Biology Practice Test

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Mitochondria. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell because they generate most of the cell's supply of ATP through cellular respiration. The other organelles listed, such as the nucleus (choice A), lysosomes (choice C), and ribosomes (choice D), do not play a direct role in cellular respiration. The nucleus contains genetic material, lysosomes are involved in digestion and waste removal, and ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The cellular membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, which consists of two layers of phospholipid molecules. These molecules have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail, creating a barrier that separates the internal cellular environment from the external surroundings. While proteins are embedded within this bilayer and act as transport channels, receptors, and structural support, carbohydrates are found on the outer surface of the membrane for cell recognition and signaling purposes. Therefore, the correct answer is a bilayer of phospholipid molecules.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The main objective of the translation stage of protein synthesis is to produce proteins. During translation, ribosomes decode mRNA sequences to synthesize proteins by linking amino acids together. Choice A, 'To produce amino acids,' is incorrect as amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are not produced during translation. Choices B and C, 'To produce nucleotides' and 'To produce fatty acids,' are also incorrect as these molecules are not the direct products of the translation stage of protein synthesis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. During prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible as distinct structures under a microscope. Choice A is incorrect as chromosomes are not gathered on either side of the separating cell during prophase. Choice B is incorrect because chromosomes align along the metaphase plate during the subsequent stage, metaphase. Choice C is incorrect as chromosomes become attached to the spindle fibers during prometaphase, the stage following prophase.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Uracil. Uracil is found in RNA, not DNA. The four nitrogenous bases in DNA are adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine. Choice A, Adenine, is a nitrogenous base in DNA. Choice B, Guanine, is another nitrogenous base in DNA. Choice D, Thymine, is also one of the four nitrogenous bases in DNA. Therefore, the correct answer is Uracil (Choice C).