an inversion mutation in the chromosome
shown?
A RSTUV
B RRSTUV
C RSUV
D RTSUV
Solution
The solution is (D). RTSUV is most likely the outcome of an inversion mutation.
Inversion leads to a 180-degree rotation of the chromosomal segment, leading to
abnormal gene order.
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13 | Modern Understandings of Inheritance
With the help of the diagram given, which statement most appropriately describes
nondisjunction and its genetic consequences?
A Nondisjunction occurs when a homologous pair is unable to separate during meiosis I,
resulting in the formation of gametes containing n + 1 and n − 1 chromosomes. This is
called aneuploidy.
B Nondisjunction occurs due to the inability of sister chromatids to separate during
meiosis II, resulting in the formation of gametes containing n + 1 and n − 1
chromosomes. This results in heart and bleeding defects.
C Nondisjunction is the failure of homologous chromosomes to separate during meiosis
I or failure of sister chromatids to separate during meiosis II. This results in aneuploid
gametes.
D Nondisjunction occurs when a pair of homologous chromosomes fails to segregate
during meiosis II resulting in the formation of gametes containing n + 1, n − 1, or n
numbers of chromosomes. This results in abnormal growth patterns.
Solution
The solution is (C). Nondisjunction occurs when a pair of homologous chromosomes
fails to separate during meiosis I or sister chromatids fail to separate during meiosis
II. Nondisjunction leads to individuals containing aneuploid gametes.
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Klinefelter syndrome is —
A more severe than Down syndrome due to gene deletions in Klinefelter syndrome
B more severe than Down syndrome due to trisomy in Klinefelter syndrome
C less severe than Down syndrome due to monosomy in Down syndrome
D less severe than Down syndrome due to X-inactivation in this disorder
Solution
The solution is (D). Klinefelter syndrome is less severe as compared to Down
syndrome. In Klinefelter syndrome, the extra copy of the X chromosome is
inactivated. In Down syndrome, an extra copy of the chromosome 21 means
individuals have three copies of each chromosome 21 gene instead of two, making it
difficult for cells to properly control how much protein is made. Producing too much
or too little protein can have serious consequences.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
13.1 Chromosomal Theory and Genetic Linkages
19
Drosophila that are true breeding for the traits straight wings (S) and red eyes (R) are
crossed with flies that are true breeding for curved wings (s) and brown eyes (r). A test
cross then is made between the offspring and the true-breeding ssrr flies.
A. Use the symbols S, s, R, and r to construct a representation of the parental genotypes
in the test cross.
B. If these genes are located on different chromosomes, use a Punnett square to
construct a representation of the offspring of the test cross.
C. Predict the distribution of genotypes and phenotypes resulting from the test cross.
D. As it happens, these genes are both on chromosome II as shown below. Use the
symbols S, s, R, and r to construct a representation of the parental and recombinant
genotypes in the test cross.
E. Suppose that 500 flies are produced in the test cross. Apply mathematical methods to
calculate the expected number of recombinant offspring using the linear map units (LMU)
shown in the diagram.
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13 | Modern Understandings of Inheritance
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The F1 generation is SSRR × ssrr to give SsRr for one parent in the test cross. The
other is ssrr.
B.
sr
Description
SR
SsRr
Long wing, red eye
Sr
Ssrr
Long wing, brown eye
sR
ssRr
Short wing, red eye
blank
sr
ssrr
Short wing, brown eye
C. The genotypes and phenotypes will be 1 : 1 : 1 : 1.
D. The parentals are SsRr and ssrr. The recombinants are ssRr and Ssrr.
E. The distance in linkage map units is 29, so the recombinant frequency is 0.29. So,
145 recombinant offspring are expected.
20
Studies like the one described in question AP12.1 were carried out by Morgan and
Sturtevant beginning in 1911. The discovery of linkage was made by Bateson and Punnett
in 1900. They crossed a true-breeding purple (P) plant with long seeds (L) with a truebreeding red (r) plant with round seeds (l). They then performed a self-cross between the
F1 generation. They obtained the F2 data shown in the table.
Phenotype
Genotype(s)
Observed
Purple, long
4,831
Purple, round
390
Red, long
393
Red, round
1,338
Expected
Advanced Placement Biology Instructor’s Solution Manu
13 | Modern Understandings of Inheritance
Phenotype
PAGE \* MERGEFORMAT 277275
Genotype(s)
Observed
Total
Expected
6,952
A. Use the symbols P, p, L, and l to construct a representation of the F2 genotypes and
complete the second column in the table.
B. Complete the fourth column table above by recording values of the predicted numbers
of plants with each genotype.
C. Apply a  2 test at the 95 percent confidence level to evaluate the claim that these
data confirm linkage. The definition of the statistic
2  
(o  e)2
e
and this table are provided at the AP Biology Exam.
P
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
0.05
3.84
5.99
7.82
9.49
11.07
12.59
14.07
15.51
0.01
6.64
9.32
11.34
13.28 15.09 16.81
Degrees of Freedom
18.48
20.09
D. At first Bateson and Punnett did not see that these genes are located on the same
chromosome and proceed to measure the linkage distance between them, taking the first
step toward creating a gene map. Justify a selection of data and the procedure from
which data could be collected that would have provided the necessary evidence to
confirm linkage and recombination.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. and B.
Phenotype
Genotype(s)
Observed
Expected
Purple, long
PpLl, PpLL, PPLl, PPLL
4,831
3,910.5
Purple, round
Ppll and PPll
390
1,303.5
Red, long
ppLl and ppLL
393
1,303.5
Red, round
ppll
1,338
434.5
Total
6,952
C. The result is clearly larger than the critical value of 7.82 (3 classes).
(4,831  3,910.5)2 (390  1,303.5)2 (393  1,303.5)2 (1,338  434.5)2



3,910.5
1,303.5
1,303.5
434.5
 217  640  636  1,879
2 
D. They needed to do a test cross of the F1 generation with the homozygous
recessive. Then they could have determined the fraction of the offspring with
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13 | Modern Understandings of Inheritance
parental (PpLl and ppll) and recombinant (ppLl and Ppll) genotypes. From this they
might have made the leap that young Sturtevant made.
21
Review the observations that provided researchers with evidence in support of the
Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance.
A. Evaluate the dependence of these observations on improvements in a critical
technology during the period from 1850 to 1940. Identify this technology and describe
how this technology allowed scientists to make the connection between chromosomes
and genes. (As a hint, the name chromosome is taken from the Greek word chroma,
which means “colored” or “stained.”)
B. Mendel’s laws of inheritance are explained by the chromosomal theory. Use these
observations to justify:
Solution

The law of segregation

The law of independent assortment
Sample answer:
A. The evidence is microscopic. All of the observations identified in the text can only
be made with the microscope:
1. During meiosis, homologous chromosome pairs migrate as discrete
structures that are independent of other chromosome pairs.
2. The sorting of chromosomes from each homologous pair into pre-gametes
appears to be random.
3. Each parent synthesizes gametes that contain only half of their chromosomal
complement.
4. Even though male and female gametes (sperm and egg) differ in size and
morphology, they have the same number of chromosomes, suggesting equal
genetic contributions from each parent.
5. The gametic chromosomes combine during fertilization to produce offspring
with the same chromosome number as their parents.
B. Points (1) and (3) explain the law of segregation. Points (2) and (1) explain
independent assortment.
22
Errors in the transmission of genetic information to future generations are essential.
Otherwise, organisms could not evolve over time. Some errors in the synthesis of new
DNA during S phase in either meiosis or mitosis are not repaired. These errors usually
involve single nucleotides. Errors that occur during prophase I of meiosis that are not
corrected can involve the exchange of sequences between homologous chromosomes
(duplications) or even nonhomologous chromosomes (translocations). Duplications
usually are retained, and the organism remains viable without a change in phenotype.
Translocations are usually lethal or significantly alter phenotype. In eukaryotes,
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duplications and the shuffling of parental genes through recombination are important
sources of variation.
Construct an explanation of the role of duplication as a source of raw material for future
mutations and selection and contrast this type of variation with recombination.
Solution
23
Sample answer: Duplication of a gene allows a second copy to undergo mutation
independently of the original gene. As the two diverge, new functions result which
provides a gradual (but not so gradual as recombination) means of change. If only
recombination was the source of variation, then pairs of genes that are very close
together would remain parental and never vary.
Bacteria and Archaea reproduce asexually, and genetic material is in a closed loop. In both
domains, genetic material is transferred horizontally, and polyploidy is common.
Polyploidy is common in plants and occurs in invertebrate animals but is less common in
vertebrates. In all domains, multiple copies of genes (gene duplication) are common.
Based on this information, compare and contrast the mechanisms that provide genetic
variation in the three domains: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.
Solution
Sample answer: Multiple copies of the genome—like duplication—provide raw
material for the development of an alternative set of proteins. The rapidity of
reproduction and development in unicellular organisms combined with multiple
copies of the genome increases the frequency of presentation of new genotypes for
selection. Horizontal gene transfer further increases the shuffling of information—
even originating with other species.
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
14 | DNA STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Who was the first person to isolate the material that came to be known as nucleic acids?
A Frederick Griffith
B Friedrich Miescher
C James Watson
D Oswald Avery
Solution
2
The solution is (B). DNA was first isolated from white blood cells by Friedrich
Miescher.
What is bacterial transformation?
A The transformation of a bacterium occurs during replication.
B It is the transformation of a bacterium into a pathogenic form.
C Transformation of bacteria involves changes in its chromosome.
D Transformation is a process in which external DNA is taken up by a cell, thereby
changing morphology and physiology.
Solution
3
The solution is (D). Transformation is a process in which external DNA is taken up by
a cell, thereby changing morphology and physiology.
What type of nucleic acid material is analyzed the most frequently in forensics cases?
A Cytoplasmic rRNA
B Mitochondrial DNA
C Nuclear chromosomal DNA
D Nuclear mRNA
Solution
4
The solution is (C). Forensics looks at the nuclear genetic material.
The experiments by Hershey and Chase helped confirm that DNA was the hereditary
material on the basis of the finding of what?
A Radioactive phages were found in the pellet.
B Radioactive cells were found in the supernatant.
C Radioactive sulfur was found inside the cell.
D Radioactive phosphorus was found in the cell.
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
Solution
5
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The solution is (D). Radioactive phosphorous was found in the heavier particles that
settled as pellets. The heavier bacterial cells settled down and formed pellets.
If DNA of a particular species was analyzed and it was found that it contains 27 percent A,
what would be the percentage of T?
A 23%
B 27%
C 30%
D 54%
Solution
6
The solution is (B). Because A binds to T, there is the same proportion of A and T in
each DNA molecule.
If the sequence of the 5′ to 3′ strand is AATGCTAC, then the complementary sequence has
which sequence?
A 3′-AATGCTAC-5′
B 3′-CATCGTAA-5′
C 3′-TTACGATG-5′
D 3′-GTAGCATT-5′
Solution
7
The solution is (C). A binds to T and C binds to G in DNA molecules.
The DNA double helix does NOT have what?
A Antiparallel configuration
B Complementary base pairing
C Major and minor grooves
D Uracil
Solution
8
The solution is (D). Uracil is a nucleotide base that is present in RNA and not in DNA.
What is a purine?
A A double-ring structure with a six-membered ring fused to a five-membered ring
B A single six-membered ring
C A six-membered ring
D Three phosphates covalently bonded by phosphodiester bonds
Solution
9
The solution is (A). A double-ring structure with a six-membered ring fused to a fivemembered ring.
What is the name of the method developed by Fred Sanger to sequence DNA?
A Dideoxy chain termination
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B Double helix determination
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
14 | DNA Structure and Function
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C Polymerase chain reaction
D Polymer gel electrophoresis
Solution
10
The solution is (A). The Dideoxy Chain Termination method was developed by Fred
Sanger. It is a sequencing method based on the use of chain terminators.
What happens when a dideoxynucleotide is added to a developing DNA strand?
A The chain extends to the end of the DNA strand.
B The DNA stand is duplicated.
C The chain is not extended any further.
D The last codon is repeated.
Solution
11
The solution is (C). If a ddNTP is added to a growing a DNA strand, the chain is not
extended any further because the free 3′OH group needed to add another
nucleotide is not available.
In eukaryotes, what is DNA wrapped around?
A Histones
B Polymerase
C Single-stranded binding proteins
D Sliding clamp
Solution
12
The solution is (A). In eukaryotes, the DNA is wrapped around proteins known as
histones to form structures called nucleosomes.
Which enzyme is only found in prokaryotic organisms?
A DNA gyrase
B Helicase
C Ligase
D Telomerase
Solution
13
The solution is (A). DNA gyrase helps to maintain the supercoiled structure in
prokaryotes.
Where is uracil found?
A Chromosomal DNA
B Helicase
C Mitochondrial DNA
D mRNA
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Solution
14
14 | DNA Structure and Functi
The solution is (D). Uracil is a nitrogenous base found in mRNA molecules. Its
complementary base pair is adenine.
What prevents the further development of a DNA strand in Sanger sequencing?
A The addition of DNA reductase
B The addition of dideoxynucleotides
C The elimination of DNA polymerase
D The addition of uracil
Solution
15
The solution is (B). If a ddNTP is added to a growing DNA strand, the chain is not
extended any further because the free 3′OH group needed to add another
nucleotide is not available. ddNTP lack the 3′OH group on the five-carbon sugar.
What is NOT one of the proteins involved during the formation of the replication fork?
A Helicase
B Ligase
C Origin of replication
D Single-stranded binding proteins
Solution
16
The solution is (C). The origin of replication is the point at which the DNA unwinds.
In which direction does DNA replication take place?
A 5′ to 3′
B 3′ to 5′
C 5′
D 3′
Solution
17
The solution is (A). DNA polymerase adds nucleotides from 5′ to 3′ direction.
Meselson and Stahl’s experiments proved that DNA replicates by which mode?
A Conservative
B Converse
C Dispersive
D Semiconservative
Solution
The solution is (D). The semiconservative mode of replication suggested that each of
the two parental DNA strands act as a template for new DNA to be synthesized.
After replication, each double-stranded DNA includes one parental or “old” strand
and one “new” strand.
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
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18
14 | DNA Structure and Functi
Which set of results was found in Meselson and Stahl’s experiments?
A The original chromosome was kept intact and a duplicate was made.
B The original chromosome was split and half went to each duplicate.
C The original chromosome was mixed with new material and each duplicate strand
contained both old and new.
D The original chromosome was used as a template for two new chromosomes and
discarded.
Solution
19
The solution is (B). The semiconservative method suggested that each of the two
parental DNA strands act as a template for new DNA to be synthesized. After
replication, each double-stranded DNA includes one parental or “old” strand and
one “new” strand. It was found in Meselson and Stahl’s experiment.
Which enzyme initiates the splitting of the double DNA strand during replication?
A DNA gyrase
B Helicase
C Ligase
D Telomerase
Solution
20
The solution is (B). Helicase opens the DNA helix by breaking hydrogen bonds
between the nitrogenous bases ahead of the replication fork.
Which enzyme is most directly responsible for the main process of producing a new DNA
strand?
A DNA pol I
B DNA pol II
C DNA pol III
D DNA pol I, DNA pol II, and DNA pol III
Solution
21
The solution is (C). DNA polymerase III is the main enzyme in DNA replication that
adds nucleotides in 5’ to 3’ direction.
Which portion of a chromosome contains Okazaki fragments?
A Helicase
B Lagging strand
C Leading strand
D Primer
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
Solution
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The solution is (B). The replication of the strand that occurs in a direction away from
the replication fork is known as lagging strand and contains Okazaki fragments.
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22
14 | DNA Structure and Functi
What does the enzyme primase synthesize?
A DNA primer
B Okazaki fragments
C Phosphodiester linkage
D RNA primer
Solution
23
The solution is (D). Primase synthesizes RNA primers to initiate synthesis by DNA
polymerase, which can add nucleotides only in the 5′ to 3′ direction.
The ends of the linear chromosomes are maintained by what?
A DNA polymerase
B Helicase
C Primase
D Telomerase
Solution
24
The solution is (D). Telomerase maintains the linear end of the chromosomes. It
consists of a catalytic part and a built-in RNA template.
What is the difference in the rate of replication of nucleotides between prokaryotes and
eukaryotes?
A Eukaryotes are 50 times slower.
B Eukaryotes are 20 times faster.
C Prokaryotes are 100 times slower.
D Prokaryotes are 10 times faster.
Solution
25
The solution is (D). The advantage in prokaryotes is that RNA and protein synthesis
occurs much more quickly than the eukaryotes. It is 10 times faster than eukaryotes.
What are Autonomously Replicating Sequences (ARS)?
A Areas of prokaryotic chromosomes that initiate copying
B Portions of prokaryotic chromosomes that can be transferred from one organism to
another
C Areas of eukaryotic chromosomes that are equivalent to the origin of replication in
E. coli
D Portions of eukaryotic chromosomes that replicate independent of the parent
chromosome
Solution
The solution is (C). Areas of eukaryotic chromosomes that are equivalent to the
origin of replication in E. coli.
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
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What type of body cell does NOT exhibit telomerase activity?
A Adult stem cells
B Embryonic cells
C Germ cells
D Liver cells
Solution
27
The solution is (D). Liver cells do not exhibit telomerase activity. Adult, embryonic,
and germ cells do.
During proofreading, which enzyme reads the DNA?
A DNA polymerase
B Helicase
C Topoisomerase
D Primase
Solution
28
The solution is (A). DNA polymerase edits DNA by proofreading every newly
added base.
If a prokaryotic cell is replicating nucleotides at a rate of 100 per second, how fast would a
eukaryotic cell be replicating nucleotides?
A 1,000 per second
B 100 per second
C 10 per second
D 1 per second
Solution
29
The solution is (C). Rate of replication in prokaryotes is 10 times than eukaryotes. If
replication in prokaryotes is 100 per second, then in eukaryotes it will be 10 per
second.
Which type of point mutation would have no effect on gene expression?
A Frameshift
B Missense
C Nonsense
D Silent
Solution
The solution is (D). Silent mutation is the one in which a nucleotide is substituted,
but there is no effect on the protein sequence or gene expression.
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30
14 | DNA Structure and Functi
Which type of point mutation would result in the substitution of a stop codon for an
amino acid?
A Frameshift
B Missense
C Nonsense
D Silent
Solution
31
The solution is (C). Nonsense mutation introduces a stop codon in place of an
amino acid.
A woman has developed skin cancer and she is pregnant. She is worried that her child will
be born with the cancer she has while carrying the baby.
Should she be worried?
A Yes, the cancer can spread to the baby.
B No, the mutations causing the cancer are in somatic cells, not reproductive germ cells.
C Yes, the mutations can be passed on to the child through the placenta.
D No, UV light only affects adult, somatic cells.
Solution
32
The solution is (B). The mutation causing the cancer does not occur in the germ cells
of the woman, but in the somatic cells. Therefore, it will not affect the baby.
What is the initial mechanism for repairing nucleotide errors in DNA?
A DNA polymerase proofreading
B Mismatch repair
C Nucleotide excision repair
D Thymine dimers
Solution
33
The solution is (A). DNA polymerase is an efficient enzyme, but can make mistakes
while adding nucleotides during replication. It edits the DNA by proofreading every
newly added base.
Nucleotide excision repair often is employed when UV exposure causes the formation of
what?
A Phosphodiester bonds
B Purine conjugates
C Pyrimidine dimers
D Tetrad disassembly
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
Solution
PAGE \* MERGEFORMAError! Unknown switch argument.***
The solution is (C). Thymine and cytosine are pyrimidine dimers. On long exposure of
UV rays, thymine dimers are formed, which puts people at higher risk of developing
skin cancer. Nucleotide excision repair is a DNA repair mechanism that excises the
thymine dimers in normal individuals.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
34
Explain Griffith’s transformation experiments. What did he conclude from them?
A Two strains of S. pneumoniae were used for the experiment. Griffith injected a mouse
with heat-inactivated S strain (pathogenic) and R strain (nonpathogenic). The mouse
died and S strain was recovered from the dead mouse. He concluded that external
DNA is taken up by a cell that changed morphology and physiology.
B Two strains of Vibrio cholerae were used for the experiment. Griffith injected a mouse
with heat-inactivated S strain (pathogenic) and R strain (nonpathogenic). The mouse
died and S strain was recovered from the dead mouse. He concluded that external
DNA is taken up by a cell that changed morphology and physiology.
C Two strains of S. pneumoniae were used for the experiment. Griffith injected a mouse
with heat-inactivated S strain (pathogenic) and R strain (nonpathogenic). The mouse
died and R strain was recovered from the dead mouse. He concluded that external
DNA is taken up by a cell that changed morphology and physiology.
D Two strains of S. pneumoniae were used for the experiment. Griffith injected a mouse
with heat-inactivated S strain (pathogenic) and R strain (nonpathogenic). The mouse
died and S strain was recovered from the dead mouse. He concluded that mutation
occurred in the DNA of the cell that changed morphology and physiology.
Solution
35
The solution is (A). Two strains of S. pneumoniae were used in Griffith’s
transformation experiments. The R strain is nonpathogenic. The S strain is
pathogenic and causes death. When Griffith injected a mouse with the heatinactivated S strain and a live R strain, the mouse died. The S strain was recovered
from the dead mouse. Thus, Griffith concluded that something had passed from the
heat-killed S strain to the R strain, transforming the R strain into S strain in the
process.
Which answer best explains why radioactive sulfur and phosphorus were used to label
bacteriophages in the Hershey and Chase experiments?
A Protein was labeled with radioactive sulfur and DNA was labeled with radioactive
phosphorus. Phosphorus is found in DNA, so it will be tagged by radioactive
phosphorus.
B Protein was labeled with radioactive phosphorus and DNA was labeled with
radioactive sulfur. Phosphorus is found in DNA, so it will be tagged by radioactive
phosphorus.
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
C Protein was labeled with radioactive sulfur and DNA was labeled with radioactive
phosphorus. Phosphorus is found in DNA, so DNA will be tagged by radioactive sulfur.
D Protein was labeled with radioactive phosphorus and DNA was labeled with
radioactive sulfur. Phosphorus is found in DNA, so DNA will be tagged by radioactive
sulfur.
Solution
36
The solution is (A). Hershey and Chase labeled one batch of phage with radioactive
sulfur, 35S, to label the protein coat. Another batch of phage was labeled with
radioactive phosphorus, 32P. Because phosphorus is found in DNA, but not protein,
the DNA and not the protein would be tagged with radioactive phosphorus.
How can Chargaff’s rules be used to identify different species?
A The amount of adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine varies from species to species
and is not found in equal quantities. They do not vary between individuals of the same
species and can be used to identify different species.
B The amount of adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine varies from species to species
and is found in equal quantities. They do not vary between individuals of the same
species and can be used to identify different species.
C The amount of adenine and thymine is equal to guanine and cytosine and is found in
equal quantities. They do not vary between individuals of the same species and can be
used to identify different species.
D The amount of adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine varies from species to species
and is not found in equal quantities. They vary between individuals of the same
species and can be used to identify different species.
Solution
37
In the Avery, Macleod, and McCarty experiments, what conclusion would the scientists
have drawn if the use of proteases prevented the transformation of R strain bacteria?
Solution
38
The solution is (A). The content of DNA is different indifferent species and the
amounts of adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine are found in different
quantities. Therefore, the amounts of adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine are
consistent for a species and can be used to identify that species.
The conclusion would be that proteins are the heritable material in cells instead of
nucleic acids.
Describe the structure and complementary base pairing of DNA.
A DNA is made up of two strands that are twisted around each other to form a helix.
Adenine pairs up with thymine and cytosine pairs with guanine. The two strands are
antiparallel in nature; that is, the 3′ end of one strand faces the 5′ end of the other
strand. Sugar, phosphate, and nitrogenous bases contribute to the DNA structure.
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
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B DNA is made up of two strands that are twisted around each other to form a helix.
Adenine pairs up with cytosine and thymine pairs with guanine. The two strands are
antiparallel in nature; that is, the 3′ end of one strand faces the 5′ end of the other
strand. Sugar, phosphate, and nitrogenous bases contribute to the DNA structure.
C DNA is made up of two strands that are twisted around each other to form a helix.
Adenine pairs up with thymine and cytosine pairs with guanine. The two strands are
parallel in nature; that is, the 3′ end of one strand faces the 3′ end of the other strand.
Sugar, phosphate, and nitrogenous bases contribute to the DNA structure.
D DNA is made up of two strands that are twisted around each other to form a helix.
Adenine pairs up with thymine and cytosine pairs with guanine. The two strands are
antiparallel in nature; that is, the 3′ end of one strand faces the 5′ end of the other
strand. Only sugar contributes to the DNA structure.
Solution
39
The solution is (A). DNA is made up of two strands that are twisted around each
other to form a right-handed helix. Base pairing takes place between a purine and
pyrimidine; namely, A pairs with T and G pairs with C. Adenine and thymine are
complementary base pairs, and cytosine and guanine are also complementary base
pairs. The base pairs are stabilized by hydrogen bonds; adenine and thymine form
two hydrogen bonds and cytosine and guanine form three hydrogen bonds. The two
strands are anti-parallel in nature; that is, the 3′ end of one strand faces the 5′ end
of the other strand. The sugar and phosphate of the nucleotides form the backbone
of the structure, whereas the nitrogenous bases are stacked inside.
Which answer provides a brief summary of the Sanger sequencing method?
A Frederick Sanger’s sequencing is a chain termination method that is used to generate
DNA fragments that terminate at different points using dye-labeled
dideoxynucleotides. DNA is separated by electrophoresis on the basis of size. The DNA
sequence can be read out on an electropherogram generated by a laser scanner.
B Frederick Sanger’s sequencing is a chain elongation method that is used to generate
DNA fragments that elongate at different points using dye-labeled dideoxynucleotides.
DNA is separated by electrophoresis on the basis of size. The DNA sequence can be
read out on an electropherogram generated by a laser scanner.
C Frederick Sanger’s sequencing is a chain termination method that is used to generate
DNA fragments that terminate at different points using dye-labeled
dideoxynucleotides. DNA is joined together by electrophoresis on the basis of size. The
DNA sequence can be read out on an electropherogram generated by a laser scanner.
D Frederick Sanger’s sequencing is a chain termination method that is used to generate
DNA fragments that terminate at different points using dye-labeled
dideoxynucleotides. DNA is separated by electrophoresis on the basis of size. The DNA
sequence can be read out on an electropherogram generated by a magnetic scanner.
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Solution
40
14 | DNA Structure and Functi
The solution is (A). In Frederick Sanger's dideoxy chain termination method, dyelabeled dideoxynucleotides are used to generate DNA fragments that terminate at
different points. The DNA is separated by capillary electrophoresis on the basis of
size, and from the order of fragments formed, the DNA sequence can be read. The
DNA sequence readout is shown on an electropherogram that is generated by a
laser scanner.
Compare and contrast the similarities and differences between eukaryotic and
prokaryotic DNA.
A Eukaryotes have a single, circular chromosome, while prokaryotes have multiple,
linear chromosomes. Prokaryotes pack their chromosomes by super coiling, managed
by DNA gyrase. Eukaryote chromosomes are wrapped around histone proteins that
create heterochromatin and euchromatin, which is not present in prokaryotes.
B Prokaryotes have a single, circular chromosome, while eukaryotes have multiple,
linear chromosomes. Prokaryotes pack their chromosomes by super coiling, managed
by DNA gyrase. Eukaryote chromosomes are wrapped around histone proteins that
create heterochromatin and euchromatin, which is not present in prokaryotes.
C Prokaryotes have a single, circular chromosome, while eukaryotes have multiple,
linear chromosomes. Eukaryotes pack their chromosomes by super coiling, managed
by DNA gyrase. Prokaryote chromosomes are wrapped around histone proteins that
create heterochromatin and euchromatin, which is not present in eukaryotes.
D Prokaryotes have a single, circular chromosome, while eukaryotes have multiple,
linear chromosomes. Prokaryotes pack their chromosomes by super coiling, managed
by DNA gyrase. Eukaryote chromosomes are wrapped around histone proteins that
create heterochromatin and euchromatin, which is present in prokaryotes.
Solution
41
The solution is (B). Prokaryotes have a single, circular chromosome, while
eukaryotes have multiple, linear chromosomes. Prokaryotes pack their
chromosomes into the cell using super coiling, managed DNA gyrase. Eukaryote
chromosomes are wrapped around histone proteins that create heterochromatin
and euchromatin that is not found in prokaryotic cells.
DNA replication is bidirectional and discontinuous. How can you explain your
understanding of those concepts?
A DNA polymerase reads the template strand in the 3′ to 5′ direction and adds
nucleotides only in the 5′ to 3' direction. The leading strand is synthesized in the
direction of the replication fork. Replication on the lagging strand occurs in the
direction away from the replication fork in short stretches of DNA called Okazaki
fragments.
B DNA polymerase reads the template strand in the 5′ to 3′ direction and adds
nucleotides only in the 5′ to 3′ direction. The leading strand is synthesized in the
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direction of the replication fork. Replication on the lagging strand occurs in the
direction away from the replication fork in short stretches of DNA called Okazaki
fragments.
C DNA polymerase reads the template strand in the 3′ to 5′ direction and adds
nucleotides only in the 5′ to 3′ direction. The leading strand is synthesized in the
direction away from the replication fork. Replication on the lagging strand occurs in
the direction of the replication fork in short stretches of DNA called Okazaki
fragments.
D DNA polymerase reads the template strand in the 5′ to 3′ direction and adds
nucleotides only in the 3′ to 5′ direction. The leading strand is synthesized in the
direction of the replication fork. Replication on the lagging strand occurs in the
direction away from the replication fork in long stretches of DNA called Okazaki
fragments.
Solution
42
The solution is (A). DNA polymerase can add nucleotides only in the 5’ to 3’
direction. DNA polymerase recognizes the 3’OH end as its landing site; thus,
polymerase “reads” the template strand in the 3’ to 5’ direction and builds the new
DNA complementary DNA polymer in the 5’ to 3’ direction. One strand—called the
leading strand—is synthesized continuously in the direction of the replication fork
(the direction in which helicase is separating the two strands), with polymerase
adding new nucleotides one-by-one. However, replication of the other strand—
called the lagging strand—occurs in a direction away from the replication fork, in
short stretches of DNA known as Okazaki fragments.
How did the scientific community learn that DNA replication takes place in a
semiconservative fashion?
A Meselson and Stahl experimented with E. coli. DNA grown in 15N was heavier than
DNA grown in 14N. When DNA in 15N was switched to 14N media, DNA sedimented
halfway between the 15N and 14N levels after one round of cell division, indicating 50
percent presence of 14N. This supports the semiconservative replication model.
B Meselson and Stahl experimented with S. pneumonia. DNA grown in 15N was heavier
than DNA grown in 14N. When DNA in 15N was switched to 14N media, DNA sedimented
halfway between the 15N and 14N levels after one round of cell division, indicating 50
percent presence of 14N. This supports the semiconservative replication model.
C Meselson and Stahl experimented with E. coli. DNA grown in 14N was heavier than
DNA grown in 15N. When DNA in 15N was switched to 14N media, DNA sedimented
halfway between the 15N and 14N levels after one round of cell division, indicating 50
percent presence of 14N. This supports the semiconservative replication model.
D Meselson and Stahl experimented with S. pneumonia. DNA grown in 15N was heavier
than DNA grown in 14N. When DNA in 15N was switched to 14N media, DNA sedimented
halfway between the 15N and 14N levels after one round of cell division, indicating
complete presence of 14N. This supports the semiconservative replication model.
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Solution
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
The solution is (A). Meselson and Stahl experimented with E. coli grown first in heavy
nitrogen (15N) then in 14N. DNA grown in 15N is heavier than DNA grown in 14N, and
sediments to a lower level in cesium chloride solution in an ultracentrifuge. When
DNA grown in 15N is switched to media containing 14N, after one round of cell
division the DNA sediments halfway between the 15N and 14N levels, indicating that
it now contains 50 percent 14N. In subsequent cell divisions, an increasing amount of
DNA contains 14N only. These data support the semiconservative replication model.
Why is half of DNA replicated in a discontinuous fashion?
A Replication of the lagging strand occurs in the direction away from the replication fork
in short stretches of DNA, since access to the DNA is always from the 5′ end. This
results in pieces of DNA being replicated in a discontinuous fashion.
B Replication of the leading strand occurs in the direction away from the replication fork
in short stretches of DNA, since access to the DNA is always from the 5′ end. This
results in pieces of DNA being replicated in a discontinuous fashion.
C Replication of the lagging strand occurs in the direction of the replication fork in short
stretches of DNA, since access to the DNA is always from the 5′ end. This results in
pieces of DNA being replicated in a discontinuous fashion.
D Replication of the lagging strand occurs in the direction away from the replication fork
in short stretches of DNA, since access to the DNA is always from the ′' end. This
results in pieces of DNA being replicated in a discontinuous fashion.
Solution
44
The solution is (A). Since access to the DNA strand is always from the 5′ end, the
replication of one strand, called the lagging strand, occurs in a direction away from
the replication fork, in short stretches of DNA. This results in pieces of DNA being
replicated in a discontinuous fashion. These pieces will be joined into a single strand
of DNA.
Explain the events taking place at the replication fork. If the gene for helicase is mutated,
what part of replication will be affected?
A Helicase separates the DNA strands at the origin of replication. Topoisomerase breaks
and reforms DNA’s phosphate backbone ahead of the replication fork, thereby
relieving the pressure. Single-stranded binding proteins prevent reforming of DNA.
Primase synthesizes RNA primer which is used by DNA polymerase to form a daughter
strand. If helicase is mutated, the DNA strands will not be separated at the beginning
of replication.
B Helicase joins the DNA strands together at the origin of replication. Topoisomerase
breaks and reforms DNA’s phosphate backbone after the replication fork, thereby
relieving the pressure. Single-stranded binding proteins prevent reforming of DNA.
Primase synthesizes RNA primer which is used by DNA polymerase to form a daughter
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strand. If helicase is mutated, the DNA strands will not be joined together at the
beginning of replication.
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C Helicase separates the DNA strands at the origin of replication. Topoisomerase breaks
and reforms DNA’s sugar backbone ahead of the replication fork, thereby increasing
the pressure. Single-stranded binding proteins prevent reforming of DNA. Primase
synthesizes DNA primer which is used by DNA polymerase to form a daughter strand.
If helicase is mutated, the DNA strands will be separated at the beginning of
replication.
D Helicase separates the DNA strands at the origin of replication. Topoisomerase breaks
and reforms DNA’s sugar backbone ahead of the replication fork, thereby relieving the
pressure. Single-stranded binding proteins prevent reforming of DNA. Primase
synthesizes DNA primer which is used by RNA polymerase to form a parent strand. If
helicase is mutated, the DNA strands will be separated at the beginning of replication.
Solution
The solution is (A). A replication fork is formed when helicase separates the DNA
strands at the origin of replication. The DNA tends to become more highly coiled
ahead of the replication fork. Topoisomerase breaks and reforms DNA’s phosphate
backbone ahead of the replication fork, thereby relieving the pressure that results
from this supercoiling. Single-strand binding proteins bind to the single-stranded
DNA to prevent the helix from re-forming. Primase synthesizes an RNA primer. DNA
polymerase III uses this primer to synthesize the daughter DNA strand.
If helicase is mutated and cannot function, the DNA strands will not be separated at
the beginning of replication.
45
What are Okazaki fragments, and how they are formed?
A Okazaki fragments are short stretches of DNA on the lagging strand, which is
synthesized in the direction away from the replication fork.
B Okazaki fragments are long stretches of DNA on the lagging strand, which is
synthesized in the direction of the replication fork.
C Okazaki fragments are long stretches of DNA on the leading strand, which is
synthesized in the direction away from the replication fork.
D Okazaki fragments are short stretches of DNA on the leading strand, which is
synthesized in the direction of the replication fork.
Solution
46
The solution is (A). Replication of the lagging strand in DNA replication occurs in a
direction away from the replication fork in short stretches of DNA known as Okazaki
fragments.
Compare and contrast the roles of DNA polymerase I and DNA ligase in DNA replication.
A DNA polymerase I removes the RNA primers from the developing copy of DNA. DNA
ligase seals the ends of the new segment, especially the Okazaki fragments.
B DNA polymerase I adds the RNA primers to the already developing copy of DNA. DNA
ligase separates the ends of the new segment, especially the Okazaki fragments.
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C DNA polymerase I seals the ends of the new segment, especially the Okazaki
fragments. DNA ligase removes the RNA primers from the developing copy of DNA.
D DNA polymerase I removes the enzyme primase from the developing copy of DNA.
DNA ligase seals the ends of the old segment, especially the Okazaki fragments.
Solution
47
The solution is (A). DNA polymerase I has exonuclease activity that removes RNA
primers from the developing copy while DNA ligase seals the ends of the new
segment, especially the Okazaki fragments.
If the rate of replication in a particular prokaryote is 900 nucleotides per second, how long
would it take to make two copies of a 1.2 million base pair genome?
A 22.2 min
B 44.4 min
C 45.4 min
D 54.4 min
Solution
48
The solution is (B). The rate of replication equals 900 nucleotides per second.
For 1.2 million base pairs, the time taken for replication would be
1.2 million  900  22.2 min (1,333.3 s). To make two copies, the time
taken will be 22.2  2  44.4 min.
How do the linear chromosomes in eukaryotes ensure that their ends are replicated
completely?
A The ends of the linear chromosomes are maintained by the activity of the telomerase
enzyme.
B The ends of the linear chromosomes are maintained by the formation of a
replication fork.
C The ends of the linear chromosomes are maintained by the continuous joining of
Okazaki fragments.
D The ends of the linear chromosomes are maintained by the action of the polymerase
enzyme.
Solution
The solution is (A). Telomerase enzyme replicates the ends of chromosomes by
attaching to the 3′ chromosomal end of the DNA strand. When the 3′ end is
elongated, then DNA polymerase adds complementary nucleotides to the end of
chromosomes.
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
What is the best way to compare and contrast prokaryotic and eukaryotic DNA
replication?
A A prokaryotic organism’s rate of replication is 10 times faster than that of eukaryotes.
Prokaryotes have a single origin of replication and use five types of polymerases, while
eukaryotes have multiple sites of origin and use 14 polymerases. Telomerase is absent
in prokaryotes. DNA pol I is the primer remover in prokaryotes, while in eukaryotes it
is RNase H. DNA pol III performs strand elongation in prokaryotes and pol δ and pol ε
do the same in eukaryotes.
B A prokaryotic organism’s rate of replication is 10 times slower than that of eukaryotes.
Prokaryotes have a single origin of replication and use five types of polymerases, while
eukaryotes have multiple sites of origin and use 14 polymerases. Telomerase is absent
in eukaryotes. DNA pol I is the primer remover in prokaryotes, while in eukaryotes it is
RNase H. DNA pol III performs strand elongation in prokaryotes and pol δ and pol ε do
the same in eukaryotes.
C A prokaryotic organism’s rate of replication is 10 times faster than that of eukaryotes.
Prokaryotes have five origins of replication and use a single type of polymerase, while
eukaryotes have a single site of origin and use 14 polymerases. Telomerase is absent
in prokaryotes. DNA pol I is the primer remover in prokaryotes, while in eukaryotes it
is RNase H. DNA pol III performs strand elongation in prokaryotes and pol δ and pol ε
do the same in eukaryotes.
D A prokaryotic organism’s rate of replication is 10 times slower than that of eukaryotes.
Prokaryotes have a single origin of replication and use five types of polymerases, while
eukaryotes have multiple sites of origin and use 14 polymerases. Telomerase is absent
in prokaryotes. DNA pol I is the primer remover in eukaryotes, while in prokaryotes it
is RNase H. DNA pol III performs strand elongation in prokaryotes and pol δ and pol ε
do the same in eukaryotes.
Solution
The solution is (A). Prokaryotic organisms have a single origin of replication, while
eukaryotic ones have multiple sites. The rate of replication of prokaryotic cells is
approximately 10 times that of eukaryotes. There are five types of DNA polymerases
used by prokaryotes and 14 in eukaryotes. Telomerase functions in eukaryotic cells,
but not prokaryotic one. The RNA primer remover in prokaryotic organisms is DNA
pol I, but RNase H in eukaryotic cells. Strand elongation is performed by DNA pol III
in prokaryotes and by Pol δ, pol ε in eukaryotic organisms.
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What would be the consequence of a mutation in a mismatch repair enzyme? How would
this affect the function of a gene?
A Mismatch repair corrects the errors after the replication is completed by excising the
incorrectly added nucleotide and adding the correct base. Any mutation in a mismatch
repair enzyme would lead to more permanent damage.
B Mismatch repair corrects the errors during the replication by excising the incorrectly
added nucleotide and adding the correct base. Any mutation in the mismatch repair
enzyme would lead to more permanent damage.
C Mismatch repair corrects the errors after the replication is completed by excising the
added nucleotides and adding more bases. Any mutation in the mismatch repair
enzyme would lead to more permanent damage.
D Mismatch repair corrects the errors after the replication is completed by excising the
incorrectly added nucleotide and adding the correct base. Any mutation in the
mismatch repair enzyme would lead to more temporary damage.
Solution
51
The solution is (A). Some errors are not corrected during replication, but instead are
corrected after replication is completed; this type of repair is known as mismatch
repair. The enzymes recognize the incorrectly added nucleotide and excise it; this
then is replaced by the correct base. If this remains uncorrected, it may lead to more
permanent damage.
A mutation has occurred in the DNA and in the mRNA for a gene. Which one would have a
more significant effect on gene expression? Why?
A Both will result in the production of defective proteins. The DNA mutation, if not
corrected, is permanent, while the mRNA mutation will affect only proteins made
from that mRNA strand. Production of defective protein ceases when the mRNA
strand deteriorates.
B Both will result in the production of defective proteins. The DNA mutation, if not
corrected, is permanent, while the mRNA mutation will not affect proteins made from
that mRNA strand. Production of defective protein continues when the mRNA strand
deteriorates.
C Only DNA will result in the production of defective proteins. The DNA mutation, if not
corrected, is permanent. Production of defective protein ceases when the DNA strand
deteriorates.
D Only mRNA will result in the production of defective proteins. The mRNA mutation will
affect only proteins made from that mRNA strand. Production of defective protein
ceases when the mRNA strand deteriorates.
Solution
The solution is (A). Both will result in a defective protein produced from the gene
information. The DNA mutation, if not corrected, is permanent; the mRNA mutation
will affect only proteins made from that RNA strand. When the mRNA strand
deteriorates, the production of the defective protein ceases.
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
What are the effects of point mutations on a DNA strand?
A Mutations can cause a single change in an amino acid. A nonsense mutation can stop
the replication or reading of that strand. Insertion or deletion mutations can cause a
frame shift. This can result in nonfunctional proteins.
B Mutations can cause a single change in amino acid. A missense mutation can stop the
replication or reading of that strand. Insertion or deletion mutations can cause a
frame shift. This can result in nonfunctional proteins.
C Mutations can cause a single change in amino acid. A nonsense mutation can stop the
replication or reading of that strand. Substitution mutations can cause a frame shift.
This can result in nonfunctional proteins.
D Mutations can cause a single change in amino acid. A nonsense mutation can stop the
replication or reading of that strand. Insertion or deletion mutations can cause a
frame shift. This can result in functional proteins.
Solution
53
The solution is (A). If one base is replaced by another base, but the coding for an
amino acid is not changed, there is no effect on the DNA strand and a silent
mutation has occurred. A missense mutation happens when a point mutation causes
a change in a single amino acid. A nonsense mutation causes a stop message to be
read, and the replication or reading of that strand is stopped at that point. Insertion
or deletion mutations cause a frame shift from that point on and a non-functional
protein will result.
What is the significance of mutations in tRNA and rRNA?
A Mutations in tRNA and rRNA would lead to the production of defective proteins or no
protein production.
B Mutations in tRNA and rRNA would lead to changes in the semiconservative mode of
replication of DNA.
C Mutations in tRNA and rRNA would lead to production of a DNA strand with a mutated
single strand and normal other strand.
D Mutations in tRNA and rRNA would lead to skin cancer in patients of Xeroderma
pigmentosa.
Solution
The solution is (A). A mutation in a single type of tRNA will affect the transfer of one
amino acid. The result of this will be a decrease in proteins that require this amino
acid, as it will not be brought to the assembly points of proteins in adequate
amounts. A mutation in rRNA will affect the assembly of all proteins and lead to
significant deficiencies in these molecules.
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TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
54
What would Chase and Hershey have concluded if the supernatant contained radioactive
labeled-phosphorus?
A DNA was the primary source of heritable information.
B RNA was the primary source of heritable information.
C Protein was the primary source of heritable information.
D Phages were the primary source of heritable information.
Solution
55
The solution is (C). Protein would have been identified as the primary source of
heritable information.
Which piece of evidence supports that the material Miescher discovered was DNA?
A The precipitate contained sulfur.
B The precipitate contained oxygen.
C The precipitate contained phosphorus.
D The precipitate contained protein.
Solution
56
The solution is (C). The precipitate contained phosphorus, which is abundant in DNA.
How are forensic scientists able to use DNA analysis to identify individuals?
A Comparison of DNA from a known source or individual with analysis of the sequence
of an unknown sample of DNA allows scientists to find out if both of them are similar
or not.
B DNA from the unknown sample is sequenced and analyzed. The result of the analysis
then is matched with any random population. The matching individual then helps in
forensics.
C Comparison of DNA from a known source or individual with analysis of the sequence
of bases in strands of an unknown sample of RNA allows scientists to find out if both
of them are similar or not.
D Comparison of DNA from a known source or individual with analysis of the sugars and
phosphates in strands of an unknown sample of DNA allows scientists to find out if
both of them are similar or not.
Solution
The solution is (A). Analysis of the sequence of bases in strands of DNA and their
comparison to DNA from a known source or individual allows scientists to state that
they are the same, or very similar, thus identifying the unknown source of the
sample of DNA.
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
What were the contributions of Francis Crick, James Watson, and Rosalind Franklin to the
discovery of the structure of DNA?
A Franklin used X-ray diffraction methods to demonstrate the helical nature of DNA,
while Watson and Crick formulated the double-stranded structural model of DNA.
B Franklin, Watson, and Crick first employed the technique of X-ray diffraction to
understand the storage of DNA. Since it did not work out, Watson and Crick then ran
experiments to ascertain the DNA structure.
C Watson and Crick used X-ray diffraction methods to demonstrate the helical nature of
DNA, while Franklin formulated the double-stranded structural model of DNA.
D Watson and Crick used X-ray diffraction methods to demonstrate the helical nature of
DNA, while Franklin formulated the double-stranded structural model of DNA.
Solution
58
The solution is (A). Franklin was using X-ray diffraction methods to understand the
structure of DNA. Watson and Crick were able to piece together the puzzle of the
DNA molecule on the basis of Franklin's data.
What do RNA and DNA have in common?
A Both contain four different nucleotides.
B Both are usually double-stranded molecules.
C Both contain adenine and uracil.
D Both contain ribose.
Solution
59
The solution is (A). Both contain four different nucleotides.
What would be a good application of plasmid transformation?
A To make copies of DNA
B To isolate a change in a single nucleotide
C To separate DNA fragments
D To sequence DNA
Solution
60
The solution is (C). DNA fragments move through gel based on their negative charge.
How do the components of DNA fit together?
A DNA is composed of nucleotides, consisting of a five-carbon sugar, a phosphate, and a
nitrogenous base. DNA is a double-helical structure in which complementary base
pairing occurs. Adenine pairs with thymine and guanine pairs with cytosine. Adenine
and thymine form two hydrogen bonds and cytosine and guanine form three
hydrogen bonds. The two individual strands of DNA are held together by covalent
bonds between the phosphate of one nucleotide and sugar of the next. The two
strands run antiparallel to each other.
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B DNA is composed of nucleotides, consisting of a five-carbon sugar, a phosphate, and a
nitrogenous base. DNA is a double-helical structure in which complementary base
pairing occurs. Adenine pairs with cytosine and guanine pairs with thymine. Adenine
and cytosine form two hydrogen bonds and guanine and thymine form three
hydrogen bonds. The two individual strands of DNA are held together by covalent
bonds between the phosphate of one nucleotide and sugar of the next. The two
strands run antiparallel to each other.
C DNA is composed of nucleotides, consisting of a five-carbon sugar, a phosphate, and a
nitrogenous base. DNA is a double-helical structure in which complementary base
pairing occurs. Adenine pairs with cytosine and guanine pairs with thymine. Adenine
and cytosine form three hydrogen bonds and guanine and thymine form two
hydrogen bonds. The two individual strands of DNA are held together by covalent
bonds between the phosphate of one nucleotide and sugar of the next. The two
strands run antiparallel to each other.
D DNA is composed of nucleotides, consisting of a five-carbon sugar, a phosphate, and a
nitrogenous base. DNA is a double-helical structure in which complementary base
pairing occurs. Adenine pairs with cytosine and guanine pairs with thymine. Adenine
and cytosine form three hydrogen bonds and guanine and thymine form two
hydrogen bonds. The two individual strands of DNA are held together by covalent
bonds between the phosphate of one nucleotide and sugar of the next. The two
strands run parallel to each other.
Solution
61
The solution is (A). DNA is made up of two strands that are twisted around each
other to form a right-handed helix. Base pairing takes place between a purine and
pyrimidine; namely, A pairs with T and G pairs with C. Adenine and thymine are
complementary base pairs, and cytosine and guanine are also complementary base
pairs. The base pairs are stabilized by hydrogen bonds; adenine and thymine form
two hydrogen bonds, and cytosine and guanine form three hydrogen bonds. The two
strands are anti-parallel in nature; that is, the 3′ end of one strand faces the 5′ end
of the other strand. The sugar and phosphate of the nucleotides form the backbone
of the structure, whereas the nitrogenous bases are stacked inside.
What is the best way to describe the Sanger DNA sequencing method used for the human
genome sequencing project?
A A DNA sample is denatured by heating and then put into four tubes. A primer, DNA
polymerase, and all four nucleotides are added. Limited quantities of one of the four
dideoxynucleotides (ddNTPs) are added to each tube respectively. Each one of them
carries a specific fluorescent label. Chain elongation continues until a fluorescent
ddNTP is added to the growing chain, after which chain termination occurs. Gel
electrophoresis is performed and the length of each base is detected by laser scanners
with wavelengths specific to the four different ddNTPs.
B A DNA sample is denatured by heating and then put into four tubes. A primer, RNA
polymerase, and all four nucleotides are added. Limited quantities of one of the four
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
dideoxynucleotides (ddNTPs) are added to each tube respectively. Each one of them
carries a specific fluorescent label. Chain elongation continues until a fluorescent
ddNTP is added to the growing chain, after which chain termination occurs. Gel
electrophoresis is performed and the length of each base is detected by laser scanners
with wavelengths specific to the four different ddNTPs.
C A DNA sample is denatured by heating and then put into four tubes. A primer, DNA
polymerase, and all four nucleotides are added. Limited quantities of one of the four
dideoxynucleotides (ddNTPs) are added to each tube respectively. Each one of them
carries a specific fluorescent label. Chain elongation continues until a fluorescent
ddNTP is removed from the growing chain, after which chain termination occurs. Gel
electrophoresis is performed and the length of each base is detected by laser scanners
with wavelengths specific to the four different ddNTPs.
D A DNA sample is denatured by heating and then put into four tubes. A primer, DNA
polymerase, and all four nucleotides are added. Limited quantities of one of the four
deoxynucleotides (dNTPs) are added to each tube respectively. Each one of them
carries a specific fluorescent label. Chain elongation continues until a fluorescent dNTP
is added the growing chain, after which chain termination occurs. Gel electrophoresis
is performed and the length of each base is detected by laser scanners with
wavelengths specific to the four different dNTPs.
Solution
62
The solution is (B). The DNA sample to be sequenced is denatured or separated into
two strands by heating it to high temperatures. The DNA is divided into four tubes in
which a primer, DNA polymerase, and all four nucleotides (A, T, G, and C) are added.
In addition to each of the four tubes, limited quantities of one of the four
dideoxynucleotides are added to each tube respectively. The tubes are labeled as A,
T, G, and C according to the ddNTP added. For detection purposes, each of the four
dideoxynucleotides carries a different fluorescent label. Chain elongation continues
until a fluorescent dideoxy nucleotide is incorporated, after which no further
elongation takes place. After the reaction is over, electrophoresis is performed. Even
a difference in length of a single base can be detected. The sequence is read from a
laser scanner.
What process is illustrated in the figure?
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
A Transcription
B Mutation
C Excision
D Translation
Solution
63
The solution is (A). RNA is being made from DNA.
How does the model of DNA replication illustrate the function of topoisomerase?
A Topoisomerase relieves the pressure that results from supercoiling by breaking and
reforming DNA’s phosphate backbone ahead of the replication fork.
B Topoisomerase increases the pressure to increase supercoiling by breaking and
reforming DNA’s phosphate backbone ahead of the replication fork.
C Topoisomerase relieves the pressure that results from supercoiling by breaking and
reforming DNA’s nucleotide base pairs ahead of the replication fork.
D Topoisomerase relieves the pressure that results from separation of DNA strands by
breaking and reforming DNA’s phosphate backbone ahead of the replication fork.
Solution
64
The solution is (A). The DNA tends to become more highly coiled ahead of the
replication fork. Topoisomerase breaks and reforms DNA’s phosphate backbone
ahead of the replication fork, thereby relieving the pressure that results from this
supercoiling.
Flamingos have genotypes for white feathers yet often appear with pink feathers within
the same population. What is most likely affecting the phenotype of some flamingos,
causing their feathers to turn pink in an isolated population?
A Weather variations
B Dietary changes
C DNA mutations
D Translation failure
Solution
65
The solution is (A). Weather variations would affect the entire isolated population.
What can be the result of DNA failing to undergo repair after too much UV exposure?
A Second-degree burns
B A malignant melanoma
C A breakdown of deep layers of the skin
D A sunburn
Solution
The solution is (B). UV light exposure can cause melanoma.
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What type of change can occur in the DNA of a chromosome that is termed a
chromosomal mutation?
A Substitution
B Translocation
C Missense
D Transversion
Solution
67
The solution is (B). Sometimes a piece of DNA from one chromosome may get
translocated to another chromosome or to another region of the same
chromosome; this chromosomal mutation is known as translocation.
Why are patients with Xeroderma pigmentosa more prone to cancer than the rest of the
population?
A Xeroderma pigmentosa patients cannot employ the nucleotide excision repair
mechanism. When these patients are exposed to UV light, thymine dimers are formed
and they are not able to repair this defect. These dimers distort the structure of DNA
and cause them to have a high risk of contracting skin cancer.
B Xeroderma pigmentosa patients can employ the nucleotide excision repair
mechanism. When these patients are exposed to UV light, the thymine dimers are
formed and they are able to repair this defect. These dimers do not distort the
structure of DNA and they have moderate risk of contracting skin cancer.
C Xeroderma pigmentosa patients cannot employ the nucleotide excision repair
mechanism. When these patients are exposed to UV light, the adjacent adenine forms
dimers and they are not able to repair this defect. These dimers distort the structure
of DNA and they have high risk of contracting skin cancer.
D Xeroderma pigmentosa patients cannot employ the nucleotide excision repair
mechanism. When these patients are exposed to UV light, the adjacent thymine
cannot form thymine dimers and they are not able to repair this defect. The
nonformation of dimers distorts the structure of DNA and they have high risk of
contracting skin cancer.
Solution
The solution is (D). Affected individuals have skin that is highly sensitive to UV rays
from the sun. When individuals are exposed to UV, pyrimidine dimers are formed;
people with Xeroderma pigmentosa are not able to repair the damage. These are
not repaired because of a defect in the nucleotide excision repair enzymes, whereas
in normal individuals, the thymine dimers are excised and the defect is corrected.
The thymine dimers distort the structure of the DNA double helix, and this may
cause problems during DNA replication. People with Xeroderma pigmentosa may
have a higher risk of contracting skin cancer than those who do not have the
condition.
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
68
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You are looking at two fragments of DNA. Both have the sequence CATTCTG on one
strand and GTAAGAC on the other. One of the fragments is exposed to UV light, the other
is not.
What will happen to the fragments and how might these mutations be repaired?
A The fragment exposed to UV light contains thymine dimers. Thymines lying adjacent
to each other can form thymine dimers when exposed to UV light. They can be
repaired by nucleotide excision.
B The fragment exposed to UV light contains adenine dimers. Adenines lying adjacent to
each other can form dimers when exposed to UV light. They can be repaired by
nucleotide excision.
C The fragment exposed to UV light contains thymine dimers. Thymines lying parallel to
each other can form thymine dimers when exposed to UV light. They can be repaired
by nucleotide excision.
D The fragment exposed to UV light contains thymine dimers. Thymines lying adjacent
to each other can form thymine dimers when exposed to UV light. They can be
synthesized by nucleotide excision.
Solution
69
The solution is (A). Nucleotide excision repairs thymine dimers. When exposed to
UV, thymines lying adjacent to each other can form thymine dimers. In normal cells,
they are excised and replaced.
How can mutations increase variation within a population?
A Substitution mutations may cause a different amino acid to be placed at a specific
location, causing small changes in the protein. Frameshift mutations usually cause
multiple amino acid changes, increasing chances that a new protein will form, leading
to radically different characteristics in the offspring.
B Substitution mutations may cause multiple amino acid changes, increasing chances
that a new protein will form, leading to radically different characteristics in the
offspring. Frameshift mutations may cause a different amino acid to be placed at a
specific location, causing small changes in a protein.
C Substitution mutations may cause a different amino acid to be placed at a specific
location, resulting in major changes to the protein and leading to radically different
characteristics in the offspring. Frameshift mutations cause multiple amino acid
differences in a protein, leading to small changes in the protein.
D Substitution mutations result in a different amino acid being placed at a specific
position in a protein, causing small changes. Silent mutations could result in new
characteristics possessed by an offspring when a stop codon is substituted for an
amino acid.
Solution
The solution is (A). Substitution mutations can cause a different amino acid to be
placed at a specific location in a protein that could alter its characteristics and
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
change the population over time. It might result in more resistance to bacterial
infections or even to direct sunlight. Frameshift mutations could, conceivably, make
an entirely different protein, giving the resulting offspring a new characteristic not
possessed previously.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
14.1 Historical Basis of Modern Understanding
70
The proof that DNA, not protein, is the carrier of genetic information involved a number
of historical experiments, including transformation or horizontal gene transfer (HGT),
which is the uptake and expression of extracellular DNA.
A. As described in the figure, transformation or HGT was first reported by Griffith in 1928
in an experiment in which the following occurred:
1. Heat-treated, pathogenic bacteria recovered their pathogenicity when incubated
with nonpathogenic bacteria.
2. Plasmids were transferred to nonpathogenic bacteria from pathogenic bacteria
through conjugation.
3. Nonpathogenic bacteria acquired pathogenicity when incubated in a broth
containing heat-treated, pathogenic bacteria.
4. Polysaccharide cell capsules from pathogenic bacteria were transferred to
nonpathogenic bacteria.
B. Griffith’s experiment, however, left undetermined the identity of the cellular
component that encoded genetic information. The identity of DNA as the carrier of
genetic information was resolved through the experiments by Martha Chase and Alfred
Hershey because they observed the following:
1. Injections with a serum containing chemically isolated polysaccharides and
nonpathogenic bacteria were not lethal.
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
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2. Pathogenic bacterial DNA that was radioactively labeled using a phosphorus
isotope was not present in mice that died.
3. Bacteriophages from a bacterial culture grown in a nutrient-containing medium
and radioactively labeled using a sulfur isotope transferred the label to bacteria
incubated in an unlabeled nutrient-containing medium.
4. Bacteriophages from a bacterial culture grown in a nutrient-containing medium
and radioactively labeled using a sulfur isotope did not transfer the label to
bacteria incubated in an unlabeled nutrient-containing medium.
C. Transformation and transduction increase variation within populations of bacteria and
archaebacteria by the following:
1. Transferring DNA among different species
2. Transferring free DNA across the cell membrane without energy expenditure
3. Transferring DNA between different strains of the same species of bacteria
4. Phagocytosis of bacteriophages
The evolution of antibiotic resistance via HGT poses a challenge to medical technology. On
the other hand, transformation often is assayed by incorporating an antibiotic-resistance
gene in the plasmid to be transferred into the host organism. In natural environments,
bacterial and archaebacterial cells become competent (able to transport DNA through the
cytoplasmic membrane) in response to stress such as UV radiation, high population
density, or heat shock. Such conditions are often difficult to model in the laboratory,
where competence can be induced by high concentrations of divalent cations, Ca 2+ or
Mg2+, or electrical shock. In either setting, extracellular DNA can be transported into the
cell, and (to a good approximation) uptake is proportional to the concentration of
extracellular DNA.
D. Identify a factor that might affect transformation or HGT. Then, design a plan to
evaluate the dependence of transformational efficiency (defined as the number of
transformations per gram of extracellular DNA) of plasmids that transfer antibiotic
resistance to a particular strain of Escherichia coli that is not resistant on that factor.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. (3)
B. (4)
C. (1)
D. The factor is identified. It might be any environmental factor, such as
temperature, salinity, or pH. The method of control could be specified, such as heat
bath or buffer, but the target of assessment would be the identification of the factor
and the need to vary it measurably while fixing values of other factors. One of these
fixed values should be population density which, based on lab experiences, the
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
student should be able to identify as optical density. Assay could be fluorescent if
the student had prior experience with this method or the use of antibiotic
resistance. Cells that had been transformed would then be counted in terms of the
number of viable or fluorescent colonies. A test of the assumption that uptake is
proportional to extracellular DNA should be included in the design with variation in
DNA concentration at fixed values of other parameters.
71
Prior to the work of Hershey and Chase, scientists thought that inheritance involved
“nucleoproteins.”
The amount of information to be transmitted between generations did not seem
consistent with the chemical simplicity of the few nucleotides found in polymers of
deoxyribonucleic acids in comparison to the diversity of protein polymers. Briefly explain:
Solution

The relationship between the structure of polymeric DNA and the information
stored

The relationship between the interactions between base pairs on
complementary strands of the double helix and Chargaff’s observation on the
relative abundance of nucleotides in DNA

The meaning of the statement from the Nature publication on the structure of
DNA by Watson and Crick: “It has not escaped our notice that the specific pairing
we have postulated immediately suggests a possible copying mechanism for the
genetic material.”
Sample answer: Although the number of amino acids and the 3-D shape increases
the complexity of proteins, a very long, linear sequence of four bases stores
sufficient information.
The pairing is the AT and CG forms that are supported by the structure with a pair of
strands, each with corresponding bases. The authors glibly point to the creation of a
whole field, genomics, based on the weakness of the hydrogen bonding between the
complementary strands.
14.2 DNA Structure and Sequencing
72
In 1977, Fred Sanger developed a method to determine the order of nucleotides in a
strand of DNA. Sanger won a Nobel Prize for his work, and his method of sequencing
based on dideoxy chain termination (see figure) has been foundational to the rapid
development of more modern, rapid, and inexpensive methods of sequencing. The
challenge of the $1,000 in one-day sequencing of the human genome was achieved in
2016 by next-generation sequencing (NGS), a “catch-all” term describing several
sequencing methods.
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
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A. Using the diagrams for reference, explain the effect of the addition of
dideoxynucleotides on chain growth of the DNA strand that is copied during sequencing in
terms of the structures of dideoxyribose and deoxyribose.
B. Suppose that a single strand to be sequenced is 5′CGAGTACG3′. In the presence of each
of the four deoxynucleotides and the dideoxynucleotide ddCTP, describe the strands that
would be formed from this template. Include in your description an annotation indicating
the 3′ and 5′ ends of the fragments resulting from the procedure.
C. Next-generation sequencing makes termination technology very rapid and relatively
inexpensive. All babies born in the United States are currently screened by statemandated tests for several genetic conditions. The number of conditions tested ranges
from 29 (GA and KS) to 59 (IL and MS). It is proposed that whole-genome sequencing
should be mandatory for all newborns. The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act
(2008) prevents health insurers from denying coverage or increasing costs of premiums
based on genetic information. It also prohibits employers from making use of these data
for hiring, firing, or promotion. The act passed in the House with a vote of 420 to 3,
although it was lobbied against by organizations representing business (human resources,
health insurance, and manufacturers), including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The act
does not cover life, long-term care, or disability insurance. Pose three questions that are
relevant to the use of whole-genome data.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Without the OH at the 3’ position a Pi group cannot bond and extend the sugar
backbone.
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B. Chain termination would occur at each G leading to the fragments 3′CTCATDC5′,
3′CATGC5′, and 3′C5′.
C. Questions could address ownership (ownership is a difficult question—is the DNA
on a licked postage stamp still owned?—similar to questions of permissible
searches), the relative benefits to society and perhaps to the individual of genomic
information could include reduced cost of insurance, reduced cost of medical
treatment, increased efficiency and effectiveness of medical treatment, the possible
creation of caste systems. A really good scientific question might be the extent to
which possibly identifiable, distinct phenotypes such as intelligence, athleticism,
beauty, artistic talent, etc., can be associated with a gene or an array of genes, as
opposed to environmental factors or behaviors. A search will show that the omission
of life insurance from GINA has led to some discussion and some possible concerns.
The student might question the reason that life insurance or disability insurance was
omitted. Questions might address whether or not courts have heard claims based on
GINA—there have been some and they are easily found. Questions about data
security will be asked.
14.3 Basics of DNA Replication
73
Our understanding of the mechanisms of DNA replication is important to research on
cancer and aging. Additionally, the molecular basis of Mendelian genetics was established.
A. The mechanism of DNA replication was investigated by Meselson and Stahl. The diagram
from their 1958 paper summarizes their findings. Describe how this representation
illustrates the manner in which DNA is copied for transmission between generations.
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
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B. During the synthesis of new strands of DNA from the parent strands, DNA polymerase
can only add nucleotides at the terminal 3’ of a growing strand. Using the diagram,
describe the similarities and differences between the DNA replication of both strands.
C. Shown at the left end of the upper parent strand is the six-base repeat sequence
TTAGGG. In humans, this is the repeated, telomeric sequence that is attached to the
telomere. The RNA primer in humans spans 10 base pairs, unlike in the drawing where it
spans only three. In somatic cells, an enzyme called telomerase no longer functions.
Explain the function of telomerase in the development of stem cells and cancer cells, and
the inhibition of telomerase in programmed cell death or apoptosis.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The semiconservative nature of replication is illustrated by this very effective
representation in which the newly synthesized strands are unshaded. The student
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14 | DNA Structure and Functi
might be expected to describe the use of centrifugation to separate light and heavy
isotopes of nitrogen.
B. The description should include the breaking of hydrogen bonds by helicase, the
attachment of DNA polymerase to the leading strand, the creation of a template for
synthesis on the lagging strand with RNA primer and the synthesis of fragments as
required by the 3’ to 5’ direction of addition. Names of specific enzymes are not
expected to be memorized and this item illustrates how they would be provided but
that the information provided can be used.
C. Telomerase as assessable content is out of scope although it is described in the
text. What would be appropriate for assessment on the AP Biology Exam would be
the recognition that the RNA primer might not have a sufficient number of bases
remaining on the lagging strand as DNA pol approaches the telomere. This results in
a segment of the lagging side not being copied. Without telomerase to repair the
lost telomeric sequence, the number of repeats is reduced until eventually the cell
cannot divide, leading to cell death. Cancer cells activate telomerase and so avoid
cell death.
14.4 DNA Replication in Prokaryotes
74
The mitochondria of eukaryote cells contain their own circular DNA (mtDNA), consistent
with their origin according to the theory of endosymbiosis. The mitochondrial genome is
highly conserved in Eukarya. In humans, the 50 to 100 mitochondria in each of the cells in
most tissues have 5 to 10 copies of the genome. Each has 37 genes that primarily encode
proteins of the electron transport chain. Point mutations in which a single nucleotide is
incorrectly placed is not repaired because the error-checking provided by DNA
polymerase is not present in the mitochondria. The mutation rate for mtDNA is
approximately 100 times higher than the mutation rate for nuclear DNA. The
simultaneous existence of multiple alleles in each cell is likely, a condition called
heteroplasmy. In mammals, sperm mitochondria are destroyed prior to fertilization.
A. Explain how point mutations in mtDNA can result in a loss of function in critical cellular
components such as cytochrome c yet not be lethal to the cell.
B. Oocyte mitochondria are randomly segregated during meiosis, resulting in variation in
the frequency of mtDNA mutations in offspring relative to the parent. Explain how a loss
of function does not accumulate, lowering the metabolic performance from generation to
generation.
As described in the Evolution Connection in this chapter of the text, a fossil fingertip
found in a Siberian cave revealed an evolutionary link between Neanderthals and
Denisovans. Fossils from 28 individuals were located in the “pit of bones,” Sima de los
Huesos, in Spain, thousands of miles from the Siberian cave. In 2013, mtDNA from a femur
of one of these individuals was compared with mtDNA of Denisovans, Neanderthals, and
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14 | DNA Structure and Function
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modern humans. It was found that the Sima fossil shared many more alleles with
Denisovans than with either Neanderthals or modern humans. In 2016, the same group of
scientists who sequenced the mtDNA from the femur of one of the Sima fossils partially
sequenced the DNA from that fossil, showing a clear connection to Neanderthals.
C. Analyze these data to draw alternative conclusions regarding the relatedness of the
three fossils and support each with evidence.
D. Design a plan to differentiate or resolve these alternative conclusions.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Multiple copies of mtDNA allow expression even though some copies code for
proteins that do not function.
B. As mutations accumulate the cell become less efficient. When a cell line has less
than a threshold number of functional mitochondrial, the cell dies and that cell line
is deleted. This applies to both somatic cells and to gametes.
C. The mtDNA evidence indicates that the Sima people are more closely related to
the Denosivans. However, the DNA evidence indicates the opposite conclusion.
D. The recovery of both mtDNA and nuclear DNA was a major feat. However,
suppose that the mtDNA reveals a maternal ancestor of different lineage. Because of
the very high mutation rate of mtDNA large variations between family lines occur
while an ancestral line within a family remains very similar. mtDNA from other bones
at Sima might reveal other maternal lines and this would be consistent with the DNA
result, implying a common maternal ancestor related to Denosivans. Evidence that
would confirm this would be provided by a third, as yet undiscovered or unstudied,
population whose mtDNA could be sequenced.
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15 | GENES AND PROTEINS
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
What is the flow of information for protein synthesis according to the central dogma?
A DNA to mRNA to protein
B DNA to mRNA to tRNA to protein
C DNA to protein to mRNA to protein
D mRNA to DNA to mRNA to protein
Solution
2
The solution is (A). DNA carries genetic information that is copied onto an mRNA
template to make a particular protein.
The DNA of virus A is inserted into the protein coat of virus B. The combination virus is
used to infect E. coli. The virus particles produced by the infection are analyzed for DNA
and protein.
What results would you expect?
A DNA and protein from B
B DNA and protein from A
C DNA from A and protein from B
D DNA from B and protein from A
Solution
3
The solution is (B). DNA is the genetic material, not protein. So when virus A is
infected in the protein coat of virus B, the new virus produced will have DNA and
protein of virus A. Protein is not the genetic material and cannot be inherited.
The AUC and AUA codons in mRNA both specify isoleucine. What feature of the genetic
code explains this?
A Complementarity
B Degeneracy
C Nonsense codons
D Universality
Solution
The solution is (B). The genetic code is a triplet code, with each DNA or RNA codon
consisting of three nucleotides that encode one amino acid. It is degenerate, as most
amino acids can be specified by more than one codon.
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4
How many nucleotides are in 12 mRNA codons?
A 12
B 24
C 36
D 48
Solution
5
The solution is (C). Twelve mRNA codons would have 36 nucleotides, since each
codon consists of three nucleotides.
Which molecule does NOT contain genetic information?
A DNA
B mRNA
C Protein
D RNA
Solution
6
The solution is (C). Proteins are made up of amino acids and do not contain genetic
information.
Which molecule in the central dogma can be compared to a disposable photocopy of a
book kept on reserve in the library?
A DNA
B mRNA
C Protein
D tRNA
Solution
7
The solution is (B). Messenger RNA is like a disposable photocopy of a book kept on
reserve in the library. It carries a copy of the instructions from the nucleus to other
parts of the cell and usually has a short half-life.
Which subunit of the E. coli polymerase confers specificity to transcription?
A 
B

C

D 
Solution
The solution is (D). The  subunit is involved in transcription initiation. It confers
transcriptional specificity so that the polymerase begins to synthesize mRNA from an
appropriate initiation site.
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8
Why are the 10 and 35 regions of prokaryotic promoters called consensus sequences?
A They are identical in all bacterial species.
B They are similar in all bacterial species.
C They exist in all organisms.
D They have the same function in all organisms.
Solution
9
The solution is (B). At the 10 and 35 regions upstream of the initiation site, there
are two promoter consensus sequences, or regions, that are similar across all
promoters and across various bacterial species.
The sequence that signals the end of transcription is called the —
A promoter
B stop codon
C TATA box
D terminator
Solution
10
The solution is (D). Transcription continues until RNA polymerase reaches a stop or
terminator sequence at the end of a gene.
If the  protein is missing, will a prokaryotic gene be terminated?
A It depends on the gene.
B No, the rho protein is essential.
C Transcription termination is not required.
D Yes, the rho protein is not involved in transcription.
Solution
11
The solution is (A). It depends on the sequence of the gene as to whether the
transcription termination is rho dependent or independent. If the rho protein is
missing, then termination can occur if the sequence consists of short strings of
adenines.
Which feature of promoters can be found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes?
A GC box
B Octamer box
C TATA box
D
Solution
10 and 35 sequences
The solution is (C). The TATA box is a DNA sequence found in the promoter regions
of both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
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12
At what stage in the transcription of a eukaryotic gene would TFII factors be active?
A Elongation
B Initiation
C Processing
D Termination
Solution
13
The solution is (B). The initiation of transcription in eukaryotes requires TFII. It binds
to the promoter region and then recruits RNA polymerase II.
Which polymerase is responsible for the synthesis of 5S rRNA?
A Polymerase I
B Polymerase II
C Polymerase III
D Ribonuclease I
Solution
14
The solution is (C). Polymerase III transcribes a variety of structural RNAs that
includes the 5S pre-rRNA, transfer pre-RNAs (pre-tRNAs), and small nuclear
pre-RNAs.
What transcripts will be most affected by low levels of  -amanitin?
A 18S and 28S rRNAs
B 5S rRNAs and tRNAs
C Other small nuclear RNAs
D Pre-mRNAs
Solution
15
The solution is (D). Pre-mRNAs are transcribed by RNA polymerase II and are
extremely sensitive to low levels of  -amanitin.
Which feature distinguishes eukaryotic transcription from bacterial transcription?
A Eukaryotic transcription does not start at a consensus sequence.
B Eukaryotic transcription does not require an initiation complex.
C Eukaryotic transcription and translation do not take place at the same time.
D Eukaryotic transcription does not require a termination sequence.
Solution
16
The solution is (C). In prokaryotes, both transcription and translation takes place in
the cytoplasm, while in eukaryotes, the transcription takes place in the nucleus and
translation occurs in the cytoplasm.
A poly-A sequence is added at the —
A 5′ end of a transcript in the nucleus
B 3′ end of a transcript in the nucleus
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C 5′ end of a transcript in the cytoplasm
D 3′ end of a transcript in the cytoplasm
Solution
17
The solution is (B). At the 3′ end of the transcript, a poly-A sequence is added.
Polymerase A adds a string of approximately 200 A residues.
Which pre-mRNA processing step is important for initiating translation?
A Adding a poly-A tail
B RNA editing
C Splicing
D Adding the 7-methylguanosine cap
Solution
18
The solution is (D). Capping occurs at the 5′ end while pre-mRNA synthesis is still
going on. A 7-methylguanosine cap is added by a phosphate linkage at the 5′ end of
the growing transcript.
Where are the RNA components of ribosomes synthesized?
A Cytoplasm
B Endoplasmic reticulum
C Nucleus
D Nucleolus
Solution
19
The solution is (D). The nucleolus in the eukaryotic cell is a condensed region where
ribosomes are formed. The ribosomal subunits are synthesized in the nucleolus, and
then exported to the cytoplasm before use.
What processing step enhances the stability of pre-tRNAs and pre-rRNAs?
A Cleavage
B Methylation
C Nucleotide modification
D Splicing
Solution
20
The solution is (B). Methylation is the addition of CH3 moiety for the stability of pretRNAs and pre-rRNAs.
What are introns?
A DNA sequences to which polymerases bind
B Processed mRNA
C Translated DNA sequences in a gene
D Untranslated DNA sequences in a gene
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Solution
21
The solution is (D). Untranslated DNA sequences that are transcribed in pre-mRNAs
and consist of noncoding or intervening sequences are called introns. Until introns
are removed, translation does not occur.
What is often the first amino acid added to a polypeptide chain?
A Adenine
B Leucine
C Methionine
D Thymine
Solution
22
The solution is (C). AUG on an mRNA, where translation begins, always specifies
methionine.
In any given species, there are at least how many types of aminoacyl tRNA synthetases?
A 20
B 40
C 100
D 200
Solution
23
The solution is (A). Each tRNA molecule is linked to its correct amino acid by a group
of enzymes called aminoacyl tRNA synthetases. At least one type of aminoacyl tRNA
synthetase exists for each amino acid.
In prokaryotic cells, ribosomes are found in/on the —
A cytoplasm
B mitochondrion
C nucleus
D endoplasmic reticulum
Solution
24
The solution is (A). Prokaryotic cells do not contain organelles. The ribosomes lie in
the cytoplasm of prokaryotes.
Peptide bond synthesis in prokaryotic translation is catalyzed by —
A a ribosomal protein
B a cytoplasmic protein
C mRNA itself
D ribosomal RNA
Solution
The solution is (D). Peptidyl transferase is an RNA-based enzyme that is integrated
into the 50S ribosomal subunit and catalyzes the formation of peptide bonds.
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25
What would happen if the 5′-methyl guanosine was NOT added to an mRNA?
A The transcript would be degraded when the mRNA moves out of the nucleus to the
cytoplasm.
B The mRNA molecule would be stabilized and start the process of translation within the
nucleus of the cell.
C The mRNA molecule would move out of the nucleus and create more copies of the
mRNA molecule.
D The mRNA molecule would not be able to add the poly-A tail onto its strand at the
5′ end.
Solution
26
The solution is (A). Without 5′ capping, the pre-mRNA transcript would be degraded
and initiation of translation would be compromised.
Which option is associated with the docking of mRNA on a ribosome in eukaryotic cells?
A Kozak’s rules
B Poly-A sequence
C Shine-Dalgarno sequence
D TATA box
Solution
The solution is (A). A Kozak consensus sequence is found in eukaryotic mRNA; the
following consensus sequence must appear around the AUG:
5′-GCC(purine)CCAUGG-3′
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
27
If mRNA is complementary to the DNA template strand and the DNA template stand is
complementary to the DNA non-template strand, why are the base sequences of mRNA
and the DNA non-template strand not identical? Could they ever be?
A No, they cannot be identical because the T nucleotide in DNA is replaced by the U
nucleotide in RNA, and AUG is the start codon.
B No, they cannot be identical because the T nucleotide in RNA is replaced by the U
nucleotide in DNA.
C They can be identical if methylation of the U nucleotide in RNA occurs, yielding a T
nucleotide.
D They can be identical if demethylation of the U nucleotide in RNA occurs, yielding a T
nucleotide.
Solution
The solution is (A). DNA is different from RNA in that T nucleotides in DNA are
replaced by U nucleotides in RNA. The start codon, AUG, includes a U nucleotide.
Therefore, they could never be identical in base sequence.
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28
Imagine if there were 200 commonly occurring amino acids instead of 20. Given what you
know about the genetic code, what would be the shortest possible codon length?
A 4
B 5
C 2
D 3
Solution
29
The solution is (A). For 200 commonly occurring amino acids, codons consisting of
four types of nucleotides would have to be at least four nucleotides long, because
44 = 256. There would be much less degeneracy in this case.
What part of the central dogma is NOT always followed in viruses?
A The flow of information in HIV is from RNA to DNA, then back to RNA to protein.
Influenza viruses never go through DNA.
B The flow of information is from protein to RNA in HIV, while the influenza virus
converts DNA into RNA.
C The flow of information is similar, but nucleic acids are synthesized as a result of
translation in HIV and influenza viruses.
D The flow of information is from RNA to protein. This protein is used to synthesize the
DNA of the viruses in HIV and influenza.
Solution
30
Suppose a gene has the sequence ATGCGTTATCGGGAGTAG. A point mutation changes the
gene to read ATGCGTTATGGGGAGTAG. How would the polypeptide product of this gene
change?
Solution
31
The solution is (A). The flow of information goes from RNA to DNA back to RNA to
protein in HIV. Other viruses such as the influenza virus never go through DNA.
It would change from MRYRE to MRYGE.
Explain the initiation of transcription in prokaryotes. Include all proteins involved.
A In prokaryotes, the polymerase comprises five polypeptide subunits, two of which are
identical. Four of these subunits, denoted  ,  ,  , and  , compose the
polymerase core enzyme. The fifth subunit,  , is involved only in the initiation of
transcription. The polymerase, which comprises all five subunits, is called the
holoenzyme.
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B In prokaryotes, the polymerase comprises four polypeptide subunits, two of which are
identical. These subunits, denoted  ,  ,  , and  ', compose the polymerase core
enzyme. There is a fifth subunit that is involved in translation initiation. The
polymerase, which comprises all four subunits, is called the holoenzyme.
C In prokaryotes, the polymerase comprises five polypeptide subunits, two of which are
identical. Four of these subunits, denoted  ,  ,  , and  , compose the
polymerase holoenzyme. The fifth subunit,  , is involved only in transcription
initiation. The polymerase, which comprises all five subunits, is called the core
enzyme.
D In prokaryotes, the polymerase comprises five polypeptide subunits, two of which are
identical. Four of these subunits, denoted  ,  ,  , and  , compose the
polymerase core enzyme. The fifth subunit,  , is involved only in termination. The
polymerase, which comprises all five subunits, is called the holoenzyme.
Solution
32
The solution is (A). Refer to Figure 15.7 and add the additional subunits of the
holoenzymes that are not in the figure.
How would you describe the difference between rho-dependent and -independent
termination of transcription in prokaryotes?
A Rho-dependent termination is controlled by the rho protein, and the polymerase stalls
near the end of the gene at a run of G nucleotides on the DNA template. In rhoindependent termination, when the polymerase encounters a region rich in C-G
nucleotides, the mRNA folds into a hairpin loop that causes the polymerase to stall.
B Rho-independent termination is controlled by the rho protein, and the polymerase
stalls near the end of the gene at a run of G nucleotides on the DNA template. In rhodependent termination, when the polymerase encounters a region rich in C–G
nucleotides, the mRNA folds into a hairpin loop that causes the polymerase to stall.
C Rho-dependent termination is controlled by the rho protein, and the polymerase
begins near the end of the gene at a run of G nucleotides on the DNA template. In rhoindependent termination, when the polymerase encounters a region rich in C–G
nucleotides, the mRNA creates a hairpin loop that causes the polymerase to stall.
D Rho-dependent termination is controlled by the rho protein, and the polymerase stalls
near the end of the gene at a run of G nucleotides on the DNA template. In rhoindependent termination, when the polymerase encounters a region rich in A–T
nucleotides, the mRNA creates a hairpin loop that causes the polymerase to stall.
Solution
The solution is (A). Rho-dependent termination is controlled by the rho protein,
which tracks along behind the polymerase on the growing mRNA chain. Near the
end of the gene, the polymerase stalls at a run of G nucleotides on the DNA
template. The rho protein collides with the polymerase and releases mRNA from the
transcription bubble. Rho-independent termination is controlled by specific
sequences in the DNA template strand. As the polymerase nears the end of the gene
being transcribed, it encounters a region rich in C–G nucleotides. This creates an
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mRNA hairpin that causes the polymerase to stall right as it begins to transcribe a
region rich in A–T nucleotides. Because A–U bonds are less thermostable, the core
enzyme breaks away.
33
What is the main structure that differentiates rho-dependent and -independent
termination in prokaryotes?
A Rho-independent termination involves the formation of a hairpin.
B Rho-dependent termination involves the formation of a hairpin.
C Rho-dependent termination stalls when the polymerase begins to transcribe a region
rich in A–T nucleotides.
D Rho-independent termination stalls when the polymerase begins to transcribe a
region rich in G nucleotides.
Solution
34
The solution is (A). Refer to Figures 15.7 and 15.8. Add the termination step, which
may involve either the rho protein or a hairpin.
Which step in the transcription of eukaryotic RNA differs the most from its prokaryotic
counterpart?
A The initiation step in eukaryotes requires an initiation complex with enhancers and
transcription factors. Also, the separation of the DNA strand is different, as histones
are involved.
B The initiation step in prokaryotes requires an initiation complex with enhancers and
transcription factors. Also, the separation of the DNA strand is different, as histones
are involved.
C The elongation step in eukaryotes requires an initiation complex with enhancers and
transcription factors. Also, the separation of the DNA strand is different, as histones
are involved.
D The initiation step in eukaryotes requires an initiation complex with enhancers and
transcription factors. Also, the separation of the DNA strand is different, as histones
are not involved.
Solution
35
The solution is (A). The initiation step in eukaryotes requires an initiation complex
with enhancers and transcription factors. The separation of the DNA strand is also
different as histones are involved.
Would you be able to determine which RNA polymerase you isolated from a eukaryotic
cell without analyzing its products?
A No, they have the same  -amanitin sensitivity in all products.
B No, quantitative analysis of products is done to determine the type of polymerase.
C Yes, they can be determined as they differ in  -amanitin sensitivity.
D Yes, they can be determined by the number of molecules that bind to the DNA.
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Solution
36
The solution is (C). Yes, RNA polymerases differ in their sensitivity to  -amanitin.
Predict how alternative splicing may lead to an economy of genes. Do you need a
different gene for every protein that the cell can produce?
A Alternative splicing can lead to the synthesis of several polypeptides from a
single gene.
B Alternative splicing can lead to the synthesis of several forms of mRNA from a
single gene.
C Alternative splicing can lead to the synthesis of several forms of codons from a set
of genes.
D Alternative splicing can lead to the synthesis of several forms of ribosomes from a set
of genes.
Solution
37
The solution is (A). It is possible to synthesize several polypeptides from a single
gene by alternative splicing.
What is the major challenge in the production of RNA in eukaryotes compared to
prokaryotes?
A Exporting the mRNA across the nuclear membrane
B Importing the mRNA across the nuclear membrane
C Keeping the mRNA inside the nuclear membrane
D Translating the mRNA into proteins within seconds
Solution
38
The solution is (A). The major challenge is exporting the mRNA across the nuclear
membrane.
What would happen if the 5’ methyl guanosine was not added to an mRNA?
A The transcript would degrade when the mRNA moves out of the nucleus to the
cytoplasm.
B The mRNA molecule would stabilize and start the process of translation within the
nucleus of the cell.
C The mRNA molecule would move out of the nucleus and create more copies of the
mRNA molecule.
D The mRNA molecule would not be able to add the poly-A tail on its strand at the 5’
end
Solution
39
The solution is (A). Without the 5’ capping, the pre-mRNA transcript would degrade
and initiation of translation would be compromised.
How should the following DNA sequence (non-template strand) be transcribed and
translated?
5′-ATGGCCGGTTATTAAGCA-3′
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A The mRNA would be 5′-AUGGCCGGUUAUUAAGCA-3′ and the protein will be MAGY.
B The mRNA would be 3′-AUGGCCGGUUAUUAAGCA-5′ and the protein will be MAGY.
C The mRNA would be 5′-ATGGCCGGTTATTAAGCA-3′ and the protein will be MAGY.
D The mRNA would be 5′-AUGGCCGGUUAUUAAGCA-3′ and the protein will be MACY.
Solution
The solution is (A). The mRNA would be 5′-AUGGCCGGUUAUUAAGCA-3′. The protein
would be MAGY. Even though there are six codons, the fifth codon corresponds to a
stop, so the sixth codon would not be translated
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40
The RNA world hypothesis proposes that the first complex molecule was RNA, and it
preceded protein formation. Which major function of ribosomal RNA supports this
hypothesis?
A rRNA has catalytic properties in the large subunit, and it assembles proteins.
B rRNA is a protein molecule that helps in the synthesis of other proteins.
C rRNA is essential for the transcription process.
D rRNA plays a major role in posttranslational processes.
Solution
41
The solution is (A). The rRNA in the large subunit has catalytic properties. It
synthesizes the peptide bond. The main idea is that the molecule that assembles
proteins cannot itself be a protein. In other words, a protein could not have
synthesized the first protein. RNA subunits can self-assemble.
A tRNA is chemically modified so that the bound amino acid is different than the one
specified by its anticodon. Which codon in the mRNA would the tRNA recognize: the one
specified by its anticodon or the one that matches the modified amino acid it carries?
A The anticodon will match the codon in mRNA.
B The anticodon will match with the modified amino acid it carries.
C The anticodon will lose the specificity for the tRNA molecule.
D The enzyme aminoacyl tRNA synthetase would lose control over the amino acid.
Solution
The solution is (A). The anticodon matches the codon in mRNA.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
42
What characteristic of the genetic code points to a common ancestry for all organisms?
A The code is degenerate.
B The code contains 64 codons.
C The genetic code is almost universal.
D The code contains stop codons.
Solution
43
The solution is (C). The code is universal.
What process transfers heritable material to the next generation?
A Replication
B Splicing
C Transcription
D Translation
Solution
The solution is (A). Replication is the process by which two identical DNA molecules
are produced from one DNA molecule.
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44
When comparing transcription of heritable information in prokaryotes and eukaryotes,
which events are the same?
A The transcription by polymerase, the recognition of a consensus sequence in the
promoter, and the termination by a hairpin loop are conserved.
B The translation by polymerase, the recognition of a consensus sequence in the
promoter, and the termination by a hairpin loop are conserved.
C The transcription by polymerase, the recognition of a highly variable sequence in the
promoter, and the termination by a hairpin loop are conserved.
D The transcription by polymerase, the recognition of a consensus sequence in the
promoter, and the elongation by a hairpin loop are conserved.
Solution
45
The solution is (A). Transcription by a polymerase, recognition of a consensus
sequence in the promoter, and termination by a hairpin loop are conserved.
Which cell structure does NOT contain heritable information?
A Chloroplast
B Cytoplasmic membrane
C Mitochondria
D Nucleus
Solution
46
The solution is (B). The cytoplasmic membrane separates the interior of the cell from
the outside environment.
How does the enzyme reverse transcriptase violate the central dogma of molecular
biology in HIV?
A The enzyme reverse transcriptase reverse-transcribes the RNA in the genome of HIV
into DNA.
B The enzyme reverse transcriptase translates the RNA of the HIV into protein and then
back into DNA.
C The enzyme reverse transcriptase transcribes the DNA straight into the protein
molecules.
D The enzyme reverse transcriptase transcribes DNA into RNA, then again into DNA.
There is no protein synthesis.
Solution
The solution is (A). The genome of HIV is made of two molecules of RNA, which are
reverse transcribed to DNA in the host. The enzyme reverse transcriptase is virally
encoded and packaged in the virus particle.
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47
Radioactive deoxythymidine triphosphate is supplied to the protist Euglena. After an
interval of time, the cells are homogenized, and different fractions are analyzed for
radioactivity content in large nucleic acid molecules. Which fraction will not be labeled?
A Nucleus
B Mitochondrion
C Chloroplast
D Plasma membrane
Solution
48
The solution is (D). The plasma membrane does not contain DNA.
You sequence a gene of interest and isolate the matching mRNA. You find that the mRNA
is considerably shorter than the DNA sequence. Why is that?
A There was an experimental mistake. The mRNA should be the same length as
the gene.
B The mRNA should be longer than the DNA sequence because the promoter is also
transcribed.
C The processed mRNA is shorter because introns were removed.
D The mRNA is shorter because the signal sequence to cross the nuclear membrane was
removed.
Solution
49
The solution is (C). Introns are noncoding regions of an RNA transcript, which are
spliced out before the RNA is translated into protein. Splicing decreases the length
of mRNA in comparison to DNA molecule.
A mutation in the promoter region of the gene for beta-globin can cause betathalassemia, a hereditary condition that causes anemia. Why would mutations in the
promoter region lead to low levels of hemoglobin?
A The globin chains produced are too long to form functional hemoglobin.
B The globin chains are too short to form functional hemoglobin.
C Fewer globin chains are synthesized because less mRNA is transcribed.
D Globin chains do not fold properly and are nonfunctional.
Solution
50
The solution is (D). Protein folding is determined by the amino acid sequence.
Mutations in the promoter region do not affect the amino acid sequence of the
protein.
You are given three mRNA sequences:
1. 5′-UCG-GCA-AAU-UUA-GUU-3
2. 5′-UCU-GCA-AAU-UUA-GUU-3′
3. 5′-UCU-GCA-AAU-UAA-GUU-3′
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Using the table, write the peptide encoded by each of the mRNA sequences.
Codon on mRNA
Amino Acid
GCA
alanine
AAG
lysine
GUU
valine
AAU
asparagine
UGC
cysteine
UCG
serine
UCU
serine
UUA
leucine
UAA
stop
A (i) Serine-alanine-asparagine-leucine-valine; (ii) serine-alanine-asparagine-leucinevaline; (iii) serine-alanine-asparagine(-stop)
B (i) Serine-phenylalanine-asparagine-leucine-valine; (ii) serine-alanine-asparagineleucine-valine; (iii) serine-alanine-asparagine(-stop)
C (i) Serine-alanine-asparagine-leucine-valine; (ii) serine-alanine-asparagine(-stop); (iii)
serine-alanine-asparagine-leucine-valine
D (i) Serine-alanine-asparagine-leucine-valine; (ii) serine-arginine-asparagine-leucinevaline; (iii) serine-alanine-asparagine(-stop)
Solution
51
The solution is (A). The three mRNA sequences are (i) serine-alanine-asparagineleucine-valine; (ii) serine-alanine-asparagine-leucine-valine; (iii) serine-alanineasparagine(-stop).
Refer to the table.
Codon on mRNA
Amino Acid
GCA
alanine
AAG
lysine
GUU
valine
AAU
asparagine
UGC
cysteine
UCG
serine
UCU
serine
UUA
leucine
UAA
stop
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You are given three mRNA sequences:
1. 5′-UCG-GCA-AAU-UUA-GUU-3
2. 5′-UCU-GCA-AAU-UUA-GUU-3′
3. 5′-UCU-GCA-AAU-UAA-GUU-3′
Using the peptide encoded by each sequence, compare the three peptides obtained. How
are peptides 2 and 3 different from 1? What would the consequence be for the cell in
each case?
A There is a silent mutation in peptide 2, and peptide 3 has a stop codon due to a
mutation.
B There is a silent mutation in peptide 3, and peptide 2 has a stop codon due to a
mutation.
C There is a different amino acid in peptide 2, and peptide 3 has a stop codon due to a
mutation.
D There isn’t a mutation in peptide 2, and peptide 3 has a stop codon due to a mutation.
Solution
The solution is (A). In the case of peptide 2, there is a silent mutation. Although the
base has been substituted, the amino acid is the same because the code is
degenerate. In peptide 3, the mutation introduced a stop codon. Translation stops at
the asparagine.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
15.1 The Genetic Code
52
Gamow (1954) proposed that the structure of DNA deduced by Watson and Crick (1953)
could be interpreted as a way of forming roughly 20 “words”" of the common amino acids
from the four “letters” A, T, C, and G that represent DNA nucleotides.
Crick and coworkers (1961) used a method developed by Benzer to induce mutations in
the DNA of a virus by the insertion of a single nucleotide. The mutant could not infect the
bacterium Escherichia coli and neither could viruses with a second insertion of a second
DNA nucleotide. However, a third nucleotide insertion restored the ability of the virus to
infect the bacterium.
In 1961, Nirenberg and Matthaei conducted a series of experiments to better understand
the flow of genetic information from gene to protein. They discovered that in solutions
containing the contents of ruptured E. coli bacterial cells from which DNA had been
removed, polymers containing only one repeating amino acid, phenylalanine, would be
synthesized if synthetic mRNA composed of only the single nucleotide, uracil (U), was
added to the solution in which phenylalanine was also present. In solutions containing
mRNA with only adenine (A) or cytosine (C) and the amino acids lysine or proline,
polymers containing only these amino acids would be synthesized. The researchers found
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that when ribosomes were removed by filtration, these polymers did not form. Nirenberg
and Leder (1964) extended this work to include other nucleotides.
A. Summarize the conclusions regarding the encoding and decoding of heritable
information supported by these studies. Explain how these studies provided evidence to
support the triplet code.
Khorana (1960) developed a technique for synthesizing RNA composed of predictable
distributions of repeated pairs or triplets of nucleotides. He found, for example, that RNA
synthesized when A and U were present in relative concentrations of 4:1, respectively, will
produce RNA sequences with these distributions determined by their relative
probabilities: AAU:AAA, AUA:AAA, and UAA:AAA; 0.82  0.2 / 0.83  1 / 4 [calculated as
follows: (i) 4/5 of the bases are A, so the likelihood of selecting A is 0.8; (ii) the selection is
repeated to determine the second letter of the three-letter codon; (iii) the likelihood of
selecting a U is 1 in 5; (iv) the probability of selecting the set AUU is the product;
(v) similarly, the probability of AAA is (4/5)3; and (vi) the ratio of these probabilities is
their relative likelihood]: AUU:AAA, UUA:AAA, and UAU:AAA; 0.8  0.22 / 0.83  1 / 16;
and UUU:AAA; 0.23 / 0.83  1 / 64 .
B. Based on Khorana’s findings, calculate the relative distributions of the following ratios
of concentrations of RNA triplet sequences from mixtures in which the relative
concentrations of guanine and cytosine, G:C, are 5:1.
Ratio
Relative Probabilities
GGC:GGG
GCG:GGG
CGG:GGG
GCC:GGG
CGC:GGG
CCG:GGG
CCC:GGG
C. Based on the work of Nirenberg, Matthaei, Leder, and Khorana, the following table was
constructed (taken from Khorana's Nobel Prize address):
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A solution containing the amino acids shown in the table and equal concentrations of the
two nucleotides C and G is prepared. Predict the proteins that can be synthesized from
this mixture in terms of each possible codon and their relative concentrations in terms of
their amino acid repeat sequences.
D. Describe the effects of the codons UAA, UAG, and UGA on protein synthesis.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Gamow (a physicist) proposed that a sequence of three nucleotide letters could
be used to make a single amino acid word. Crick and colleagues found that the
length of the word was always three letters. Nirenberg, Matthaei, and Leder showed
that DNA could be synthesized in the absence of a living cell and confirmed Gamow's
idea.
B.
Ratio
Relative Probabilities
GGC:GGG
GCG:GGG
CGG:GGG
 5 / 6 2  1 / 6 /  5 / 6 3  1 / 5  0.20


GCC:GGG
CGC:GGG
CCG:GGG
1 / 6 2  5 / 6 /  5 / 6 3  1 / 25  0.04


CCC:GGG
1 / 6  /  5 / 6 
3
3
 1 / 125  0.08
C. pro (CCC), ser (CCG), gly (CGG), arg (CGC), gly (GGG), gly (GGC), ala (GCC), and
gly (GCG)
So, concentrations of alanine, proline, arginine, and serine are equal and each in
concentrations that are one-quarter of the concentration of glycine. The specific
names of the amino acids are not in scope.
D. These are the stop codons and do not encode amino acids.
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15.2 Prokaryotic Transcription
53
The yeast life cycle is usually dominated by haploid cells, each with a single set of
unpaired chromosomes. The cell propagates asexually, and the genetic material is
replicated through mitosis. Cell division occurs every 2–4 h, leading to 60–100 generations
in a single day. Yeast also reproduces sexually, particularly under adverse environmental
conditions. When two haploid cells—with DNA containing complementary mating-type
alleles—conjugate, a diploid zygote results. The diploid zygote can then complete the
sexual segment of the life cycle through meiosis. After meiosis, four haploid spores are
produced, which can germinate.
Researchers can grow yeast easily on nutrient-containing plates. Because both asexual
and sexual reproduction is rapid, yeast has become an important organism for the
experimental investigation of mutagenesis and evolution among eukaryotes.
Environmental factors, such as chemicals or radiation, induce mutations. High-energy UVc radiation of less than 1 min in duration will result in many mutated yeast cells. UV-c can
be used to mutate a strain of yeast in which the synthesis of adenine is blocked. This
mutation is observable because the ade-2 mutant has a red color when cultured on
nutrient-containing plates. Exposure to UV-c also can result in additional mutations. In
particular, one mutant, ade-7, changes the color of the ade-2 mutant to white.
A. You have a UV-c lamp, culture plates, and growth chambers at 23 °C and 37 °C. You
also have available known haploid strains that are (ade-2,+,+), where + denotes the wild
type. Design a plan to determine the rate of UV-c-induced mutations in nutrientcontaining plates inoculated with yeast.
Earth's ozone layer removes high-energy ultraviolet radiation, UV-c, from the solar
radiation received at the surface. Lower-energy ultraviolet radiation, UV-b, strikes Earth’s
surface. Damage to DNA induced by ultraviolet radiation occurs with the formation of
bonds between an adjacent pair of pyrimidine nucleotides, thymine and cytosine, on the
same strand of DNA. A repair enzyme, photolyase, which is activated by visible light, is
present in plants and most animals, but not in humans. In characterizing the relationship
between environmental mutagens and cell damage, a useful assumption is often made
and referred to as the linear hypothesis. This assumption states that the extent of damage
is proportional to the amount of radiation received.
Mutation rates for a strain (preac) that does not produce photolyase and a wild-type (+)
strain were studied. Cultures of the two strains of yeast were diluted, and nutrientcontaining plates were inoculated in triplicate at 23 °C. The plates were exposed to bright
sunlight for varying time intervals. After exposure, the plates were incubated in the dark
at 23 °C. After incubation between 1 and 8 h, data shown in the table were collected by
counting the density of living cells relative to the control, and averaging these among
replicates.
B. Using the data table, graph the average survival fraction, relative to the wild-type
control. Predict the number of mutations in a sample of 1,000 cells of the preac type that
are exposed to bright sunlight for 15 s.
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Incubation
Time (h)
10-s
Exposure
20-s
Exposure
30-s
Exposure
40-s
Exposure
50-s
Exposure
1
0.83
0.58
0.33
0.17
0.08
2
1.00
0.43
0.17
0.09
0.04
3
0.92
0.38
0.12
0.03
0.01
4
0.75
0.35
0.08
0.01
0.00
5
0.99
0.49
0.11
0.01
0.00
6
0.81
0.42
0.12
0.01
0.00
7
0.80
0.32
0.09
0.01
0.00
8
1.05
0.59
0.11
0.01
0.00
Mean
0.89
0.45
0.14
0.04
0.02
Standard
0.11
0.10
0.08
0.06
0.03
Deviation
Yeast can also be used to study sexual reproduction, a somewhat puzzling phenomenon.
Cloning of cells through mitosis is molecularly much less complex than meiosis, consumes
less energy, and is less risky. Two alternative explanations for the evolution of sexual
reproduction are popular. In one model, through assortment of genes, meiosis leads to an
increase in the frequency of beneficial mutations. In the second model, detrimental
mutations are purged from a population through sex. Studies using yeast (Gray and
Goddard, Evol. Biol., 2012 and McDonald et al., Nature, 2012) have provided a mechanism
to study these models. The graph shows the fitness (defined as the log of the ratio of the
number of cells in successive generations) of yeast as a function of number of mitotic
reproductions in yeast grown in low- and high-stress environments, and with and without
alternating induction of sexual reproduction.
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C. Based on these data, evaluate the merits of the alternative theories of the adaptive
advantage provided by sexual reproduction.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The main point should be that population measurements at multiple times after
inoculation should be made with replicas at each time. Also, low to high dilutions
will allow less uncertainty in the counts. Measurements of population density could
count colonies or use a hemocytometer. It is essential that measurements of
number are made. Triplets for each dilution are exposed to UV-c light for intervals
such as 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 s. After exposure, each is incubated at 23° in the
dark. Students should choose low temperature so yeasts will avoid sexual
reproduction.
At intervals of time (guided by the statement that cloning occurs every few hours)
such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 h, and so on, the plates are removed from the incubator and
counts are made. In this first experiment, we are counting the number of cells that
are red. Mutations in the ade-2 will leave the cell white. Because we have a control
and will be forming a fraction relative to the control Nred, exposed and
mutated/Nred, no exposure we count either red or non-red.
Students who have done this or a similar lab may know that a mutation in ade-4 will
counteract the effect of ade-7. They might then go on to propose a test to confirm
that the mutation was at ade-2. In this case, after the plates have been used to
obtain population density, a test cross should be made with (ade-2, +, ade-7) and
perhaps also with (+, ade-4, +). This can be done by streaking a colony of non-red
cells on a line down the middle of the plate. Then a test strain should be streaked
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onto the plate in a series of lines perpendicular to the first streak. Where the streaks
nearly intersect, there will be a region of sexually reproduced cells after they are
shifted to incubation at the higher temperature. Observation of incubated cells is
made over the next two days. If the products of sexual reproduction of the (ade-2, +,
ade-7) test are red, we know that the ade-2 allele was mutated. If the products of
sexual reproduction of the (+, ade-4, +) test are red, we know that the ade-7 allele
was mutated.
To determine the mutation rate, the ratio to the control is formed. This ratio should
be approximately constant among samples taken at different times during
incubation after exposure. Taking an average of this ratio (and standard deviation)
and plotting that average against the period of exposure yields an approximately
straight line (or so we assume) whose slope is the mutation rate in units of sec 1 .
B. This task is going to be daunting for students with weak backgrounds in math, or
who are unfamiliar with graphing programs. Excel produced the graph shown below.
Students should also have labels on the axes.
C. These results show that under low-stress conditions, there is no additional gain in
fitness due to sexual reproduction. However, under stress, there is a dramatic gain in
fitness.
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15.3 Eukaryotic Transcription
54
A. Describe the storage and retrieval of genetic information with the following model. Use
the list to fill in the blanks with the letter corresponding to the correct term.
A. amino acid
F. translation
B. tRNA
G. protein
C. DNA
H. RNA polymerase
D. transcription
I. rRNA
E. mRNA
Within the cytoplasm, __ is synthesized from __ bound to __ in a sequence that
corresponds to information provided by __. This process is called __.
blank
blank
blank
blank
blank
Within the nucleus, information originating in __ is encoded as a sequence of bases in __,
which is synthesized by the enzyme __. This process is called __.
blank
blank
blank
blank
B. During development, cell differentiation occurs, and the expression of genes is
permanently switched off. Using the model in (A), explain where information flow is most
effectively blocked.
C. A chemical message is received by the cell regulating the timing of events controlled by
gene expression. Using the model in (A), explain where information flow is most
effectively managed.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Within the cytoplasm G is synthesized from A bound to B in a sequence that
corresponds to the information provided by E. This process is called F.
Within the nucleus, information originating in C is encoded as a sequence of bases in
I that is synthesized by the enzyme H. This process is called D.
B. Permanently blocking gene expression is accomplished by the irreversible
modification of DNA, stopping transcription. This is often accomplished by
methylation, a concept that is out-of-scope for the AP Biology Exam.
C. Posttranscriptional regulation is most efficient since the feedback loop has signals
that vary in time, and the already transcribed information is available quickly.
55
Structure and function in biology result from both the presence of genetic information
and the expression of that information. Some genes are continually expressed, whereas
the expression of most genes is regulated, commonly at the level of transcription. At the
initiation of transcription, the TATA-binding protein (TBP) provides access to the DNA
strand to be transcribed. The 5′TATAAA3’ sequence called the TATA box is found in
prokaryotes, archaebacteria, and eukaryotes. Even among eukarya, when the TATA box is
not present among eukaryotes, the initiation of transcription involves TBP. Scientists
attribute this common characteristic to the relative thermostability of the A-T interaction.
Hydrogen bonds hold the two strands of the DNA double helix together. This type of bond
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has the smallest interaction energy of all intermolecular forces; as temperature increases,
these bonds are broken.
A. Explain the advantage, in terms of the energy required, which is provided by an AT-rich
region in the sequence where transcription is initiated.
B. The fact that the TATA box or the associated TBP are common to all domains provides
evidence of common ancestry among all life. Pose a scientific question that would need
to be addressed by a valid alternative explanation of this fact.
C. A whole-genome survey of prokaryotes (Zheng and Wu, BMC Bioinformatics, 2010)
showed that the relative amounts of guanine and cytosine in DNA poorly predicted the
temperature range conditions that are suitable for an organism. Refine the question
posed in (B), taking this result into account.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Because A and T interact with only two hydrogen bonds (rather than three in the
C-G interaction), the energy required to open the helix is smaller in the AT-rich
region.
B. Is the difference between the A-T and G-C interactions large enough that the
TATA box would be the outcome for any DNA structure?
C. How can we know if an initiation region with CG-rich regions could not transcribe
DNA? This result shows that the difference between CG-rich and AT-rich regions is
small enough not to provide a robust prediction of temperature range. So the
difference should not be expected to be sufficient to allow multiple evolutionary
lines to all adopt the TATA box solution. There must be a common ancestor.
15.5 Ribosomes and Protein Synthesis
56
Only a fraction of DNA encodes proteins. The noncoding portion of a gene is referred to as
the intron. The intron fraction depends upon the gene. Introns are rare in prokaryotic and
mitochondrial DNA; in human nuclear DNA, this fraction is about 95 percent. The intron is
transcribed into mRNA, but this noncoding mRNA is edited out before translation of the
coding portion, or exon, of a gene. The edited exon segments are then spliced together by
a spliceosome, a very large and complex collection of RNAs and proteins.
Although introns do not encode proteins, they have functions. In particular, they amplify
the expression of the exon, although the mechanism is unknown. When introns are very
long, which is common among mammalian genes with roles in development, they can
significantly extend the time required to complete transcription. Analysis of genes
common to different plant and animal species shows many shared intronic positions and
base sequences, although in some organisms, such as yeast, many introns have been
deleted. Because introns do not encode proteins, mutations can remain silent and
accumulate.
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A. Introns are ancestral remnants that are replicated because they do not disadvantage
the organism. Consider the claim that introns are “junk DNA.” Evaluate the claim with
supporting evidence.
B. Introns may be retained during transcription. Explain how the retention of a
transcribed intron between two transcribed exons within a gene could do the following:
Solution

Block expression of one polypeptide sequence.

Increase expression of a polypeptide.

Alter the polypeptide expressed.
Sample answer:
A. The fact that such a significant burden is imposed and the risk (such as splicing
errors) is so great imply that there has to be an advantage in maintaining the
noncoding sequences. Reasonable arguments can be made that the introns are just
artifacts and have been for the four decades since the discovery of the intron. The
assessment here is of the student’s ability to provide supporting evidence. This
evidence is summarized in the stem.
B. Consider a linear sequence with exons on either side of a retained intron. If the
intron contains a stop code the second exon will not translate to protein. If both
exons encode the same protein, expression will be increased. If the intron has a
length that is not a multiple of three, it can cause the mRNA to be translated with
nonfunctional proteins at either or both of the exons.
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16 | GENE REGULATION
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Control of gene expression in eukaryotic cells occurs at which level(s)?
A Only the transcriptional level
B Epigenetic and transcriptional levels
C Epigenetic, transcriptional, and translational levels
D Epigenetic, transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels
Solution
2
The solution is (D). Eukaryotes exhibit a tightly regulated mechanism of gene
expression. Control of gene expression in eukaryotic cells occurs at the epigenetic,
transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels.
What do Figures X and Y in the figure illustrate?
A Transcription and translation in a eukaryotic cell (Figure X) and a prokaryotic cell
(Figure Y)
B Transcription and translation in a prokaryotic cell (Figure X) and a eukaryotic cell
(Figure Y)
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C Transcription in a eukaryotic cell (Figure X) and translation in a prokaryotic cell
(Figure Y)
D Transcription in a prokaryotic cell (Figure X) and translation in a eukaryotic cell
(Figure Y)
Solution
3
The solution is (B). Figure X depicts coupled transcription and translation in
prokaryotes. Eukaryotes show compartmentalization within their cells; therefore,
transcription occurs inside the nucleus and translation occurs in the cytosol. Figure Y
shows transcription and translation in eukaryotes.
If glucose is absent but lactose is present, the lac operon will be —
A activated
B repressed
C partially activated
D mutated
Solution
4
The solution is (A). Lactose acts as an inducer of the lac operon. When glucose is
present, catabolite repression occurs and the lactose operon is repressed.
What would happen if the operator sequence of the lac operon contained a mutation that
prevented the repressor protein from binding the operator?
A In the presence of lactose, the lac operon will not be transcribed.
B In the absence of lactose, the lac operon will be transcribed.
C The cAMP-CAP complex will not increase RNA synthesis.
D The RNA polymerase will not bind the promoter.
Solution
5
The solution is (B). If the repressor cannot bind to the operator, the lac operon will
be transcribed when lactose is absent, since the RNA polymerase can bind to the
promoter and initiate transcription.
What would happen if the operator sequence of the trp operon contained a mutation that
prevented the repressor protein from binding to the operator?
A In the absence of tryptophan, the genes trpA–E will not be transcribed.
B In the absence of tryptophan, only genes trpE and trpD will be transcribed.
C In the presence of tryptophan, the genes trpA–E will be transcribed.
D In the presence of tryptophan, the trpE gene will not be transcribed.
Solution
The solution is (C). If the operator sequence of the trp operon contained a mutation
that prevented the repressor protein from binding to the operator, constitutive
expression of the trp operon would occur regardless of the presence or absence of
the tryptophan in the medium.
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6
What are epigenetic modifications?
A Addition of reversible changes to histone proteins and DNA
B Removal of nucleosomes from the DNA
C Addition of more nucleosomes to the DNA
D Mutation of the DNA sequence
Solution
7
The solution is (A). Epigenetic modifications do not change the sequence of the DNA
and only bring about reversible changes in histone, proteins, and DNA.
Which statement about epigenetic regulation is false?
A Histone protein charge becomes more positive when acetyl groups are added.
B DNA molecules are modified within CpG islands.
C Methylation of DNA and histones causes nucleosomes to pack tightly together.
D Histone acetylation results in the loose packing of nucleosomes.
Solution
8
The solution is (A). Acetylation has the effect of changing the overall charge of the
histone tail from neutral to negative. Acetylation disrupts the association between
nucleosomes and DNA, leading to weaker binding of the nucleosomal components.
What is true of epigenetic changes?
A They only allow gene expression.
B They allow movement of histones.
C They change the DNA sequence.
D They are always heritable.
Solution
9
The solution is (B). Epigenetic modifications result in the movement of histones to
open or close a chromosomal region. Open chromosomal regions can be
transcribed, while closed chromosomal regions cannot be transcribed.
The binding of what is required for transcription start?
A A protein
B DNA polymerase
C RNA polymerase
D A transcription factor
Solution
The solution is (C). The binding of RNA polymerase is required for transcription
initiation.
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10
What would be the outcome of a mutation that prevented DNA-binding proteins from
being produced?
A Decreased transcription because transcription factors would not bind to transcriptionbinding sites
B Decreased transcription because enhancers would not be able to bind to transcription
factors
C Increased transcription because repressors would not be able to bind to promoter
regions
D Increased transcription because RNA polymerase would be able to increase binding to
promoter regions
Solution
11
The solution is (B). Enhancer regions are the binding sites for the transcription
factors. When a DNA-binding protein binds to DNA, the shape of the DNA changes.
This shape change allows activators bound to the enhancer regions to interact with
transcription factors bound to the promoter region and the RNA polymerase.
What will result from the binding of a transcription factor to an enhancer region?
A Decreased transcription of an adjacent gene
B Increased transcription of a distant gene
C Alteration of the translation of an adjacent gene
D Initiation of the recruitment of RNA polymerase
Solution
12
The solution is (B). Enhancers are the DNA sequences that influence the rate of
transcription by up-regulating the gene expression.
What is involved in post-transcriptional control?
A Control of RNA splicing
B Ubiquitination
C Proteolytic cleavage
D Phosphorylation
Solution
13
The solution is (A). Post-transcriptional control includes the control of RNA splicing
after transcription.
Gene A is thought to be associated with color blindness. The protein corresponding to
gene A is isolated. Analysis of the protein recovered shows there are actually two
different proteins that differ in molecular weight that correspond to gene A.
What is one reason that two proteins may correspond to the gene?
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A One protein had a 5’ cap and a poly-A tail in its mRNA, and the other protein did not.
B One protein had a 5’ UTR and a 3’ UTR in its RNA, and the other protein did not.
C The gene was alternatively spliced.
D The gene produced mRNA molecules with differing stability.
Solution
14
The solution is (C). The alternative splicing of any gene can lead to the formation of
proteins varying in their molecular weights.
Binding of an RNA-binding protein will change the stability of the RNA molecule in
what way?
A Increase
B Decrease
C Neither increase nor decrease
D Either increase or decrease
Solution
15
The solution is (D). Binding of an RNA-binding protein (RBP) will either increase or
decrease the stability of the RNA molecule depending on the specific RBP that binds.
A mutation in the 5’UTR that prevents any proteins from binding to the region will —
A increase or decrease the stability of the RNA molecule
B prevent translation of the RNA molecule
C prevent splicing of the RNA molecule
D increase or decrease the length of the poly-A tail
Solution
16
The solution is (A). The binding of RBP’s to the 5′UTR can increase or decrease the
stability of an RNA molecule, depending on the specific RBP that binds. Any
mutation in the 5′UTR can increase or decrease the stability of the RNA molecule.
What can post-translational modifications of proteins affect?
A mRNA splicing
B 5’ capping
C 3’ polyadenylation
D Chemical modifications
Solution
The solution is (D). Chemical modifications occur post-translationally and can affect
protein function.
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17
A mutation is found in eIF-2, which impairs the initiation of translation. The mutation
could affect all but one of the following functions of eIF-2.
Which function would NOT be affected?
A The mutation prevents eIF-2 from binding to RNA.
B The mutation prevents eIF-2 from being phosphorylated.
C The mutation prevents eIF-2 from binding to GTP.
D The mutation prevents eIF-2 from binding to the 40S ribosomal subunit.
Solution
18
The solution is (B). When eIF-2 is wildtype, it does not usually undergo
phosphorylation and translation occurs. Mutation can lead to phosphorylation of
eIF-2. Phosphorylated eIF-2 undergoes a conformational change and cannot bind to
GTP. Therefore, the initiation complex cannot form properly and translation cannot
occur.
What does the addition of an ubiquitin group to a protein do?
A Increases the stability of the protein
B Decreases translation of the protein
C Increases translation of the protein
D Marks the protein for degradation
Solution
19
The solution is (D). The addition of an ubiquitin group to a protein marks the protein
for degradation.
What are cancer-causing genes called?
A Transformation genes
B Tumor suppressor genes
C Oncogenes
D Proto-oncogenes
Solution
20
The solution is (C). Cancer-causing genes are called oncogenes.
Targeted therapies are used in patients with a certain gene expression pattern. A targeted
therapy that prevents the activation of the estrogen receptor in breast cancer would be
beneficial to what type of patient?
A Patients who express the EGFR receptor in normal cells
B Patients with a mutation that inactivates the estrogen receptor
C Patients with over-expression of ER alpha in their tumor cells
D Patients with over-expression of VEGF, which helps in tumor angiogenesis
Solution
The solution is (C). A targeted therapy can prove to be beneficial for patients
showing over-expression of estrogen receptors.
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21
In a new cancer treatment, a cold virus is genetically modified so that it binds to, enters,
and is replicated in cells, causing them to burst. The modified cold virus cannot replicate
when wildtype p53 protein is present in the cell.
How does this treatment treat cancer without harming healthy cells?
A The modified virus only infects and enters cancer cells.
B The modified virus replicates in normal and cancer cells.
C The modified virus only infects and enters normal cells.
D The modified virus replicates only in cancer cells.
Solution
22
The solution is (D). The treatment can treat cancer when the modified virus
replicates only in cancer cells.
A drug designed to switch silenced genes back on in cancer cells would result in what?
A Methylation of DNA and deacetylation of histones
B Methylation of DNA and acetylation of histones
C Deacetylation of DNA and methylation of histones
D Acetylation of DNA and demethylation of histones
Solution
23
The solution is (A). Preventing methylation of DNA and acetylation of histones can
switch on the silenced genes.
What are positive cell-cycle regulators that can cause cancer when mutated called?
A Transformation genes
B Tumor suppressor genes
C Oncogenes
D Mutated genes
Solution
The solution is (C). Positive cell-cycle regulators that can cause cancer when mutated
are called oncogenes.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
24
What best distinguishes prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
A Prokaryotes possess a nucleus whereas eukaryotes do not, but eukaryotes show
greater compartmentalization that allows for greater regulation of gene expression.
B Eukaryotic cells contain a nucleus whereas prokaryotes do not, and eukaryotes show
greater compartmentalization that allows for greater regulation of gene expression.
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C Prokaryotic cells are less complex and perform highly regulated gene expression,
whereas eukaryotes perform less-regulated gene expression.
D Eukaryotic cells are more complex and perform less-regulated gene expression,
whereas prokaryotic cells perform highly regulated gene expression.
Solution
25
The solution is (B). Eukaryotic cells contain a nucleus whereas prokaryotes do not,
allowing greater regulation of gene expression in eukaryotes.
Which statement is correct regarding the distinction between prokaryotic and eukaryotic
gene expression?
A Prokaryotes regulate gene expression at the level of transcription, whereas eukaryotes
regulate at multiple levels including epigenetic, transcriptional, and translational.
B Prokaryotes regulate gene expression at the level of translation, whereas eukaryotes
regulate at the level of transcription to manipulate protein levels.
C Prokaryotes regulate gene expression with the help of repressors and activators,
whereas eukaryotes regulate expression by degrading mRNA transcripts, thereby
controlling protein levels.
D Prokaryotes control protein levels using epigenetic modifications, whereas eukaryotes
control protein levels by regulating the rate of transcription and translation.
Solution
26
All the cells of one organisms share the genome. However, during development, some
cells develop into skin cells while others develop into muscle cells. How can the same
genetic instructions result in two different cell types in the same organism? Thoroughly
explain your answer.
Solution
27
The solution is (A). Because prokaryotes perform transcription and translation at the
same time, they regulate gene expression at the transcription level whereas
eukaryotes regulate gene expression at multiple levels.
Different genetic programs are turned on or off when cells differentiate into
different cell types (e.g. skin cells, muscle cells, etc.) As a result, cells express genes
needed for the tissue in which they are located.
Which statement describes prokaryotic transcription of the lac operon?
A When lactose and glucose are present in the medium, transcription of the lac operon
is induced.
B When lactose is present but glucose is absent, the lac operon is repressed.
C Lactose acts as an inducer of the lac operon when glucose is absent.
D Lactose acts as an inducer of the lac operon when glucose is present.
Solution
The solution is (C). Environmental stimuli can increase or induce transcription in
prokaryotic cells. In this example, lactose in the environment will induce the
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transcription of the lac operon, but only if glucose is not available in the
environment.
28
The lac operon consists of regulatory regions such as the promoter as well as the
structural genes lacZ, lacY, and lacA, which code for proteins involved in lactose
metabolism. What would be the outcome of a mutation in one of the structural genes of
the lac operon?
A Mutation in structural genes will stop transcription.
B Mutated lacY will produce an abnormal  galactosidase protein.
C Mutated lacA will produce a protein that will transfer an acetyl group to 
galactosidase.
D Transcription will continue but lactose will not be metabolized properly.
Solution
29
In some diseases, alteration to epigenetic modifications turns off genes that are
normally expressed. Hypothetically, how could you reverse this process to turn these
genes back on?
Solution
30
The solution is (D). A mutation in one of the structural genes of the lac operon will
not prevent transcription of the operon. However, depending on the type of
mutation in the gene, an abnormal protein may be produced, which could prevent
metabolism of lactose.
Sample answer: To turn these genes back on, you would have to reverse the
epigenetic modifications. For example, if the genes are turned off due to
methylation, removing the methyl groups should turn the genes back on.
Flowering Locus C (FLC) is a gene that is responsible for flowering in certain plants.
FLC is expressed in new seedlings, which prevents flowering. Upon exposure to cold
temperatures, FLC expression decreases and the plant flowers. FLC is regulated
through epigenetic modifications.
What type of epigenetic modifications is present in new seedlings and after cold
exposure?
A In new seedlings, histone acetylations are present; upon cold exposure, methylation
occurs.
B In new seedlings, histone deacetylations are present; upon cold exposure, methylation
occurs.
C In new seedlings, histone methylations are present; upon cold exposure, acetylation
occurs.
D In new seedlings, histone methylations are present; upon cold exposure, deacetylation
occurs.
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Solution
31
The solution is (A). Methylation of DNA causes nucleosomes to pack tightly together.
Transcription factors cannot bind the DNA, and genes are not expressed. Histone
acetylation results in loose packing of nucleosomes. Transcription factors can bind
the DNA, and genes are expressed. Since the FLC gene is expressed in new seedlings,
the corresponding DNA likely has histone acetylation. Since gene expression of the
FLC gene decreases upon cold exposure, the corresponding DNA is likely methylated
in response to cold temperatures.
A mutation within the promoter region can alter gene transcription. How can this
happen?
A Mutated promoters decrease the rate of transcription by altering the binding site for
the transcription factor.
B Mutated promoters increase the rate of transcription by altering the binding site for
the transcription factor.
C Mutated promoters alter the binding site for transcription factors to increase or
decrease the rate of transcription.
D Mutated promoters alter the binding site for transcription factors and thereby cease
transcription of the adjacent gene.
Solution
32
The solution is (C). A mutation in the promoter region can change the binding site
for a transcription factor that normally binds to increase transcription. The mutation
could either decrease the ability of the transcription factor to bind, thereby
decreasing transcription, or it can increase the ability of the transcription factor to
bind, thus increasing transcription.
What could happen if a cell had too much of an activating transcription factor present?
A The transcription rate would increase, altering cell function.
B The transcription rate would decrease, inhibiting cell functions.
C The transcription rate decreases due to clogging of the transcription factors.
D The transcription rate increases due to clogging of the transcription factors.
Solution
33
The solution is (A). If too much of an activating transcription factor were present,
then transcription would be increased in the cell. This could lead to dramatic
alterations in cell function.
The wnt transcription pathway is responsible for key changes during animal development.
The transcription pathway shown in the figure uses arrows to represent activation and
perpendicular symbols to represent repression of wnt gene products.
Based on the pathway, how would blocking wnt gene expression affect the production
of Bar-1?
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Solution
34
Sample answer: Bar-1 production would decrease. If wnt production is blocked, then
MIG-1, LIN-17 are not produced, which results in MIG-5 not being produced either.
When MIG-5 is not produced, PRY-1 is produced because there is no inhibition from
MIG-5. Once PRY-1 is produced, it will repress BAR-1 production.
How can RBPs prevent miRNAs from degrading an RNA molecule?
A RBPs can bind first to the RNA, thus preventing the binding of miRNA, which
degrades RNA.
B RBPs bind the miRNA, thereby protecting the mRNA from degradation.
C RBPs methylate miRNA to inhibit its function and thus stop mRNA degradation.
D RBPs direct miRNA degradation with the help of a DICER protein complex.
Solution
35
The solution is (A). RNA-binding proteins (RBP) bind to the RNA and can either
increase or decrease the stability of the RNA. If they increase the stability of the RNA
molecule, the RNA will remain intact in the cell for a longer period of time than
normal. Since both RBPs and miRNAs bind to the RNA molecule, RBP can potentially
bind first to the RNA and prevent the binding of the miRNA that will degrade it.
How can external stimuli alter post-transcriptional control of gene expression?
A UV rays can alter methylation and acetylation of proteins.
B RNA-binding proteins are modified through phosphorylation.
C External stimuli can cause deacetylation and demethylation of the transcript.
D UV rays can cause dimerization of the RNA-binding proteins.
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Solution
36
The solution is (B). External stimuli can modify RNA-binding proteins (i.e., through
phosphorylation of proteins) to alter their activity.
Protein modifications can alter gene expression in many ways. How can phosphorylation
of proteins alter gene expression?
A Phosphorylation of proteins can alter translation, RNA shuttling, RNA stability, or posttranscriptional modification.
B Phosphorylation of proteins can alter DNA replication, cell division, pathogen
recognition, and RNA stability.
C Phosphorylated proteins affect only translation and can cause cancer by altering the
p53 function.
D Phosphorylated proteins affect only RNA shuttling, RNA stability, and posttranslational modifications.
Solution
37
The solution is (A). Because proteins are involved in every stage of gene regulation,
phosphorylation of a protein (depending on the protein that is modified) can alter
accessibility to the chromosome; can alter translation (by altering the transcription
factor binding or function); can change nuclear shuttling (by influencing
modifications to the nuclear pore complex); can alter RNA stability (by binding or not
binding to the RNA to regulate its stability); can modify translation (increase or
decrease); or can change post-translational modifications (add or remove
phosphates or other chemical modifications).
Changes in epigenetic modifications alter the accessibility and transcription of DNA. How
could environmental stimuli, such as ultraviolet light exposure, modify gene expression?
A UV rays could cause methylation and deacetylation of the genes that could alter the
accessibility and transcription of DNA.
B UV rays could cause phosphorylation and acetylation of the DNA and histones, which
could alter the transcriptional capabilities of the DNA.
C UV rays could cause methylation and phosphorylation of the DNA bases, which could
become dimerized, rendering no accessibility of DNA.
D UV rays can cause methylation and acetylation of histones, making the DNA more
tightly packed and leading to inaccessibility.
Solution
38
The solution is (A). Environmental stimuli, such as ultraviolet light exposure, can
alter the modifications to the histone proteins or DNA. Such stimuli may change an
actively transcribed gene into a silenced gene by removing acetyl groups from
histone proteins or by adding methyl groups to DNA.
New drugs are being developed that decrease DNA methylation and prevent the removal
of acetyl groups from histone proteins. How could these drugs affect gene expression to
help kill tumor cells?
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A These drugs maintain the demethylated and the acetylated forms of the DNA to keep
transcription of necessary genes on.
B The demethylated and the acetylated forms of the DNA are reversed when the
silenced gene is expressed.
C The drug methylates and acetylates the silenced genes to turn them back on.
D Drugs maintain DNA methylation and acetylation to silence unimportant genes in
cancer cells.
Solution
39
The solution is (A). These drugs will keep the histone proteins and the DNA
methylation patterns in the open chromosomal configuration so that transcription is
feasible. If a gene is silenced, these drugs could reverse the epigenetic configuration
to re-express the gene.
How can understanding the gene expression pattern in a cancer cell tell you something
about that specific form of cancer?
A Understanding gene expression patterns in cancer cells will identify the faulty genes,
which is helpful in providing the relevant drug treatment.
B Understanding gene expression will help diagnose tumor cells for antigen therapy.
C Gene profiling would identify the target genes of the cancer-causing pathogens.
D Breast cancer patients who do not express EGFR can respond to anti-EGFR therapy.
Solution
40
The solution is (A). Understanding which genes are expressed in a cancer cell can
help diagnose the specific form of cancer. It also can help identify treatment options
for that patient. For example, if a breast cancer tumor expresses EGFR in high
numbers, it might respond to specific anti-EGFR therapy. If that receptor is not
expressed, it would not respond to that therapy.
What is personalized medicine? How can it be used to treat cancer?
A Personalized medicines would vary based on the type of mutations and the gene’s
expression pattern.
B The medicines are given based on the type of tumor found in an individual’s body.
C The personalized medicines are provided based only on the symptoms of the patient.
D The medicines tend to vary depending on the severity and the stage of the cancer.
Solution
The solution is (A). The design of drugs on the basis of gene expression patterns
within individual tumors is the basis of personalized medicine. With an increased
understanding of gene regulation and gene function, medicines can be designed
specifically to target diseased cells without harming healthy cells. Cancer is a
heterogeneous disease with many different mutations and gene-signaling pathways,
leading to the development and progression of the disease. By identifying the gene
expression patterns in individuals and within individual tumors, treatments can be
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developed and prescribed to target only those genes and pathways that are
abnormal.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
41
What is found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes?
A 3’ poly-A tails
B 5’ caps
C Promoters
D Introns
Solution
42
The solution is (C). In prokaryotic as well as in eukaryotic genes, regulation of
transcription takes place with the help of promoters.
The enzyme polyadenylate polymerase catalyzes the addition of adenosine
monophosphate to the 3’ ends of mRNAs to form a poly-A tail. If the enzyme were
blocked so that it could not function, the result would be —
A increased mRNA stability in eukaryotes and decreased mRNA stability in prokaryotes
B decreased mRNA stability in eukaryotes and no effect in prokaryotes
C no effect in eukaryotes and increased mRNA stability in prokaryotes
D no effect in eukaryotes and decreased mRNA stability in prokaryotes
Solution
43
The solution is (B). In eukaryotes, poly-A tails provide mRNA with stability and
protection against random endonucleases. In prokaryotes, this modification is
absent.
What are two ways in which gene regulation differs and two ways in which it is similar in
prokaryotes and eukaryotes?
A Prokaryotes show co-transcriptional translation, whereas eukaryotes perform
transcription prior to translation; in both cell types, regulation occurs through the
binding of transcription factors, activators, and repressors.
B Prokaryotes perform transcription prior to translation, whereas eukaryotes show cotranscriptional translation—that is, the processes occur in the same organelle.
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C Prokaryotes show co-transcriptional translation that is regulated prior to translation,
whereas eukaryotes perform transcription prior to translation that is regulated only at
the level of transcription. In both domains, transcription factors, activators, and
repressors provide regulation.
D Prokaryotes show cotranscriptional translation that occurs in the nucleus whereas
eukaryotes show transcription prior to translation. In both cell types, regulation occurs
using transcription factors, activators, and repressors.
Solution
44
The solution is (A). In prokaryotes, RNA transcription and protein formation occur
almost simultaneously. In eukaryotes, RNA transcription occurs prior to protein
formation and takes place in the nucleus. Translation of RNA to protein occurs in the
cytoplasm. In prokaryotes, gene expression is regulated primarily at the
transcriptional level, for example through operons. In eukaryotes, gene expression is
regulated at many levels (epigenetic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional,
translational, and post-translational). In both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, gene
expression can be regulated through transcription-factor binding of promoters. In
both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, repressors can suppress transcription and
activators can increase transcription in response to external stimuli.
Lactose digestion in E. coli begins with its hydrolysis by the enzyme
galactosidase. The
gene encoding  - galactosidase, lacZ, is part of a coordinately regulated operon
containing other genes required for lactose utilization.
Which figure correctly depicts the interactions at the lac operon when lactose is NOT
being utilized?
A
B
Solution
45
C
D
The solution is (D). The correct configuration when lactose is not being utilized is
RNA polymerase on promoter and repressor protein bound to lactose, not bound
to DNA.
What would be the result of a mutation in the repressor protein that prevented it from
binding lactose?
A The repressor will bind to lactose when it is removed from the operator.
B The repressor will bind the operator in the presence of lactose.
C The repressor will not bind the operator in the presence of lactose.
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D The repressor will not bind the operator in the absence of lactose.
Solution
46
The solution is (B). The active repressor normally binds to lactose if it is present. If
the repressor is mutated, then it will not be able to bind with lactose and will, in
turn, bind to the operator site and suppress the operon and RNA synthesis.
What type of modification might be observed in the GR gene in all newborn rats?
A The DNA will have many methyl molecules.
B The DNA will have many acetyl molecules.
C The DNA will have few methyl groups.
D The histones will have many acetyl groups.
Solution
47
The solution is (A). DNA, when methylated at many locations, suppresses the
expression of the gene. Therefore, the GR genes would not be expressed in the
newborn rats.
What type of modification will be observed in the GR gene in the highly nurtured rats?
A The DNA will have many methyl molecules.
B The DNA will have many acetyl molecules.
C The DNA will have few methyl groups.
D The histones will have few acetyl groups.
Solution
48
The solution is (C). The highly nurtured pups will show a greater amount of GR gene
expression, thereby showing very few methylated molecules in the DNA. The low
methylation would be responsible for the higher expression of the GR gene.
The level of transcription of a gene is tested by creating deletions in the gene as shown in
the illustration. These modified genes are tested for their level of transcription: (++)
normal transcription levels; (+) low transcription levels; (+++) high transcription levels.
Which deletion is in an enhancer involved in regulating the gene?
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A Deletion 1
B Deletion 2
C Deletion 3
D Deletion 4
Solution
49
The solution is (C). Deletion 3 is an enhancer involving in regulating the gene.
There are deletions in the gene sequence in Deletion 3 which reduces the
transcription level.
In the figure, which deletion is in a repressor involved in regulating the gene?
A Deletion 1
B Deletion 2
C Deletion 3
D Deletion 4
Solution
50
The solution is (A). Deletion 1 is in a repressor, as there is a sudden increase in the
level of transcripts when it is induced. If it were not a repressor, then the level of
transcript would be lower, proving that is it a repressor.
The diagram shows different regions (1–5) of a pre-mRNA molecule, a mature-mRNA
molecule, and the protein corresponding to the mRNA.
A mutation in which region is most likely to be damaging to the cell?
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A Region 1
B Region 2
C Region 3
D Region 5
Solution
51
The solution is (B). Region 2 seems to be encoding a gene. Any mutation in this
region would likely produce a nonfunctional protein, damaging the cell.
What do regions 1 and 5 correspond to?
A Exons
B Introns
C Promoters
D Untranslated regions
Solution
52
The solution is (D). The untranslated regions are useful for post-transcriptional
regulation. The 5’UTR (leader sequence) contains the ribosome-complex binding site
and 3’UTR (trailer sequence) contains binding sites for regulatory proteins.
What are regions 1 through 5 in the diagram?
A Regions 1, 3, and 5 are exons; regions 2 and 4 are introns.
B Regions 2 and 4 are exons; regions 1, 3, and 5 are introns.
C Regions 1 and 5 are exons; regions 2, 3, and 4 are introns.
D Regions 2, 3, and 4 are exons; regions 1 and 5 are introns.
Solution
The solution is (A). Regions 1, 3, and 5 are the exons. These are the DNA regions
encoding a useful gene. In between every exon, larger introns are present,
corresponding to regions 2 and 4 in the diagram.
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53
A mutation results in the formation of the mutated mature-mRNA as indicated in the
diagram. What type of mutation occurred, and what is the likely outcome of the
mutation?
A Mutation in the GU-AG sites of introns produced a nonfunctional protein.
B A transversion mutation in the introns led to alternative splicing, producing a
functional protein.
C A transversion mutation in the GU-AG site mutated this mRNA, producing a
nonfunctional protein.
D Transition mutations in the introns could produce a functional protein.
Solution
54
The solution is (A). The mutation caused a failure in recognition of the intron 2 end
and instead appears to have recognized the end of the next intron (intron 4). This
caused excision of introns 2, 3, and 4. The most likely outcome of this mutation is a
truncated protein that will be nonfunctional.
The diagram illustrates the role of p53 in response to UV exposure. What would be the
result of a mutation in the p53 gene that inactivates it?
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A Skin will peel in response to UV exposure.
B Apoptosis will occur in response to UV exposure.
C No DNA damage will occur in response to UV exposure.
D No peeling of skin will occur in response to UV exposure.
Solution
55
The solution is (D). Mutation in p53 would restrict its function, causing no activation
of p21 and also no apoptosis, leading to no peeling of the skin.
What will NOT occur in response to UV exposure if a p53 mutation inactivates the p53
protein?
A Damage to DNA, p53 activation, and p21 activation
B p21 activation and apoptosis
C p21 activation
D p53 activation, p21 activation, and apoptosis
Solution
56
The solution is (C). If p53 inactivates due to a mutation, then p21 will get inactivated
too. As a result, apoptosis will not take place.
What happens when tryptophan is present?
A The repressor binds to the operator, and RNA synthesis is blocked.
B RNA polymerase binds to the operator, and RNA synthesis is blocked.
C Tryptophan binds to the repressor, and RNA synthesis proceeds.
D Tryptophan binds to RNA polymerase, and RNA synthesis proceeds.
Solution
57
The solution is (A). In the trp operon, the tryptophan binds to the inactive aporepressor and makes it active. This active repressor would bind to the operator site,
blocking RNA synthesis.
What happens in the absence of tryptophan?
A RNA polymerase binds to the repressor.
B The repressor binds to the promoter.
C The repressor dissociates from the operator.
D RNA polymerase dissociates from the promoter.
Solution
The solution is (C). The absence of tryptophan would inactivate the repressor,
dissociating it from the operator. This apo-repressor now remains in the cell in an
inactive form, allowing the operon to synthesize RNA.
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58
Anabaena is a simple multicellular photosynthetic cyanobacterium. In the absence of
fixed nitrogen, certain newly developing cells along a filament express genes that code for
nitrogen-fixing enzymes and become non-photosynthetic heterocysts. The specialization
is advantageous because some nitrogen-fixing enzymes function best in the absence of
oxygen. Heterocysts do not carry out photosynthesis, but instead provide adjacent cells
with fixed nitrogen and receive fixed carbon and reduced energy carriers in return. As
shown in the diagram, when there is low fixed nitrogen in the environment, an increase in
the concentration of free calcium ions and 2-oxyglutarate stimulates the expression of
genes that produce two transcription factors (NtcA and HetR) that promote the
expression of genes responsible for heterocyst development. HetR also causes production
of a signal, PatS, that prevents adjacent cells from developing as heterocysts.
Based on your understanding of the ways in which signal transmission mediates cell
function, which prediction is most consistent with the information given?
A In an environment with low fixed nitrogen, treating the Anabaena cells with a calciumbinding compound should prevent heterocyst differentiation.
B A strain that overexpresses the PatS gene should develop many more heterocysts in a
low nitrogen environment.
C In an environment with abundant fixed nitrogen, free calcium levels should be high in
all cells, preventing heterocysts from developing.
D In environments with abundant fixed nitrogen, loss of the HetR gene should induce
heterocyst development.
Solution
The solution is (A). As increased calcium stimulates the expression of heterocyst
development genes, providing Anabaena cells with calcium-binding compound
inhibits heterocyst development.
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59
Which statement about Anabaena is false?
A Decreasing the concentration of free calcium ions will prevent heterocyst
development.
B In the presence of fixed nitrogen, NtcA will not be expressed.
C Low fixed nitrogen levels result in increased PatS levels.
D A mutation in NtcA that makes it nonfunctional also will allow adjacent cells to
develop as heterocysts.
Solution
The solution is (D). The NtcA gene is responsible for heterocyst development
whereas the HetR gene promotes PatS gene, which controls the heterocyst
development in adjacent cells.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
16.4 Eukaryotic Transcriptional Gene Regulation
60
The operon model describes expression in prokaryotes. Describe this model and the
essential difference in the way in which expression is regulated in eukaryotes.
Solution
Sample answer: An operon is a cluster of genes involved in the same biochemical
pathway. The genes are transcribed together, and are all under the control of the
same promoter. In eukaryotes, genes are not clustered into operons, and a different
promoter regulates each gene.
An operon includes structural genes involved in a single biochemical pathway which
are under the same control and transcribed into a single mRNA. Either the operon is
active and all structural genes are transcribed or the operon is off and none of the
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genes are transcribed. Upstream of the structural genes are located the regulatory
sequences that include a promoter where RNA polymerase binds and operators
where repressors bind. The genes encoding the repressor proteins are usually not
part of the operon. Activator sequences can be located upstream of the promoter.
Operons are found in bacteria with few exceptions in some organisms such as yeast
and C. elegans.
In eukaryotic cells, genes are generally transcribed individually. Each gene is
preceded by its own promoter upstream (at the 5′ end) and a transcription
terminator at the 3′ end. Genes encoding proteins involved in the same pathway are
nevertheless expressed individually.
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17 | BIOTECHNOLOGY AND GENOMICS
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
How are GMOs created?
A Introducing recombinant DNA into an organism by any means
B In vitro fertilization methods
C Mutagenesis
D Plant breeding techniques
Solution
2
The solution is (A). Recombinant DNA is DNA that has been genetically modified in
the laboratory. A genetically modified organism (GMO) is created by introducing
recombinant DNA into an organism.
Which technique used to manipulate genetic material results in a significant increase in
DNA or RNA fragments?
A Gel electrophoresis
B Nucleic acid extraction
C Nuclear hybridization
D Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
Solution
3
The solution is (D). PCR is a method used to make many copies of DNA or RNA
fragments from a small number of copies.
What is the role of plasmids in molecular cloning?
A They are used to create clones.
B They are used as vectors to insert genes into bacteria.
C They are a functional part of binary fission.
D They contain the circular chromosome of prokaryotic organisms.
Solution
4
The solution is (B). Plasmids are vectors that can be used to insert genes into
bacteria.
What is meant by a recombinant DNA molecule?
A Chimeric molecules
B Bacteria transformed into another species
C Molecules that have been through the PCR process
D The result of crossing over during cell reproduction
Solution
The solution is (A). Recombinant DNA is a chimeric molecule, as it has been
genetically modified in the laboratory.
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5
What is Bt toxin is considered to be?
A A gene for modifying insect DNA
B An organic insecticide produced by bacteria
C A nerve toxin in humans
D A strain of genetically modified tomatoes
Solution
6
The solution is (B). Bt, or Botulinum toxin, is lethal to insects and is, therefore, an
organic insecticide produced by a bacterium.
What is one trait of the Flavr Savr Tomato?
A Has a better shelf life
B Is not a variety of vine-ripened tomato in the supermarket
C Was not created to have better flavor
D Undergoes soft rot
Solution
7
The solution is (A). The Flavr Savr Tomato was genetically modified to resist rot and
to ripen more slowly, which gives it a better shelf life.
What is first step in isolating DNA?
A Generating genomic DNA fragments with restriction endonucleases
B Introducing recombinant DNA into an organism by any means
C Overexpressing proteins in E. coli
D Lysing the cells in the sample
Solution
8
The solution is (D). The first step in isolating DNA is cell lysis, a process in which the
cell membrane is broken.
What is genomics?
A Genomics is the study of entire genomes, including the complete set of genes, their
nucleotide sequence and organization, and their interactions within a species and with
other species.
B Genomics is the process of finding the locations of genes on each chromosome.
C Genomics is an illustration that lists genes and their location on a chromosome.
D Genomics is a genetic marker is a gene or sequence on a chromosome that cosegregates (shows genetic linkage) with a specific trait.
Solution
The solution is (A). Genomics is the study of entire genomes, including the complete
set of genes, their nucleotide sequence and organization, and their interactions
within a species and with other species.
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9
What is required in addition to a genetic linkage map to build a complete picture of
the genome?
A A genetic marker
B A physical map
C Linkage analysis of chromosomes
D Plasmids
Solution
10
The solution is (B). A physical map, which shows the arrangement of genes on the
chromosome, is necessary to build a complete picture of the genome.
Genetic recombination occurs by which process?
A Crossing over
B Chromosome segregation
C Independent assortment
D Sister chromatids
Solution
11
The solution is (A). Genetic recombination occurs when homologous chromosomes
exchange material in a process called crossing over.
Individual genetic maps in a given species are —
A genetically similar
B genetically identical
C genetically dissimilar
D not useful in species analysis
Solution
12
The solution is (A). Individual genetic maps in a given species are genetically similar
but not identical.
What procedure uses information obtained by microscopic analysis of stained
chromosomes?
A Cytogenetic mapping
B Radiation hybrid mapping
C RFLP mapping
D sequence mapping
Solution
The solution is (A). A cytogenetic map is the visual appearance of a chromosome
that has been stained.
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13
What is true about linkage analysis?
A It is used to create a physical map.
B It is based on the natural recombination process.
C It involves breaking and re-joining of DNA artificially.
D It requires radiation hybrid mapping.
Solution
14
The solution is (B). Genes far apart on a chromosome are separated by natural
recombination more frequently than genes that are close together. Linkage analysis
assesses the relative order of genes based on this natural recombination frequency.
What does the chain termination method of DNA sequencing use to terminate
polynucleotide elongation?
A Labeled dideoxynucleotides
B Unlabeled dideoxynucleotides
C Labeled deoxynucleotides
D Unlabeled deoxynucleotides
Solution
15
The solution is (A). Chain termination occurs when a dideoxynucleotide is introduced
into the DNA strand. Each dideoxynucleotide is labeled so that the strand can be
visualized.
What sequencing technique is used to identify regions of similarity between cell types or
species?
A Dideoxy chain termination
B Proteins, DNA, or RNA sequence alignment
C Shotgun sequencing
D Whole-exome sequencing
Solution
16
The solution is (B). Similarity among cell types or species can be assessed by aligning
the sequence of proteins, DNA, or RNA.
Whole-genome sequencing can be used for advances in what field?
A Bioinformatics
B Iron industry
C Multimedia
D The medical field
Solution
The solution is (D). Whole genome sequencing yields genetic information that can
lead to medical advances.
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17
Sequencing an individual person’s genome —
A is currently impossible
B helps identify genetic mutations associated with certain diseases
C will not lead to legal issues regarding discrimination and privacy
D will not help make informed choices about medical treatment
Solution
18
The solution is (B). Sequencing an individual’s genome yields information about
genetic mutations associated with disease.
Genomics can be used in agriculture to do what?
A Generate new hybrid strains
B Improve disease resistance
C Improve yield
D Improve yield, resistance, and generate hybrids
Solution
19
The solution is (D). Genomics yields a wide range of information that can lead to
improved yield, resistance to disease, and the generation of new hybrid strains.
What are the uses of metagenomics?
A Identification of biofuels
B Testing for multiple drug susceptibility in a population
C Use in increasing agricultural yields
D Identifying new species more rapidly and analyzing the effect of pollutants on the
environment
Solution
20
The solution is (D). Metagenomics is the study of genetic material recovered from
the environment. This information can be used to identify new species and, over
time, to assess the effect of pollutants on the environment.
Genomics can be used on a personal level to do what?
A Determine the risks of genetic diseases for an individual’s children
B Increase transplant rejection
C Predict the career success of a person
D Produce antibodies for an antigen
Solution
The solution is (A). Genomics can be used to determine whether an individual has
genes that might cause genetic disease in his or her children.
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21
What is the percentage of single gene defects causing disease in developed countries?
A 0.05
B 0.1
C 0.2
D 0.4
Solution
22
The solution is (A). Approximately 0.05, or 5 percent, of single gene defects cause
disease in persons living in developed countries.
The rapid identification of new species and the analysis of the effect of pollutants on the
environment is a function of what?
A Metagenomics
B Linkage analysis
C Genomics
D Shotgun sequencing
Solution
23
The solution is (A). Metagenomics involves the study and analysis of genetic material
obtained from the environment.
The risks of genetic diseases for an individual’s children can be determined through —
A metagenomics
B linkage analysis
C genomics
D shotgun sequencing
Solution
24
The solution is (C). Genomics involves analyzing genes, which can determine the
chances of genetic diseases appearing in an individual’s children.
What is a biomarker?
A The color coding of different genes
B A protein uniquely produced in a diseased state
C A molecule in the genome or proteome
D A marker that is genetically inherited
Solution
25
The solution is (B). A biomarker is a protein only produced when disease is present.
What is a metabolome?
A A provisional listing of the genome of a species
B A unique metabolite used to identify an individual
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C A method used for protein analysis
D The complete set of metabolites related to the genetic makeup of an organism
Solution
26
The solution is (D). A metabolome is complete set of metabolites related to the
genetic makeup of an organism.
How would you describe a set of proteins with altered expression levels?
A A group of biomarkers
B A protein signature
C The result of a defect in mRNA transcription
D The results of crossing over during cell replication
Solution
27
The solution is (B). A protein signature is a unique set of proteins present in a
disease state.
What is a protein signature?
A A protein expressed on the cell surface
B A unique set of proteins present in a diseased state
C The path followed by a protein after it is synthesized in the nucleus
D The path followed by a protein in the cytoplasm
Solution
28
The solution is (B). A protein signature is a unique set of proteins present in a
diseased state
What describes a protein that is uniquely produced in a diseased state?
A A genomic protein
B A genetic defect
C A chimeric molecule
D A biomarker
Solution
29
The solution is (D). A biomarker is a protein that indicates the occurrence of a
particular disease.
What are the metabolites that result from the anabolic and catabolic reactions of an
organism called?
A Genetic metabolic profile
B Metabolic signature
C Metabolome
D Metagenomic
Solution
The solution is (C). Metabolome refers to the metabolites that are produced by
catabolic and anabolic biochemical reactions.
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CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
30
What is the process of Southern blotting?
A Southern blotting is used to find particular DNA sequences. Fragments are separated
on gel, incubated with probes to check for sequence of interest, and transferred to
nylon membrane.
B Southern blotting is used to find particular DNA sequences. Fragments are separated
on gel, transferred to nylon membrane, and incubated with probes to check for
sequence of interest.
C Southern blotting is used to find particular RNA sequences. Fragments are separated
on gel, transferred to nylon membrane, and incubated with probes to check for
sequence of interest.
D Southern blotting is used to find particular RNA sequences. Fragments are separated
on gel, incubated with probes to check for sequence of interest, and transferred to
nylon membrane.
Solution
31
The solution is (B). Southern blotting is used to find particular DNA sequences.
Fragments are separated on gel, transferred to nylon membrane, and incubated
with probes to check for sequence of interest.
A researcher wants to study cancer cells from a patient with breast cancer. Is cloning the
cancer cells an option?
A The cancer cells should be cloned along with a biomarker for better detection
and study.
B The cells should be screened first in order to assure their carcinogenic nature.
C The cancer cells, being the clones of each other already, should directly be grown in a
culture media and then studied.
D The cancer cells should be extracted using the specific antibodies.
Solution
32
The solution is (C). Cancer cells are by definition clones of each other. All
the researcher needs to do is grow the patient’s cell through cell culture and
study them.
What are the uses of genome mapping?
A Genome mapping is useful in identifying human disease-causing genes, developing
microbes to clean up pollutants, and increasing crop yield.
B Genome mapping is directly required to produce recombinants, in FISH detection, and
detecting the methylated parts of genetic material.
C Genome mapping is useful for knowing the pedigree of diseases in humans and tracing
the movement of transposons in plants.
D Genome mapping identifies human disease-causing genes only.
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Solution
33
The solution is (A). Human genome maps help researchers in their efforts to identify
human disease-causing genes and can be used in a variety of other applications,
such as using live microbes to clean up pollutants or even prevent pollution.
Research involving plant genome mapping may lead to producing higher crop yields
or developing plants that better adapt to climate change.
If you had a chance to get your genome sequenced, what are some questions you might
be able to have answered about yourself?
A You can determine the drugs that can rectify the disease, symptoms of the disease,
and its severity.
B You can determine the ancestry and genetic origin of diseases and their susceptibility
to drugs.
C You can predict the symptoms of disease, the vectors to be used in gene therapy, and
the causal organism of the disease.
D You can determine the pedigree of a disease, produce recombinants, and detect the
presence of extracellular genes using FISH.
Solution
34
The solution is (B). It would be possible to determine ancestry, tendency to develop
some diseases that are of genetic origin, or susceptibility to drugs.
What is an example of a genomic mapping method?
A The radiation mapping method is an example which uses radiations to break the DNA
and is affected by the change in recombination frequency.
B Cytogenetic mapping obtains information from microscopic analysis of stained
chromosomes. It can estimate the approximate distance between markers.
C In restriction mapping, the DNA fragments are cut by using the restriction enzymes
and then stained fragments are viewed on gel.
D Cytogenetic mapping obtains information from microscopic analysis of stained
chromosomes. It can estimate the exact base pair distance between markers.
Solution
35
The solution is (B). Cytogenetic mapping uses information obtained by microscopic
analysis of stained sections of the chromosome. It is possible to determine the
approximate distance between genetic markers using cytogenetic mapping, but not
the exact distance (number of base pairs).
What are three methods of gene sequencing?
A Chain termination method – automated sequencers are used to generate sequences
of short fragments; Shotgun sequencing method – incorporation of ddNTP during DNA
replication; Next-generation sequencing – cutting DNA into random fragments,
sequencing using chain termination, and assembling overlapping sequences
B Chain termination method – incorporation of ddNTP during DNA replication; Shotgun
sequencing method – cutting DNA into random fragments, sequencing using chain
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termination, and assembling overlapping sequences; Next-generation sequencing –
automated sequencers are used to generate sequences of short fragments
C Chain termination method – incorporation of ddNTP during DNA replication; Shotgun
sequencing method – automated sequencers are used to generate sequences of short
fragments; Next-generation sequencing – cutting DNA into random fragments,
sequencing using chain termination, and assembling overlapping sequences
D Chain termination method – automated sequencers are used to generate sequences
of short fragments; Shotgun sequencing method – cutting DNA into random
fragments, sequencing using chain termination, and assembling overlapping
sequences; Next-generation sequencing – incorporation of ddNTP during DNA
replication
Solution
36
The solution is (B). The basic sequencing technique used in all modern-day
sequencing projects is the chain termination method (also known as the dideoxy
method), which was developed by Fred Sanger in the 1970s. The chain termination
method involves DNA replication of a single-stranded template with the use of a
primer and a regular dideoxynucleotide (ddNTP), which is a monomer of DNA. In the
shotgun sequencing method, several copies of a DNA fragment are cut randomly
into many smaller pieces (somewhat like what happens to a round shot cartridge
when fired from a shotgun). All of the segments are then sequenced using the chainsequencing method. Next-generation sequencing is a group of automated
techniques used for rapid DNA sequencing. These automated, low-cost sequencers
can generate sequences of hundreds of thousands or millions of short fragments (25
to 500 base pairs) in the span of one day.
What is the greatest challenge facing genome sequencing?
A The lack of resources and use of chemicals for the sequencing of the DNA fragments
B The ethical issues such as discrimination based on person’s genetics
C The use of chemicals during the sequencing methods could incorporate mutations
D The scientific issues such as conserving the human genome sequences
Solution
The solution is (B). The ethical issues surrounding genome sequencing are the
most challenging. Humans have a responsibility to use this knowledge wisely.
Otherwise, it could be easy to misuse the power of such knowledge, leading to
discrimination based on a person's genetics, human genetic engineering, and other
ethical concerns. This information also could lead to legal issues regarding health
and privacy.
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37
How is shotgun sequencing performed?
A The DNA is cut into fragments, sequencing is done using chain termination method,
fragments are analyzed to see the overlapping sequences, and the entire fragment is
reformed.
B The DNA is cut into fragments, overlapping sequences are analyzed using computer,
sequencing is done using chain termination method, and the DNA fragment is
reformed.
C The DNA is cut into fragments, stained with fluorescent dye, and sequenced using the
chain termination method; the fragments are analyzed to see the overlapping
sequences; and the entire DNA fragment is reformed.
D The DNA is cut into fragments, sequencing is done using the chain termination
method, the DNA is stained with fluorescent dye, and a computer is used to analyze
and reform the entire DNA fragment.
Solution
38
The solution is (A). In the shotgun sequencing method, several copies of a DNA
fragment are cut randomly into many smaller pieces (somewhat like what happens
to a round shot cartridge when fired from a shotgun). All of the segments are
sequenced using the chain-sequencing method. Then, with the help of a computer,
the fragments are analyzed to see where their sequences overlap. By matching up
overlapping sequences at the end of each fragment, the entire DNA sequence can be
reformed.
Coumadin is a drug frequently given to prevent excessive blood clotting in stroke or heart
attack patients, which could lead to another stroke or heart attack. Administration of the
drug also can result in an overdose in some patients, depending on the liver function of a
patient.
How could pharmacogenomics be used to assist these patients?
A Pharmacogenomics could provide a counteracting drug to decrease the effect of
Coumadin.
B Pharmacogenomics could test every patient for their sensitivity to the drug.
C Pharmacogenomics will not be able to provide any help to patients highly sensitive to
the drug.
D Pharmacogenomics could provide an overdose to each patient to test for the
symptoms of the drug.
Solution
The solution is (B). Pharmacogenomics allows each patient to be tested for genotype
associated sensitivity to drugs, thereby identifying patients who might experience an
overdose of drugs prior to administration.
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39
Why is so much effort being poured into genome mapping applications?
A Genome mapping is necessary to know the base pair difference between the markers.
B The mapping would help scientists understand the role of proteins in specific
organelles.
C The mapping technique identifies the role of transposons.
D Genome mapping helps identify faulty alleles, which could cause diseases.
Solution
40
The solution is (D). A genetic map of the human genome for multiple individuals
could identify alleles of genes susceptible to cancer causing agents. The mapping
could also identify allele variations resistant to changes resulting in cancer, thereby
offering the opportunity for genetic therapy for the disorders.
What is the reason for studying mitochondrial genomics that is most directly important
for humans?
A Mitochondria evolved from bacteria; therefore, their genome is important to study.
B Mitochondria undergo rapid mutation; and it is essential that this pattern be studied.
C Mitochondria contain DNA, and it is passed on from mother to the offspring, which
renders it helpful in tracing genealogy.
D Mitochondria are the only ATP-producing organelles of the cell, thus their genome is
important.
Solution
41
The solution is (C). Mitochondria are intracellular organelles that contain their own
DNA. Mitochondrial DNA mutates at a rapid rate and often is used to study
evolutionary relationships. Another feature that makes studying the mitochondrial
genome interesting is mitochondrial DNA in most multicellular organisms only is
passed on from the mother. For this reason, mitochondrial genomics often is used to
trace genealogy.
How can proteomics complement genomics?
A The genes are responsible for producing proteins, which implies that proteomics
complements genomics.
B Genomics is responsible for deciding the structure of the proteins and, thereby, the
result of proteomic studies.
C The genome is constant, but proteome is dynamic as different tissues possess the
same genes but express different genes, thereby complementing genomics.
D The study of genes is incomplete without the study of their respective proteins, thus
they complement each other.
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Solution
42
The solution is (C). Proteomics complements genomics and is useful when scientists
want to test their hypotheses that were based on genes. Even though all cells of a
multicellular organism have the same set of genes, the set of proteins produced in
different tissues is different and dependent on gene expression. Thus, the genome is
constant, but the proteome varies and is dynamic within an organism.
How could a proteomic map of the human genome help find a cure for cancer?
A A genetic map could help identify genes that could counteract the cause of cancer.
B Metabolomics can be used to study the genes producing metabolites during cancer.
C Proteomics detects biomarkers whose expression is affected by the disease process.
D The mapping helps analyze the inheritance of cancer-causing genes.
Solution
43
The solution is (C). Proteomic approaches are being used to improve screening and
early detection of cancer. This is achieved by identifying proteins whose expression
is affected by the disease process. An individual protein is called a biomarker,
whereas a set of proteins with altered expression levels is called a protein signature.
What contributions have been made through the use of microbial genomics?
A Microbial genomics has provided various tools to study psychological behaviors of
organisms.
B Microbial genomics has been useful in producing antibiotics, enzymes, improved
vaccines, disease treatments, and advanced cleanup techniques.
C Microbial genomics has contributed resistance in other bacteria by horizontal and
lateral gene transfer mechanisms.
D Microbial genomics has contributed to fighting global warming.
Solution
The solution is (B). Microorganisms are used to create products, such as enzymes
that are used in research, antibiotics, and other anti-microbial mechanisms.
Microbial genomics is helping develop diagnostic tools, improved vaccines, new
disease treatments, and advanced environmental cleanup techniques.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
44
In separating DNA for genomic analysis, it is important to consider RNA contaminating
the sample during the cell lysis step of a DNA extraction, which is likely to cause what
to occur?
A DNA separates into the supernatant.
B The protease destroys the DNA.
C RNA does not affect the DNA.
D DNA combines with the RNA.
Solution
The solution is (C). DNA is unaffected by the RNA.
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45
There are many techniques for investigating human genomic disorders. Western blotting
looks for protein, eastern blotting looks for post-translational changes, northern blotting
looks at mRNA, and Southern blotting looks at DNA.
If you were to look at sickle cell anemia, a disorder affecting hemoglobin produced in red
blood cells, which technique would be the most useful in detecting a polymorphism in a
sample?
A Northern blotting
B Southern blotting
C Western blotting
D Eastern blotting
Solution
46
The solution is (B). The polymorphism results in change (mutation) in the sequence
of a gene, so the analyses of DNA will be most useful.
A population of insects was formally distinguished by a mix of colors on their thorax and
legs. This population now appears to be split into two subgroups, purple legged and
orange legged. Researchers hypothesize that the purple-legged group may be increasing
resistance to the Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) toxin.
Which idea supports this observation?
A Transgenesis
B Natural selection
C Hybridization
D Recombination
Solution
47
The solution is (B). The resistance to certain environmental pressure is result
of mutations that produce organisms able to survive and reproduce, transmitting
the favorable trait, which in turn will increase the number of organisms carrying
the trait.
Which statement describes the process of molecular cloning?
A The foreign DNA and plasmid are cut with the same restriction enzyme, and DNA is
inserted within the lacZ gene, whose product metabolizes lactose. The foreign DNA
and vector are allowed to anneal. The vector is transferred to a bacterial host that is
ampicillin sensitive, and those with a disrupted lacZ gene show an inability to
metabolize X-gal.
B The foreign DNA and plasmid are denatured using high heat, and DNA is inserted
within the lacZ gene, whose product metabolizes glucose. The foreign DNA and vector
are allowed to anneal. The vector is transferred to a bacterial host that is ampicillin
sensitive, and the disrupted lacZ gene will metabolize X-gal.
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C The foreign DNA and plasmid are cut with the same restriction enzyme, and DNA is
inserted randomly in the plasmid. The foreign DNA and vector are allowed to anneal.
The vector is transferred to a bacterial host that is ampicillin sensitive, and the
disrupted lacZ gene shows an inability to synthesize X-gal.
D The foreign DNA and plasmid are cut with the same restriction enzyme, and DNA is
inserted within the lacZ gene, whose product metabolizes lactose. The foreign DNA
and vector are allowed to anneal. The vector is transformed into a viral host that is
ampicillin sensitive, and the disrupted lacZ gene shows an inability to synthesize X-gal.
Solution
48
The solution is (A). The foreign DNA and plasmid are cut with the same restriction
enzyme, which recognizes a particular sequence of DNA called a restriction site. The
restriction site occurs only once in the plasmid, and is located within the lacZ gene, a
gene necessary for metabolizing lactose. The restriction enzyme creates sticky ends,
which allow the foreign DNA and cloning vector to anneal. Ligase, an enzyme, binds
the annealed fragments together. The ligated cloning vector is transformed into a
bacterial host strain that is ampicillin sensitive and missing the lacZ gene from its
genome. Bacteria are grown in a medium containing ampicillin and X-gal, a chemical
metabolized by the same pathway as lactose. The ampicillin kills bacteria without
the plasmid. Plasmids lacking the foreign insert have an intact lacZ gene and are able
to metabolize X-gal, releasing a dye that turns blue. Plasmids with an insert have a
disrupted lacZ gene and produce white colonies.
There are three methods of creating maps to evaluate genomes: cytogenetic (staining
chromosomes), radiation hybrid maps (fragments with X-rays), and sequence maps
(comparing DNA sequences). Which option accurately describes the three methods?
A Cytogenetic mapping – stained sections of chromosomes are analyzed using
microscope, the distance between genetic markers can be found; Radiation hybrid
mapping – breaks DNA using radiation and is affected by recombination frequency;
Sequence mapping – DNA sequencing technology used to create physical maps
B Cytogenetic mapping – stained sections of chromosomes are analyzed using
microscope, the approximate distance between genetic markers can be found;
Radiation hybrid mapping – breaks DNA using radiation and is unaffected by
recombination frequency; Sequence mapping – DNA sequencing technology used to
create physical maps
C Cytogenetic mapping – stained sections of chromosomes are analyzed using
microscope, the distance in base pairs between genetic markers can be found;
Radiation hybrid mapping – breaks DNA using radiation and is unaffected by
recombination frequency; Sequence mapping – DNA sequencing technology used to
create physical maps
D Cytogenetic mapping – stained sections of chromosomes are analyzed using a
telescope, the distance between genetic markers can be found; Radiation hybrid
mapping – breaks DNA using radiation and is affected by recombination frequency;
Sequence mapping – DNA sequencing technology used to create physical maps
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Solution
49
The solution is (B). Cytogenetic mapping uses information obtained by microscopic
analysis of stained sections of the chromosome. It is possible to determine the
approximate distance between genetic markers using cytogenetic mapping, but not
the exact distance (number of base pairs). Radiation hybrid mapping uses radiation,
such as X-rays, to break the DNA into fragments. The amount of radiation can be
adjusted to create smaller or larger fragments. This technique overcomes the
limitation of genetic mapping and is not affected by increased or decreased
recombination frequency. Sequence mapping resulting from DNA sequencing
technology allowed for the creation of detailed physical maps with distances
measured in terms of the number of base pairs.
How many cells with different genetic variations are possible after a single round of
meiosis?
A Two
B Three
C Four
D Eight
Solution
The solution is (C). Complete meiosis produces four gametes which are genetically
different due to events in meiosis I (recombination during prophase I, and the
random alignment of the homologous chromosomes during metaphase I).
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
17.1 Biotechnology
50
Prokaryotes have an adaptive strategy to identify and respond to viral infections. This
strategy uses segments of the cyclic DNA called CRISPRs and genes coding for CRISPRassociated (cas) proteins. When a virus enters the cell, a strand of the viral DNA is excised
by a cas protein and inserted into the bacterial DNA in a CRISPR region. When the same
viral DNA is encountered subsequently, this foreign DNA is targeted by cas proteins that
carry RNA markers transcribed from the inserted segment. The cas proteins cleave the
viral DNA. The bacteria “remember” the infectious agent, providing a form of immunity.
A. Use the diagram to identify the components of a transcript-based response of bacteria
to the presence of viral DNA by placing the corresponding number next to each feature of
the diagram.
blank
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___ viral DNA
blank
blank
blank
blank
___ cellular DNA
___ excised viral DNA
___ cas protein–RNA–viral DNA complex
blank
blank
blank
blank
___ cas protein
___ cas protein–RNA complex
___ cell membrane
___ stored viral DNA template
___ degraded viral DNA
The CRISPR system was discovered in cultures of yogurt in 2002. Subsequently,
researchers developed a technology based on manipulation of this system. The code for
the prokaryotic CRISPR/cas system is highly conserved and is found in the human genome.
DNA sequences are known that encode proteins responsible for many heritable diseases.
CRISPR/cas is a technology that allows DNA to be cleaved at the boundaries of a
nucleotide sequence, making the protein dysfunctional. The break in the strand is then
recognized and replaced with code for the functional protein. If the editing is done with
zygote-forming cells, the change is inherited. Not only the patient, but all progeny of the
patient is cured. This technology is the first to easily make genomic modifications of a
germ line. In the words of a prominent molecular biologist, this technology, which was
recognized as the Breakthrough of 2015 in the journal Science, “democratizes genetic
engineering.” Just as PCR became a standard tool that is widely used, any molecular
biology lab is now able to apply this technology.
B. Pose three questions—whose pursuit would require an understanding of genetics—
regarding the ethical and social issues that accompany the use of this medical technology.
C. Explain the value of genetic variation within a population. Predict a possible effect that
this technology could have, if unregulated, on human genetic variation.
Solution
Sample answer:
A.
4 viral DNA
9 degraded viral DNA
3 cellular DNA
2 cas protein
5 excised viral DNA
6 cas Protein–RNA complex
8 cas protein–RNA–viral DNA
complex
1 cell membrane
7 stored viral DNA template
B. The nature of the problem elicits predictions of future events which cannot be
tested now. However, the question should discriminate between those that are
likely to eventually be answerable and those that will not be. For example, should
the use of the technology be restricted or should the use depend on the ability to
pay, are questions that will be decided without scientific reasoning. There are many
possible questions that do require reasoning. Sample questions:
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
How will disease be defined and differentiated from a phenotypic variation?

What is the uncertainty associated with environmental factors that may or
may not be required for expression?

What is the likelihood of developing a disease?

How do we weight the induction of expression due to environmental factors
that may be avoided?

If the gene in question is in a gene network, what is the relative importance
of the targeted gene?

At the time when a decision regarding the use of the technology is needed,
how will expertise needed to answer these questions be accessed?
C. Phenotypic variation within a population increases likelihood of survival of genes
within that population. Genome editing will cause a reduction in variation. If
unregulated, the genome could behave as if the population were small, since
effective population size is a measure of diversity. Small populations have greater
risk of extinction.
51
Gel electrophoresis of polymers and polymer fragments is an important element in many
investigations. Samples of a solution are pipetted onto a gel. The gel is placed in a solution
that maintains a constant pH, and an electric field is applied over the length of the gel.
Separated components are placed on a substrate where they can be visualized and
identified by comparison with samples of standards. Application of this method to DNA is
called a Southern blot, named for the inventor of the technology. Application to RNA is
called a northern blot, another demonstration that biologists have fun (there are also
western, eastern, and far-eastern blots, but these techniques are not named for their
inventor).
A. Consider the three amino acids shown in the figure and explain how when placed on a
gel in an electric field the amino acids would move, how the amino acids would be
separated as they moved, and which would move further.
B. A biologist wants to determine whether a new protocol is successful in constructing
and amplifying a molecular clone of a segment of DNA introduced as a plasmid. After the
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procedure is complete, the bacterial cells containing plasmid with the inserted segment
are lysed, and a gel is run on which spots of the lysate and the sequence to be cloned have
been pipetted. Use the data displayed in the developed gel shown in the figure to
evaluate the question of whether or not the protocol was successful.
C. Design a plan to answer the question of whether the new DNA has been incorporated
in the DNA of the host organism.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The electric field exerts a force on a charged molecule. Higher molecular mass
molecules migrate less far, as do molecules with smaller charge and so the
components will be separated and in this case it is uncertain whether histidine, with
a larger charge but also a greater mass, will travel further than serine. Certainly
alanine will travel further than serine. The rubric will award points for reasoning, not
for correct answer.
B. The sequence is indicted in the run of the lysate. However, this does not mean
that the sequence is incorporated into the genome.
C. To determine whether the sequence is heritable, the examination of lysate would
be repeated after the passage of a few generations. So, the plan would be grow the
cells on nutrient media, dilute, plate, grow, and repeat this sequence a few times.
Then lyse the cells and run a gel.
17.3 Whole-Genome Sequencing
52
Genetic engineering can be applied to heritable information to produce what is referred
to as a “knockdown organism.” Biotechnology also can be applied to produce nonheritable changes in a “knockdown gene.” Post-transcriptional strategies target the mRNA
product of a gene. One such strategy uses the conserved genes that encode RNA
interference (RNAi) proteins for the regulation of level of mRNA transcription.
Some viral RNA is double stranded (dsRNA). A cell responds to the presence of double
stranded RNA by attachment of the enzyme DICER which cuts dsRNA into short
fragments. One strand of the fragment is transferred to the RNA induced silencing
complex (RISC) which searches for mRNA with a sequence matching that of the fragment
strand. When detected, this mRNA is degraded.
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A. Common in cancer cells is a mutation of the gene that codes for the protein p53, whose
role is to detect and repair errors in DNA and, if repairs cannot be made, initiate
apoptosis. Create a visual representation to explain how the DICER-RISC system within
the cell can be used to suppress the translation of a mutated form of the gene coding for
p53, potentially destroying a tumor.
B. Whole genome sequences provide a library of potentially expressed proteins, but they
do not provide information on the functions of each protein. In an approach called
reverse genetics, investigations attempt to determine the function of the gene, often by
silencing the gene using RNAi technology. Assume that you have the ability to synthesize
dsRNA from a DNA segment taken from an organism whose whole genome has been
determined. Design a plan for collecting data that could be used to assign a function to
the protein encoded by this sequence. (Hint—Do not worry about the number of
experiments that might need to be conducted to implement your plan. An automated
technique called high throughput screening robotically supports thousands of
simultaneous experiments.)
Solution
Sample answers:
A. Because the sequence coding for the mutant p53 is known, a dsRNA
complementing this template can be constructed and introduced with a viral vector.
When the dsRNA is recognized, the DICER-RISC machinery will repress the mutant.
This technology was applied to this problem in 2014.
B. A dsRNA is constructed using the desired sequence as the template. Cells
(probably using a surrogate such as yeast) are exposed. Any suspected function can
be evaluated by presenting the appropriate substrate and looking for reaction
products or growing the cells on nutrient media and looking for the absence of
product.
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18 | EVOLUTION AND ORIGIN OF SPECIES
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Which scientific concept did Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace independently discover?
A Mutation
B Natural selection
C Overbreeding
D Sexual reproduction
Solution
2
The solution is (B). Darwin and Wallace both independently described the process of
natural selection, the mechanism by which evolutionary change is produced.
Which statement about a natural principle that points to the inevitability of natural
selection is false?
A Most characteristics of organisms are inherited.
B Offspring vary among each other in regard to their characteristics.
C Some generations of offspring do not need to compete for resources.
D Certain traits will be better represented in the next generation.
Solution
3
The solution is (C). After reading the work of economist Thomas Malthus, Darwin
recognized that all species over-reproduce. He reasoned that at each and every
generation, then, there is competition for resources to survive.
What is the best definition of adaptation?
A A trait or behavior that aids an organism’s survival and reproduction
B A heritable trait or behavior that aids an organism’s survival and reproduction
C A trait or behavior that aids a population’s survival and reproduction
D A heritable trait or behavior that aids a population’s survival and reproduction
Solution
4
The solution is (B). An adaptation is a heritable characteristic that aids an organism’s
survival and reproduction.
What is an example of an adaptation?
A The better nutrition of a human helps her grow taller.
B The webbed feet of a duck help it swim.
C The urban location of a raccoon helps it find food.
D The large leaves of a desert plant require more water.
Solution
The solution is (B). An adaptation is a heritable trait or behavior, like the webbed
feet of a duck, which helps it swim.
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5
Which process is divergent evolution?
A Groups of organisms evolve in different directions from a common point.
B A new species develops rapidly when an event cuts off a portion of a population.
C Groups of organisms independently evolve to similar forms.
D A species evolves when a few members move to a new geographical area.
Solution
6
The solution is (A). When two species evolve in diverse directions from a common
point, divergent evolution occurs.
Which situation is most likely an example of convergent evolution?
A Some fish that live in total darkness have eyes.
B Hawks and other birds have feathers.
C Worms and snakes both move without legs.
D Flowers that look very different have the same reproductive organs.
Solution
7
The solution is (C). Worms and snakes do not share a recent common ancestry, yet
they move similarly. This is likely an example of convergent evolution.
What are homologous structures?
A Physical structures that have no apparent function
B Parallel structures in diverse organisms
C Physical structures that are used only occasionally
D Similar structures in diverse organisms
Solution
8
The solution is (B). Scientists call synonymous parts in diverse species homologous
structures.
What are two examples of vestigial structures?
A Gills in fish and parts of the throat in humans
B Butterfly wings and dragonfly wings
C Hind leg bones in whales and leaves on some cacti
D Shark fins and dolphin fins
Solution
The solution is (C). Vestigial structures are those with minimal to no utility for an
organism. Whales do not use hind leg bones and leaves are of minimal use to cacti.
They represent remnants of features useful to the organisms’ ancestors.
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9
Which statement best describes the relationship between the theory of evolution and the
origin of life?
A The theory includes an explanation of life’s origins.
B The theory cannot explain the origin of life.
C The theory does not try to explain the origin of life.
D The theory does not contribute understanding to pre-life processes.
Solution
10
The solution is (C). The theory of evolution describes how populations change over
time and how life diversifies the origin of species; it does not try to explain life’s
origins.
Which statement best describes what happens when an antibiotic is applied to a
population of bacteria?
A The bacteria develop resistance to the antibiotic in direct response to its application.
B The bacteria’s genetic material mutates in response to the antibiotic, resulting in
resistance.
C A gene for resistance, already present in the population, decreases in frequency.
D A gene for resistance, already present in the population, increases in frequency.
Solution
11
The solution is (D). A gene for resistance is in the population already. The antibiotic
kills bacteria without the resistant gene, strongly selecting resistant individuals. The
gene for resistance thus increases in frequency in the gene pool.
Which option is the best definition of species?
A A group of individual organisms with significant genetic similarities
B A group of individual organisms with significant genetic similarities that share external
and internal characteristics
C A group of individual organisms that interbreed
D A group of individual organisms that interbreed and produce viable, fertile offspring
Solution
12
The solution is (D). The best definition is a group of individual organisms that
interbreed and produce viable, fertile offspring.
What do scientists focus on to distinguish between species?
A Ecological niches
B Morphological differences
C Reproductive barriers
D Genetic changes
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Solution
13
The solution is (C). Biological species concept is widely used to distinguish between
species. It states that species are groups of interbreeding natural populations that
are reproductively isolated from other such groups.
What are two primary sources of genetic variation?
A Mutations and sexual reproduction
B Isolation and sexual reproduction
C Sexual reproduction and asexual reproduction
D Migration and sexual reproduction
Solution
14
The solution is (A). The accumulation of mutations and the genetic shuffling of
sexual reproduction are two primary sources of genetic variation.
Which statement best describes the relationship between genetic variation and
speciation?
A Without genetic variation, speciation would occur more slowly.
B Without genetic variation, speciation would not be possible.
C Genetic variation influences sympatric speciation, but not allopatric speciation.
D There is no relationship between genetic variation and any form of speciation.
Solution
15
The solution is (B). Two basic mechanisms of evolutionary change—natural selection
and genetic drift—cannot operate without genetic variation. Other mechanisms of
evolutionary change, migration and mutation, produce genetic variation. Genetic
variation makes evolutionary change possible.
Which statement about postzygotic barriers is false?
A They occur after fertilization.
B They include hybrids that are sterile.
C They include hybrid organisms that do not survive the embryonic stage.
D They include reproductive organ incompatibility.
Solution
16
The solution is (D). Reproductive organ incompatibility prevents reproduction from
taking place, so it is a prezygotic barrier rather than a postzygotic barrier.
Which situation is an example of a prezygotic barrier?
A Two species of fish produce sterile offspring.
B Two species of flowers attract different pollinators.
C Two species of insects mate, but the zygote does not survive.
D Two species of lizards mate, but the offspring dies before reproducing.
Solution
The solution is (C). A postzygotic barrier takes place after zygote formation. An
organism does not survive the embryonic stage or is born sterile.
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17
Which situation would most likely lead to allopatric speciation?
A A flood causes the formation of a new lake.
B A storm causes several large trees to fall down.
C A mutation causes a new trait to develop.
D An injury causes an organism to seek out a new food source.
Solution
18
The solution is (A). Allopatric speciation occurs when a population becomes
geographically isolated. The formation of a new lake is one way in which such
isolation could occur.
What is the main difference between an autopolyploid individual and an allopolyploid
individual?
A Number of extra chromosomes
B Functionality of extra chromosomes
C Source of extra chromosomes
D Number of mutations in the extra chromosomes
Solution
19
The solution is (C). In autopolyploids, the source of the extra chromosomes is the
individual itself. A diploid parent produces a polyploid offspring. In allopolyploids,
different species combine to produce polyploid offspring.
What is unique about speciation due to adaptive radiation?
A It leads to multiple species forming from one parent species.
B It only occurs on or around island archipelagos.
C It requires a population to disperse from its parent species.
D It is a special kind of sympatric speciation.
Solution
20
The solution is (A). Adaptive radiation occurs when many adaptations evolve from a
single point of origin. This is a unique quality, as multiple speciations fuel greater
evolutionary change.
What is least likely to be a factor that increases the probability of speciation by adaptive
radiation?
A There are vacant ecological niches nearby.
B Genetic drift in a population increases.
C There are isolated regions with suitable habitats.
D There are few competitor species.
Solution
The solution is (B). Genetic drift is not likely to be a factor in speciation by adaptive
radiation.
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21
In a hybrid zone, in addition to interacting, what else do two closely related species do?
A Compete
B Reproduce
C Transition
D Fuse
Solution
22
The solution is (B). Two closely related species that interact and reproduce to form
hybrids do so in an area called a hybrid zone.
Which situation means reinforcement is more likely to occur in the hybrid zone?
A The hybrid offspring are more fit than the parent species.
B Reproductive barriers weaken.
C The hybrid offspring are about as fit as the parent species.
D Reproductive barriers strengthen.
Solution
23
The solution is (D). When reproductive barriers strengthen, hybrids are generally not
as fit as the parent species, and reinforcement of speciation takes place.
Which statement is false?
A Gradual speciation and punctuated equilibrium both result in the divergence of
species.
B Punctuated equilibrium is most likely to occur in a large population in a stable
environment.
C In the punctuated equilibrium model, gradualism is not excluded.
D In the gradual speciation model, traits change incrementally.
Solution
24
The solution is (B). Punctuated equilibrium is most likely to occur in a smaller
population and in an environment undergoing change.
Which component of speciation would be least likely to be a part of punctuated
equilibrium?
A A division in populations
B A change in environmental conditions
C Ongoing gene flow
D A number of mutations occurring at once
Solution
The solution is (C). Continued gene flow is likely to slow down the rate of speciation.
This is less likely to be a part of the evolutionary change described by the model of
punctuated equilibrium.
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CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
25
What conclusions can you draw about the relationship between the way in which the
present-day theory of evolution developed and the credibility of the theory? Explain your
thinking.
A When the theory of evolution was first proposed, it was met with a lot of criticism and
disbelief, but it is widely supported today. Theories that have withstood a larger
amount of criticism are more credible than those that are accepted easily.
B The theory of evolution has its foundation in both biological and geological
observations, making it a more credible theory because it can explain more about
the world.
C The theory of evolution relies on the heritability of traits, but the mechanism of this
inheritance was not understood when the theory was developed. This reduces the
credibility of the theory because the people who created it did not understand how
it worked.
D It is meaningful that two naturalists working independently from each other offered
the same explanation for the same set of phenomena. When two people
independently look at the same evidence and come to the same conclusion, this
reinforces the credibility of that conclusion.
Solution
26
The solution is (D). I can conclude that the way in which the theory was developed
says something about its credibility. It is meaningful that two naturalists who
worked independently from each other offered the same explanation for the same
set of phenomena. When two people independently look at the same (or similar)
body of evidence and come to the same conclusion, this reinforces the credibility of
that conclusion. This same idea is part of today’s scientific process, in which studies
must be replicable to be considered valid.
How does an adaptation, such as better running speed, relate to natural selection?
A Natural selection produces beneficial adaptations, such as better running speed, in
individuals that run more frequently.
B Natural selection randomly mutates individuals’ genetic code until it produces
beneficial adaptations, such as better running speed.
C Natural selection produces adaptations, such as better running speed, to help
individuals survive and reproduce.
D Natural selection reproduces individuals with favorable genetic traits, such as the
adaptation of better running speed, over time.
Solution
The solution is (C). An adaptation is a heritable trait that allows an individual
organism to better survive and reproduce in its present environment. An animal that
runs faster, for example, is better suited to catching prey and/or avoiding predators,
and thus more likely to survive and pass on its ability to run quickly to its offspring.
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Natural selection is the reproduction of individuals with favorable genetic traits—
such as the adaptation of better running speed—over time.
27
What is an example of convergent evolution? How does it support the theory of evolution
by natural selection?
A An example of convergent evolution is the development of the same function,
swimming, in organisms that live in different parts of the globe, such as Arctic beluga
whales and Antarctic right whales. The fact that organisms that do not come in
contact with each other have developed the same traits suggests that natural
selection can produce similar adaptations in organisms who share a similar
environment.
B An example of convergent evolution is the set of adaptations, such as better running
speed or more efficient hunting, developed by a species in response to competition
with a new species that moves into the same region. The fact that a species adapts
after it comes into contact with a competitor suggests that natural selection works
more quickly with higher selective pressures.
C An example of convergent evolution is the development of an ancestral structure, a
limb, into two different modern structures, such as a hand and a flipper. The fact that
natural selection can cause a structure to develop down two different pathways due
to different environmental conditions supports the theory of evolution.
D An example of convergent evolution is the development of the same function, flying,
in organisms that do not share a recent common ancestry, such as insects and birds.
The fact that wings that allow flight have developed from very different original
structures suggests that the process of natural selection can produce similar
adaptations in two very different types of organisms who share a similar environment.
Solution
28
The solution is (D). An example of convergent evolution is the development of the
same function, flying, in organisms that do not share a recent common ancestry,
such as insects and birds. The fact that wings that allow flight have developed from
very different original structures suggests that the process of natural selection can
produce similar adaptations in two very different types of organisms who share a
similar environment.
Why do scientists consider vestigial structures evidence for evolution?
A Vestigial structures are the result of convergent evolution, so they are good evidence
that natural selection act similarly in similar environmental conditions.
B Vestigial structures are the result of common ancestry, so they are good evidence that
different populations of organisms evolved from a common point.
C Vestigial structures are the result of convergent evolution, so they are good evidence
for an end goal to evolution.
D Vestigial structures are the result of common ancestry, so they are good evidence for
a common origin of all life.
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Solution
29
The solution is (A). Vestigial structures are, in fact, homologies—underlying patterns
in form (if not exactly function) that are the result of common ancestry. Whether or
not they are useful, the fact that anatomical similarities exist even in very different
organisms is good evidence that different populations of organisms evolved from a
common point. Furthermore, the actual uselessness of vestigial structures points to
ongoing evolution—these structures are no longer part of the adaptive features of
an organism, but likely once were.
Reproduction in sexually-reproducing organisms occurs when two sex cells, or gametes,
fuse. In fish, this occurs when sperm swim through the water to find the ovum. In flowers,
pollen is dispersed through the air and carried to another flower. Explain what
evolutionary adaptations for reproduction occur in humans, based on the fact that we are
land-based animals.
Solution Because humans are land-based animals, the female must provide an internal, fluid
environment in which sperm will not be desiccated and can move. Thus, the male
sperm is deposited directly into the internal reproductive tract of the female, which
creates an insulated environment in which sperm can survive and travel to the ovum.
30
While examining the human genome, you find a gene that is not homologous to any other
organisms known to man. You conclude that this gene must be unique to the human
species and could not have evolved from another organism. Would this discovery suggest
that humans do not share a common ancestor with all other organisms on Earth? Explain
your answer.
Solution No. Although all organisms descended from other organisms, it is possible for a new
gene to form in the human genome, or any organism, through processes such as
mutation or crossing-over during meiosis. Such a gene would not need to have been
inherited from an ancestor and humans would still likely share many other genes with
other Earth organisms.
31
Mutations in the glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) gene can cause a rare
anemia when inherited. However, homozygotes with this mutation are less prone to
malaria infection, a disease that historically was the most widespread deadly disease
among humans. Predict how this mutation would affect the fitness of individuals living in
countries where malaria is endemic.
Solution
32
Despite the ability of G6PD to cause deadly anemia, the mutation is favored and will
remain in the population because it causes resistance to malaria, a much more
widespread disease among humans.
How does the scientific meaning of theory differ from the common vernacular meaning?
A A scientific theory is a hypothesis that needs to be tested, whereas people often use
theory to mean a simple guess.
B A scientific theory is a statement that has been proven correct, while people often use
it to mean a statement that has not yet been verified.
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C A scientific theory is a thoroughly tested set of explanations for a body of observations
of nature, while people often use it to mean a guess or speculation.
D A scientific theory is a random guess, while people often use it to mean a statement
that is somewhat based in fact.
Solution
33
The solution is (B). In science, a theory is a body of well tested and verified
explanations for a set of observations about the natural world. Its use connotes
rigorous examination of evidence and general consensus by experts in the field. In
common vernacular, theory is used to mean a guess or suggested explanation. It
does not connote rigorous examination of evidence. It is much more like the
scientific term hypothesis, which is a reasoned explanation but has not yet been
tested and verified.
Why is having a way of defining species and distinguishing between them important for
the study of evolution?
A A distinction between species allows scientists to understand the common origin of
all species.
B A common definition of species allows scientists to agree on all aspects of the theory
of evolution.
C Divergence can only occur at the species level: It does not occur to larger taxa.
Therefore, it is important to know which groups are distinct species.
D In the study of evolution, the species is the unit over which change is measured.
Solution
34
The solution is (A). Studying evolution means studying change among life forms over
time. It is always important to have a unit, or benchmark, for measuring change. In
the study of evolution, the species is that unit or benchmark.
If a population stopped reproducing sexually, but still reproduced asexually, how would its
genetic variation be affected over time? Could speciation occur in this situation?
A Genetic variation would increase, and speciation would be possible.
B Genetic variation would increase, and speciation would not be possible.
C Genetic variation would decrease, and speciation would be possible.
D Genetic variation would decrease, and speciation would not be possible.
Solution
35
The solution is (C). Over time, its genetic variation would probably decrease over all,
since sexual reproduction is a primary means of variation. There would still be the
possibility of mutations introducing genetic variation, and depending on the species,
migration could introduce different genes into the population. Some genetic
variation is necessary for any evolutionary change to happen. Over time, speciation
would still be possible, especially if a portion of the population was isolated from the
rest and mutations occurred.
What role do prezygotic and postzygotic barriers play in speciation?
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A Prezygotic and postzygotic barriers allow for the formation of less-fit hybrids that
reinforces speciation.
B Prezygotic and postzygotic barriers prevent interbreeding of species such that there is
no gene flow between them.
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C Prezygotic and postzygotic barriers prevent migration of the two species, causing
them to remain in contact with each other and begin to interbreed.
D Prezygotic and postzygotic barriers are present only in newly formed species, allowing
scientists to identify the time of divergence of the species.
Solution
36
A population of flowers was separated into two subpopulations when a new river cut
through the plain in which they were growing. The number of interbreeding events per
year for the two subpopulations of flowers is shown in the graph below. Twenty-four
years after they were separated, can you conclude that the two subpopulations of flowers
have become new species? Why or why not?
Solution
37
The solution is (B). Speciation is the formation of two separate species from one
original species. Inherent in the definition of speciation is the development of
reproductive isolation—the inability to interbreed. Both prezygotic barriers and
postzygotic barriers prevent interbreeding of species such that there is no gene flow
between them.
No; just because interbreeding does not occur does not mean the flowers are
incapable of interbreeding.
Which type of speciation, allopatric or sympatric, is more common? Why?
A Allopatric speciation is more common because it prevents gene flow between
the species.
B Allopatric speciation is more common because it involves stronger prezygotic barriers.
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C Sympatric speciation is more common because it prevents gene flow between the
species.
D Sympatric speciation is more common because it involves stronger prezygotic barriers.
Solution
38
The solution is (A). Allopatric speciation is more common than sympatric speciation.
Geographic isolation (the defining characteristic of allopatric speciation) greatly
reduces gene flow between populations, so speciation is more likely to occur.
Continued gene flow is more likely in a sympatric situation, so this type of speciation
is less common.
Using adaptive radiation, how can the diversification of the finches Darwin observed in
the Galapagos be explained?
A The finches likely shared a common ancestor when they came to the island, but
exhibited different traits. Each species of finch settled the island where its particular
traits would be the most adaptive.
B The finches likely originated as one parent species, but over time mutations caused
them to develop reproductive barriers and separate into different species. To reduce
competition, the species then radiated out to inhabit different islands.
C The finches likely dispersed from one parent species, and natural selection based on
different food sources in differing habitats led to adaptive changes, evidenced in the
different beak shapes of the different species, each suited to a different food type.
D It is likely that a series of cataclysmic events caused an original finch species to diverge
into the many finch species that inhabited the islands when Darwin observed them.
The different species then radiated out to the different islands and adapted to the
different conditions on each.
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Solution
39
The solution is (D). Adaptive radiation is speciation that occurs when one population
radiates out and forms several new species, each in a different niche or isolated
habitat. Island archipelagos, like the Galapagos, are ideal contexts for this type of
speciation, because the water provides the geographical isolation for speciation to
occur. Darwin observed finches with different beak shapes and related these shapes
to different food sources. These finches likely dispersed from one parent species,
and evolution in response to natural selection based on different food sources in
differing habitats led to behavioral, and eventually genetic, changes. These changes
are evidenced in the different beak shapes of the different species—each suited to a
different food type.
In which situation would hybrid reproduction cause two species to fuse into one?
A Separate species cannot interbreed, so hybrid reproduction does not occur in nature.
B If the hybrid offspring are more fit than the parents, reproduction would likely
continue between both species and the hybrids, eventually bringing all organisms
under the umbrella of one species.
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C Two species that have recently diverged from each other can reproduce with each
other, creating hybrid individuals that belong to the species of the parents’ common
ancestor.
D If two species occupy the same niche in the same area, they can either compete or
they can collaborate and reproduce with each other, eventually fusing into a single
species.
Solution
40
The solution is (D). If two closely related species continue to produce hybrids that
are as fit as the parent species, or even more fit, the species would be more likely to
fuse. If there was an increased pressure for that fusion, such as an environmental
change that pushed the two species to share habitat or food sources more closely,
this might increase the possibility of fusion.
What do both rate of speciation models have in common?
A Both models ignore the influence of gene flow for simplicity’s sake.
B Both models apply only to island chains.
C Both models require the influence of cataclysmic events which precipitate rapid
adaptation and speciation.
D Both models conform to the rules of natural selection and the influences of gene flow,
genetic drift, and mutation.
Solution
41
The solution is (A). Both rate of speciation models result in the divergence of one
species into two species. Both rely on the usual mechanism of change, natural
selection, and both are influenced by factors such as environmental changes, rates
of mutation, and population size.
In which situation would hybrid reproduction would two species to continue divergence?
A If two closely related species continue to produce hybrids, the hybrids will compete
with both species, causing them to find new niches that will further their divergence.
B If two closely related species continue to produce hybrids, they will develop
reproductive barriers to prevent production of hybrids, to ensure that they remain
separate species.
C If two closely related species continue to produce hybrids that are less fit than the
parent species, there would be reinforcement of divergence.
D If two closely related species continue to produce hybrids they will always converge
into a single species.
Solution
The solution is (B). If two closely related species continue to produce hybrids that
are less fit than the parent species, there would be reinforcement of divergence.
And, if there were an increased division between the two species, such as an
environmental change that pushed the two species to move farther apart or
increased reproductive barriers that decreased hybrid fitness even further, this
would increase the possibility of divergence even more.
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TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
42
Prior to 1800 in England, the typical moth of the species Biston betularia (peppered moth)
had a light pattern. Dark-colored moths were rare. By the late nineteenth century, the
light-colored moths were rare, and the moths with dark patterns were abundant.
The cause of this change was hypothesized to be selective predation by birds (Tutt, 1896).
During the Industrial Revolution, soot and other wastes from industrial processes killed
tree lichens and darkened tree trunks. Thus, prior to the pollution of the Industrial
Revolution, dark moths stood out on light-colored trees and were vulnerable to predators.
With the rise of pollution, however, the coloring of moths vulnerable to predators
changed to light.
Which aspect of Darwin’s theory of evolution does the story of the peppered moth most
clearly illustrate?
A There is competition for resources in an overbred population.
B There is great variability among members of a population.
C There is differential reproduction of individuals with favorable traits.
D The majority of characteristics of organisms are inherited.
Solution
43
The solution is (C). Through natural selection, moths with favorable coloring survived
to reproduce and pass on their coloring.
Prior to 1800 in England, the typical moth of the species Biston betularia (peppered moth)
had a light pattern. Dark-colored moths were rare. By the late nineteenth century, the
light-colored moths were rare, and the moths with dark patterns were abundant.
The cause of this change was hypothesized to be selective predation by birds (Tutt, 1896).
During the Industrial Revolution, soot and other wastes from industrial processes killed
tree lichens and darkened tree trunks. Thus, prior to the pollution of the Industrial
Revolution, dark moths stood out on light-colored trees and were vulnerable to predators.
With the rise of pollution, however, the coloring of moths vulnerable to predators
changed to light. In the late 1900s, England cleaned up its air, and pollution decreased.
The bark of trees went from dark to light.
Which outcome to the populations of peppered moth would you expect, given this
environmental change?
A An increase in the number of dark moths and a decrease in the number of light moths
B An increase in the number of moths overall
C An approximately equal number of light moths and dark moths
D An increase in the number of light moths and a decrease in the number of dark moths
Solution
The solution is (D). Natural selection would allow for differential reproduction of the
more favorable trait. With decreased pollution and lighter trees, this would mean
the light moth.
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44
Prior to 1800 in England, the typical moth of the species Biston betularia (peppered moth)
had a light pattern. Dark-colored moths were rare. By the late nineteenth century, the
light-colored moths were rare, and the moths with dark patterns were abundant.
The cause of this change was hypothesized to be selective predation by birds (Tutt, 1896).
During the Industrial Revolution, soot and other wastes from industrial processes killed
tree lichens and darkened tree trunks. Thus, prior to the pollution of the Industrial
Revolution, dark moths stood out on light-colored trees and were vulnerable to predators.
With the rise of pollution, however, the coloring of moths vulnerable to predators
changed to light.
Commonly used in biology text books, the peppered moth is a classic example of
evolutionary change in action. The example describes changes in a population’s allele
frequencies: a small-scale change, evolutionarily speaking. The presence of both light and
dark forms within the gene pool is demonstrated by the story, but the peppered moth
stays a peppered moth.
Which scenario, if it were to occur, would be a model for large-scale evolutionary change?
A Conditions change such that the dark form of the moth is favored and the light form is
diminished in the population due to predation. Conditions change again, the dark form
is vulnerable, and the light form returns to prevalence.
B Conditions change such that the dark form of the moth is favored and the light form is
eradicated in the population due to predation. Conditions change again, the dark form
is vulnerable, and the dark form is eradicated due to predation.
C Conditions change such that dark form of the moth is favored and the light form is
diminished in the population due to predation. Conditions change again, and both
forms have equal prevalence.
D Conditions change such that dark form of the moth is favored and the light form is
eradicated in the population due to predation. Conditions change again, the dark form
is vulnerable. It develops an adaptation that shields it from predation.
Solution
45
The solution is (B). Conditions change such that the dark form of the moth is favored
and the light form is eradicated in the population due to predation. Conditions
change again, the dark form is vulnerable, and the dark form is eradicated due to
predation.
Given your understanding of evolutionary theory and the relationship between evolution
and the genetic makeup of populations, which statement is false?
A Homologous characteristics that have evolved more recently are shared only within
smaller groups of organisms.
B The genetic code is a homologous characteristic shared by all species because they
share a common ancestor in the deep past.
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C DNA sequence data would likely support any evolutionary tree drawn from anatomical
data sets.
D The degree of relatedness between groups of organisms is only sometimes reflected in
the similarity of their DNA sequences.
Solution
46
The solution is (D). The degree of relatedness between groups of organisms is only
sometimes reflected in the similarity of their DNA sequences.
Each of the following observations comes from a different scientific discipline. Which
observation best supports Darwin’s concept of descent with modification?
A Geologists provide evidence that earthquakes reshape life by causing mass
extinctions.
B Botanists provide evidence that South American temperate plants have more in
common with South American tropical plants than temperate plants from Europe.
C Zoologists provide evidence that fewer animal species live on islands than on nearby
mainlands.
D Ecologists provide evidence that species diversity increases closer to the equator.
Solution
47
The solution is (B). Botanists provide evidence that South American temperate
plants have more in common with South American tropical plants than temperate
plants from Europe.
Paleontologists have recovered a fossil for an organism named Archaeopteryx. It has
many features in common with reptiles, but, like birds, shows evidence of feathers.
For what aspect of evolutionary theory does this piece of evidence suggest support?
A Modern species are distinct natural entities.
B Modern species are not currently evolving.
C Modern species share a common ancestor.
D Modern species have both convergent and divergent traits.
Solution
48
The solution is (C). A fossil that demonstrates common characteristics of now
divergent groups suggests common ancestry among living things, both specifically
and generally.
Which piece of evidence illustrates evolution as an ongoing process?
A Some genes from the bacterium E. coli have sequences that are similar to genes found
in humans.
B Marsupial mammals live in just a few places in the world today: Australia, South
America, and part of North America.
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C The fossil record shows that Rodhocetus, an aquatic mammal related to whales, had a
type of ankle bone that is otherwise unique to a group of land animals.
D In the 1940s, infections by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus could be treated with
penicillin; today populations exist that are completely resistant.
Solution
49
The solution is (A). Ethnic Tibetans are unique among humans for having
physiological mechanisms that help them live in places with low oxygen levels.
The process of mutation, which generates genetic variation, is random. Thus, life has
evolved, and continues to evolve, randomly. Which statement is an appropriately
evidence-based refinement of the above?
A The process of mutation, which generates genetic variation, is random. However, the
process of natural selection, which results in adaptations like the fit between a flower
and its pollinator, favors variants which are better able to survive and reproduce.
Natural selection is not random, so the overall process of evolution is not random,
either.
B The process of mutation, which generates genetic variation, is random. However, the
process of migration, which results in gene flow between populations, also generates
genetic variation. Migration is not random, so the overall process of evolution is not
random, either.
C The process of mutation, which generates genetic variation, is random. However, the
process of sexual reproduction, which also introduces genetic variance, is not random.
Because sexual reproduction is not random, the overall process of evolution is not
random, either.
D The process of mutation, which generates genetic variation, is random. Whether
mutations have a positive, negative, or neutral effect in terms of selective advantage is
also random. Mutations and their effects are random, so the overall process of
evolution is random.
Solution
50
The solution is (A). The process of mutation, which generates genetic variation, is
random. However, the process of natural selection, which results in adaptations like
the fit between a flower and its pollinator, favors variants which are better able to
survive and reproduce. Natural selection is not random, so the overall process of
evolution is not random, either.
The selective breeding of plants and animals that possess desired traits is a process called
artificial selection. For example, broccoli, cabbage, and kale are all vegetables that have
been selected from one species of wild mustard.
How is artificial selection both similar to and different from Darwin’s conception of
natural selection? Does artificial selection provide evidence for evolution by natural
selection? Explain.
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A Both artificial selection and natural selection are the differential reproduction of
individual organisms with favored traits. In artificial selection, humans have actively
modified plants and animals by selecting and breeding individuals with traits deemed
desirable. In natural selection, the most successful individuals in a species are selected
by the species to reproduce.
B Both artificial selection and natural selection are processes that result in betteradapted individuals within a species. In artificial selection, humans have actively
modified plants and animals by selecting beneficial genes from other organisms and
inserting them into the target organisms. In natural selection, natural processes such
as mutations and viruses introduce new genes to a population.
C Both artificial selection and natural selection are processes that cause organisms to be
better adapted over time. In artificial selection, humans have trained animals to be
more successful in completing tasks that the humans want completed. In natural
selection, organisms train the functions that they will need to survive and reproduce.
D Both artificial selection and natural selection are the differential reproduction of
individual organisms with favored traits. In artificial selection, humans have actively
modified plants and animals by selecting and breeding individuals with traits deemed
desirable. In natural selection, individuals are selected naturally as its traits deem it
more fit for survival and reproduction.
Solution
51
The solution is (A). Both artificial selection and natural selection are the differential
reproduction of individual organisms with favored (selected) traits. Each process
works by acting on heritable variations in a population. In artificial selection, humans
have actively modified plants and animals by selecting and breeding individuals with
traits deemed desirable. In natural selection, individuals are selected naturally as its
traits deem it more fit for survival and reproduction. The “more fit” individuals pass
on these “more fit” traits to their offspring; over time, the population’s traits change
in accordance with its environment. Artificial selection provides a good model for
understanding how natural selection works. Although it brings about dramatic
change in a relatively short period of time, it provides evidence for how small
changes multiplied over many generations can result in a species that bears little
resemblance to its ancestors.
Genes important in the embryonic development of animals have been relatively well
conserved during evolution. This means they are more similar among different species
than many other genes. What explains this genetic conservation across animal species?
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A Changes in the genes that are important to embryonic development have been
relatively minor because there are no selective pressures on an individual before it
is born.
B Changes in the genes that are important to embryonic development have been
relatively minor because not much time has elapsed since the divergence of the
various animal taxa.
C Changes in the genes that are important to embryonic development have been
relatively minor because early embryos are very fragile and even small mutations can
result in death.
D Changes in the genes that are important to embryonic development have been
relatively minor because mutational tweaking in the embryo has magnified
consequences in the adult.
Solution
52
The solution is (D). Early embryonic development of animal species follows a similar
pattern. For example, structures such as tails and slits such as gills are present in all
vertebrate such as embryos, though they develop differently or disappear altogether
in later forms. Since anatomical development is the result of genetic material and
the machinery of DNA replication and expression, it makes sense that the genetic
information that produces these basic embryonic structures would be the same or
very similar in very different species. The differences between species are evidence
of evolutionary changes in their genetic makeup. Changes in the genes that are
important to embryonic development have been relatively minor, as mutational
tweaking in the embryo has magnified consequences in the adult.
The upper forelimbs of humans and cats have fairly similar structures. In contrast, the
upper forelimbs of whales (their flippers) have bones with a different shape and
proportion from both cats and humans. Interestingly, genetic data suggest that all three
organisms have a common ancestor from about the same point in time.
What is a likely explanation for these data?
A Cats and humans are more closely related to each other than either is to whales.
B The shape of the whale forelimb arose a result of disadvantageous mutations.
C The whale flipper is an adaptive characteristic unique to its water environment.
D The whale flipper is a vestigial structure.
Solution
The solution is (C). Given the fact that all three organisms diverged from a common
ancestor at about the same point in time, and that evolutionary change is spurred by
environmental change, it seems that the whale flipper is an adaptive characteristic
unique to its water environment. Both humans and cats live on land, whereas
whales live in water. It makes good sense that natural selection in an aquatic
environment resulted in the differences we see in whale forelimb anatomy.
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53
Biogeography is the study of biological species as they relate to geographical space
and geological time. The fossil record shows that dinosaurs originated about 200 to
250 million years ago. Would you expect the geographic distribution of early dinosaur
fossils to be broad (on many continents) or narrow (on one or a few continents)? Explain.
A Broad because dinosaurs originated before the breakup of Pangaea
B Broad because some dinosaurs could fly between continents
C Narrow because they went extinct too quickly to disperse very far
D Narrow because they lived so long ago that the fossils have mostly broken down or
disappeared
Solution
54
The solution is (A). Given that the dinosaurs originated before or about the same
time as the breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea (about 200 million years ago), I
would expect that the geographic distribution of early dinosaur fossils to be quite
broad. It is likely that extant species of dinosaurs lived on many parts of Pangaea,
and it is also likely that when Pangaea broke apart, the fossils of dinosaurs would
have moved with the rocks as the continent broke apart and moved.
The term microevolution describes evolution on its smallest scale: the change in allele
frequencies in a population over generations. DDT is a pesticide that was widely in use in
the United States from the 1940s until 1972. The table summarizes a particular allele
frequency in laboratory strains of the common fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster.
Strains Collected from
Flies in the Wild in the
1930s
Strains Collected from
Flies in the Wild in the
1960s
Frequency of Allele
0%
40%
Conferring DDT
Resistance
Using this information, in which model did natural selection improve the match between
D. mealanogaster and its environment through microevolution?
A DDT killed off a large proportion of the population, and the alleles present in the
surviving fruit flies differed from those in the original population.
B Mutations from the application of DDT caused the allele conferring DDT resistance to
appear in the population.
C Female mosquitoes chose to mate with male mosquitoes that had the allele conferring
DDT resistance because it would make their offspring more fit.
D The wide use of DDT meant that fruit flies with DDT resistance were more
evolutionarily fit than their counterparts without DDT resistance.
Solution
The solution is (B). The allele conferring resistance to the pesticide DDT either arose
by mutation or was present in the population in the 1930s very rarely. The wide use
of DDT meant that fruit flies with DDT resistance were more evolutionarily fit than
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their counterparts without DDT resistance. The number of individuals with DDT
resistance in the population of fruit flies grew due to differential reproduction
associated with the increased evolutionary fitness of these individuals. DDT is a
pesticide—a poison—and natural selection strongly selected for individuals who had
the resistant allele. Thus, from the 1930s to the 1960s, the frequency of the allele
conferring DDT resistance increased in the fruit fly population.
55
In 1795, a Scottish geologist named Charles Hutton suggested that Earth’s geologic
features could be explained by gradual processes that were still operating. This was in
direct contrast to other scientific thought at the time, which included well-accepted
proposals that geologic layers were representative of catastrophic events caused by
processes no longer operating in the present time. Hutton proposed geologic features as
the result of slow and consistent change, such as valleys formed by rivers wearing through
rock. Hutton’s ideas were incorporated in the work of Charles Lyell, a geologist working in
Darwin’s time. Lyell advocated a principle called uniformitarianism, the consistency of
mechanisms of change over time. In other words, Lyell argued that the same geologic
processes operating in the present had operated in the past, and at the same rate.
The ideas of Hutton and Lyell influenced the work of Charles Darwin. How do Hutton’s and
Lyell’s ideas connect to and provide support for Darwin’s theory of evolutionary change?
A The idea that the same processes that operate in the present also operated in the
past, and at the same rate, supported Darwin’s hypothesis of natural selection
because humans could select for desirable traits and produce change very rapidly, so
natural selection would also be fast enough to produce the full range of diversity in
living organisms.
B The idea that the same processes that operate in the present also operated in the
past, and at the same rate, connects to Darwin’s hypothesis of natural selection
because he had observed it happening in the present.
C The idea that geologic change is the result of slow, continuous processes rather than
sudden, substantial change connects to Darwin’s support of gradualism rather than
punctuated equilibrium as the process that guided evolution.
D The idea that geologic change is the result of slow, continuous processes rather than
sudden, substantial change connects directly to Darwin’s hypothesis that, given
enough time, slow and subtle processes could produce substantial biological change.
Solution
The solution is (C). The idea that geologic change is the result of slow, continuous
processes rather than sudden, substantial change connects directly to Darwin’s
hypothesis that, given enough time, slow and subtle processes could produce
substantial biological change. Further, the thesis that the Earth’s geologic features
result from such slow and steady change suggests a very old Earth. A theory of a
much, much older Earth supports Darwin’s theory of evolutionary change—the Earth
would have to be much older than commonly thought at Darwin’s time to be old
enough for life to have evolved from a single common ancestor.
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56
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) reproduces very quickly. A single virus can
replicate itself a billion times in one 24-h period. In a hypothetical treatment situation, a
patient’s HIV population consists entirely of drug-resistant viruses after just a few weeks
of treatment.
How can this treatment result best be explained? How does this explanation illustrate that
evolution is an ongoing process?
A The resistant viruses passed their genes to the nonresistant viruses so that
100 percent of the viruses became resistant. This illustrates evolution as an
ongoing process because the genes of the population changed in real time.
B The nonresistant viruses died, and the resistant ones survived and rapidly reproduced.
This illustrates evolution as an ongoing process because the change in the HIV
population is the result of natural selection.
C The viruses developed resistance to the drug after repeated exposure to it. This
illustrates evolution as an ongoing process because the viruses were able to adapt to
changing conditions.
D The drug-resistant viruses were more fit than their nonresistant counterparts to begin
with, and over time they dominated the population. This illustrates evolution as an
ongoing process because natural selection favored one phenotype over another.
Solution
57
The solution is (B). The treatment result is best explained as the result of natural
selection. A few drug-resistant viruses were in the original HIV population (at the
start of treatment) and natural selection increased their frequency to 100 percent.
The non-resistant viruses died, and the resistant ones survived and rapidly
reproduced. This explanation illustrates evolution as an ongoing process because the
change in the HIV population in the explanation is the result of evolutionary
processes. Natural selection strongly selected for the drug-resistant virus in the
presence of the drug. There was differential replication of the drug-resistant virus
with the accumulation of favorable traits (drug resistance) over generations.
A friend says: “Natural selection is about the survival of the very fittest in a population.
The fittest are those that are strongest, largest, and fastest.”
Would you agree with that statement? What evidence from scientific disciplines can you
offer to support your agreement or your disagreement?
A The statement is true. If an organism is not strong and fast, it will not survive long
enough to reproduce and pass on its genes, and if it is not large and fitter than the
other individuals around it, it will not be able to compete for a mate. Many seal
species, for example, have only a single male who gets to mate. He must be the very
fittest seal to win all the females.
B The very fittest organisms are not necessarily the ones that survive. Sometimes it is
the least fit organisms that survive and reproduce. For example, in one generation, the
mice that are bad at foraging for seeds may reproduce prolifically and dominate the
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mice that are good at foraging. In this case, natural selection will select for the less-fit
phenotype and spread it in the population.
C The definition of fitness is not correct. The strongest and fastest organisms are more
fit than the weaker and slower ones, but large individuals are often at a disadvantage
to smaller ones because they are easily spotted by predators. For example, a large
rabbit will stick out on a field more than a small one and will get eaten by a hawk.
D What is meant by fittest is not necessarily strong, large, and fast. Fitness, as defined in
evolutionary terms, has to do with survival and the reproduction of genetic material.
For example, a small but showy male bird may be selected by female birds to
reproduce, while a large but less colorful one is not.
Solution
58
The solution is (D). Although survival of the fittest is a commonly used catchphrase
when discussion natural selection and evolution, the phrase is a bit misleading. It is
not only the very fittest that survive—many organisms that seem less fit than others
may survive and reproduce. Further, what is meant by fittest is not necessarily
strong, large, and fast. Fitness, as defined in evolutionary terms, has to do with both
survival and the reproduction of genetic material. A small but showy male bird may
survive and reproduce while a large but less colorful one does not. A thin, shortliving plant may yield plentiful seeds while a larger, longer-living plant does not.
Some of the largest organisms to walk Earth, the dinosaurs, were fit for a time. Not
many organisms of that size exist today—and certainly not in those numbers. What
is fit at one point in time is not what is fit in another—and some of the most
successful and prolific organisms ever are found among the microorganisms and
invertebrates.
A student placed 20 tobacco seeds of the same species on moist paper towels in each of
two petri dishes. Dish A was wrapped completely in an opaque cover to exclude all light.
Dish B was not wrapped. The dishes were placed equidistant from a light source set to a
cycle of 14 h of light and 10 h of dark. All other conditions were the same for both dishes.
The dishes were examined after seven days, and the opaque cover was permanently
removed from dish A. Both dishes were returned to the light and examined again at
14 days. The following data were obtained:
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What best supports the hypothesis that the difference in leaf color is genetically
controlled?
A The number of yellow-leaved seedlings in dish A on day 7
B The number of germinated seeds in dish A on days 7 and 14
C The death of all the yellow-leaved seedlings
D The existence of yellow-leaved seedlings as well as green-leaved ones on day 14 in
dish B
Solution
59
The solution is (D). The existence of yellow-leaved seedlings as well as green-leaved
ones on day 14 in dish B.
A student placed 20 tobacco seeds of the same species on moist paper towels in each of
two petri dishes. Dish A was wrapped completely in an opaque cover to exclude all light.
Dish B was not wrapped. The dishes were placed equidistant from a light source set to a
cycle of 14 h of light and 10 h of dark. All other conditions were the same for both dishes.
The dishes were examined after seven days, and the opaque cover was permanently
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removed from dish A. Both dishes were returned to the light and examined again at
14 days. The following data were obtained:
What best describes the usefulness of the yellow-leaved phenotype as a variation subject
to natural selection?
A The yellow-leaved phenotype can germinate in environments without light.
B The germination of the yellow-leaved phenotype is unaffected by light intensity.
C The germination of the yellow-leaved phenotype is accelerated as compared to the
green-leaved phenotype.
D The yellow-leaved phenotype cannot germinate in environments with light.
Solution
The solution is (A). The yellow-leaved phenotype can germinate in environments
without light.
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60
A student placed 20 tobacco seeds of the same species on moist paper towels in each of
two petri dishes. Dish A was wrapped completely in an opaque cover to exclude all light.
Dish B was not wrapped. The dishes were placed equidistant from a light source set to a
cycle of 14 h of light and 10 h of dark. All other conditions were the same for both dishes.
The dishes were examined after seven days, and the opaque cover was permanently
removed from dish A. Both dishes were returned to the light and examined again at
14 days. The following data were obtained:
Yellow-leaved seedlings are unable to convert light energy to chemical energy. Which
observation is most likely to be made on day 21?
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A A few yellow-leaved seedlings alive in dish A, but none in dish B
B A few yellow-leaved seedlings alive in dish B, but none in dish A
C No yellow-leaved seedlings alive in dish A or dish B
D A few yellow-leaved seedlings alive in dish A and dish B
Solution
61
The solution is (C). If the seedlings are unable to convert light energy to chemical
energy, none will survive.
Populations of a nocturnal toad live along a long river. On the other side of a band of
territory that is about 10 km wide, there are populations of a toad that appear similar.
Which data would provide compelling evidence that the two populations represent
different species?
A The populations of toads on the other side of the banded territory are not completely
nocturnal.
B Fertile hybrid populations of toads are found between the two other populations.
C There appear to be some hybrid toads between the two populations, but they are few
and frail.
D The two populations of toads enact very different mating behaviors.
Solution
62
The solution is (C). There appear to be some hybrid toads between the two
populations, but they are few and frail.
A group of students summarized information on five great extinction events. The students
are sampling a site in search of fossils from the Devonian period. Based on the chart, what
would be the most reasonable plan for the students to follow?
A Searching horizontal rock layers in any class of rock and trying to find those that
contain the greatest number of fossils
B Collecting fossils from rock layers deposited prior to the Permian period that contain
some early vertebrate bones
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C Looking in sedimentary layers next to bodies of water in order to find marine fossils of
bivalves and trilobites
D Using relative dating techniques to determine the geological ages of the fossils found
so they can calculate the rate of speciation of early organisms
Solution
63
The solution is (B). The most reasonable plan to follow would be collecting fossils
from rock layers deposited prior to the Permian period that contain some early
vertebrate bones.
Populations of a plant species have been found growing in the mountains at altitudes
above 2,500 m. Populations of a plant that appears similar, with slight differences, have
been found in the same mountains at altitudes below 2,300 m.
Which plan for collecting two kinds of data could provide a direct answer to the following
question: Do the populations growing above 2,500 m and the populations growing below
2,300 m represent a single species?
A Scientists could take the genetic code of a plant from each altitude and determine
whether the two sets of DNA are identical. They could also insert genes from one
plant into the cells from the other and see if the cells survive
B Scientists could look in the fossil record to find the plants’ most recent common
ancestor. They could also check the surrounding mountains to determine if the most
recent common ancestor is still living.
C Scientists could breed the two groups in the same environment and observe whether,
over several generations, they begin to look more similar. They could also switch the
groups, growing the high-altitude plants at low altitude and the low-altitude plants at
high altitude, and observe whether the former begin to look like low-altitude plants
and the latter begin to look like high-altitude plants.
D Scientists could collect seeds and test whether they might be cross-pollinated to
produce fertile offspring. They also could investigate the area between 2,500 m and
2,300 m to see if fertile hybrid populations might be found living between the two
other populations of plants.
Solution
64
The solution is (D). Scientists could collect seeds and test whether they might be
cross-pollinated to produce fertile offspring. They could also investigate the area
between 2,500 m and 2,300 m to see if fertile hybrid populations might be found
living between the two other populations of plants.
Populations of a plant species have been found growing in the mountains at altitudes
above 2,500 m. Populations of a plant that appears similar, with slight differences, have
been found in the same mountains at altitudes below 2,300 m.
How do the two types of data from the previous exercise provide a direct answer to the
question of whether speciation has taken place?
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A If the plants become more similar when grown in the same environment, or if the
high-altitude plants respond to low altitude in the same way that low-altitude plants
have, and low-altitude plants respond to high altitude the same way that high-altitude
plants have, then the two groups have the same underlying genetic structure and
belong to one species.
B If the seeds from the plants can be cross-fertilized and developed into fertile offspring,
the two populations are not yet reproductively isolated and remain one species. If
hybrid forms are found, the two populations are not reproductively isolated and
hybrids are both viable and successful.
C If the genetic codes of the two plants are identical, then they must belong to the same
species. Also, if genes transplanted between the plants function successfully, then the
plants must be similar enough to each other to belong to the same species.
D If scientists are able to find the common ancestor of the two groups in the fossil
record or in neighboring communities, then they can determine whether the plants
have diverged into separate species or remain a single species.
Solution
65
The solution is (B). Both of these data are consistent with definition of biological
species. If the seeds from the plants can be cross-fertilized and developed into fertile
offspring, the two populations are not yet reproductively isolated and remain one
species. If hybrid forms are found this provides the same direct answer: the two
populations are not reproductively isolated and hybrids are both viable and
successful.
Assuming a population that has genetic variation and is under the influence of natural
selection, place the following events in the order in which they would occur:

Genetic frequencies within the population change.

A change occurs in the population’s environment.

Phenotypic variations shift.

Individuals who are well-adapted leave more offspring than individuals who are
poorly adapted.

Individuals who are poorly adapted do not survive at the same rate as individuals
who are well adapted.
A 1. A change occurs in the population’s environment.
2. Individuals who are poorly adapted do not survive at the same rate as individuals
who are well adapted.
3. Individuals who are well adapted leave more offspring than individuals who are
poorly adapted.
4. Genetic frequencies within the population change.
5. Phenotypic variations shift.
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B 1. A change occurs in the population’s environment.
2. Genetic frequencies within the population change.
3. Phenotypic variations shift.
4. Individuals who are poorly adapted do not survive at the same rate as individuals
who are well adapted.
5. Individuals who are well adapted leave more offspring than individuals who are
poorly adapted.
C 1. Phenotypic variations shift.
2. A change occurs in the population’s environment.
3. Genetic frequencies within the population change.
4. Individuals who are poorly adapted do not survive at the same rate as individuals
who are well adapted.
5. Individuals who are well adapted leave more offspring than individuals who are
poorly adapted.
D 1. Individuals who are well adapted leave more offspring than individuals who are
poorly adapted.
2. Individuals who are poorly adapted do not survive at the same rate as individuals
who are well adapted.
3. Phenotypic variations shift.
4. Genetic frequencies within the population change.
5. A change occurs in the population’s environment.
Solution
The solution is (A). The events in order of occurrence are as follows:
1. A change occurs in the population’s environment.
2. Individuals who are poorly adapted do not survive at the same rate as
individuals who are well adapted.
3. Individuals who are well adapted leave more offspring than individuals who
are poorly adapted.
4. Genetic frequencies within the population change.
5. 5. Phenotypic variations shift.
66
A biologist studies a population of voles for 20 years. During almost the entire research
period, the population stays between 50 and 75 individuals. Additionally, fewer than half
of the voles born do not survive to reproduce, due to predation and competition for food.
Then, in one generation, 80 percent of the voles born live to reproduce. The population
increases to 110 individuals.
What inferences about food and predation can you make for the singular generation in
which 80 percent of offspring survived? What prediction can you make about the genetic
and phenotypic variation of future populations for this group of voles?
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A Either there was less food available or the degree of predation increased. The future
generations of this group of voles should evidence less genetic variation.
B Either there was less food available or the degree of predation increased. The future
generations of this group of voles should evidence greater genetic variation.
C Either there was more food available or the degree of predation decreased. The future
generations of this group of voles should evidence less genetic variation.
D Either there was more food available or the degree of predation decreased. The future
generations of this group of voles should evidence greater genetic variation.
Solution
67
The solution is (D). It is reasonable to infer that for the generation of voles in which
80 percent live and reproduce, there was more food available or the degree of
predation decreased. The future generations of this group of voles should evidence
greater genetic variation because there are more individuals surviving and passing
on their genetic information. If that variation persists (the population stays larger or
increases in size), it is likely that future populations will evidence a different variety
of phenotypes, as well.
There are years of drought in a small, relatively isolated community. During the
drought, small seeds with thin shells become rare. Large seeds with hard cases become
increasingly common. The large, tough seeds are successfully eaten by birds with large
and broad beaks.
Assuming that the drought continues and the population of birds in the community stays
isolated, what predictions for the population can you make under the influence of natural
selection?
A The birds with small, thin beaks will grow larger, broader beaks to be able to eat the
larger seeds. This will result in subsequent generations having a higher percentage of
birds with large, broad beaks.
B There will be more birds with small, thin beaks dying and more birds with large, broad
beaks surviving. Differential reproduction of birds with large, broad beaks will result in
subsequent generations having a higher percentage of birds with large, broad beaks.
C The species will diverge into two species, one with small, thin beaks and one with
large, broad beaks. The two species will then compete for resources.
D There will be neither phenotypic nor genotypic changes in the population.
Solution
The solution is (B). There will be more birds with small, thin beaks dying and more
birds with large, broad beaks surviving. Differential reproduction of birds with large,
broad beaks will result in subsequent generations having a higher percentage of
birds with large, broad beaks. If the drought and isolated conditions persist, it is
possible that the genetic variation of the population will shift such that the
configuration of the small, thin beaked bird is increasingly rare or even no longer
present in the gene pool.
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68
At one time, avian researchers in the Sulawesi region of Indonesia described the
Flowerpecker populations on the mainland and the Wakatobi archipelago as one species.
A recent reassessment of the Wakatobi populations resulted in the suggested
reclassification of these populations as a distinct species, the Wakatobi Flowerpecker.
Which piece of evidence, if true, would be cause for this reclassification?
A The populations have become dependent on the island food sources.
B The populations have become morphologically distinct from the mainland species.
C The populations have become adapted to the island habitat.
D The populations have become reproductively isolated from the mainland species.
Solution
69
The solution is (D). The populations have become reproductively isolated from the
mainland species.
What pattern in the fossil record would you expect to see to support the model of gradual
speciation? How would you expect this pattern to differ from a pattern in the fossil record
that supports the model of punctuated equilibrium? Explain.
A In the case of gradual speciation, the fossil record would show only a few hybrid
individuals, followed by individuals of the two distinct species. For the case of
punctuated equilibrium, the fossil record would show many hybrid individuals
persisting through several geological layers.
B In the case of gradual speciation, the fossil record would show the parent species in a
single location, such that the newly diverged species remained in contact with each
other. For the case of punctuated equilibrium, the fossil record would show a
geographic divide within the parent species that caused it to diverge into multiple new
species.
C In the case of gradual speciation, the fossil record would show many intermediate
forms. For the case of punctuated equilibrium, the fossil record would show new
forms that persist essentially unchanged through several geological layers, then
disappear just as a new form appears.
D Gradual speciation would be undetectable in the fossil record. For the case of
punctuated equilibrium, the fossil record would show a steady progression of
distinct forms.
Solution
The solution is (C). In the case of gradual speciation, the fossil record would show
many intermediate forms. The changes between them would be notable, but they
would be gradual and perhaps span many, many geological layers. In contrast, for
the case of punctuated equilibrium, the fossil record would show the sudden
appearance of a new form. This new form would persist essentially unchanged
through several geological layers, then disappear just as another new form appears.
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70
Until recently, these three species of short-tailed pythons, Python curtus, Python
brongersmai (middle), and Python breitensteini were considered one species. However,
due to the different locations in which they are found, they have become three distinct
species. What is this an example of?
A Divergent evolution
B Sympatric speciation
C Allopatric speciation
D Variation
Solution
71
The solution is (C). This refers to speciation that occurs through geographic
separation.
Consider two species of birds that diverged while separated geographically but resumed
their contact before reproductive isolation was complete. Which option describes the first
step in what would happen over time if the two species mated extensively and their
hybrid offspring survived and reproduced more poorly than offspring from intraspecies
mating?
A Natural selection would cause prezygotic barriers to reproduction between the parent
species to strengthen over time.
B The production of unfit hybrids would increase and the speciation process would
complete.
C The extensive mating between the species would continue to produce large numbers
of hybrids.
D The gene pools of the parent species would fuse over time, reversing the speciation
process.
Solution
The solution is (A). Natural selection would cause prezygotic barriers to reproduction
between the parent species to strengthen over time.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
18.1 Understanding Evolution
72
In addition to biology, evidence drawn from many different disciplines, including
chemistry, geology, and mathematics, supports models of the origin of life on Earth. In
order to determine when the first forms of life likely formed, the rate of radioactive decay
can be used to determine the age of the oldest rocks (see optional parts C and D) exposed
on Earth’s surface. These are found to be approximately 3.5 billion years old. The age of
rocks can be correlated to fossils of the earliest forms of life.
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A. The graph compares times of divergence from the last common ancestor based on the
fossil record with a “molecular time” constructed by comparing sequences of conserved
proteins to determine a mutation rate (after Hedges and Kumar, Trends in Genetics,
2003). Explain how such a molecular clock could be refined to infer time for the evolution
of prokaryotes.
B. Using a molecular clock constructed from 32 conserved proteins, Hedges and
colleagues (Battistuzzi et al., BMC Evol. Biol., 2004) estimated the times during which key
biological processes evolved. A diagram based on their work is shown. Connect the time
of the origin of life inferred from this diagram with the age of the oldest fossil
stromatolites and the age of the oldest exposed rock to show how evidence from
different scientific disciplines provides support for the concept of evolution. Evaluate the
legitimacy of claims drawn from these different disciplines (biology, geology, and
mathematics) regarding the origin of life on Earth.
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The oldest known rocks are exposed at three locations: Greenland, Australia, and
Swaziland. The following application of mathematical methods provides the essential
evidence of the minimum age of Earth. The mathematics is appropriate for students who
have completed a second year of algebra. However, it is not illustrative of the type of item
that could appear on the AP Biology Exam.
The exposed rocks contain a radioactive isotope of rubidium, 87Rb, which decays into a
stable isotope of strontium, 87Sr. An 87Rb atom with 37 protons and 50 neutrons decays
when a proton is converted into a neutron to produce an atom, 87Sr, with 36 protons and
51 neutrons. As time passed, the number of each isotope changed from its initial value.
When a crystal containing 87Rb atoms formed from the molten surface of the hot, early
Earth during the Hadean eon, the number of these atoms at that initial time can be
represented as N87Rb,0. As time passed, the number of atoms of this isotope changed to
N87Rb.
C. Justify the relationship between the number of each isotope at any time and the
number of each at the time that the molten rock solidified (denoted by the subscript 0):
N87Sr  N87Sr ,0  N87Rb ,0  N87Rb
The decay of unstable radioisotopes is exponential with a half-life of T1/2, which for 87Rb is
4.88  1010 years:
N87Rb  N87Rb,0 e
0.693t /T1/2
This can be used to replace the initial number of 87Rb atoms, which cannot be measured,
with the present-day value:
N87Sr
N86Sr

N87Sr ,0
N86Sr

 e
0.693t /T1/2
1
N
N87Rb
86Sr
When the measurements of the numbers of 87Rb and 87Sr were made (Moorbath et al.,
Nature, 1972), measurements of a second stable isotope of strontium, 86Sr, also were
made. The ratio of the initial number of 87Sr and 86Sr atoms is the same as today, since the
isotopes are both stable. The value of this ratio is 0.71.
This is a linear equation in the form y  ax  b, where a is the term in parenthesis
containing the half-life of 87Rb. If Y  N87 / N86 is graphed versus N87 / N86 , the slope
Sr
Sr
Sr
Sr
can be used to determine the time, t, that has passed since the rock formed from melting:
ae
0.683t /T1/2
 1,
so
t  ln a  1  T1/2 / 0.693.
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D. Data on the rubidium and strontium isotopes at Isua in Greenland are provided in the
table. Analyze these data to obtain the age of formation of these rocks.
N87Rb/N86Sr
N87Sr/N86Sr
0.212
0.711
0.214
0.711
0.223
0.712
0.259
0.714
0.268
0.714
0.267
0.715
0.290
0.716
0.394
0.720
0.434
0.723
The solidification of the molten surface of Earth at the end of the Hadean eon (4 to
4.6 billion years ago) and the condensation of liquid oceans provided a medium from
which life emerged. The most ancient fossils are colonial, photosynthetic cyanobacteria
called stromatolites. As climate change melted the perennial snow covering Greenland,
new geologic evidence of the time of that origin was obtained (Nutman et al., Nature,
2016) with the discovery of the most ancient stromatolites. These fossils record
communities of photosynthetic bacteria embedded in Isua sediments 3.7 billion years ago.
Worldwide stromatolite fossils show a decline between 1 and 1.3 billion years ago.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. By comparing sequence differences in conserved proteins among prokaryotes,
using such a molecular clock, the time separating last common ancestors among
prokaryote groups can be inferred.
B. At the extrapolation of these estimates for the emergence of biological innovation
lies the ultimate biological innovation, life. A reasonable interval is between 4.5 and
4.0 bya. Interestingly, this is significantly older than the oldest surface rocks, leading
many to conjecture that life emerged during the Hadean. The oldest surface rocks
only provide an upper bound on the formation of solid Earth since these are just
those that are exposed. The proliferation of cyanobacteria is unlikely to be a very
early phenomenon, so the 3.7 bya fossils. So, all three of these disciplines have
produced results which are complementary and providing evidence of both the
concept of evolution and time of the origin of life on Earth.
C. The left-hand side of this equality is the number of 87Sr atoms in a sample of rock.
These were either present initially, 87Sr0, or were formed from the decay 87Rb. The
number of 87Rb that have decayed is the difference between the initial number,
87Rb , and the current number of 87Rb.
0
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D. A graph should be constructed such as the one below except that axes should be
labeled. The independent variable is the ratio of 87Rb to 86Sr. The slope is the factor
that depends on the time interval that has elapsed since the solidification of the
melt to form these rocks. Using the half-life of 87Rb, the age of the rocks can be
determined.
(e
0.693t / T1/2
 1)  0.0514  t 
ln(1.0514)
0.693
0,724
0,722
0,72
0,718
0,716
0,714
0,712
0,71
y = 0,0514x + 0,7005
0
73
 4.88  1010 years  3.5 billion years
0,1
0,2
0,3
0,4
0,5
In 1952, the Miller-Urey experiment showed that an electrical discharge in a gas-phase
mixture of ammonia, hydrogen, methane, and water produced five amino acids. When
the experiment was conducted, evidence indicated that this mixture was representative
of the Hadean (early Earth) atmosphere. The experiment was repeated in the presence of
jets of hot steam, simulating Hadean volcanic eruptions and producing an even larger
variety of amino acids.
A. Consider the following criticisms of the “organic soup” model and justify the selection
of data that other experiments might provide regarding the origin of life on Earth.

Biopolymers on Earth have a left-hand symmetry at the carbon adjacent to the
carboxylic acid carbon, and these experiments produced mixtures of both leftand right-hand symmetries.

No peptide bonds between amino acids were observed.

Early Earth’s atmospheric oxygen concentration is known to have been very low,
implying the absence of an ozone layer to filter high-energy ultraviolet (UV)
radiation.

Ammonia decomposes when it absorbs high-energy UV radiation, but diatomic
nitrogen does not.
Models of the abiotic synthesis of biomolecules suffer from a “chicken and egg” dilemma.
Proteins are needed to synthesize DNA and RNA, and DNA and RNA are needed to
synthesize proteins. Which molecules came first?
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B. In light of the following observations, evaluate the hypothesis that nucleotides arose
from a prebiotic mixture.

Nuclei acids are not found in experiments like those of Miller and Urey.

Purines and pyrimidines decompose at high temperature, and Earth was
bombarded by meteors and comets during the Hadean eon.

Bonds in the purine and pyrimidine rings of nucleic acids are broken by highenergy UV radiation.

Carl Sagan and colleagues synthesized ATP from a mixture of adenosine, ribose,
and phosphate when exposed to UV radiation.

Ribose has never been synthesized in experiments like those conducted by Miller
and Urey.

Ribose has a left/right symmetry, and the right-handed form occurs in Earth
organisms.
Continuing with the analogy, if neither the chicken nor the egg came first, then both must
have arisen together. Some regard simultaneous innovations in both catalysis and
information storage and retrieval as too improbable. In samples of meteorites, both
amino acids and nucleic acids have been found. The amino acids are mixtures of left- and
right-handed symmetries, although some have shown a significant bias toward the lefthanded form (J. Elisa et al., ACS Central Science, 2016). The arrival from space of the seeds
of biomolecules is called panspermia. Carl Sagan (1966) and Francis Crick (1973), one of
the first to describe the structure of DNA, regarded panspermia as the only plausible
origin of life on Earth. In fact, their belief was in directed panspermia, the intentional
seeding by intelligent aliens.
C. Describe the questions that must be addressed for panspermia to be a scientific
hypothesis about the origin of life on Earth and describe the reasons for the directed
panspermia revision of this hypothesis.
To avoid the conflicting chicken-and-egg claims that “protein catalyst was first” and “DNA
information storage was first,” two alternatives have emerged regarding the origin of life
on Earth. Consider two simple ideas: (1) water blocks UV radiation, and cracks in the
ocean floor (hot vents) provide a temperature difference that generates a source of
entropy; and (2) ribosomes are composed of RNA.
D. Describe one of the following as a hypothesis concerning the origin of life on Earth:

Reactions among molecules in the vicinity of hot vents became organized in
space and time, eventually developing structures that foreshadow the proton
gradient upon which metabolism is based. This alternative is the basis for what is
referred to as the metabolism-first hypothesis.
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
Solution
The catalytic properties of the ribosome reflect the self-catalytic polymerization
of nucleotides with sequential structures conserved in modern DNA, the catalytic
properties conserved in proteins, and the catalytic properties of the ribosome
whose core structure is RNA. This alternative is the basis for what is referred to
as the RNA-first hypothesis.
Sample answer:
A. N2 is even more likely to be the predominant nitrogen molecule in the Hadean
atmosphere and less likely to react to form amino acids. The experiment should be
conducted with N2 and perhaps even more energetic radiation, such as X-rays. In the
gas phase, there is no mechanism to bias the result toward either left- or righthanded products. If a surface—such as clay, mica, or metals—were present then the
left-handed form might be favored. Also, experimental designs need to probe the
way that surfaces might lead to polymerization of the amino acids.
B. Polymerization of nucleotides, once they formed, would a very low probability
event and that means very long times would be required. Whenever an impact
occurred, the clock would be reset. Somehow the purine and pyrimidine products
would need to be hidden from the UV radiation—though a report
(http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jphotochemrev.2008.12.001) has suggested that the
five nucleic acids found in DNA and RNA are products of selection under pressure
from UV radiation. Ribose has a left/right symmetry so synthesis in solution is not
likely to favor the right-handed form. Sagan (1973) suggested that prokaryotes
protected the bases from radiation by sinking in the primordial oceans while preeukaryotes remained near the surface in protective cages of radiation-absorbing
nucleic acids. This “geographic separation” led to the division. This probably was
dinner conversation between Sagan and his wife, Lynn Margulis, who later published
the accepted endosymbiotic explanation.
C. To be a valid scientific hypothesis panspermia needs to be testable. Or one must
restate the model in a way that can be tested. For example, one could make the
claim that nucleic acids found in meteorites can be extracted under pre-biotic
conditions and, given a pathway to the synthesis of ribose, can form nucleotides that
polymerize in the presence of phosphates. This claim, given the challenges
summarized in this problem, is not likely to be tested in the near future. So, those of
us who want answers to questions beyond the scope of science in our day
sometimes pose conjectures that satisfy this need, such as directed panspermia.
D. The assessment rubric would require that they state the hypothesis and sketch
the means by which the hypothesis would be tested.
Metabolism-first: The free energy source of a hot vent creates a resource: the flow
of energy through a system can lead to structure. This is similar to other ecosystems
but in the pre-biotic world the components of the ecosystem are molecular. The
proton gradient is the essential structure for all life on Earth—both in the synthesis
and degradation of carbohydrates. It could be claimed that under laboratory
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conditions with a mixture representative of a deep Hadean ocean reduction
oxidation reaction pairs coupled by proton movement could be observed.
RNA-first: RNA plays the dual role of information storage and catalysis. So rather
than the simultaneous emergence of both functions, RNA specializes to fill each role
with new structures. It could be claimed that given a mixture composed of an RNA
sequence, the RNA core of a ribosome, the DNA bases as nucleotides, and amino
acids but no protein catalysts the protein coded for by the RNA could be produced.
74
The radiant energy emitted by a star gradually increases after its birth. During the Hadean
eon, while the molten Earth cooled and life emerged, the sun provided approximately
25 percent less radiant energy than it does now. Ignoring effects due to differences in the
composition of Earth’s atmosphere between then and now, this means that the average
surface temperature of the surface would be about 25 °C below the freezing temperature
of water. Evidence of liquid water on Earth during the Hadean eon is provided by geologic
structures known only to form in liquid water, such as lava pillows and the stromatolites
that are the fossilized layers of photosynthetic cyanobacteria.
Pose a scientific question that guides inquiry into early Earth conditions that supported
the innovation of photosynthesis.
Solution
75
Sample answer: Just as the Earth’s temperature is currently increasing as we
increase the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, could the
composition of the early atmosphere be largely carbon dioxide and water, two
greenhouse gases that trapped energy, elevating the temperature?
Connect the techniques of radiometric measurement, anatomy, and molecular biology to
the supporting evidence of the theory of evolution provided.
Solution
Sample answer: The AP Biology Curriculum Framework is very specific about the
scope of essential content knowledge regarding three techniques that provide
evidence of evolution:

Fossils can be dated by a variety of methods that provide evidence for
evolution. These include the age of the rocks where a fossil is found, the rate
of decay of isotopes including carbon-14, the relationships within
phylogenetic trees, and the mathematical calculations that take into account
information from chemical properties and/or geographical data. The details
of these methods are beyond the scope of this course and the AP Exam.

Morphological homologies represent features shared by common ancestry.
Vestigial structures are remnants of functional structures, which can be
compared to fossils and provide evidence for evolution.

Biochemical and genetic similarities, in particular DNA nucleotide and protein
sequences, provide evidence for evolution and ancestry.
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76
Describe reasons for the revision of scientific hypotheses of the origin of life on Earth.
Solution
Sample answer: There are few places in the AP Biology Curriculum Framework
where the scope of content targeted by a declarative claim (describe) is not spelled
out for you. In this case, there is no reference to any particular theory and it would
be out of scope to assume prior knowledge of, for example, the Aristotelian model.
And there is no help provided in the description in the Framework of enduring
understanding 1D. And there is no supporting discussion of the nature of science
that would clarify the meaning or general features of “scientific hypothesis.” Some
alternative hypotheses regarding RNA worlds, panspermia, and directed panspermia
were described in problem 2 in this chapter.
An alternative interpretation that might lead to an Exam item could be implied by
this task: Describe reasons for the development of hypotheses of the origin of life on
Earth that are scientific. This would assess the student’s understanding that
evidence is required to justify a claim. That is explicit in the description of Science
Practice 6 in the Framework.
77
Directed evolution is an inquiry strategy that is usually used to investigate gene
expression or the function of proteins that are expressed. The investigator imposes a
selection pressure and observes the evolution of a population. In one investigation,
unicellular yeast was allowed to sediment in a column that contained nutrients at its
bottom. Yeast that reached the nutrients at the bottom was removed, weighed, and
examined under the microscope. After 60 generations, it was found that all of the
removed yeast was multicellular. To test the claim that their selection pressure favored
multicellularity, the investigators performed another experiment. In one column, they
provided a strong selection pressure, in which they only allowed 5 min for yeast to settle
before removing what had traveled the farthest toward the bottom. In a second column,
they provided a weak selection pressure, where they allowed 25 min for the yeast to
settle before removal. Strong selection resulted in more massive clusters of multicellular
yeast among the removed cells. Weak selection resulted in less massive multicellular
clusters among the removed cells.
A. Evaluate the claim that the use of both a strong and weak selection demonstrates that
evolution is an ongoing process that, under artificially imposed conditions, led to the
emergence of multicellularity in a single-celled organism.
B. In this directed evolution study, the selection pressure imposed by the investigators led
to a new phenotype. Consider a situation in which there is a vertical variation in the
density of nutritional resources. Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of
cooperative behavior, including changes in the likelihood of replication of the individual
and population genomes.
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Solution
Sample answer:
A. Yes, because the results of the second experiment demonstrate that
multicellularity in yeast responded differently to the selection pressure when it was
strong versus weak. In both experiments, the highest mass multicellular clusters will
settle fastest and, therefore, be favored by selection because they reach the
nutrients fastest. In the second experiment, when yeast is allowed only 5 min to
settle, the yeast removed will only be the largest multicellular clusters. When yeast
is allowed 25 min to settle, smaller multicellular colonies and possibly single cells will
have enough time to settle and be removed. Therefore, the yeast responded to
strong versus weak selection pressure, suggesting that the selection pressure was
favoring multicellularity.
B. If the density of nutrients is highest at the bottom of the column, multicellularity
will be favored because the most massive multicellular colonies will reach the
nutrients first. This will increase the frequency of genes that cause cells to engage in
multicellularity within this population of yeast. If the density of nutrients is highest
on the top of the column, multicellularity will not be favored because cells that sink
will not reach the nutrients. This will decrease the frequency of genes that cause
cells to engage in multicellularity within this population of yeast.
18.2 Formation of New Species
78
Selection processes in changing and unchanging environments differ. Connect the effects
of negative and positive selection pressures to changes in the environment.
Solution
79
Sample answer: The concept of homeostasis is strongly emphasized in the AP
Biology Curriculum as is the theory of evolution. Classroom activities will have
supported the idea that many homeostatic mechanisms are conserved through
evolution and environmental changes select for mutations that have an advantage
as these changes occur. An item targeting this LO would provide an opportunity for
the student to summarize an illustrative example from those activities.
In biology, the word “race” is rarely used. It could be imagined to be synonymous with a
subspecies. Species is well defined, at least when horizontal gene transfer is not taken
into account, by reproductive isolation. Speciation may arise through geographic isolation.
A. Aside from geographic isolation leading to reproductive isolation, predict two other
mechanisms of speciation in a population and suggest how these mechanisms could lead
to a scientific definition of a subspecies.
B. If individuals of a species become separated by a natural disaster, they could become
increasingly different. Assuming that they could still interbreed, what would you predict
about the consequences if females, but no males, from one population (population A)
were introduced to the other population (population B)? What would be the effects on
autosomal, X, and Y chromosomes?
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Solution
Sample answer:
A. In addition to geographic isolation, other factors that cause individuals to stop
interbreeding could cause speciation. For example, disruptive selection favoring
individuals that forage in the morning and those that forage at night could
eventually result in two populations that do not come into contact to breed. Over
time, they could become sufficiently different to be considered subspecies or
eventually species. The same thing could happen through strong sexual selection if
different groups preferred different traits.
B. Females cannot introduce Y chromosomes, so all of the Y chromosomes in the
newly mixed population B would be from the original population B. The autosomal
and X-linked characteristics of population A would be mixed into population B.
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19 | THE EVOLUTION OF POPULATIONS
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
What is the ultimate source of all variation in and among populations?
A Genetic mutations that result in viable offspring
B Natural selection
C Diverse habitats
D Factors in the environment that may affect development
Solution
2
The solution is (A). Genetic mutations lead to changes in alleles and the frequency of
alleles, contributing greatly to variation in and among populations.
When male lions reach sexual maturity, they are thrown out of their group, or pride, and
must live on their own or with other males until they can take over their own pride. This
can alter the allele frequencies of the population through which mechanism?
A Natural selection
B Gene flow
C Random mating
D Genetic drift
Solution
3
The solution is (B). Gene flow is the movement of alleles into (or out of) a population
when an individual moves into (or out of) a population. When a male lion moves into
a pride, it brings in new alleles to that population.
Which population has violated the conditions of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?
A An infinitely large population
B A population in which the allele frequencies do not change over time
C A population in which the Hardy-Weinberg equation is equal to 1
D A population undergoing natural selection
Solution
4
The solution is (D). During natural selection, allele frequencies of a population
change. A population in equilibrium is in a stable, nonevolving state.
What is the difference between micro- and macroevolution?
A Microevolution describes the evolution of small organisms, such as insects, while
macroevolution describes the evolution of large organisms, such as people and
elephants.
B Microevolution describes the evolution of microscopic entities, such as molecules and
proteins, while macroevolution describes the evolution of whole organisms.
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C Microevolution describes the evolution of organisms in populations, while
macroevolution describes the evolution of species over long periods of time.
D Microevolution describes the evolution of organisms over their lifetimes, while
macroevolution describes the evolution of organisms over multiple generations.
Solution
5
The solution is (C). Microevolution describes how a population changes over time,
whereas macroevolution describes how new species arise.
What would be supported by Lamarck?
A Natural selection leads to changes in organisms over time.
B The strong arms of a gorilla are the result of its parents constantly climbing, lifting,
and fighting.
C Lack of resources led to the death of three of four fox cubs.
D The founder effect is when a few individuals in a population are separated from the
original population.
Solution
6
The solution is (B). Lamarck believed that traits that were acquired by a parent (such
as strong arms) would be passed along to their offspring.
What is population variance influenced by?
A Genetic structure
B Environment
C Diet composition
D All of the above
Solution
7
The solution is (D). Genetic structure and environment are both factors that
influence population variance. Genetic structure determines how many genes are
present in the population and at what frequencies, while the environment creates
natural selection pressure that changes genetic variance.
What is genetic variance?
A The change in a population’s genetic structure
B The effect of chance on a population’s gene pool
C The diversity of alleles and genotypes within a population
D The magnification of genetic drift as a result of natural events or catastrophes
Solution
The solution is (C). This is the definition of genetic variance, which often enters into
discussions of breeding. In order to prevent inbreeding, breeders try to increase a
population’s genetic variance.
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8
When closely related individuals mate with each other, or inbreed, the offspring are often
not as fit as the offspring of two unrelated individuals. Why?
A Inbreeding causes normally silent alleles to be expressed.
B The DNA of close relatives reacts negatively in the offspring.
C Inbreeding can bring together rare, deleterious mutations that lead to harmful
phenotypes.
D Close relatives are genetically incompatible.
Solution
9
The solution is (C). Inbreeding depression occurs when two carriers of a deleterious
recessive mutations mate. Related individuals are more likely to carry the same
deleterious mutation. Carriers of the mutation do not phenotypically express the
mutation, but when both parents have the mutation, it may be expressed in the
offspring who will not be as fit as the parents.
What could cause genetic drift to occur within a population?
A Accidental deaths
B Predators
C Disease
D Lack of gene flow
Solution
10
The solution is (A). Genetic drift is the change in allele frequencies due to chance.
Accidental death is a random, chance event, whereas deaths due to predators or
disease are not random.
What is the evolutionary mechanism that alters allele frequencies by chance called?
A Genetic drift
B Natural selection
C Inbreeding
D Migration
Solution
11
The solution is (A). Genetic drift is the effect of chance on a population’s gene pool.
What is assortative mating?
A When individuals mate with those who are similar to themselves
B When individuals mate with those who are dissimilar to themselves
C When individuals mate with those who are most fit in the population
D When individuals mate with those who are least fit in the population
Solution
The solution is (A). Assortative mating refers to an individual’s preference to mate
with partners who are phenotypically similar to himself or herself.
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12
What is an example of a cline?
A A random fluctuation in a species’ gene frequencies
B A mutation that spreads across the ecological range of a species
C The females of a species preferring males that are orange in coloration instead
of white
D Species having greater cold tolerance in the colder parts of its range than in the
warmer parts of its range
Solution
13
The solution is (D). A cline is a type of geographical variation where a species varies
gradually across an ecological gradient. Temperature is an ecological gradient and
species subject to colder temperatures are more cold tolerant.
Which type of selection results in greater genetic variance in a population?
A Stabilizing selection
B Directional selection
C Diversifying selection
D Positive frequency-dependent selection
Solution
14
The solution is (C). Diversifying selection is a type of selection that favors more than
one distinct phenotype, resulting in increased genetic variance as the population
becomes more and more diverse.
What types of phenotypes does negative frequency-dependent selection favor?
A Advantageous
B Rare
C Common
D Disadvantageous
Solution
15
The solution is (B). Negative frequency-dependent selection favors rare phenotypes.
It is a type of selection that increases the genetic variance within a population
through the selection of rare phenotypes.
The good genes hypothesis is a theory that explains what?
A Why more fit individuals are more likely to have more offspring
B Why alleles that confer beneficial traits or behaviors are selected for by natural
selection
C Why some deleterious mutations are maintained in the population
D Why individuals of one sex develop impressive ornament traits
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Solution
16
The solution is (D). The good genes hypothesis states that males show off their
healthy genes through the development of ornaments. For example, male lions with
darker, fuller manes are selected by females over males with lighter, thinner manes.
The males with dark, full manes have displayed that they are in good health and are
able to father healthy offspring.
Which option describes when males and females of a population look or act differently?
A Sexual selection
B Diversifying selection
C Sexual dimorphism
D A cline
Solution
The solution is (C). Sexual dimorphism concerns differences between the sexes, such
as the difference in color of male and female birds.
CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
17
What is natural selection? Give an example of natural selection at work in a population.
A The process in which genes flow from one population to another; the beak size of
Darwin’s finches changing as the availability of different-sized seeds changes.
B The process in which genes flow from one population to another; the founder effect
occurring among humans immigrating to a new country.
C The process in which better-adapted organisms are able to survive and reproduce; the
beak size of Darwin’s finches changing as the availability of different-sized seeds
changes.
D The process in which better-adapted organisms are able to survive and reproduce; the
founder effect occurring among humans immigrating to a new country.
Solution
18
The solution is (C). Natural selection occurs when individuals with favorable genetic
traits are better able to survive and reproduce. Natural selection leads to
evolutionary change. Natural selection of Darwin’s finches occurred because
individuals with beaks better adapted to different-sized seeds were selected for and
so different species arose.
Imagine you are trying to test whether a population of flowers is undergoing evolution.
You suspect there is selection pressure on the color of the flower: bees seem to cluster
around the red flowers more often than the blue flowers. In a separate experiment, you
discover that blue flower color is dominant to red flower color. In a field, you count 600
blue flowers and 200 red flowers.
What would you expect the genetic structure of the flowers to be?
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A You would expect 300 homozygous dominant blue flowers, 300 heterozygous blue
flowers, and 200 homozygous recessive red flowers.
B You would expect 200 homozygous dominant blue flowers, 400 heterozygous blue
flowers, and 200 homozygous recessive red flowers.
C You would expect 100 homozygous dominant red flowers, 100 heterozygous red
flowers, and 600 homozygous recessive blue flowers.
D You would expect 14 homozygous dominant red flowers, 186 heterozygous blue
flowers, and 600 homozygous recessive blue flowers.
Solution
19
The solution is (B). Red is recessive, so all red flowers would be homozygous
recessive (bb). The blue flowers would be either BB or Bb.
What must occur in order for a new trait to appear in a population and then reach a
steady, high frequency within that population?
A New traits appear through gene mutations or through genetic drift. In order to reach a
steady, high frequency in the population, there must be many mutagens, such as UV
radiation, in the environment to produce many mutations.
B New traits appear through gene mutations or through genetic drift. In order to reach a
steady, high frequency in the population, there must be a consistent source of
immigrant individuals with the allele.
C New traits appear through gene mutations or through evolution. In order to reach a
steady, high frequency in the population, the allele must code for a favorable
adaptation.
D New traits appear through gene mutations or through gene flow. In order to reach a
steady, high frequency in the population, the trait associated with the gene must be
favored by either natural or sexual selection.
Solution
20
The solution is (D). New traits appear through gene mutation and also through gene
flow, which is the introduction of new alleles into a population through immigration
of individuals or gametes. These traits are then incorporated into the population
only if they are selected for by natural or sexual selection.
What is population variation? Identify an example.
A Population variation is a description of the diversity of different forms of life. An
example of population variation would be the different forms and functions of
prokaryotes versus eukaryotes.
B Population variation is the geographic distribution of different phenotypes in a
population. An example of population variation would be the fact that warm-blooded
mammals that live near the poles tend to be larger than their southern counterparts
to conserve heat.
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C Population variation is the distribution of phenotypes in a population. An example of
population variation would be the many different fur colors and patterns found in
domestic dogs.
D Population variation is the distribution of genotypes in a population. An example of
population variation would be Mendel’s pea plants that were homozygous dominant,
heterozygous, and homozygous recessive for various traits.
Solution
21
The solution is (C). Population variation is the distribution of phenotypes (how
individuals look) within a population. Domestic dogs, with their different colors and
patterns of fur, have different phenotypes and are therefore examples of population
variation.
People who breed domesticated animals try to avoid inbreeding even though most
domesticated animals are indiscriminate. Why this is a good practice?
A A breeder would not allow close relatives to mate because inbreeding increases the
likelihood of fatal mutations in offspring.
B A breeder would not allow close relatives to mate because inbreeding prevents gene
flow which can bring new, successful genes into the population.
C A breeder would not allow close relatives to mate because inbreeding causes
diversifying selection, which dilutes the breeder’s desired genes in the population.
D A breeder would not allow close relatives to mate because inbreeding can bring
together deleterious recessive mutations that can cause abnormalities and
susceptibility to disease.
Solution
22
The solution is (D). A breeder would want to avoid inbreeding depression.
Inbreeding depression occurs when two closely related individuals who carry the
same recessive, deleterious mutation mate. This can result in offspring that have
abnormalities or are more susceptible to disease.
What is the founder effect? Identify an example.
A The founder effect is an event that isolates part of a population, generating an allele
frequency which is not typical of the original population. An example of the founder
effect is the Amish population. The Amish population was established from about 200
German immigrants. Individuals of this founding population carried gene mutations
that cause inherited disorders such as Ellis-van Creveld syndrome. This form of
dwarfism is found in a large concentration in the Amish population today because the
immigrants that established the population had a high concentration of the disorder in
a very small population.
B The founder effect is an event that kills off a significant proportion of a population,
generating an allele frequency which is not typical of the original population. An
example of the founder effect is the Northern elephant seal. At one point, hunting of
these seals had reduced their numbers to less than 50 individuals. The population has
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since rebounded, but still contains less genetic variation than the related Southern
elephant seal due to the loss of some alleles.
C The founder effect is when only a few males within a population are selected by
females to reproduce, generating an allele frequency which is different from the
original population. An example of the founder effect is the reproductive pattern of
mountain gorillas. Mountain gorillas tend to have a single dominant male, the
silverback, who gets the vast majority of the mating in the population. This leads to
the next generation expressing mainly genes from the silverback and very few genes
from the other males, changing the genetic structure of the population.
D The founder effect occurs when the selective pressure on a trait varies depending on
the alleles expressed within the population, generating varying allele frequencies
based on the genetic makeup of the original population. An example of the founder
effect is the cyclical dominance of three throat-color patterns in side-blotched lizards.
Solution
23
The solution is (A). The founder effect is an event that causes a change in the genetic
structure of the population. The Amish are a good example of this because the small
founding population of 200 people had a gene mutation that is now in higher
frequency than in other populations.
What is a cline? Give an example.
A A cline is a type of geographic variation that is seen in populations of a given species
that vary gradually across an ecological gradient. For example, endothermic animals
tend to have larger bodies in the cooler climates closer to Earth’s poles, allowing them
to better conserve heat.
B A cline is a change in ecological conditions over a geographic distance. For example, a
latitudinal cline is the decrease in temperature towards Earth’s poles, and an
altitudinal cline is the decrease in temperature with increase in altitude.
C A cline is the specific set of traits in a population of a given species that have been
influenced by the local environment. For example, a population of warm-blooded
animals that lived in a cooler climate closer to the North Pole would have larger
bodies, allowing them to better conserve heat.
D A cline is the specific set of ecological conditions in a geographic region. For example,
towards the North Pole it is cold and there is little precipitation. This will influence the
traits of the organisms that live there.
Solution
The solution is (A). A cline is a type of geographical variation in which the
populations of a species change gradually over an ecological gradient. For example,
the bodies of endothermic animals tend to be larger in colder climates than in
warmer climates.
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24
The table below shows data for a small population of mice. The mice are either brown or
white. Based on the data, is the population experiencing genetic drift? Explain.
Solution
25
Generation
Brown Mice
Black Mice
1
14
32
2
20
26
3
24
22
4
21
28
5
19
30
6
24
29
No. The frequency of both phenotypes oscillate around the same numbers through
six generations.
The large alpha male elephant seal is constantly fending off the advances of medium-sized
males. Small males are then able to sneak copulation with females and successfully pass
on their genes.
What is this an example of? Explain.
A This is an example of sexual selection. The females are selecting the small males over
the large male.
B This is an example of genetic drift. Because there are so many medium-sized males to
compete with the large alpha male, the small males are able to mate and cause the
gene pool to shift toward smaller individuals.
C This is an example of positive frequency-dependent selection, which is selection that
favors phenotypes that are either common or rare. The sneaky males (rare) are
favored in this case.
D This is an example of directional selection. Because only the smallest males are
mating, the next generation will have a higher proportion of alleles for small size,
making the seals smaller over time.
Solution
The solution is (C). This is an example of positive frequency-dependent selection.
This is selection that favors phenotypes that are either common or rare. The sneaky
males (rare) will allow genetic variance to increase so the gene pool is not
dominated by medium sized and large males.
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26
Why is there no perfect organism despite natural selection?
A Because natural selection works on a geographic level
B Because natural selection works in a random manner like mutations
C Because of limitations due to a population’s existing variation in genes
D Because natural selection is limited to sexual dimorphism
Solution
27
The solution is (C). Natural selection acts on the existing variation within a
population. It does not create new genetic variation. Therefore, natural selection
selects the fittest organisms, but it is limited by what natural genetic variation there
is in the population.
A new predator invades the habitat of a population of field mice. Individuals with larger
body size are easier for the predator to capture then individuals with smaller body size.
Draw a histogram of body sizes with two plot lines, one showing the former population
and another showing the new population that indicates how this population will likely
evolve. On your histogram, also indicate what type of natural selection is occurring here.
Solution
28
Quinine is an antimalarial drug that is used to treat malaria in the Western Hemisphere.
Scientists have noticed that this drug has become less effective over time. Based on the
data below, what type of selection is being exerted on the malaria population?
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Solution Directional selection.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
29
A scientist is studying the genetics of a population of plants that she suspects is
undergoing natural selection. After examining samples of the population’s DNA over
several years, she reports the following data:
Do these data provide evidence of natural selection in this population? Why or why not?
A No, because the genotype frequencies, not allele frequencies, have to change for
evolution to occur
B No, because the allele frequencies are changing randomly, suggesting that genetic
drift is occurring, not natural selection
C Yes, because it shows that the previously favorable or neutral allele A is now being
selected against in favor of allele B
D Yes, because it is showing that the frequency of both alleles is changing over time
Solution
30
The solution is (C). Natural selection influences the allele frequency in a population.
In this example, allele B is being selected for and allele A is being selected against.
A scientist is studying two large populations of deer that are centralized in nearby forests.
She takes blood samples from all of the deer in each population and records in how many
individuals she finds allele A. She then computes the frequency of the alleles in each
population. The frequencies observed over r years are shown in the tables.
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Which forms of evolution are most likely occurring in populations A and B? Explain your
answer.
A In population A, genetic drift is likely occurring, causing allele A to become more
prevalent than allele B. In population B, mutation apparently occurred, introducing
allele A to population B. Allele A also appears to be increasing due to genetic drift in
population B.
B In population A, natural selection is likely occurring, with allele A being favored over
allele B. In population B, gene flow apparently occurred, allowing allele A to become
established in population B. Allele A also appears to be favored by selection in
population B.
C In population A, gene flow apparently occurred, allowing allele B to become
established in population A. Allele A also appears to be favored by selection in
population A. In population B genetic drift is likely occurring, causing allele A to
become more prevalent than allele B.
D In population A, mutation apparently occurred, introducing allele B to population A.
Allele A also appears to be increasing due to genetic drift in population A. In
population B natural selection is likely occurring, with allele A being favored over
allele B.
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Solution
31
The solution is (A). In population B, allele A was not present in year 1. There may
have been a mutation in year 3 that introduced the allele to the population and
genetic drift increased the frequency of the allele over time. In population A, genetic
drift is likely causing the frequencies of allele to change.
A land manager mows a section of annual grass at the end of July. Over the years, he
recorded the date of flowering from the mown field as well as a similar grass field that
was not mown. What is the most likely explanation for this trend?
Year
Mowed Field
Flowering Date
Unmowed Field
Flowering Date
2010
7/29
7/28
2011
7/30
7/26
2012
7/31
8/1
2013
7/8
7/29
2014
7/1
8/2
2015
6/29
7/26
A Mowing stimulates flowering, so the grass adapts by flowering after mowing occurs.
B Mowing stabilizes the flowering time, which follows a steady trend in the mowed field
but not in the unmowed field.
C The mowing is preventing the grass from reproducing, causing the mowed grass to
adapt by flowering earlier.
D The grass typically flowers earlier and earlier every year as it becomes older with each
passing year.
Solution
32
The solution is (C). Mowing is selecting for earlier-flowering individuals. Over time,
earlier-flowering phenotypes will dominate the population. This is an example of
directional selection.
A scientist observed two populations of insects for 10 years. They took data on the length,
in millimeters, of the insects’ mouthparts. Their data are shown in the graphs.
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How is this population evolving and what agent of evolution is most likely at work?
A Inbreeding, because the gene distributions are becoming less similar among the
population
B Genetic drift, as the distribution of traits has become more random
C Gene flow, as the population has likely gained new mouthpart traits through
immigration
D Natural selection, as insects that have mid-sized mouthparts are being favored
Solution
33
The solution is (D). Natural selection is occurring as insects with mid-sized
mouthparts are being selected for and are therefore becoming more prevalent in
the population.
Researchers believe that in a fish species, individuals with the recessive genotype aa are
predisposed to disease. Homozygous dominant (AA) individuals and heterozygous (Aa)
individuals are not believed to be susceptible to this disease. A pond was stocked with
100 fish of the AA genotype and 100 fish of the aa phenotype, and the fish were allowed
to breed. In the next generation, 35 percent of the fish had the dominant (AA) phenotype.
What does this result indicate?
A The homozygous dominant phenotype is higher than expected, indicating that
evolution has occurred.
B The homozygous dominant phenotype is lower than expected, indicating that
evolution has occurred.
C The homozygous dominant phenotype is higher than expected, indicating that
evolution has not occurred.
D The homozygous dominant phenotype is lower than expected, indicating that
evolution not occurred.
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Solution
34
The solution is (A). In the parent population, 50/100 fish have the AA genotype, and
50/100 fish have the aa phenotype. This means that the frequency of each allele in
the population is 0.5, so p = 0.5 and q = 0.5. If the population is in Hardy-Weinberg
equilibrium, the frequency of homozygous dominant individuals in the offspring is
expected to equal p2, or 0.25. In other words, 25 percent of the offspring are
expected to have the AA genotype. The actual frequency is higher (35 percent),
indicating that an evolutionary change has occurred.
Heterozygote advantage is a condition in which heterozygotes are favored by natural
selection. How would the value of 2pq likely change if the population was undergoing
heterozygote advantage?
A It would remain in equilibrium because the value of p and q would remain the same.
B It would remain in equilibrium because the value of 2pq would remain the same.
C It would not remain in equilibrium because the value of 2pq would likely increase.
D It would not remain in equilibrium because the value of 2pq would likely decrease.
Solution
35
The solution is (C). The value of 2pq, which is the predicted frequency of
heterozygous offspring, would increase because it is at a selective advantage.
The graph shows the change in gene frequency of the two alleles of a gene: A and B. The
population being studied has no emigration or immigration. Which type of evolution is
likely occurring here and is the allele selected for, neutral, or selected against by natural
selection?
A Nonrandom mating; Both alleles are favored.
B Gene flow; Allele A is favored.
C Genetic drift; Both alleles are neutral.
D Natural selection; Allele A is not favored.
Solution
The solution is (C). The allele frequencies fluctuate up and down. Genetic drift is the
random change in a population. In this population, the frequencies of alleles A and B
are changing randomly over time, not due to an advantage of either allele.
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36
The figure shows the change in gene frequency of the two alleles: A and B. These alleles
are located on separate genes that do not influence each other in any way. The
population being studied has no emigration or immigration. Which type of evolution is
likely occurring here, if at all? Explain how you know.
Solution
37
Sample answer: This graph shows that allele A is not evolving because its gene
frequency is steady and unchanging over time. Allele B is undergoing genetic drift
due to the random ups and down of the allele frequency.
The graph shows the current frequencies of two genotypes of the same gene: AA and aa.
What would most likely happen to the frequencies of A and a if heterozygous individuals
were favored by natural selection?
A Both AA and aa will drop in frequency by the same amount.
B Both AA and aa will drop, but aa will drop more.
C AA will increase in frequency and aa will drop in frequency.
D Genotype aa will increase in frequency and AA will drop in frequency.
Solution
The solution is (A). The frequency of both AA and aa would decrease by the same
amount.
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38
The diagram shows the frequency of alleles on two species of wind-pollinated plants, as
well as the prevailing wind direction. These frequencies have been fairly stable for around
10 years. However, climate change has created a new prevailing wind direction, as shown
in the diagram. How will the populations likely evolve in the future?
A Natural selection will cause the frequency of B to increase in population 1.
B Gene flow will cause the frequencies of A and B to drop in population 3.
C Genetic drift will cause the frequencies of A and C to increase in populations 1 and 2.
D Inbreeding will reduce the frequency of allele B in populations 2 and 3.
Solution
39
The solution is (B). The new wind direction will introduce genes from population 1
that have lower frequencies of alleles A and B. When individuals from population 1
mate with individuals from population 3, the frequencies of alleles A and B will
therefore decrease.
The diagram shows two populations of a species that have been long separated by a river,
which prevents interbreeding. The two populations differ in coloration, as shown in the
diagram. Recent human activity has caused the river to dry, however, resulting in the two
populations shown in the lower diagram. What is the most likely explanation for this
change?
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A An increase in gene flow between the two populations
B A decrease in gene flow between the two populations
C An increase in nonrandom mating between the two populations
D A decrease in nonrandom mating between the two populations
Solution
40
The solution is (A). Gene flow is increased because the river is no longer a solid
barrier between the populations. As a result, genes for blue individuals have been
introduced to population 2.
Antibiotics are medicines that are designed to kill disease-causing organisms, or
pathogens. However, some pathogens evolve antibiotic resistance, where they gain traits
that allow them to survive in the presence of antibiotics. The ability of bacteria to adapt
to antibiotics so quickly has created a huge concern over whether antibiotics are being
overused.
What form of evolution is antibiotic resistance an example of, and why?
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A Gene flow because the bacteria are passing on the resistant trait within their
populations
B Natural selection because the bacteria is adapting to a new environmental condition:
the presence of the antibiotic
C Genetic drift because medical workers cannot follow the randomly fluctuating gene
frequencies of bacterial populations
D Mutation because each bacterium must mutate to an antibody-resistant form in order
to survive
Solution
The solution is (B). Natural selection is selecting for individuals that are resistant to
antibiotics. As a result, the presence of antibiotic resistance increases in the bacteria
population.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
19.1 Population Evolution
41
Consider a polymorphic gene with three alleles: A, B, and C.
A. If the frequencies of the alleles A and B are 0.2 and 0.3, the frequency of allele C is
closest to —
A 0.25
B 0.5
C 0.2
D 0.3
Consider a gene with only two alleles: dominant A and recessive a. In a population of
1,000 organisms, the fraction expressing the homozygous recessive phenotype is 0.37.
B. The calculated allele frequencies p and q have values that are closest to —
A 0.69 and 0.31
B 0.31 and 0.69
C 0.37 and 0.63
D 0.63 and 0.37
C. The calculated number of individuals in this population that are heterozygotes is closest
to —
A 240
B 230
C 430
D 476
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Mountain pine beetles (Dendroctonus ponderosae) were collected from a 1-acre tract of
lodge pole pine trees (Pinus contorta) in a region of British Columbia where the forests are
under temperature stress. The beetles were crushed, and a cellulase enzyme was
extracted. Three polymorphs of the enzyme were observed when separated by gel
electrophoresis. The three proteins observed correspond to alleles labeled C1, C2, and C3.
The numbers of beetles with each allele are shown in the table.
Genotype
C1 C1
C2 C2
C3 C3
C1 C2
C1 C3
C2 C3
Total
Observed 120
230
112
175
198
165
1,000
D. The calculated allelic frequencies pC1, pC2, and pC3 are closest to —
A pC1 = 0.57, pC2 = 0.57, pC3 = 0.59
B pC1 = 0.29, pC2 = 0.29, pC3 = 0.42
C pC1 = 0.61, pC2 = 0.80, pC3 = 0.59
D pC1 = 0.31, pC2 = 0.40, pC3 = 0.29
E. To investigate the presence of selection at the cellulase locus due to changing
temperature, what should a biologist do?
A The biologist should calculate the values of the sums pC1 + pC2 + pC3 and
(pC1 + pC2 + pC3)2. If these numbers are not equal to 1, the gene is not in HardyWeinberg equilibrium, and the gene is evolving.
B The biologist should return next year and repeat this examination of the enzyme,
calculating frequencies of each allele each year. Then calculate the values of the
sums
pC1 + pC2 + pC3 and (pC1 + pC2 + pC3)2. If these numbers are not the same each year,
the gene is not in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, and the gene is evolving.
C The biologist should return each year for several years and repeat this
examination of the enzyme, calculating frequencies of each allele each year. If
the allele frequencies are changing, the gene is not in Hardy-Weinberg
equilibrium, and temperature is exerting a selection pressure.
D The biologist should return each year for several years and repeat this
examination of the enzyme, calculating frequencies of each allele each year. If
the allele frequencies are changing, the gene is not in Hardy-Weinberg
equilibrium. Analysis of the dependence of allele frequencies on temperature
could indicate selection.
Solution
A. The solution is (B).
pA +pB +pC  1  pC  0.5
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B. The solution is (B). The fraction of the population with the homozygous recessive
genotype, 0.37, is equal to q2. Taking the square root, q = 0.61 Since p + q = 1,
p = 1 – 0.61 or 0.39.
q2  0.37  q  0.61
p  0.39
C. The solution is (D). The number of heterozygous individuals is expected to equal
to 2pq. The value of p is 0.39 and the value of q is 0.61, so 2pq  0.476.
D. The solution is (D). Two copies of the C1 allele are present in the 120 C1C1
individuals, for 240 alleles total. One copy of the C1 allele is present in the 175 C1C2
individuals, and 165 copies are present in C1C3 individuals. Thus, the total number of
C1 alleles is equal to 240 + 175 + 198, or 613. A total of 2,000 alleles are present in
the 1,000 beetles tested, so the frequency of the C1 allele equals 613 divided by
2,000, as shown in equation 1. The frequency of the C2 allele is calculated in
equation 2, and the frequency of C3 is calculated in equation 3.
2  120  175  198 613

 0.31
2,000
2,000
2  112  165  198 587
equation 2:

 0.29
2,000
2,000
2  230  175  165 800
equation 3:

 0.4
2,000
2,000
equation 1:
E. The solution is (D). A change in allele frequency indicates that selection is
occurring, but selection could occur for many reasons. Scientists must assess
whether the change in allele frequency depends on temperature to determine if a
temperature change is driving the change in allele frequency.
19.2 Population Genetics
42
Calamus finmarchicus is the dominant copepod in the Gulf of Maine. The polymorphic
aminopeptidase locus, Lap-1, has been shown to be useful for the genetic differentiation
of populations of this organism. By examining the population dynamics of copepods, the
dynamics of the fin fish on which they feed can be predicted. The map shows a landmass
separating two coastal estuarine habits, the mud flats of Egypt Bay and the Mount Desert
Narrows. For the past 40 years, transport between the two habits has been hindered by
a dam over the Carrying Place Inlet. However, small volumes of water occasionally crest
the dam.
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To evaluate the geographic isolation of invertebrate populations in these two habitats,
copepods are sampled at the points labeled 1 and 2 on the photograph. These points lie at
either ends of the Carrying Place Inlet. Enzymes encoded by three alleles, labeled A, B,
and C, were determined by gel electrophoresis of equal numbers of the organisms
collected at the two sites. Numbers of each genotype are given in the table.
Site
AA
AB
AC
BB
BC
CC
Total
1
82
114
102
75
98
30
500
2
96
108
92
54
110
40
A. Calculate the frequencies, f, of each allele and complete the table.
Site
1
2
f(A)
f(B)
f(C)
blank
blank
Blank
blank
blank
Blank
500
B. Using a  2 test, evaluate these data to determine whether the aminopeptidase gene in
these two populations is evolving. State your conclusion as claims supported by evidence
at both the 95 percent and 99 percent confidence levels. The formula for the  2 test is
provided on the AP Biology Exam.
2  
(  e)2
e
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This table of critical p values is also provided on the AP Biology Exam.
P
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
0.05
3.84
5.99
7.82
9.49
11.07
12.59
14.07
15.51
0.01
6.64
9.32
11.34
16.81
18.48
20.09
13.28
15.09
Degrees of Freedom
C. Based on these data, predict, with justification, changes over time in the
aminopeptidase enzyme for these populations.
D. The B form of this aminopeptidase is slightly more efficient at extracting nutritional
leucine from a protein than the A and C forms but slightly less efficient at extracting valine
and serine. Describe an investigation of the two habitats that could suggest a causal
relationship between changes in allele frequency and characteristics of the environment.
E. Single-nucleotide mutations are neutral when they encode changes in proteins that
result in no significant differential selection. If differences in environmental factors
between sites 1 and 2 are not observed, predict what other factors could result in
departures from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for aminopeptidase.
Solution
Sample answer:
f (A) 
A.
2¥ NAA  NAB  NAC
 0.76
500
and so on
  0.76  0.78 2  0.72  0.652  0.52  0.56 2 


B.   500¥ 
  0.263  3.40  1.43  5.1
0.76
0.72
0.56


2
C. This result says that we must reject the statement that the population is changing
if our criterion is 99 percent confidence. However, at the 95 percent level we can
accept the claim.
D. Differences between the amino acid content of the copepod diet in the two
habits should be investigated. Copepods eat phytoplankton but that is not in-scope.
Only that variation is diet may be suspected as the mechanism in the possible
selective pressure is needed.
E. The frequencies of the alleles of a gene that is in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium are
constant. The conditions of HW equilibrium are no migration, no mutation, random
mating, no selection and no genetic drift. If we suppose that the mutations are
negligible so that there is no selection, then we are left with genetic drift as the
possible explanation of a changing allele frequency.
43
Bioluminescence is an example of convergent evolution; 30 distinct lineages have
acquired this characteristic, and all involve some form of a class of molecules called
luciferins. Sexual selection pressures are strong for light-emitting organisms. Ellis and
Oakley (Curr. Biol., 2016) examined the number of species that lack luminosity in groups
of closest evolutionary relation (sister linear) with those species that are luminous.
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Similarly, scientists made the same comparison between groups that use luminosity for
concealment (counter-illumination) and their sister lineages. The graphs summarize their
results, comparing the natural logarithm of the number of species in each lineage.
Based on the data shown in the graphs, describe a model that can account for the
increased speciation of bioluminescent lineages, including the mechanism of speciation.
Solution
Sample answer: The data show speciation increases when luminosity is a component
of mating selection, but when luminosity is not a component of mating selection,
there is no effect on speciation. The evidence for the former claim is that there is a
positive slope for each lineage. The evidence for the latter claim is that the slopes
are both positive (speciation increases) and negative (speciation decreases). A likely
mechanism is that strong selection during mating leads to reproductive isolation and
this leads to speciation.
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44
A biologist is using a simulation to model populations of African hornbills (Bycanistes spp.
and Ceratogymna spp.), a keystone species of the savanna. Populations of the birds are
declining due to habitat loss. The hornbill’s diet consists primarily of termites and fruit. A
critical component of termite digestion is chitin deacetylase, an enzyme whose mutation
rate is a model parameter. The other model parameter is population size, N. In the results
of the simulation study shown in the graphs, there is no selection, and the mutation rate
is fixed. Although both population size and mutation rate are fixed, randomness results in
the five different outcomes shown in each graph.
A. Select the graph displaying the results that are closer to Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
Justify the selection of the graph.
B. Based on these simulations, predict the future heterozygosity, 2pq, of the smaller
populations, as shown in graph (a).
C. Justify the use of a simulation study with no selection under environmental conditions
in which the availability of both termites and fruit is high.
D. If a change in the environment occurs suddenly, such as an increase in average
temperature, where fruit production declines, analyze the effect of the change on allele
frequency in the large and small populations.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. The graph at the right closely approximates a constant allele frequency and so is
closer to HW equilibrium.
B. The simulation with smaller population size shows a drift toward fixation of one
or the other allele. In either case, the heterozygosity tends to zero.
C. When both resources are in abundance, the mutation is neutral. This is equivalent
to the absence of selection.
D. With suddenly increasing temperature, a small population of hornbills may or
may not survive, depending on whether the functional chitin-deacetylase is fixed.
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20 | EVOLUTIONARY RELATIONSHIPS OF
LIFE ON EARTH
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Who devised a commonly used classification system?
A Carl Linnaeus
B Darwin
C Plato
D Aristotle
Solution
2
The solution is (A). Carl Linnaeus, a Swedish botanist, zoologist, and physician
created the taxonomic classification system.
What uses a hierarchical model to classify organisms?
A Analogy
B Taxonomic classification system
C Order
D Systematics
Solution
3
The solution is (B). The taxonomic classification system uses a hierarchical model to
classify organisms.
Correctly list the hierarchy of taxonomy.
A Kingdom, Domain, Phylum, Order, Class, Family, Genus, species
B Domain, Kingdom, Class, Phylum, Order, Family, Genus, species
C Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, species
D Domain, Kingdom, Class, Phylum, Order, Family, Genus, species
Solution
4
The solution is (C). The correct taxonomy order is Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class,
Order, Family, Genus, species.
Which category, below the level of Kingdom, would have the next largest number of
organisms?
A Order
B Phylum
C Family
D Class
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Solution
5
The solution is (B). Each sublevel in the taxonomic classification system moves
toward specificity with other organisms, causing the diversity of organisms to
narrow. The Kingdom category has the widest diversity of organisms, and because
the Phylum category is a subcategory of the Kingdom, it would have the next widest
diversity of organisms.
How is systematics related to phylogeny?
A Systematics provides guidelines that scientists use to describe the relationships of
organisms.
B Scientists use systematics programs to put together the phylogeny of an organism.
C In systematics, scientists use combined data based on evolutionary relationships from
many sources to put together the phylogeny of an organism.
D Systematics is a process used to put together the phylogeny of an organism.
Solution
6
The solution is (C). Systematics is a field of organizing and classifying organisms
based on evolutionary relationships. Combined data from many sources is used to
put together the phylogeny of an organism. Scientists use combined data based on
evolutionary relationships from many sources to put together the phylogeny of an
organism.
What is the best explanation of what systematists do?
A Scientists in the field of systematics organize organisms by characteristics.
B Scientists in the field of systematics provide information on how organisms are similar
or different.
C Scientists in the field of systematics contribute to building, updating, and maintaining
the tree of life.
D Scientists in the field of systematics collect data from fossils.
Solution
7
The solution is (A). Systematics is a field of organizing and classifying organisms
based on evolutionary relationships, which scientists use to put together the
phylogeny of an organism.
What is the purpose of a phylogenetic tree?
A To organize and name organisms into specific categories
B To show the evolutionary pathways and connections among organisms
C To show geographic or behavioral factors
Solution
The solution is (B). The purpose of a phylogenetic tree is to show the evolutionary
pathways and connections among organisms. Scientists use a tool called a
phylogenetic tree to show the evolutionary pathways and relationships among
organisms.
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8
What does the term rooted mean on a phylogenetic tree diagram?
A Relationships among species are not shown.
B All organisms represented in the diagram relate to a single ancestral lineage.
C A single lineage evolved into a distinct new one.
D A lineage evolved early from the root and remains unbranched.
Solution
9
The solution is (B). On a phylogenetic tree diagram, the term rooted means all
organisms represented in the diagram relate to a single ancestral lineage. Scientists
call trees rooted when there is a single ancestral lineage (typically drawn from the
bottom or left) to which all organisms represented in the diagram relate.
Phylogeny is important to everyday life in human society. How did the research team in
China use phylogeny as a guide to discover new plants that can be used to benefit people?
A The research team used DNA to uncover phylogenetic relationships in the legume
family, and they found a compound in the plant that is effective in treating cancer.
B The research team used DNA to uncover phylogenetic relationships in the legume
family, and then they identified a newly discovered plant as Dalbergia sissoo.
C The research team used DNA to uncover phylogenetic relationships in the legume
family, and they found a DNA marker that can be used to screen for plants with
potential medicinal properties.
D The research team searched all the relatives of the newly discovered plant Dalbergia
sissoo to find antifungal properties.
Solution
10
The solution is (C). The research team used DNA to uncover phylogenetic
relationships in the legume family, and they found a DNA marker that can be used to
screen for plants with potential medicinal properties. The research supports the idea
that DNA markers can be used to screen for plants with potential medicinal
properties.
Which animals in the figure belong to a clade that includes animals with hair? Which
evolved first, hair or the amniotic egg?
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A Rabbits have hair, which evolved before the amniotic egg.
B Rabbits and lizards have hair, which evolved after the amniotic egg.
C Rabbits have hair, which evolved after the amniotic egg.
D Rabbits and lizards have hair, which evolved before the amniotic egg.
Solution
11
The solution is (C). Rabbits have hair, as indicated on the phylogeny, and the
amniotic egg evolved before hair, because it evolved in the common ancestor of
lizards and rabbits. Hair is a derived trait that only evolved in rabbits in this
phylogeny.
What is the largest clade in the diagram of those listed?
A Animals, Fungi, and Plants
B Fungi
C Diplomonads
D Flagellates
Solution
12
The solution is (A). All the organisms within a clade stem from a single point on the
tree. The clade of Animals, Fungi, and Plants contains multiple groups.
Why is it important for scientists to distinguish between homologous and analogous
characteristics before building phylogenetic trees?
A Phylogenetic trees are based on evolutionary connections, so scientists can use the
analogous characteristics to build the phylogenetic trees.
B Phylogenetic trees are based on evolutionary connections, so scientists can use the
homologous characteristics to build the phylogenetic trees.
C Phylogenetic trees are based on similar functions, so scientists can use the
homologous characteristics to build the phylogenetic trees.
D Phylogenetic trees are based on similar functions, so scientists can use the
homologous characteristics to build the phylogenetic trees.
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Solution
13
The solution is (B). Scientists consider phylogenetic trees to be a hypothesis of the
evolutionary past since one cannot go back to confirm the proposed relationships.
As such, phylogenetic trees are often constructed based on evidence drawn from
multiple disciplines to illustrate evolutionary pathways and connections among
organisms.
Which option describes an analogous structure?
A A penguin and a seagull both have wings. The penguin uses wings to swim while the
seagull uses wings to fly.
B Lizards and whales have similar skeleton structures, but they have a different habitat
and lifestyle.
C Birds and butterflies have wings with similar characteristics for flight, even though
their wings do not share an evolutionary relationship.
D The bone structure in leg of a cat is very similar to the bone structure in the arm of a
human, but the functions of the limbs are very different.
Solution
14
The solution is (A). A penguin and a dolphin each use fins to navigate through water.
Even though the penguin (a bird) is not related to a dolphin (a mammal), they both
use fins for the same function. This is an example of an analogous structure because
they both use the fins for the same function.
What is the ring of life?
A A phylogenetic model where all three domains of life evolved from a pool of primitive
prokaryotes
B An evolutionary history and relationship of an organism or group of organisms
C A phylogenetic model that attempts to incorporate the effects of horizontal gene
transfer on evolution
D A field of organizing and classifying organisms based on evolutionary relationships
Solution
15
The solution is (A). This is the definition of the ring of life model. It suggests that all
three domains-Archaea, Bacteria and Eukarya-evolved from a single pool of geneswapping prokaryotes.
Some individual prokaryotes were responsible for transferring the bacteria that caused
mitochondrial development to the new eukaryotes, whereas other species transferred the
bacteria that gave rise to chloroplasts. This statement best describes which model?
A Ring of life
B Tree of life
C Branches of life
D Web of life
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Solution
16
The solution is (D). This statement best describes the web of life. The web of life
model tries to incorporate the effects of horizontal gent transfer on evolution as
described in the statement.
Explain why the classic tree model needs to be revised.
A The model is unable to incorporate DNA evidence.
B The model is erroneously based on many analogous traits, which have no basis in
evolutionary relationships.
C The model cannot be experimentally verified.
D The model does not consider the possibility that genes could be transferred between
unrelated species.
Solution
17
The solution is (D). Classical thinking on prokaryotic evolution suggests that species
evolve through random mutations causing descent into the variety of species as it
branches from extinct species to modern-day species. Sexual reproduction in
eukaryotes makes this view complicated, but genetic variation is still ultimately
thought to be the result of mutation. What this way of thinking does not consider is
the possibility that genes could be transferred from unrelated species, causing
genetic variation in that manner.
What are three different ways that eukaryotic cells may have evolved?
A Some hypotheses propose that mitochondria were acquired first. Others propose that
the nucleus evolved first. Still others hypothesize that prokaryotes descended from
eukaryotes by the loss of genes and complexity.
B Some hypotheses propose that eukaryotic cells are a combination of bacterial and
archaeal cells. Others propose that eukaryotic cells are a combination of bacterial and
fungal cells. Still others hypothesize that eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells developed
independently.
C Some hypotheses propose that mitochondria developed from bacterial cells. Others
propose that they developed from archaeal cells. Still others hypothesize that bacteria
developed from mitochondria that had been released from eukaryotic cells.
D Some hypotheses propose that eukaryotic cells developed from gram-negative
bacteria. Others propose that they developed from gram-positive bacteria. Still others
hypothesize that both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria contributed to the
eukaryotic genome through horizontal gene transfer.
Solution
18
The solution is (C). Some hypotheses propose that mitochondria were acquired first,
followed by the development of the nucleus. Others propose that the nucleus
evolved first and that this new eukaryotic cell later acquired the mitochondria. Still
others hypothesize that prokaryotes descended from eukaryotes by the loss of
genes and complexity.
Explain the ring of life model.
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A The ring of life model is a phylogenetic model where the three domains of life started
as distinct groups that could swap genes horizontally with each other in all directions.
B The ring of life model is a phylogenetic model where all three domains of life are said
to have developed from a pool of primitive prokaryotes.
C The ring of life model is a phylogenetic model where bacterial and archaeal cells fused
to form eukaryotic cells.
D The ring of life model is a phylogenetic model where there is only a single domain of
life due to modern DNA analysis.
Solution
19
The solution is (D). The ring of life model is a phylogenetic model where all three
domains of life said to have developed from a pool of primitive prokaryotes. This
model proposes that Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya evolved from this pool of geneswapping prokaryotes. This model takes into account horizontal gene transfer and
genomic fusion to explain genetic variation and the evolution of the three domains
of life.
In a transformation experiment, a sample of E. coli bacteria was mixed with a plasmid
containing the gene for resistance to the antibiotic ampicillin (ampr). Plasmid was not
added to the second sample. Samples were plated on nutrient agar plates, some of which
were supplemented with the antibiotic ampicillin. The results of E. coli growth are
summarized in the figure. The shaded area represents extensive growth of bacteria; dots
represent individual colonies of bacteria.
Which plates have only ampicillin-resistant bacteria?
A Plate I only
B Plate III only
C Plate IV only
D Plates I and II
Solution
The solution is (C). Colonies formed on plate IV containing ampicillin. They are due
to resistant bacteria that could grow in the presence of ampicillin.
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CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
20
How are organisms classified in the taxonomic classification system?
A The taxonomic classification system uses a hierarchical model to organize living
organisms. At each sublevel, the organisms are more similar.
B The taxonomic classification system uses a hierarchical model to organize living
organisms. At each sublevel, the number of organisms increases.
C The categories in the taxonomic classification system are organized from smaller,
more specific categories to larger categories.
D In the hierarchal model for the taxonomic classification system, from the point of
origin, the groups become less specific.
Solution
21
The solution is (A). Scientists historically organized Earth’s millions of species into a
hierarchical taxonomic classification system from the most inclusive category to the
most specific: Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and species.
What is the correct way to format a two-word scientific name?
A Italicize both words. Both words are lowercase.
B Italicize both words. The first word should be capitalized. The second word should be
lowercase.
C Italicize both words. Capitalize both words.
D Underline both words. Capitalize both words.
Solution
22
The solution is (B). Scientists generally refer to an organism only by its genus and
species, which is its two-word scientific name, also referred to the as binomial
nomenclature. The first name of this binomial, the genus name should always be
written first, with only the first letter capitalized. The second name, the species, is
written last and all letters are lowercase. Both names should be typed in italics.
Some organisms that appear very closely related may NOT actually be closely related.
Why is this?
A There are cases where organisms used to be closely related but diverged from each
other and no longer look closely related.
B There are cases where organisms can interbreed making them look like a single
species, when in fact they are not closely related at all.
C There are cases where organisms evolved through convergence and appear closely
related but are not.
D There are cases when extremely distant taxa can recombine into a single group.
Solution
The solution is (C). In most cases, organisms that appear closely related actually are;
however, there are cases where organisms evolved through convergence and
appear closely related but are not.
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23
How does a phylogenetic tree relate to the passing of time?
A A phylogenetic tree relates to the passing of time because species branch off from
each other at regular time intervals.
B A phylogenetic tree is not related to the passing of time because speciation is based
on geographic changes.
C The phylogenetic tree only shows the order in which things took place.
D A phylogenetic tree relates to the passing of time when the diagram also shows how
long ago the divergence from the common ancestor occurred.
Solution
24
Judeo-Christian religious texts explain that the Earth and all the organisms on Earth were
created in seven days. Why is this not a scientific hypothesis?
Solution
25
The solution is (D). A phylogenetic tree relates to the passing of time when the
diagram also shows how long ago the divergence from the common ancestor
occurred. Phylogenetic trees approximate the passing of time by the lengths of their
branches. Longer branches mean that more time has passed since the organisms
shared a common ancestor.
Sample answer: This is not a good hypothesis because it cannot be tested. There is
no way to gather scientific evidence that deities exist or that they created humans in
the distant past.
Scientists use the cladistics system to organize what?
A Homologous traits
B Homoplasies
C Analogous traits
D Monophyletic groups
Solution
26
The solution is (A). After the homologous and analogous traits are sorted, scientists
often organize the homologous traits using a system called cladistics. This system
sorts organisms into clades: groups of organisms that descended from a single
ancestor.
How does a clade relate to a monophyletic group?
A Clades vary in size depending on the number of branches.
B All the organisms within a clade stem from a single point on the phylogenetic tree.
C A clade shows branches that do not share a single point.
D A clade shows groups that diverge at a different branch point.
Solution
27
The solution is (B). Clades must include all of the descendants from a branch point.
As such, all of the organisms in the clade or monophyletic group stem from a single
point on the phylogenetic tree.
Scientists apply the concept of maximum parsimony to do what?
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A Describe phylogenies accurately.
B Eliminate analogous traits.
C Identify mutations to DNA codes.
D Locate homoplasies.
Solution
28
You discover a new species of animal in the rainforest. What characteristics could you use
to distinguish this organism from the other organisms in the same clade based on Figure
11?
Solution
29
Organisms on a cladogram are distinguished by morphological or molecular features.
One could analyze the sequence of DNA in the organism’s genome to understand
how it relates to other organisms in its clade.
Based on the phylogenetic tree below, is the Jungle cat likely closer related to a tiger or a
cougar? Why?
Solution
30
The solution is (A). Scientists apply the concept of maximum parsimony to describe
phylogenies accurately. The maximum parsimony concept is used to aid in the
tremendous task of describing phylogenies accurately.
The Jungle cat is separated from the Cougar by two common ancestors on the tree
and from the Tiger by five common ancestors on the tree. Therefore, the Jungle cat
is likely more closely related to the Cougar then the Tiger.
Two cultures of bacteria are separated by a filter that blocks the movement of cells but
allows free exchange of anything smaller than a bacterial cell. On one side of the filter, a
sample of penicillin-resistant cells in culture broth is added, and on the second side of the
tube, a culture of penicillin-sensitive cells in culture is added. After 24 h, resistant cells
appear on the side with the cells sensitive to penicillin. Which three genetic mechanisms
can account for appearance of the penicillin-resistant cells?
A Transformation, transduction, and conjugation
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B Transformation, transduction, and mutation
C Transformation, conjugation, and mutation
D Transduction, conjugation, and mutation
Solution
The solution is (A). Transformation and transduction are mechanism that explain the
appearance of resistant cells because the filter is permeable to viruses and free DNA.
Conjugation is not possible because cells cannot cross the filter. The third
mechanism is spontaneous mutation.
TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
31
What evolutionary question is better addressed by the fig-shaped evolutionary tree (a) as
opposed to the more typical, single-trunk phylogenetic tree (b)?
(a)
(b)
A What was the single organism from which all other forms of life on Earth arose?
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B Did animals evolve from fungi?
C In which species of eukaryote did chloroplasts first appear?
D Were chloroplasts and mitochondria transferred to eukaryotic cells through horizontal
gene transfer?
Solution
32
The solution is (D). The addition of multiple trunks and horizontal interconnections
in the fig-shaped tree of life best answers the question “Were chloroplasts and
mitochondria transferred to eukaryotic cells through horizontal gene transfer?” This
is because the fig-shaped tree shows interconnections and multiple starting points
that are missing from a single-trunk phylogenetic tree.
Which question, relating to the endosymbiotic hypothesis and the evolution of
eukaryotes, is NOT answered by the eukaryote-first hypothesis, based on the figures?
A Which evolved first, the nucleus or prokaryotes?
B Which evolved first, mitochondria or prokaryotes?
C How and when did the nucleus evolve in eukaryotes?
D How and when did prokaryotes evolve?
Solution
33
The solution is (C). The eukaryote-first hypothesis does not answer the question,
“How and when did the nucleus evolve in eukaryotes?”
The phylogeny shows the evolution of traits in vertebrates.
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Based on this phylogeny, a student asks, “Does this mean that lizards, frogs and rabbits all
possessed hair and an egg with amnion at some point in their evolution?” Based on the
phylogeny, how should you respond to the student?
A Hair and an amniotic egg were both possessed by all three species at some point in
their evolution.
B Hair is only a characteristic found in the rabbit evolutionary history. The amniotic egg
was possessed by both the rabbit and lizard, but not frogs, at some point in their
evolutionary history.
C Hair is a characteristic only found in the rabbit evolutionary history. The amniotic egg
was possessed by all three species at some point in their evolutionary history.
D Hair was possessed by all three species at some point in their evolutionary history. The
amniotic egg was possessed by both the lizard and frog, but not the rabbit at some
point in their evolutionary history.
Solution
The solution is (B). The best response would be to show the student that “Hair” is a
derived trait only possessed by the rabbit on this tree. The amniotic egg is possessed
by both the rabbit and lizard, but not frogs.
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34
The tree shows the phylogenetic relationships between four species.
A scientist wishes to perform a genetic analysis on all four species in which she
determines the number of genetic similarities among all four species. What would she
likely find regarding the genetic similarities among species A, B, D, and E?
A Species D and E would share more genetic similarities with each other than with
species A and B, and vice versa.
B Species A and E would share more genetic similarities with each other than with
species B and D, and vice versa.
C Species D and A would share more genetic similarities with each other than with
species A and B, and vice versa.
D Species D and B would share more genetic similarities with each other than with
species A and E.
Solution
35
The solution is (D). Species D and B have fewer nodes between them than A and E
and thus are more related.
What is the aim of scientists applying the maximum parsimony concept when creating
phylogenetic trees?
A The scientists spend more time creating the phylogenetic table.
B Scientists find the shortest tree with the smallest number of changes.
C A complex, detailed phylogenetic tree diagram is created.
D The scientists spend more time researching the data for evolutionary connections.
Solution
The solution is (B). Scientists look for the most obvious and simple order of
evolutionary events, and doing so, they find the shortest tree with the smallest
number of changes.
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36
Dolphins and fish have similar body shapes. Is this feature more likely a homologous or
analogous trait? Explain your answer.
A Analogous: Dolphins are mammals and fish are not, thus their evolutionary paths are
quite separate. They have similar body shapes because of their similar environment.
B Analogous: Dolphins and fish are both vertebrates, thus they share an evolutionary
history, causing them to have similar body shapes.
C Homologous: Dolphins and fish are both vertebrates, thus they share an evolutionary
history, causing them to have similar body shapes.
D Homologous: Dolphins are mammals and fish are not, thus their evolutionary paths
are quite separate. They have similar body shapes because of their similar
environment.
Solution
37
The solution is (A). Dolphins are mammals and fish are not, which means that their
evolutionary paths (phylogenies) are quite separate. Dolphins probably adapted to
have a similar body plan after returning to an aquatic lifestyle, and, therefore, this
trait is probably analogous.
What effect has the advancement of DNA technology had on determining phylogeny?
A Morphologic and molecular information often disagree.
B Scientists are struggling with molecular systematics.
C Information is not reliable because organisms appear to be closely related when they
are not.
D Computer programs help determine relatedness using DNA sequencing, and
morphologic and molecular information is more effective in determining phylogeny.
Solution
38
The solution is (D). Computer programs help determine relatedness using DNA
sequencing, and molecular data. Molecular information is more effective in
determining phylogeny. New computer programs confirm earlier classified
organisms and also uncover previously made errors.
What is maximum parsimony used for in evolutionary biology?
A Maximum parsimony hypothesizes that organisms that share the most traits are the
most likely to share a common ancestor.
B Maximum parsimony hypothesizes that organisms that share a common ancestor are
more likely to have many traits in common.
C Maximum parsimony hypothesizes that events occurred in the simplest, most obvious
way, and the pathway of evolution probably includes the fewest major events that
coincide with the evidence at hand.
D Maximum parsimony hypothesizes that organisms that display homologous structures
are closely related, while organisms that display analogous structures must have
diverged much farther in the past.
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Solution
39
The solution is (C). Maximum parsimony hypothesizes that events occurred in the
simplest, most obvious way. To aid in defining phylogenies accurately, scientists
decipher the pathway of evolution using the fewest major events that coincide with
the evidence at hand.
The emu in Australia and ostrich in Africa are flightless birds that look similar. One
proposed hypothesis was the birds descend from an early common ancestor that
spread when the continents were connected. DNA analysis shows that emus and
ostriches share more genetic homology with flying birds, which live in the same region
than with each other.
What is the best explanation for these findings?
A This is an example of an early shared ancestor
B This is an example of convergent evolution.
C This is an example of random DNA homology
D This is an example of divergent evolution.
Solution
40
The solution is (B). This is an example of convergent evolution because the emu and
ostrich, despite their physical similarities, likely do not share a recent common
ancestry because of their isolation on different continents.
A scientist decides to investigate the evolutionary connection between closely related
bacteria. Which gene would be a good choice to use for establishing relatedness, a very
well conserved gene or a poorly conserved sequence? Explain your reasoning.
a. A very well conserved gene would be a good choice, because well conserved genes undergo
sufficient changes during relatively short times, which allows for the study of recent
evolutionary events. Well-conserved genes do not undergo changes during short durations.
b. A poorly conserved gene would be a good choice, because poorly conserved genes show
sequence similarity, which is used as evidence of evolutionary relationships between
sequences.
c. A poorly conserved gene would be a good choice, because poorly conserved genes undergo
sufficient changes during relatively short times, which allows for the study of recent
evolutionary events.
d. A very well conserved gene would be a good choice, because well conserved genes show
sequence similarity, which is used as evidence of evolutionary relationships between
sequences.
Solution
Sample answer: When recent evolutionary events are being studied, regions or
genes that evolve much more rapidly are needed because they have undergone
sufficient changes during this relatively short time.
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41
In a hypothetical population of beetles, there is a wide variety of color, matching the
range of coloration of the tree trunks on which the beetles hide from predators. The
graphs illustrate four possible changes in the beetle population as a result of a change in
the environment due to pollution that darkened the tree trunks.
What would be the most likely change in the coloration of the beetle population after
pollution and why?
A The coloration range shifted toward more light-colored beetles, as in diagram I. The
pollution helped the predators find the darkened tree trunks.
B The coloration in the population split into two extremes, as in diagram II. Both
the light-colored and the dark- colored beetles were able to hide on the darker
tree trunks.
C The coloration range became narrower, as in diagram III. The predators selected
beetles at the color extremes.
D The coloration in the population shifted toward more dark-colored beetles, as in
diagram IV. The light-colored beetles were found more easily by the predators than
were the dark-colored beetles.
Solution
42
The solution is (D). Selection pressure will favor the dark-colored beetles which are
well camouflaged and less likely to be seen and eaten by predators.
A population of rodents settles on the shore of an island close to the Arctic Circle. The
landscape consists mainly of rocks. If the individuals are too large, they cannot hide in
crevices to escape hawks. On the other hand, small bodies do not maintain internal
temperature in cold weather. Show diagrammatically the change in the population and
explain what selective pressures took place.
Solution
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43
Five new species of bacteria were discovered in Antarctic ice core samples. The
nucleotides (base sequences of rRNA subunits) were determined for the new species. The
table shows the number of nucleotide differences between the species.
Species
1
2
3
4
5
1
–
3
19
18
27
–
19
18
26
–
1
27
2
Blank
3
Blank
blank
4
–
27
Which phylogenetic tree is most consistent with the data?
Blank
blank
blank
C
A
B
Solution
44
D
The solution is (C). Species 5 has the most nucleotide changes compared to the
other four species. Species 1 and 2 have three nucleotide differences between them,
whereas there are 18 and 19 between 1 or 2 and the second group, species 3 and 4.
There is only 1 nucleotide difference between 3 and 4.
Draw the phylogenetic tree for the species in the table. Identify where on the tree each
feature evolved.
Species
Amniotic
Egg
Endotherm Feathers Lungs
Vertebrae
Notochord
Snake
Y
N
N
Y
Y
Y
Ostrich
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Shark
N
N
N
N
Y
Y
Frog
N
N
N
Y
Y
Y
Lancelet
N
N
N
N
N
Y
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A The ostrich branched off first, followed by the snake, then the frog, then the shark,
and then the lancelet.
B The shark branched off first, followed by the lancelet, then the frog, then the ostrich,
and then the snake.
C The lancelet branched off first, followed by the shark, then the frog, then the snake,
and then the ostrich.
D The lancelet branched off first, followed by the shark, then the ostrich, then the snake,
and then the frog.
Solution
45
The solution is (C). The organism with the fewest most common features branched
off early and is the least related to the other organisms. The ostrich possesses a
notochord (embryonic stage), vertebrae, lungs, amniotic eggs, feathers, and
constant body temperature (warm-blooded is not used any longer to describe
endothermic.)
Barbara McClintock discovered transposons while working on maize genetics. What are
the transposons composed of when they are able to shift from one location to another?
A Segments of RNA
B Plasmids
C Segments of DNA
D Proteins
Solution
46
The solution is (C). Transposons are segments of DNA that can shift their location
and can enter a cell with the assistance of a plasmid.
What is horizontal gene transfer (HGT)?
A The proposal that eukaryotes developed a nucleus first, and then their mitochondrion
B The transmission of genetic material from one species to another through
mechanisms other than from parent to offspring
C The fusion of two prokaryotic genomes
D The division of kingdom in the taxonomic classification
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Solution
47
The solution is (B). HGT is the introduction of genetic material from one species to
another species by mechanisms other than the vertical transmission from parent(s)
to offspring. These transfers allow even distantly related species to share genes,
influencing their phenotypes.
What is referred to as the transfer of genes by a mechanism that does not involve asexual
reproduction?
A Web of life
B Meiosis
C Gene fusion
D Horizontal gene transfer
Solution
48
The solution is (D). Horizontal gene transfer is the introduction of genetic material by
mechanisms other than parent to offspring transfer as in sexual and asexual
reproduction.
Which options describes small, virus-like particles that act as a mechanism of gene
transfer between prokaryotes?
A Gene transfer agents
B Horizontal gene transfer
C Vertical gene transfer
D Basal taxon
Solution
The solution is (A). Gene transfer agents are bacteriophage-like particle that
transfers random genomic segments from one species of prokaryote to another.
SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
20.1 Organizing Life on Earth
49
The figure shows a plot of the fraction, as a percentage, of families of marine organisms
living at a particular point in time that became extinct (vanished from the fossil record) in
the next geological moment. These mass extinctions mark the ends of geologic periods.
For example, the Triassic period ended around 213 million years ago (Mya).
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A. The fact that evolution is an ongoing process is illustrated by these data. Whether the
process displays a pattern involving regular intervals is a question that has been raised. Of
those who believe periodicity is present, a period of 26 million years is favored. A wave
with this periodicity is drawn on the figure. Evaluate the evidence provided in terms of
agreement and disagreement with the marine extinction record.
The Cretaceous and Jurassic were periods of warm landmasses covered by a shallow sea.
The ends of these periods are known to be due to asteroids that left a sedimentary trace.
At the end of the Triassic, there is no evidence of an asteroid impact. Instead, there was
massive volcanism associated with the opening of the Atlantic Ocean, a four-fold increase
in carbon dioxide, and a 3–6 °C temperature rise (A. Marzoli et al., Science, 1999).
Macrofossil, spore, and pollen data show that marine animal species declined much more
than marine plant species (L. Mander et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 2010). The cause of the
end of the Permian period is less uncertain, but an 8°C temperature rise has been
established (McElwain and Punyasena, Trends in Ecology and Evolution, 2007). Both
terrestrial and marine taxa were affected.
B. The graph estimates the number of distinct families, including both marine and
terrestrial, as a function of time before the present. Note that the time scale for this graph
is much longer than that of the other graph.
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Analyze this graph by
Solution

Identifying times of mass extinctions

Posing a question regarding any difference between the graph of extinctions of
marine life and the graph of family level diversity

Explaining the slope of the graph of family diversity following a mass extinction
event
Sample answer:
A. End-Permian, end-Triassic, end-Jurassic, and end-Cretaceous all fit the period.
However, during the Jurassic and Tertiary the fit is poor. If there is periodicity, no
other wavelength is better than the one suggested. Aside: A possible explanation
involving the effect of dark matter on the frequency of asteroid collisions has been
presented (Rampino, MNRAS, 2014).
B. The Permian, Triassic, and Cretaceous boundaries show drops for family diversity,
and these lines up with marine extinctions. After these extinction events, there is a
rapid increase in speciation as shown by the steep slopes following these events. At
the boundary marking the end of the Jurassic and beginning of the Cretaceous, there
is no drop in family diversity, though there is a mass extinction of marine life. Is the
increase in speciation in the warm, shallow seas of these periods compensating for
the extinction of marine life? Did the increase in temperature and/or carbon dioxide
have a more profound effect on marine species because of drops of oxygen
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concentration or acidification of oceans than they had on terrestrial species,
particularly plants?
20.2 Determining Evolutionary Relationships
50
Lactate dehydrogenase, an enzyme involved in glycolysis, from several species is
compared using a Southern blot technique in the figure: (A) yeast; (B) snail; (C) mouse; (D)
rat; and (E) human (after K. Webster, Journal of Experimental Biology 2003).
A. Justify the claim that these data provide evidence that supports glycolysis as a
conserved core property.
There are three forms of lactate dehydrogenase whose roles vary within an organism:
LDH-A, -B, and -C. The question arises as to the origins of each. The cladogram (after
S. Tsuji et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 1994) displays a proposed relatedness of variations in
LDHs over many species.
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B. Based on these data, describe the differences between the likely evolutionary
sequences of LDH-A, -B, and -C in the African frog and in humans.
C. Evaluate the claim that in both species (African frog and human), LDH-C is the most
recently evolved form of the enzyme.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Each of the species shows the same two DNA sequences. Since this enzyme is a
component of glycolysis, we see that this is a core conserved process.
B. The African frog LDH-A and LDH-B represent a divergence and the modification of
the nucleotide sequence in LDH-B led to LDH-C. In the human LDH-B and LDH-A have
been derived from LDH-C.
C. LDH-C probably came last in the frog and first in the human. The evidence is the
larger number of nucleotide substitutions.
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51
Nucleotide-repeat sequences often occur within the intron, and sequence variation is
neutral; that is, there is no selection. For example, the nucleotide-repeat sequence
labeled A might be ACGGGC, and the repeat sequence labeled B might be ACTGGT.
Repeat sequences evolve by single-step duplication, deletion, and inversion, rather than
by single nucleotide substitution. Because these repeat sequences can be used to infer
phylogeny, a phylogenetic tree can be hypothesized based on the principle of
parsimony—the simplest explanation is the best explanation. Consider the repeat
sequences A, B, C, D, and E shown in the list in which only inversions have occurred
among five different species.

