WI Forward - Wisconsin Forward Science: Life and Environmental Questions and Answers 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the basic unit of structure and function in all living organisms?
- Atom
- Cell (Correct answer)
- Organ
- Molecule
Correct answer: Cell
The cell is the basic unit of life.
Cell theory states: all organisms are made of cells, the cell is the basic unit of life, and all cells come from pre-existing cells.
Question 2: Which process describes water moving from a lake's surface into the atmosphere?
- Condensation
- Precipitation
- Evaporation (Correct answer)
- Infiltration
Correct answer: Evaporation
Evaporation changes liquid water to vapor entering the atmosphere.
Water molecules at the surface gain enough kinetic energy to escape as vapor. Condensation is the reverse; precipitation is water falling from clouds.
Question 3: What term describes a relationship where both organisms benefit?
- Parasitism
- Commensalism
- Mutualism (Correct answer)
- Competition
Correct answer: Mutualism
Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit.
Examples: bees and flowers, clownfish and anemones. Parasitism benefits one at the other's expense; commensalism benefits one without affecting the other.
Question 4: What role does DNA play in living organisms?
- Provides energy
- Carries genetic instructions for development and function (Correct answer)
- Transports oxygen
- Breaks down food
Correct answer: Carries genetic instructions for development and function
DNA contains genetic instructions for development and functioning of organisms.
DNA contains sequences of nucleotides (A, T, G, C) encoding genes that direct protein synthesis. It is replicated during cell division and passed to offspring.
Question 5: Which human activity most impacts biodiversity loss?
- Recycling programs
- Habitat destruction and deforestation (Correct answer)
- Building nature reserves
- Planting gardens
Correct answer: Habitat destruction and deforestation
Habitat destruction is the leading cause of biodiversity loss worldwide.
When habitats are destroyed, species lose homes, food, and breeding grounds. Tropical deforestation alone threatens thousands of species annually.
Question 6: What is the primary energy source for most food chains?
- Chemical energy from deep-sea vents
- The Sun (Correct answer)
- Geothermal energy
- Wind energy
Correct answer: The Sun
The Sun powers photosynthesis in plants and algae, the base of most food chains.
Most food chains begin with photosynthetic organisms converting solar energy into chemical energy. Some deep-sea ecosystems use chemosynthesis instead.
WI Forward - Wisconsin Forward Science: Life and Environmental Questions and Answers 2
What is the basic unit of structure and function in all living organisms?