Biology MCQs
Topic Notes: Biology
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
11
Which specific chemical bond links amino acids together to form the primary structure of protein chains?
Answer:
Peptide bonds
Proteins are polymers composed of amino acid monomers. These amino acids are joined by peptide bonds, which are a type of covalent bond formed through a dehydration synthesis reaction between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of another. This linkage creates the polypeptide backbone, which defines the primary structure of the protein before it folds into its functional three-dimensional shape.
12
Why is water considered a dipolar molecule?
Answer:
The hydrogen pole is positively charged and the oxygen pole is negatively charged
Water is a polar molecule because of the electronegativity difference between oxygen and hydrogen. Oxygen is highly electronegative and attracts shared electrons more strongly, acquiring a partial negative charge. Conversely, the hydrogen atoms acquire a partial positive charge. This separation of charge creates a dipole, which is essential for water's unique solvent properties and hydrogen bonding capabilities.
13
Among the following options, which natural fiber is recognized for having the highest tensile strength?
Answer:
Silk
Silk is a natural protein fiber produced by silkworms and is renowned for its exceptional tensile strength, often compared to steel of the same diameter. Its structure consists of fibroin proteins arranged in a crystalline beta-sheet configuration, which provides high durability and resistance to breaking. This makes it significantly stronger than plant-based fibers like cotton or jute, and animal fibers like wool.
14
Which amino acid serves as the primary precursor for the synthesis of melanin pigment in humans?
Answer:
Tyrosine
Melanin synthesis, known as melanogenesis, begins with the oxidation of the amino acid tyrosine. The enzyme tyrosinase catalyzes this reaction, converting tyrosine into dopaquinone, which eventually polymerizes to form various types of melanin pigments found in skin, hair, and eyes.
15
Evaluate the following statements regarding plant-derived alkaloids: 1. Coffee seeds contain significant caffeine. 2. Tobacco contains nicotine. 3. Cocoa and chocolate contain theobromine. Which are true?
Answer:
1, 2 and 3
All three statements are accurate. Caffeine is a major alkaloid in coffee beans, nicotine is the primary addictive alkaloid in tobacco leaves, and theobromine is the characteristic alkaloid found in cocoa beans and chocolate products.
16
Scurvy is a deficiency disease characterized by weakness, anemia, gum disease, and skin hemorrhages; which nutrient deficiency causes this condition?
Answer:
ascorbic acid
Scurvy results from a severe deficiency of Vitamin C, chemically known as ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a structural protein in connective tissues. Without it, the body cannot maintain healthy skin, gums, or blood vessels, leading to the symptoms described.
17
Which essential nutrient is notably absent or present in negligible amounts in a standard chicken egg?
Answer:
Vitamin C
Eggs are considered a nutrient-dense food source, providing high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and various vitamins like Vitamin A, D, and B12. However, they do not contain Vitamin C, which is primarily found in fruits and vegetables, as the developing embryo does not require it in the same way.
18
Which biochemical process involves the removal of an amino group from an amino acid molecule?
Answer:
de-amination
Deamination is the metabolic process in which an amino group is removed from an amino acid or other compound. This reaction primarily occurs in the liver and is a critical step in the catabolism of amino acids, allowing the carbon skeletons to be used for energy or other metabolic pathways.
19
Proteins are essential structural and functional components of which biological systems?
Answer:
all of above
Proteins are fundamental to life, serving as the building blocks for cellular structures, organelles, muscle fibers, and connective tissues like ligaments and tendons. They also function as enzymes, transporters, and signaling molecules throughout the body.
20
What is the approximate percentage of oxygen by mass in the human body?
Answer:
65%
Oxygen is the most abundant element in the human body by mass, accounting for roughly 65%. This high percentage is primarily due to the high water content of the body, as each water molecule contains one oxygen atom, and oxygen is also a fundamental component of all major organic macromolecules, including proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids.