Question 1

Which of the following best describes the relationship between structure and function in biological systems?

Accepted Answer

Structure and function are intimately connected; the shape and composition of biological molecules and organs enable their specific roles.

Question 2

A student is analyzing the results of a fermentation experiment in lab. Which of the following is the best example of applying the scientific method?

Accepted Answer

Formulating a hypothesis about how temperature affects fermentation rate, designing an experiment to test it, collecting data, and revising the hypothesis based on results.

Question 3

Which of the following equations correctly represents the process of cellular respiration?

Accepted Answer

$$C_6H_{12}O_6$ + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + ATP$$

Question 4

A scientist is studying a population of beetles. She observes that some beetles survive better in dry environments due to a thicker exoskeleton. Which evolutionary process is most directly responsible for this observation?

Accepted Answer

Natural selection

Question 5

Given the DNA sequence $$5'	ext{-}ATGCGTACG-3'$$, what is the corresponding mRNA sequence produced during transcription?

Accepted Answer

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the role of enzymes in biological systems?

Accepted Answer

Enzymes act as catalysts, lowering the activation energy and speeding up reactions without being consumed.

Question 7

A student is asked to solve a genetic cross between two heterozygous pea plants for flower color (Pp x Pp). What is the expected phenotypic ratio of the offspring?

Accepted Answer

3:1

Question 8

Which of the following is a correct application of the scientific process in a real-world medical scenario?

Accepted Answer

A researcher forms a hypothesis that a new drug lowers blood pressure, conducts a controlled clinical trial, analyzes the data, and publishes the results.

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why water is essential for life?

Accepted Answer

Water's high heat capacity and polarity allow it to support chemical reactions and transport substances in cells.

Question 10

A student is asked to analyze a graph showing the effect of pH on enzyme activity. The graph shows a bell-shaped curve with peak activity at pH 7. What is the best interpretation?

Accepted Answer

The enzyme has optimal activity at neutral pH and lower activity at both acidic and basic pH.

Question 11

Which of the following equations represents photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

$$6CO_2 + 6H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6$ + 6O_2$$

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the function of the circulatory system?

Accepted Answer

It transports oxygen, nutrients, and wastes throughout the body.

Question 13

A population of rabbits is introduced to an island. Over several generations, the average fur color shifts from brown to white. Which process best explains this change?

Accepted Answer

Natural selection due to environmental pressures such as snow cover.

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct statement about mitosis and meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Mitosis is used for growth and repair; meiosis is used for sexual reproduction.

Question 15

A student is given a DNA sequence and asked to determine the protein product. Which steps must the student follow?

Accepted Answer

Transcribe the DNA to mRNA, then translate the mRNA to amino acids using the genetic code.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the role of the endocrine system?

Accepted Answer

It secretes hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and development.

Question 17

A student is asked to analyze data from a population dynamics experiment. The population size increases rapidly, then levels off. Which model best describes this pattern?

Accepted Answer

Logistic growth

Question 18

Which of the following is a key difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus; prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus.

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why academic integrity is important in scientific research?

Accepted Answer

It maintains trust, reliability, and credibility in scientific findings.

Biology 3: General Biology Syllabus and Course Structure – LA Mission College, Spring 2026

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