Biochemistry Introduction

Which of the following is describing the biochemical unit that underlies biological diversity?

• DNA is the biochemical unit that underlies biological diversity.
• Carbohydrates are the biochemical unit that underlies biological diversity.
• Proteins are the biochemical unit that underlies biological diversity.
• RNA is the biochemical unit that underlies biological diversity.

Which of the following is TRUE?

• DNA structure is primarily responsible for energy production in cells.
• DNA structure has no impact on genetic information.
• DNA structure is only important for cell division.
• DNA structure is crucial for storing and transmitting genetic information, guiding protein synthesis.

Briefly explain the properties of biological molecules

Answer explanation

Biological molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids, exhibit properties such as specificity, complexity, and the ability to undergo changes in structure and function, essential for life processes.

What are the two different classes of molecules involved in the chemistry of life processes?

• Macromolecules and metabolites

• Proteins and carbohydrates

• Nucleic acids and lipids

• Glucose and glycerol

What is the strongest bond that holds atoms together within an individual molecule?

• Covalent bond

• Ionic bond

• Hydrogen bond

• Van der Waals interaction

What is the typical length of a C-C bond?

• 1.54 Å

• 1.34 Å

• 2.0 Å

• 3.0 Å

What is the principle behind van der Waals interactions?

• The distribution of electronic charge around an atom fluctuates

• Atoms share electrons

• Ionic charges attract each other

• Hydrogen bonds form between molecules

What is the role of water in biochemical reactions?

• It acts as a solvent

• It provides energy

• It forms covalent bonds

• It stabilizes macromolecules

What happens to the entropy of a system during a chemical reaction?

• It always increases

• It always decreases

• It remains constant

• It fluctuates

What is the significance of H-bonds in DNA?

• They determine the formation of specific base pairs

• They provide energy for DNA replication

• They stabilize the DNA double helix

• They are the strongest bonds in DNA