Species 1: ABCDE

Species 2: ADCBE

Species 3: BACED

Species 4: DACBE

Species 5: ABCED

Species 6: DEBCA
A. Pose three questions that can be used to infer the evolution of these five species.
B. Draw lines between nearest relatives to construct a cladogram that displays the
relationships inferred by answers to your questions.
Carson (Drosophila Genetics 1983) used inversions in intron-repeat sequences of the fruit
fly to infer evolution among the Hawaiian Drosophila. He further assigned the
chronological sequence of islands on which the flies appeared by assuming
(parsimoniously) that the geologically oldest of the volcanic islands was home to the
oldest fly ancestor. When a fly or flies arrived on a newer island, speciation occurred,
which, after a time, stabilized until another island hop occurred.
C. Evaluate Carson’s reasoning for speciation and ongoing evolution.
D. Pose two questions whose pursuit could provide additional evidence of Carson’s
hypothesized evolutionary sequence.
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Solution
Sample answer:
A. Which species are most closely related?
Which species are connected by a single inversion?
Which sequences cannot be connected by a single inversion?
How can I get from species 1 to 2, 1 to 3, 1 to 4, 1 to 5, 2 to 3, 2 to 4, 2 to 5, etc.?
B.
C. The concept is that introduction to a new island introduces new selection acting
on mutations. Over time, the speciation that results undergoes a convergence to a
stable population. This species then migrates to a new island and the process is
repeated.
D. Do other proteins or gene sequences display the same phylogeny? Where did the
population on the oldest island originate? How can we be sure that only a single
inversion occurred between island hops? The answer to the first question is yes, and
Carson’s simple reasoning is regarded as very eloquent in this time of more bruteforce, next-generation sequencing to infer phylogeny. The answer to the second
question was South America. The answer to the third is that we cannot; the frequent
use of the word “hypothesis” is more common amongst evolutionary biologists than
among other sub-disciplines, say, biochemists. Other evidence is always desirable
until, as Stephen Jay Gould said, “It is pernicious to withhold consent.”
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21 | VIRUSES
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Viruses were first discovered after the development of the porcelain filter, called the
Chamberland-Pasteur filter. How did the porcelain filter enable scientists to discover
viruses?
A The porcelain filter removed diseases from a liquid sample.
B The porcelain filter removed virions from a liquid sample.
C The porcelain filter removed bacteria from a liquid sample.
D The porcelain filter removed a disease from tobacco plants.
Solution
2
The solution is (C). The porcelain filter could remove all bacteria visible in the
microscope from any liquid sample, while allowing the viruses to pass through
the filter.
In the late 1930s, scientists got their first good view of viruses. How did this happen?
A The development of the light microscope helped scientists discover many viruses of all
types of living organisms.
B The development of the viral receptor helped scientists discover many viruses of all
types of living organisms.
C The development of the porcelain filter helped scientists discover many viruses of all
types of living organisms.
D The development of the electron microscope helped scientists discover many viruses
of all types of living organisms.
Solution
3
The solution is (D). When the electron microscope was developed in the late 1930s,
it provided greater magnification and helped scientists see the structure of many
viruses of all types of living organisms.
Determining the origins of viruses is challenging. Which hypothesis proposes to explain
the origin of viruses by suggesting that viruses evolved from free-living cells?
A Escapist or the progressive
B System of self-replication
C Devolution or the regressive
D Virus molecular systematics
Solution
The solution is (C). When the electron microscope was developed in the late
1930s, the development of the electron microscope helped scientists discover
many viruses of all types of living organisms based on viral adaptations to surviving
inside of host cells.
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4
Which statement best describes what biologists know about the evolution of viruses?
A Scientists can look at fossil records and similar historic evidence.
B Much about virus origins and evolution remains unknown.
C Biologists have accumulated a significant amount of knowledge about how viruses
originated.
D Biologists know exactly when viruses emerged and from where they came.
Solution
5
The solution is (B). Much about virus origins and evolution remains unknown.
Although biologists have accumulated a significant amount of knowledge about how
present-day viruses evolve, much less is known about how viruses originated in the
first place.
What is an individual virus particle outside a host cell that consists of a nucleic acid core,
an outer protein coating, and sometimes an outer envelope?
A A capsid
B A virion
C A capsomere
D A viral receptor
Solution
6
The solution is (B). A virion is a viral particle in its extracellular (outside of the cell)
state. It consists of the nucleocapsid (combination of viral nucleic acid and the
protenacious-capsid coat).
For many viruses to penetrate the cell membrane and complete their replication inside
the cell, the virus must attach to their host cells. How does a virus attach to a host cell?
A A virus uses its cellular structure to attach to a host cell.
B A virus uses a plasma membrane to connect to a host cell.
C A virus uses matrix proteins to attach to a host cell.
D Viruses use viral receptors to attach to a host cell.
Solution
7
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The solution is (B). Viruses exhibit high specificity for select host cells. Nonenveloped
or enveloped viruses may enter cells in different ways. Proteins present in the viral
capsid for nonenveloped viruses or on the envelope for enveloped viruses, binds to
the receptor for which it is specific, in much the same manner as a “key” fits in a
specific “lock.”
_____ means that the genomic RNA can function as mRNA.
A Double-stranded
B Negative polarity
C Positive polarity
D Replica intermediates
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Solution
8
The solution is (C). Positive polarity is an ssRNA virus with a genome that contains
the same base sequences and codons found in their mRNA.
Viruses often are classified based on the type of genetic material and its structure. In the
Baltimore classification scheme, which virus has a single-stranded RNA (–) genome?
A Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
B Rabies (rhabdovirus)
C Canine parvovirus (parvovirus)
D Common cold (pircornavirus)
Solution
9
The solution is (B). The rabies (rhabdovirus) virus is in Group V, single-stranded
RNA (–).
What must scientist use to get a visual look at the internal structure of virions?
A A scanning electron microscope
B A transmission electron microscope
C A porcelain filter
D A light microscope
Solution
10
The solution is (B). The internal structures of a virus can be observed in images from
a transmission electron microscope. A beam of electrons is transmitted and an
image is formed from the interaction of the electrons transmitted through the
specimen.
Which statement about the viral replication cycle is accurate?
A The viral replication cycle does not affect the structure of the host cell.
B The viral replication cycle cannot affect genetic material of the host cell.
C The viral replication cycle has seven basic steps.
D The viral replication cycle can change cell functions or even destroy the host cell.
Solution
11
The solution is (D). The viral replication cycle can produce dramatic biochemical and
structural changes in the host cell, which may cause cell damage.
What happens in the lysogenic cycle of viral replication?
A During the budding process, virions leave the host cell individually.
B During the budding process, the host cell bursts.
C During the budding process, the virus connects with a permissive host cell.
D During the budding process, the host cell dies immediately.
Solution
The solution is (A). Budding is a method of exit from the cell where virions leave the
host cell individually.
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12
In which cycle does the virus replicate and burst out of the host cell?
A Lytic
B Lysogenic
C Cytopathic
D Latency
Solution
13
The solution is (A). The lytic cycle is a type of virus replication in which virions are
released through lysis, or bursting, of the cell.
How is the lytic cycle different from the lysogenic cycle?
A The phage infects a cell in the lytic cycle.
B The lytic cycle contains the formation of a prophage.
C In the lytic cycle, new phages are produced; immediately in the lysogenic cycle phage
DNA is merged into the host genome.
D The phages move on to infect other cells in the lysogenic phase.
Solution
14
The solution is (C). In the lytic cycle, new phages are produced in recurring cycles
and can lead to host death; in the lysogenic cycle phage DNA is merged into the host
genome and remains dormant.
Which statement is false?
A Enveloped viruses and naked viruses both may enter cells using the fusion method.
B Many enveloped viruses enter the cell by receptor-mediated endocytosis.
C Naked viruses enter the cell by receptor-mediated endocytosis.
D Undergoing shape changes and creating channels in the host cell membrane is an
alternative method of cell penetration used by naked viruses.
Solution
15
The solution is (A). Naked viruses cannot enter cells using the fusion method. Fusion
only occurs with enveloped virions.
An apple tree has yellow splotches on the leaves. What is this is a symptom of?
A Cell necrosis
B Discoloration
C Hyperplasia
D Hypoplasia
Solution
The solution is (D). Hypoplasia, or decreased cell growth, causes thin, yellow areas to
appear in the leaves of plants.
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16
What happens during the release step in the lytic or lysogenic cycle of replication?
A During the release step, genetic information is transferred through the lytic and
lysogenic cycles.
B During the release step, DNA is transcribed to messenger RNA.
C During the release step, the nucleic acid is released from the viral capsid or envelope.
D During the release step, the new virions are able to infect adjacent cells and repeat
the replication cycle.
Solution
17
The solution is (D). In the release step, the new virions leave the host cell and are
able to infect adjacent cells and repeat the replication cycle.
Why does the HIV virus use reverse transcriptase in the replication process?
A The HIV virus uses reverse transcriptase to replicate cells and build proteins.
B The HIV virus uses reverse transcriptase to erase mutated virions.
C The HIV virus uses reverse transcriptase because it is a retrovirus.
D The HIV virus uses reverse transcriptase because it has a DNA genome.
Solution
18
The solution is (C). The HIV virus uses reverse transcriptase because it is a retrovirus.
Reverse transcriptase converts the viral RNA into double-stranded DNA.
What are the symptoms of the herpes simplex virus?
A The herpes simplex virus causes eye infections.
B The herpes simplex virus causes pneumonia.
C The herpes simplex virus causes pancreatitis.
D The herpes simplex virus can cause septicemia.
Solution
19
The solution is (A). The herpes simplex virus, adenovirus, and cytomegalovirus all
cause eye infections.
Which statement accurately describes the measles virus?
A The measles virus causes nasal and lung infections.
B The measles virus causes pancreas and liver infections.
C The measles virus causes mouth and gum infections.
D The measles virus causes brain and skin infections.
Solution
The solution is (D). The measles virus infects the respiratory system and can cause
brain and skin disorders.
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20
Which statement best describes vaccines?
A Vaccines kill viruses.
B Vaccines stimulate an immune response against future infections.
C Vaccines inhibit the virus by blocking the action of key viral proteins.
D Vaccines control and reduce symptoms.
Solution
21
The solution is (B). Vaccines stimulate an immune response against future infections.
Viral vaccines are designed to give protective immunity against future infections.
Which kind of therapy attacks a stage of the virus replicative cycle?
A Phage therapy
B Antiretroviral therapy
C Gene therapy
D Cancer therapy
Solution
22
The solution is (B). Antiretroviral therapy attacks a virus at different stages of its
replicative cycle.
Which virus causes parotitis?
A Measles virus
B Norovirus
C HIV
D Mumps virus
Solution
23
The solution is (D). The mumps virus causes parotitis, which is inflammation of a
parotid gland.
Which statement about prions is true?
A Prions are larger than viruses.
B Prions contain DNA and RNA.
C The PrPC is the normal form of the protein.
D The PrPSC is folded abnormally.
Solution
The solution is (D). The PrPSC, a proteinaceous infectious particle, is the abnormally
folded from of PrPC.
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24
Kuru is a prion disease that affects both humans and animals. How is kuru spread?
A Kuru disease is spread between cattle.
B Kuru is passed from person to person.
C Kuru is passed from cows with BSE to humans.
D Kuru is a viroid that infects plants.
Solution
25
The solution is (B). Kuru is spread by the consumption of meat, nervous tissue, or
internal organs between members of the same species. Kuru, native to humans in
Papua New Guinea, was spread from human to human via ritualistic cannibalism.
Which statement about viroids is true?
A Viroids are single-stranded RNA particles.
B Viroids reproduce only outside of the cell.
C Viroids produce proteins.
D Viroids affect both plants and animals.
Solution
26
The solution is (A). Viroids are small, single-stranded RNA particles. They are known
to infect plants such as potatoes, cucumbers, tomatoes, chrysanthemums, avocados,
and coconut palms. This results in crop failures and the loss of millions of dollars in
agricultural revenue each year.
On which industry can viroids have a severe impact?
A Dairy
B Poultry
C Avocado
D Livestock
Solution
27
The solution is (C). Viroids can have a severe impact on the avocado industry
because viroids are known to infect plants, including avocados.
Which statement best explains how infected prions cause disease?
A Infected prions cause disease by transmitting nucleic acids to normal prion proteins.
B Infected prions cause disease by converting DNA to RNA in normal prion proteins.
C Infected prions cause disease by converting the shapes of normal proteins.
D Infected prions cause disease by replicating the normal form of the protein.
Solution
The solution is (C). Infected prions cause disease by converting the shapes of normal
proteins. Prions convert the normal protein shape to an abnormal form.
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CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
28
How did the development of a porcelain filter, called the Chamberland-Pasteur filter, help
scientists discover viruses?
A After filtering a liquid plant extract, the scientists could see the virions using the light
microscope.
B After filtering a liquid plant extract, the disease was still transferred to a healthy plant.
C After filtering a liquid plant extract, the virus cells multiplied.
D After filtering a liquid plant extract, scientists were able to trace historical footprints.
Solution
29
The solution is (B). After filtering a liquid plant extract, the disease was still
transferred to a healthy plant. Years later, it was proven that the infectious agents
were a new type of very small, disease-causing particle.
Scientists have a few hypotheses about virus origins. Why might they develop and refine
further hypotheses to explain the origin of viruses?
A Advances in technology provide historic evidence.
B Biochemical and genetic information provide historic evidence.
C Advances in technology provide new information for scientists.
D Advances in technology have proven that viruses have a single common ancestor.
Solution
30
The solution is (C). New technology provides new avenues for investigation and
stimulates new ideas.
Why don’t dogs catch the measles?
A Measles is a DNA virus, and DNA viruses cause human diseases.
B Dogs do not have glycoproteins.
C The virus can’t attach to dog cells.
D Dogs do not get RNA viruses.
Solution
31
The solution is (C). The virus cannot attach to dog cells, because dog cells do not
have the receptors for the virus and/or there is no cell within the dog that is
permissive for viral replication.
The Baltimore classification system groups viruses according to how the mRNA is
produced. When classified this way, the viruses in each group —
A behave in a similar manner
B look very similar
C connect with living things
D are based on the type of disease they cause
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Solution
32
The solution is (A). Each of the seven groups has a different replication strategy.
Researchers have been able to develop a variety of anti-HIV drugs, such as the drug AZT.
How does the drug AZT work?
A AZT blocks the enzyme called HIV protease, which the virus uses to reproduce itself.
B AZT blocks the HIV integrase enzyme, which the virus uses to insert its viral DNA into
the DNA of the host cell.
C AZT prevents reverse transcriptase and HIV protease enzyme from functioning inside
the body.
D AZT prevents reverse transcriptase from making DNA from the viral RNA genome.
Solution
33
The solution is (D). AZT is a nucleic acid synthesis inhibitor that functions as an
analog of thymidine. It works by preventing the viral enzyme reverse transcriptase
from making DNA from the viral RNA genome. Without this step, HIV cannot
replicate.
Compare the lytic and lysogenic cycles. Which cycle has the potential to produce the most
virions?
A The lytic cycle can theoretically produce more virions as the viral genome takes over
the host cell, resulting in the large-scale release of virions.
B The lysogenic cycle can theoretically produce more virions as the reproductive cycle of
viruses undergoing lysogeny is much faster than the reproductive cycle of viruses
following lytic cycle.
C The lysogenic cycle can theoretically produce more virions as the viral genome is
incorporated into the host cell’s genome replicating along with the host cell.
D The lytic cycle can theoretically produce more virions as the prophage following
lysogenic cycle ultimately gets excised from the host cell’s genome and enter the
lytic cycle.
Solution
34
The solution is (C). The lysogenic cycle can theoretically produce more virions than
the lytic cycle, because in the lysogenic cycle the viral genome is incorporated into
the genome of the host cell and the virus continues to live. The virus’s nucleic acid is
replicated as the host cell multiplies. The virus can live and replicate inside a host for
a long time.
Would a person who has never been in contact with the varicella-zoster virus be at risk of
developing chickenpox or shingles if they come in close contact with a person with
shingles? Explain your reasoning.
A The person is at risk of developing chickenpox. Chickenpox is the first infection with
the virus before it enters latency in the host.
B The person is at risk of developing shingles. Shingles is the first infection with the virus
before it enters latency in the host.
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C The person is at risk of developing chickenpox. Chickenpox is the first infection with
the virus that is already latent in the body.
D The person is at risk of developing shingles. The virus enters the person and gets
activated when a person with shingles comes in close contact.
Solution
35
The solution is (A). Because this is the first time the person comes in contact with
the varicella-zoster virus, they risk developing chickenpox. Chickenpox is the first
infection with the virus before it enters latency in the host. Shingles is a secondary
infection from virus that is already latent in the body.
Which step in the replication cycle of viruses do you think is most critical for the virus to
infect cells? Explain why.
A The attachment step is the most critical, as infection cannot begin if the virus does not
attach to the host cell.
B The replication step is the most critical, as this step directs protein synthesis.
C The assembly step is the most critical, because new virions are assembled to
infect cells.
D The entry step is the most critical, as nucleic acid of the virus needs to enter the host
cell naked, leaving the capsid outside.
Solution
36
The solution is (A). The attachment step is the most critical step in the replication
cycle, because if the virus does not attach to the host cell, the infection process
cannot begin.
For most people, the measles virus does not cause a serious illness. Symptoms include
fever and a rash, but the symptoms are usually gone in about a week. However, for some,
the measles virus can be much more serious.
How can the measles virus cause a potentially fatal illness?
A Measles can cause meningococcal disease, which causes severe headaches, seizures,
and in severe cases, can be life-threatening.
B Measles can cause variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, which causes severe headaches,
seizures, and in severe cases, can be life-threatening.
C Measles can cause encephalitis/meningitis, which causes severe headaches, seizures,
and in severe cases, can be life-threatening.
D Measles can cause Legionnaires’ disease, which causes severe headaches, seizures,
and in severe cases, can be life-threatening.
Solution
The solution is (C). Measles is a contagious respiratory system virus that can cause
encephalitis/meningitis, which is inflammation of the brain. Severe cases of
encephalitis can be life-threatening.
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37
Why is immunization after being bitten by a rabid animal so effective and why aren’t
people vaccinated for rabies like dogs and cats are?
A It takes a month for the virus to travel from the site of the bite to the central nervous
system. People are not vaccinated beforehand as routine vaccination of domestic
animals makes it unlikely that humans will contract rabies from an animal bite.
B It takes a week for the virus to travel from the site of the bite to the peripheral
nervous system. People are not vaccinated beforehand as routine vaccination
of domestic animals makes it unlikely that humans will contract rabies from an
animal bite.
C It takes a week for the virus to travel from the site of the bite to the central nervous
system. People are not vaccinated beforehand as routine vaccination of domestic
animals makes it unlikely that humans will contract rabies from an animal bite.
D It takes a week for the virus to travel from the site of the bite to the central nervous
system. People are not vaccinated beforehand, as routine vaccination of domestic
animals makes it fully sure that humans will contract rabies from an animal bite.
Solution
38
The solution is (C). The rabies vaccine works after a bite because it takes week for
the virus to travel from the site of the bite to the central nervous system, where the
most severe symptoms of the disease occur. Adults are not routinely vaccinated for
rabies for two reasons: first, because the routine vaccination of domestic animals
makes it unlikely that humans will contract rabies from an animal bite; second, if one
is bitten by a wild animal or a domestic animal that one cannot confirm has been
immunized, there is still time to give the vaccine and avoid the often fatal
consequences of the disease.
Why don’t dogs and cats catch human colds from humans?
A As cats and dogs have different proteins than humans, the virus that causes colds in
humans cannot find receptors in dogs and cats.
B As cats and dogs have different receptors than humans, the virus that causes colds in
humans cannot find receptors in dogs and cats.
C Cats’ and dogs’ immune systems attack the virus unlike humans’ immune systems, so
the virus that causes colds in humans cannot find receptors in dogs and cats.
D As natural killer cells of cats and dogs attack the virus, the virus that causes colds in
humans cannot find receptors in dogs and cats.
Solution
The solution is (B). To survive and reproduce, the viruses need a host of living cells.
Cats and dogs have different DNA than humans, so the virus that causes colds in
humans cannot find receptors in dogs and cats.
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39
Prions are responsible for variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD). How has this disease
been documented to spread from human to human?
A Surgery with instruments previously used in a patient with vCJD that were not
adequately sterilized and contaminated pineal growth hormones taken from human
pineal glands from infected cadavers.
B Through human consumption of infected meat and contaminated pituitary growth
hormones taken from human pituitary glands from infected cadavers.
C Surgery with instruments previously used in a patient with vCJD that were not
adequately sterilized and contaminated pituitary growth hormones taken from human
pituitary glands from unwell individuals.
D Surgery with instruments previously used in a patient with vCJD that were not
adequately sterilized and contaminated pituitary growth hormones taken from human
pituitary glands from infected cadavers.
Solution
40
The solution is (B). This prion-based disease is most often transmitted through
human consumption of infected meat. However, humans can contract the disease
following surgery with instruments previously used in a patient with vCJD that were
not adequately sterilized. Also, transmission has been linked to contaminated
pituitary growth hormones taken from human pituitary glands from infected
cadavers.
What characteristics do viroids and viruses have in common?
A They both replicate within a host cell and contain nucleic acids.
B They both replicate within a host cell and do not contain nucleic acids.
C They both replicate within a host cell and contain proteins.
D They both replicate within a host cell and contain only RNA.
Solution
41
The solution is (A). These noncellular infectious agents both replicate within a host
cell, and they both contain nucleic acid.
Why is the transmission of a prion NOT reliant upon genes made of DNA or RNA?
A DNA or RNA, though present, is not transmitted when a prion causes infection.
B The prion does not contain DNA or RNA.
C Only parts of DNA or RNA are transmitted in a prion.
D More of protein and less of DNA or RNA is transmitted.
Solution
The solution is (B). Prions are infectious acellular particles that consist of abnormally
folded proteins that replicate without DNA or RNA.
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TEST PREP FOR AP® COURSES
42
The table shows the Baltimore Classification used to classify viruses based on their genetic
material.
What is the difference between how Group I and Group III viruses reproduce?
A In Group I, RNA is transcribed from an RNA genome while in Group III, RNA is
transcribed from a DNA genome.
B In Group I, RNA is transcribed from a DNA genome while in Group III, RNA is
transcribed from an RNA genome.
C In Group I, DNA is transcribed from a DNA genome while in Group III, RNA is
transcribed from an RNA genome.
D In Group I, DNA is transcribed from an RNA genome while in Group III, RNA is
transcribed from a DNA genome.
Solution
The solution is (B). The Group I contains double-stranded DNA which requires the
RNA being transcribed from a DNA genome while in Group III, which has doublestranded RNA, the RNA is transcribed from an RNA genome.
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43
The table shows the Baltimore Classification used to classify viruses based on their genetic
material.
What is similar or different between the genome of Group I and Group VI, as well as how
the two virus types reproduce?
A Group I and VI viruses use RNA as their genome. Group I viruses reproduce by
transcribing RNA from their DNA genome, while Group VI viruses first synthesize their
RNA genome using reverse transcriptase before they can reproduce.
B Group I and VI viruses use DNA as their genome. Group I viruses reproduce by
transcribing RNA from their DNA genome while group VI viruses first synthesize their
DNA genome using reverse transcriptase before they can reproduce.
C Group I and VI viruses use DNA as their genome. Group I viruses reproduce by
transcribing RNA from their DNA genome, while group VI viruses first synthesize RNA
genome using reverse transcriptase before they can reproduce.
D Group I viruses use DNA as their genome while group VI use RNA. Group I viruses
reproduce by transcribing RNA from their DNA genome while group VI viruses
synthesize DNA from RNA using reverse transcriptase before they can reproduce.
Solution
The solution is (B). Group I and Group VI viruses both use DNA as their genome,
however, Group I viruses reproduce by transcribing RNA from their DNA genome,
while Group VI viruses have to first synthesize their DNA genome using reverse
transcriptase before they can reproduce.
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44
The diagram shows the stages during which a virus infects a host cell.
During which of the numbered steps does the amount of viral genetic material begin to
change within the host cell?
A Step 1. Virus enters the cell.
B Step 2. Virus RNA enters the nucleus.
C Step 3. New viruses assemble within the cell.
D Step 4. Viruses leave the cell.
Solution
The solution is (B). As viral RNA enters the host’s nucleus in step 2, the virus hijacks
the host cell, causing the host to make more viral RNA.
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45
The diagram shows the stages during which a virus infects a host cell.
How could the influenza virus change the function of a host cell?
A Because it replicates its DNA within the cell and reproduces, which could interfere
with cell processes
B Because it replicates RNA within the cell and reproduces, which could interfere with
cell processes
C Because it attacks the immune system of the host cell, which in turn would interfere
with cell processes
D Because it replicates its protein within the cell and reproduces, which could interfere
with cell processes.
Solution
The solution is (B). The influenza virus could change the function of the host cell
because it replicates its RNA within the cell and reproduces. This could interfere with
cell processes as more cell resources are used to make viruses instead of used to
keep the cell alive.
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46
The diagram models the lytic and lysogenic reproductive cycles of viruses.
Which cycle would maintain the DNA of the virus over several generations, and why?
A Lysogenic, because the viral DNA can be excised from the host cell’s DNA when
under stress
B Lytic, because the viral DNA can be excised from the host cell’s DNA when under stress
C Lytic, because the viral DNA can be passed on when the host cell replicates
D Lysogenic, because the viral DNA can be passed on when the host cell replicates
Solution
The solution is (D). Lysogenic, because the viral DNA can be passed on when the host
cell replicates.
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47
The diagram models the lytic and lysogenic reproductive cycles of viruses.
Based on the diagram, is the following statement is true or false? Explain.
The lysogenic cycle allows viruses to preserve their genome during unfavorable
conditions.
A True, because when the host cell experiences unfavorable conditions, it stops dividing
and stays in the same state
B True, because the host cell in both the replication stage and during unfavorable
conditions stays in the lysogenic cycle as it is more preferable over the lytic cycle.
C False, because when the host cell experiences unfavorable conditions, the prophage
exits the genome and enters the lytic cycle
D False, because when the host cell experiences unfavorable conditions, the virus enters
latency period
Solution
The solution is (C). The lysogenic cycle does allow viruses to preserve their genome
during host cell replication. However, when the host cell experiences unfavorable
conditions, the prophage exits the genome and enters the lytic cycle.
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SCIENCE PRACTICE CHALLENGE QUESTIONS
21.1 Viral Evolution, Morphology, and Classification
48
Influenza A virus is the most pathogenic of the human influenza viruses. Its envelope
encloses a protein complex (vRNP) and eight, single-stranded, negative RNA (the
complement of a positive RNA strand that can be transcribed by a ribosome) segments
(vRNA). Each segment encodes one or two proteins that support viral replication. On the
outer surface of the envelope are proteins that recognize and bind to host receptors.
A. Annotate the representation to briefly describe each process associated with a
numbered label.
B. Describe influenza A viral replication as a process regulated by either positive or
negative feedback, and justify your selection.
C. The human acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and many cancers are cause
by double-stranded RNA retroviruses.
Contrast the processes of viral replication of HIV and influenza A virus.
D. Explain the difference in the effects of infection by HIV and influenza A virus on host
genetic variability.
E. Measured mutation rates for influenza A virus and HIV are nearly identical (Sanjuan et
al., Jour. Virology, 2010). Explain this observation even though host error-checking
operates in one of these replication modes.
Solution
Sample answer:
A.
1. Attachment/endocytosis
2. Envelope dissolution
3. Transport over nuclear membrane
4. Synthesis of RNA complement
5. Transport to cytoplasm
6. Budding to release progeny
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B. A virion infects the cell and the cell amplifies, creating multiple copies. The
mechanism of this one-to-many positive feedback is that the code for the ribosomeprotein complex vRNP increases the transcriptive capacity of the cell.
The human acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and many cancers are caused by
double-stranded RNA retroviruses.
C. The details of HIV replication are defined as “in-scope” by the Framework, and so
the student should be able to describe the process of retrovirus replication. In the
HIV there is a double-stranded RNA that is used to produce a strand of DNA through
action of reverse transcriptase that accompanies the viral contents. The DNA strand
is then incorporated into the host DNA, and the host cell DNA polymerase is used to
synthesize new copies of the virus RNA. As described in A, there is no comparable
hijacking of cell replication apparatus in the case of influenza A. Consequently, the
flu is an acute disease and HIV is a chronic disease.
D. As described above the host DNA is altered by the retrovirus, while the host DNA
is unaltered by the single strand RNA virus.
E. The host error-checking apparatus (spliceosome) is used in replication of
retrovirus, and there is no error checking in the single strand RNA virus. However,
there is no error checking on the reverse transcriptase step, so the net mutation
rates are comparable.
49
A. Three-dimensional (3-D) structures, or folding, of proteins have been shown to contain
more information about evolutionary relationships than the sequences of DNA
nucleotides that encode the proteins. Amino acid sequences of rabbit skeletal muscle
actin (375 amino acids) and bovine ATPase (386 amino acids) have only 39 locations in
common. However, the 3-D structure of these proteins is nearly identical (Flaherty et al.,
Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 1991). As information about the 3-D folding of proteins and the
number of sequenced whole genomes has increased, folding has been shown to be an
evolutionarily conserved property.
Analyze these data to refine the following model: The evolutionary history of life on Earth
can be inferred from variations over time of the nucleotide sequence of a gene.
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B. By applying a classification scheme based on protein folding, Nasir and Caetano-Anollés
(Sci. Adv., 2015) have determined the number of folding families that viruses share with
the three domains. Approximately 60 percent of the folding patterns found in viruses
were common to all three domains, as shown in the figure. Fewer than 10 percent were
unique to viruses.
Viruses are acellular, and, consequently, they lie outside of the three domains of cellular
life. However, their exclusion is increasingly challenged. Since 2012, several very large
viruses have been discovered, each a double-stranded DNA virus with more than one
million bases, with some encoding nucleotides and amino acids. However, none encode
ribosomes, so these viruses are still dependent on a marine bacteriovore (amoeba or
flagellate) host for replication.
Hypotheses regarding the origin of life on Earth need to account for the relationship
between proteins and genetic information. Proteins are required to read and write
genetic information, but genetic information is required to synthesize proteins. Which of
these systems evolved first, and if neither came first, how could they evolve
simultaneously? The RNA-first model is based on the idea that ribosomal RNA both
encodes and synthesizes proteins.
Describe a hypothesis for the origin of life on Earth that combines the dual functionality of
RNA and the function of retroviral reverse transcriptase to propose a mechanism leading
to an ancient, acellular lineage of very large, double-stranded DNA viruses and a first DNAbased cellular life form.
C. Like viruses, the nucleus of a eukaryote uses the machinery of the cell to transcribe
DNA and synthesize proteins. Evaluate the possibility of the origin of Eukarya by
specialization of a very large double-stranded DNA virus.
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Solution
All are areas of rapid development and conjecture. They can be traced from the
citations provided in the problem. Sample answer:
A. The evolutionary history of life on Earth can be inferred from the variation over
time of the molecular phenotype of a gene that includes the 3-D shape of the
protein expressed.
B. An RNA world is consistent with a precursor to the retrovirus that acquired an
alternative (and more stable) information storage strategy through the construction
of DNA using reverse transcriptase. The formation of complementary strands of DNA
led to double stranded viruses. The accumulation of large genomes may indicate an
ancient origin. The nature of the host (single celled marine eukaryotes) suggests a
selective advantage when the information is enclosed within a lipid membrane. A
test of the hypothesis would be the self-assembly of double-stranded DNA from a
system composed of retrovirus and the formation of lipid vesicles containing these
strands.
C. Engulfment of a large double stranded virus by a prokaryote could lead to a
specialized information storage and retrieval function for this virus within the cell—
which continues to use the prokaryote systems for protein synthesis.
21.2 Virus Infections and Hosts
50
Viruses evolve but leave no fossil evidence that can be used to construct phylogenies.
However, viral DNA, especially that of retroviruses, is commonly found in the host
genome. By comparing sequences from the same virus integrated at different points in
time, the evolutionary history of the virus can be constructed. The viral genomes are
typically found incomplete, in segments, and interrupted by stop codons. In jawed
vertebrates, retroviral sequences or sequences that have been derived from them are a
significant fraction of the whole genome.
A. Explain why retroviral DNA, rather than the genomes of single-stranded or doublestranded DNA or single-stranded RNA viruses, is found in host DNA.
B. Exaptation occurs when gene expression provides a function that is independent of the
selection pressures that have acted on the gene. For example, a pigment that provided
selective advantage by reducing damage from solar radiation becomes an element of
mating behavior. Feathers that evolved under selection to prevent heat loss become a
means of flight.
In a study of viral evolution within host genomes of primates, Katzuorakis and Gifford
(PLOS Genetics, 2010) found that viral genomes within the host were surprisingly stable;
with computer simulation, they estimated the probability of such constancy at 1 in
100,000.
Explain in terms of selection how viral genetic information that no longer replicates the
virus is maintained by the host.
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C. Distemper is an incurable disease of cats, dogs, and their sister lineages caused by a
parvovirus. The virus exploits the host’s transferrin, a membrane-bound protein used for
iron transport, to attach to the cell. The phylogeny of the Parvoviridae family has been
constructed (J. Kaebler, PLOS Pathogens, 2012). That study revealed the evolution of both
the virus and the host protein through selection to resist infection. About 54 million years
ago when the lineage of cats (Feliformia) diverged from that of dogs (Caniformia), the
parvovirus envelope diverged as well, conforming to changes in the host’s transferrin. In
1978, a worldwide disease in dogs due to a parvovirus suddenly appeared.
Explain how this pandemic could have originated in the cat population.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. Single- and double-strand DNA viruses and single-strand RNA viruses do not
integrate their DNA into the host DNA, while retroviruses do and then use the host’s
DNA transcription system for replication. This leaves the viral DNA in the host
genome. If the cell becomes a zygote, the viral DNA is inherited.
B. Since the viral segments are retained, there must be a negative selection
pressure—their loss would disadvantage the organism relative to some selection.
Estimates of the amount of retroviral DNA in the human genome are between 1 and
8 percent. This is an area of active research where not much is known yet.
C. Mutations of the code for the envelope have been selected by the changing
protein configuration of the receptor site—an arms race between host and virus.
Small differences in transferring between the two divergent lineages arose. The
highly pathogenic form of the virus that created the pandemic could have been a
mutation of the code for the envelope in the Feliformia lineage. That is the
conclusion drawn in the Kaebler paper.
51
A. A simple calculation of the rate of spread of a pox virus (virion) led researchers at
Imperial College London to a new insight. Virions communicate with other virions. The
researchers observed that the radius of an approximately circular plaque of infected cells
grew to 1.45 mm in just 3 days. They measured the distance between adjacent cells to be
0.037 mm to obtain the apparent time for the lytic cycle (from infection to lysis). They
compared this time to the actual rate at which new virions are formed: 5 to 6 h.
Predict the radius of infection if the infection process involved a sequence of entry,
replication, lysis, and infection of an adjacent cell.
B. To account for this discrepancy between observed and predicted growth rates, the
researchers examined the viral entry process and discovered that the actin protein on the
host cell’s surface that provided the viral receptor was modified by attachment. They then
found a mutant virus that did not modify the cell surface protein. The dependence of the
growth of plaque radius on time for the wild type and mutant are shown in the graph.
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Analyze these data and compare the infection rates calculated with those predicted in (A).
C. Use the results of this experiment to support the claim that responses to information
and communication of information affect natural selection.
Solution
Sample answer:
A. A virus jumps a distance of 0.037 mm every 5 to 6 h. The distance traveled in 72 h
then is between 0.4 and 0.5 mm in 3 days. The researchers observed a distance
between three and four times greater than this.
B. The rate for the wild type is approximately 0.35 mm/12 h or 0.029 mm/h. The
rate for the mutant is 0.0063 mm/h. The rate per hour calculated in (A) is between
0.006 and 0.007 mm/h, which is comparable to the rate observed for the mutant.
C. These data show that the virus is not infecting adjacent cells if that cell has
already been infected. The signaling is accomplished by leaving a modified actin, to
which a virion subsequently responds. This is communication that has evolved by
the positive selection of increased replication rates.
52
Describe how viral replication introduces genetic variation in the viral population.
Solution
Sample answer: This declarative learning objective can be clarified by looking at the
specific aspects of viral replication that create replication errors that are identified
as assessable on the AP Biology Exam:

Virus replication allows for mutations to occur through usual host pathways.

RNA viruses lack replication error-checking mechanisms, and thus have
higher rates of mutation.

Related viruses can combine/recombine information if they infect the same
host cell.
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22 | PROKARYOTES: BACTERIA AND
ARCHAEA
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1
Which is the best evidence that prokaryotes evolved about 3 billion years ago?
A Scientists believe photosynthesis evolved about 3.0 billion years ago.
B There is fossil evidence of mammalian forms going back about 4.0 billion years.
C Earth and its moon are thought to be about 4.5 billion years old.
D There is fossil evidence of microbial mats—large multilayered sheets of prokaryotes—
starting about 3.5 billion years ago.
Solution
2
The solution is (D). There is fossil evidence of microbial mats starting about 3.5
billion years ago. Microbial mats are thought to represent the earliest forms of life
on Earth.
Which statement describing the environment of early Earth is false?
A The atmosphere contained much less molecular oxygen.
B Strong volcanic activity was common.
C It was subject to mutagenic radiation from the sun.
D There was little to no geologic activity.
Solution
3
The solution is (D). There was little to no geologic activity. Due to fossil evidence
indicating the presence of microbial mats approximately 3.5 million years ago,
scientists believe that hot springs and hydrothermal vents may have been the
environments in which life began, thereby suggesting that life on early Earth did
have geologic activity.
Which type of extremophile grows optimally at temperatures of −15 to 10 °C or lower?
A Alkaliphiles
B Thermophiles
C Hyperthermophiles
D Psychrophiles
Solution
The solution is (D). Psychrophiles are microbes that survive in extremely cold
environments. Therefore, the optimal conditions needed for growth include
temperatures of −15–10 °C (5–50 °F) or lower.
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4
What is an example of a relatively moderate environmental condition to which some
prokaryotes are adapted and can survive as spores?
A Extremely low temperature
B Hypersalinity
C High doses of radiation
D Normal drought
Solution
5
The solution is (D). Some soil bacteria are able to form endospores that are heatresistant and drought-resistant, which thereby allows for them to survive until
favorable conditions improve or reoccur.
More than how much bacteria and archaea cannot be successfully cultured in a laboratory
setting?
A 9%
B 19%
C 91%
D 99%
Solution
6
The solution is (D). Over 99 percent of bacteria and archaea are unculturable in a
laboratory setting due to a lack of knowledge about the special nutritional
requirements for growth that are needed by these organisms. Additionally, some
bacteria cannot be cultured because they are obligate intracellular parasites and
cannot be grown outside a host.
The most substantial difficulty in culturing prokaryotes in laboratory settings is related
to —
A the lack of knowledge about their needs for growth
B growth requirements that are too difficult to meet
C inefficient methods for resuscitation of viable-but-nonculturable (VBNC) organisms
D the expense of techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
Solution
7
The solution is (A). The most substantial difficulty in culturing prokaryotes in
laboratory settings is related to the lack of knowledge about their needs for growth.
What represents the earliest forms of life on Earth?
A Hydrothermal vent
B Microbial mat
C Meteorite
D Stromatolite
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Solution
8
The solution is (B). A microbial mat, or large multi-layered sheet of prokaryotes, may
represent the earliest forms of life on Earth. Fossil evidence of their presence on
Earth dates back approximately 3.5 billion years ago.
Which statement best summarizes the conditions of early Earth at the time that life first
evolved?
A The atmosphere of early Earth was very different from today’s atmosphere, but
most other conditions (such as geologic upheaval and volcanic activity) were very
much the same.
B The atmosphere of early Earth was very much like today’s atmosphere, but many
other conditions (such as geologic upheaval and volcanic activity) were very different.
C Early Earth had a very different atmosphere, was subject to extreme radiation, and
had a lot of geologic upheaval and volcanic activity.
D Early Earth had a very different atmosphere and was subject to extreme radiation, but
there was very little geologic upheaval or volcanic activity.
Solution
9
The solution is (C). Early Earth had a very different atmosphere, consisting of less
molecular oxygen than is present in current times. The planet was also subject to
strong radiation and volcanic activity due to geologic upheaval.
Halophiles prefer conditions in which there is a —
A high sugar concentration
B salt concentration of at least 0.2 M
C pH of 3 or below
D high level of radiation
Solution
10
The solution is (B). Halophiles have an absolute dependence on salt. As such, a salt
concentration of at least 0.2 M is needed for their survival. These salt-tolerant
microbes can form salt-tolerant bacterial mats such as those found in the Dead Sea.
The presence of a membrane-enclosed nucleus is a characteristic of —
A prokaryotic cells
B eukaryotic cells
C all cells
D viruses
Solution
The solution is (B). Eukaryotic cells possess nuclei, the large membrane-bound
organelle present within the cell, which serves as the location of their DNA. This
organelle is absent within prokaryotes, which lack membranous intracellular
structures such as organelles.
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11
All prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have four structures in common: the plasma
membrane, the cytoplasm, nucleic acid, and —
A the cell wall
B ribosomes
C the nucleus
D organelles
Solution
12
The solution is (B). Ribosomes are nonmembranous organelles found in both cell
types. The function of these structures is to serve as the site of protein synthesis for
the cell.
Which statement comparing the prokaryotes Bacteria and Archaea is false?
A The cytoplasm of both bacterial and archaean prokaryotic cells has a high
concentration of dissolved solutes.
B Osmotic pressure in both types of prokaryotic cells is relatively high.
C The domains Bacteria and Archaea differ in the use of fatty acids versus phytanal
groups in their cell membranes.
D The domains Bacteria and Archaea have very similar cell wall structure.
Solution
13
The solution is (D). Unlike the cell walls of eubacteria in Domain Bacteria, the
composition of cell walls for Domain Archaea bacteria do not include peptidoglycan.
There are four different types of Archaean cell walls, one type of which is composed
of pseudopeptidoglycan, which is similar to peptidoglycan in morphology but
contains different sugars in the polysaccharide chain.
Pseudopeptidoglycan is a characteristic of the walls of some —
A eukaryotic cell
B bacterial prokaryotic cell
C archaean prokaryotic cells
D bacterial and archaean prokaryotic cells
Solution
14
The solution is (C). Pseudopeptidoglycan is a glycoprotein found in Archaean cell
walls. It is similar to peptidoglycan in morphology but contains different sugars in
the polysaccharide chain.
The cell wall, a feature of most prokaryotes, is —
A interior to the cell membrane
B exterior to the cell membrane
C a part of the cell membrane
D interior or exterior, depending on the particular cell
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Solution
15
The solution is (B). The cell wall is located outside the cell membrane and prevents
osmotic lysis. The chemical composition of cell walls varies between the two major
bacterial Domains.
Which statement summarizes what is known about macronutrient needs of prokaryotes?
A Boron is required in small amounts by some prokaryotic organisms.
B Manganese is required in small amounts by some prokaryotic organisms.
C Iron is required in small amounts by some prokaryotic organisms.
D Sulfur is needed in large amounts by prokaryotic organisms. It is part of the structure
of some amino acids and is also present in some vitamins and coenzymes.
Solution
16
The solution is (D). Macronutrients are nutrients that are required in large amounts.
Only a few elements are considered to be macronutrients. Examples include carbon,
hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur.
Which statement about the importance of particular nutrients is false?
A Carbon is a macronutrient and major element in all macromolecules.
B Nitrogen is a macronutrient and necessary component of proteins and nucleic acids.
C Hydrogen is a macronutrient and key component of many organic compounds,
including water.
D Iron is a macronutrient necessary for the function of cytochromes.
Solution
17
The solution is (D). This statement is false. Iron is not a macronutrient. While it is
needed for the proper function of cytochromes, it is a micronutrient, which means
that prokaryotes require it in small amounts.
What are prokaryotes that obtain their energy from chemical compounds called?
A Phototrophs
B Autotrophs
C Chemotrophs
D Heterotrophs
Solution
18
The solution is (C). Chemotrophs, also referred to as chemosynthetic organisms,
obtain their energy from chemical compounds. Chemotrophs that can use organic
compounds as energy sources are called chemoorganotrophs, while those that can
also use inorganic compounds as energy sources are called chemolithotrophs.
What uses organic compounds as both an energy source and as a carbon source?
A Chemolithotrophs
B Photoautotrophs
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C Photoheterotrophs
D Chemoorganotrophs
Solution
19
The solution is (D). Chemotrophs that can use organic compounds as both an energy
source and a carbon source are called chemoorganotrophs.
A primary role of many prokaryotes in the carbon cycle is that of —
A producers
B decomposers
C fixers
D synthesizers
Solution
20
The solution is (B). The most important contributor of carbon dioxide to the
atmosphere is microbial decomposition of dead material, such as dead animals,
plants, and humus, that undergo respiration. As decomposers, bacteria, along with
fungi, are responsible for carrying out the decomposition process of the
aforementioned materials.
Ammonification is the process by which —
A ammonia is released during the decomposition of nitrogen-containing organic
compounds
B ammonium is converted into nitrite and nitrate in soils
C nitrate from soil is transformed to gaseous nitrogen compounds
D gaseous nitrogen is fixed to yield ammonia
Solution
21
The solution is (A). Ammonification is the process by which ammonia is released
during the decomposition of nitrogen-containing organic compounds. Ammonia
released to the atmosphere, however, represents only 15 percent of the total
nitrogen released; the rest is as N2 and N2O.
Which option is a macronutrient needed by prokaryotes?
A Phosphorus
B Iron
C Chromium
D Boron
Solution
The solution is (A). Phosphorus is needed for the synthesis of nucleotides and
consequently DNA and RNA, as well as for post-translational modification of
proteins.
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22
A disease that is constantly present in a population is called —
A pandemic
B endemic
C emerging
D reemerging
Solution
23
The solution is (B). An endemic disease is a disease that is constantly present, usually
at low incidence, in a population.
Which set of terms names diseases caused by bacteria?
A Diphtheria, bubonic plague, yellow fever
B Yellow fever, dengue fever, bubonic plague
C Bubonic plague, diphtheria, cholera
D Cholera, diphtheria, dengue fever
Solution
24
The solution is (C). All three terms refer to diseases that are caused by bacteria.
Specifically, diphtheria is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diptheriae,
bubonic plague is caused by the bacterium Yersina pestis, and cholera is caused by
the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.
Which health issue is caused by biofilm colonization?
A Dental plaque
B Dry scalp
C Skin rash
D Prosthetic discomfort
Solution
25
The solution is (A). A biofilm is a microbial community held together in a gummytextured matrix that consists primarily of polysaccharides secreted by the organisms,
together with some proteins and nucleic acids. Biofilms grow attached to surfaces,
such as teeth, where they can produce dental plague and eventually lead to tooth
decay, if left untreated.
Which statement about the loci of biofilm-related disease is false?
A Biofilms are related to foodborne illnesses because they colonize food surfaces and
food-processing equipment.
B In healthcare environments, biofilms grow on ventilators, shunts, and other medical
equipment.
C Biofilms tend to colonize medical devices such as prostheses, contact lenses, and
catheters.
D Biofilms do not form in open wounds, burned tissue, or internal medical devices such
as pacemakers.
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Solution
26
The solution is (D). Biofilms do not form in open wounds, burned tissue, or internal
medical devices such as pacemakers.
Which statement best describes the crisis related to antibiotics?
A It is becoming too expensive to manufacture effective antibiotics.
B It takes too much time to develop effective antibiotics; infections spread before
treatment is available.
C Bacteria are increasingly resistant to antibiotics used to treat and eradicate infections.
D People are increasingly allergic to antibiotics commonly used in treatment.
Solution
27
The solution is (C). As result of mutations in bacteria some become resistant to
certain antibiotic, and as such will be able to reproduce regardless of the presence
of that antibiotic.
Which statement about the cause of resistant bacteria is false?
A The excessive use of antibiotics has resulted in the natural selection of resistant forms
of bacteria.
B Antibiotics are used by patients with colds or the flu, the treatment for which
antibiotics are useless.
C There is excessive use of antibiotics in livestock and in animal feed.
D Antibiotics are used by patients of different ages and the fact that their ages differ
increases resistance.
Solution
28
The solution is (D). One of the main causes of resistant bacteria is the abuse of
antibiotics. The imprudent and excessive use of antibiotics has resulted in the
natural selection of resistant forms of bacteria. The antibiotic kills most of the
infecting bacteria, and therefore only the resistant forms remain. These resistant
forms reproduce, resulting in an increase in the proportion of resistant forms over
non-resistant ones. Another major misuse of antibiotics is in patients with colds or
the flu, for which antibiotics are useless. Another problem is the excessive use of
antibiotics in livestock. The routine use of antibiotics in animal feed promotes
bacterial resistance as well.
Which statement about diseases is false?
A An epidemic is a disease that occurs in a high number of individuals in a population at
a time.
B A pandemic is a widespread, usually worldwide, epidemic.
C An endemic disease is a disease that is constantly present, usually at high incidence, in
a population.
D An emerging disease is a disease that has appeared in a population for the first time.
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Solution
29
The solution is (C). This statement is false. An endemic disease is a disease that is
constantly present, usually at low incidence, not high incidence, in a population.
Which statement best explains which organisms need nitrogen fixation and why?
A Prokaryotes cannot use gaseous nitrogen to synthesize macromolecules, so it must be
converted into ammonia.
B Prokaryotes cannot use ammonia to synthesize macromolecules, so it must be
converted into gaseous nitrogen.
C Eukaryotes cannot use ammonia to synthesize macromolecules, so it must be
converted into gaseous nitrogen.
D Eukaryotes cannot use gaseous nitrogen to synthesize macromolecules, so it must be
converted into ammonia.
Solution
30
The solution is (D). Eukaryotes cannot use gaseous nitrogen to synthesize
macromolecules, so it must be converted into ammonia. The largest pool of nitrogen
available in the terrestrial ecosystem is gaseous nitrogen from the air, but this
nitrogen is not usable by eukaryotes, such as plants. Gaseous nitrogen is
transformed, or fixed into more readily available forms such as ammonia through
the process of nitrogen fixation. Ammonia can be used by plants or converted into
other forms.
Which statement about nitrogen fixation is false?
A It can be accomplished abiotically, as a result of lightning.
B It can be accomplished abiotically, as a result of industrial processes.
C It can be accomplished biologically, by algae.
D It can be accomplished biologically, by cyanobacteria.
Solution
31
The solution is (C). It can be accomplished biologically, by algae. Biological nitrogen
fixation (BNF) is carried out exclusively by prokaryotes such as soil bacteria,
cyanobacteria, and Frankia spp., filamentous bacteria interacting with actinorhizal
plants such as alder, bayberry, and sweet fern. As eukaryotes, algae are unable to
carry out nitrogen fixation.
Which three foods use prokaryotes in their processing?
A Cheese, yogurt, and milk
B Cheese, yogurt, and bread
C Wine, bread, and butter
D Milk, wine, and beer
Solution
The solution is (B). Food products such as cheese, bread, and yogurt are produced
via the use of bacteria and other microbes, such as yeast, a fungus. The use of such
microbes for the use of food production is referred to as biotechnology.
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32
What was the initial benefit for humans in processing foods with prokaryotes?
A The foods taste better.
B Nutrients are preserved.
C The food is less stable.
D Nutrients were safer.
Solution
33
The solution is (B). Scientists believe that the production of certain food products
such as cheese began approximately 4,000–7,000 years ago. Fermentation, the
anaerobic process whereby cheese is produced by microbes, results in the
preservation of nutrients: Milk will spoil relatively quickly, but when processed as
cheese, it is more stable.
Which option best defines bioremediation?
A The use of microbial metabolism to clean up oil spills
B The use of microbial metabolism to ferment food
C The use of microbial metabolism to remove pollutants
D The use of microbial metabolism to fix nitrogen
Solution
34
The solution is (C). Microbial bioremediation is the use of prokaryotes, via their
metabolic processes, to remove pollutants from the environment. Bioremediation
has been used to remove contaminants such as those arising from agricultural
chemicals (i.e., pesticides, fertilizers).
Which statement about bioremediation is false?
A It includes removing agricultural chemicals.
B It includes removing industrial by-products.
C It includes cleaning up oil spills.
D It includes cleaning up ammonia in soil.
Solution
35
The solution is (D). Bioremediation has been used to remove agricultural
chemicals—pesticides, fertilizers—that leach from soil into groundwater and the
subsurface. Certain toxic metal
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