Georgia Biology EOC Practice Test

The cell is the fundamental unit of life that carries out all necessary functions to sustain life. All living organisms, regardless of their complexity, are composed of one or more cells.

Mitochondria are responsible for producing ATP, the energy currency of the cell, making them the powerhouse of the cell. Their role is crucial for energy production in nearly all eukaryotic cells.

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. It is fundamental for providing energy not only to plants but also to nearly all living organisms.

DNA stores the genetic information required for the development, functioning, and reproduction of all living organisms. Its structure allows it to be replicated and passed on to the next generation.

The cell membrane acts as a selective barrier, controlling the passage of materials into and out of the cell. This selective permeability is essential for maintaining the cell's internal environment and overall homeostasis.

Eukaryotic cells are defined by the presence of membrane-bound organelles, including a nucleus that houses genetic material. This contrasts with prokaryotic cells, which lack these specialized compartments.

An ecosystem consists of both living organisms and the nonliving elements of their environment interacting as a system. This interaction shapes the functions and dynamics of the ecosystem.

When two heterozygous individuals are crossed, the Punnett square reveals a genotypic ratio of 1 homozygous dominant, 2 heterozygous, and 1 homozygous recessive. This reflects the basic principles of Mendelian inheritance.

DNA replication occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle. This process ensures that each daughter cell receives a complete and accurate copy of the genetic material.

Lipids, particularly phospholipids, form the structural basis of cell membranes. Their hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties drive the formation of a bilayer that regulates cellular transport.

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy needed. They remain unchanged after the reaction and can be used repeatedly.

Osmosis is the passive diffusion of water through a semipermeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to one of higher solute concentration. This process is crucial for maintaining cellular balance and function.

During the light-dependent reactions, sunlight is used to generate ATP and NADPH, which are essential for the subsequent Calvin cycle. Oxygen is released as a byproduct in this process.

Ribosomes are the cellular structures responsible for translating mRNA into proteins. They are essential for producing the proteins needed for various cellular functions.

Homeostasis refers to the mechanisms by which living organisms regulate their internal environment to maintain a constant, balanced state. This stability is essential for optimal cellular function and survival.

DNA polymerase is the enzyme that adds new nucleotides to a growing DNA strand during replication. Its high-fidelity function is critical for ensuring genetic accuracy in cell division.

The fluid mosaic model explains that the cell membrane is made up of a flexible lipid bilayer interspersed with proteins, which together facilitate selective permeability. This dynamic structure is key to regulating the cell's internal environment.

The Golgi apparatus is essential for processing proteins by modifying, sorting, and packaging them for transport. Its function is vital for ensuring proteins reach their appropriate destinations within or outside the cell.

Crossing over during meiosis involves the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes, leading to new allele combinations. This process is a major source of genetic diversity in sexually reproducing organisms.

Natural selection drives evolution by favoring individuals with traits that confer survival and reproductive advantages. Over time, these beneficial traits become more common in the population, leading to evolutionary change.