AP Biology Exam Review

Front

What is the carboxyl group in a polypeptide chain?

Back

The carboxyl group (-COOH) is a functional group that consists of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and also bonded to a hydroxyl group (-OH). In polypeptides, it is involved in forming peptide bonds with the amino group of another amino acid.

Front

How do bacteria develop antibiotic resistance?

Back

Bacteria can develop antibiotic resistance through random mutations that provide them with a survival advantage in the presence of antibiotics, allowing them to survive and reproduce.

Front

What are the main electron carriers in cellular respiration?

Back

The main electron carriers in cellular respiration are NADH and FADH2, which transport electrons to the electron transport chain.

Front

What is a keystone species?

Back

A keystone species is an organism that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance. Its removal can lead to significant changes in the ecosystem.

Front

What is energy coupling?

Back

Energy coupling is the process where an endergonic reaction (which requires energy) is driven by an exergonic reaction (which releases energy), allowing biological processes to occur.

Front

Define a polypeptide.

Back

A polypeptide is a chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, which fold into a specific three-dimensional structure to form proteins.

Front

What is the role of NADH in cellular respiration?

Back

NADH serves as an electron carrier that transports electrons to the electron transport chain, where they are used to generate ATP.

Front

What is the significance of random mutations in evolution?

Back

Random mutations introduce genetic variation in a population, which can lead to adaptations that enhance survival and reproduction in changing environments.

Front

Explain the first law of thermodynamics.

Back

The first law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.

Front

What is the function of the electron transport chain?

Back

The electron transport chain is a series of protein complexes in the inner mitochondrial membrane that transfer electrons and pump protons to create a proton gradient, ultimately producing ATP.