Exploring Enzymes and Water Properties

What is the primary function of enzymes?

• To store genetic information

• To speed up chemical reactions

Answer explanation

The primary function of enzymes in biological systems is to speed up chemical reactions. They act as catalysts, lowering the activation energy required for reactions to occur, thus increasing the rate of the reactions.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which property of water allows it to dissolve many substances?

• Cohesion

• Polarity

Answer explanation

The polarity of water molecules, with a partial positive charge on hydrogen and a partial negative charge on oxygen, allows them to interact with and dissolve various substances, making water an excellent solvent.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Identify the macromolecule responsible for storing genetic information.

• Nucleic acids

• Proteins

Answer explanation

Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are the macromolecules that store and transmit genetic information. They are essential for the coding, decoding, regulation, and expression of genes, making them the correct choice.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

How does temperature affect enzyme activity?

• Enzyme activity increases with temperature up to a point, then decreases

• Temperature has no effect on enzyme activity

Answer explanation

Enzyme activity typically increases with temperature due to increased molecular movement, enhancing collisions. However, beyond an optimal temperature, enzymes denature, leading to decreased activity, making the correct choice: enzyme activity increases with temperature up to a point, then decreases.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which property of water is crucial for homeostasis in organisms?

• Surface tension

• High heat of vaporization

Answer explanation

The high heat of vaporization of water allows organisms to regulate temperature effectively, preventing overheating and maintaining homeostasis through processes like sweating and transpiration.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What type of macromolecule are enzymes?

• Proteins

• Carbohydrates

Answer explanation

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body. They are primarily made of proteins, which are macromolecules composed of amino acids, making 'Proteins' the correct answer.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which factor does NOT affect enzyme activity?

• Temperature

• Light intensity

Answer explanation

Light intensity does not affect enzyme activity, while pH level, substrate concentration, and temperature are critical factors that influence how enzymes function.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

What is the role of water in photosynthesis?

• Water acts as an inhibitor

• Water acts as a reactant

Answer explanation

In photosynthesis, water acts as a reactant, providing electrons and protons needed for the conversion of carbon dioxide and sunlight into glucose and oxygen. This is essential for the process to occur.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which macromolecule is used for energy storage in animals?

• Nucleic acids

• Lipids

Answer explanation

Lipids are the primary macromolecules used for energy storage in animals, as they provide more energy per gram than carbohydrates or proteins. They are stored in adipose tissue and serve as a long-term energy reserve.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

What is the effect of pH on enzyme activity?

• Enzymes are not affected by pH

• Enzymes work best at a specific pH range

Answer explanation

Enzymes have an optimal pH range where they function best. Outside this range, their activity decreases due to changes in their structure, making the choice 'Enzymes work best at a specific pH range' correct.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept