UIL Biology Topic 3: Energy Transformations Flashcards

Front

What is the main purpose of cellular respiration?

Back

To generate ATP

Answer explanation

The main purpose of cellular respiration is to generate ATP, which is the energy currency of the cell. While glucose is used in the process, the primary goal is to convert energy stored in glucose into ATP for cellular functions.

Front

Which molecule is the primary energy carrier in cells? Options: NADH, FADH2, ATP, ADP, GTP

Back

ATP

Answer explanation

ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the primary energy carrier in cells, providing energy for various cellular processes. While NADH and FADH2 are important for energy production, ATP is the direct energy source used by cells.

Front

Which organelle is primarily involved in photosynthesis?

Back

Chloroplast

Answer explanation

The chloroplast is the organelle responsible for photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy in plants. Mitochondria are involved in respiration, while ribosomes, the nucleus, and Golgi apparatus have different functions.

Front

What is the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions?

Back

They decrease the activation energy

Answer explanation

Enzymes act as catalysts in biochemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed, thus speeding up the reaction without being consumed or altering the equilibrium.

Front

Which process converts glucose into pyruvate?

Back

Glycolysis

Answer explanation

Glycolysis is the metabolic process that converts glucose into pyruvate, occurring in the cytoplasm of cells. It is the first step in cellular respiration, while the other options refer to different metabolic pathways.

Front

What gas is consumed during photosynthesis?

Back

Carbon dioxide

Answer explanation

During photosynthesis, plants consume carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. This gas is essential for the process, as it is converted into glucose and oxygen, making carbon dioxide the correct answer.

Front

Which part of cellular respiration produces the most ATP?

Back

Electron transport chain

Answer explanation

The electron transport chain produces the most ATP during cellular respiration by using electrons from NADH and FADH2 to create a proton gradient, which drives ATP synthesis through ATP synthase.

Front

What is the primary pigment involved in photosynthesis?

Back

Chlorophyll

Answer explanation

Chlorophyll is the primary pigment in photosynthesis, responsible for capturing light energy. It primarily absorbs blue and red light, reflecting green, which is why plants appear green.

Front

Which enzyme is responsible for carbon fixation in the Calvin cycle?

Back

Rubisco

Answer explanation

Rubisco, or ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase, is the key enzyme in the Calvin cycle that catalyzes the fixation of carbon dioxide, making it essential for photosynthesis.

Front

What is the end product of glycolysis?

Back

Pyruvate

Answer explanation

The end product of glycolysis is pyruvate, which is formed from glucose through a series of enzymatic reactions. Acetyl-CoA, oxaloacetate, lactic acid, and ethanol are products of subsequent metabolic pathways.