Genomics
What is the molecule that carries genetic information in almost all living organisms?
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid)
What process releases energy inside a nuclear power station?
Nuclear fission
What force keeps planets in orbit around the Sun?
Gravity
Which organ pumps blood around the human body?
The heart
What is an ecosystem?
A community of living organisms interacting with each other and their physical environment.
What is the name of a section of DNA that contains instructions for making a specific protein?
A gene
Which particle strikes a uranium nucleus to begin nuclear fission?
A neutron
What is the name of the galaxy that contains our Solar System?
The Milky Way
Which blood vessel carries oxygenated blood away from the heart to the body?
The aorta (arteries)
What role do producers play in a food chain?
They make their own food by photosynthesis and provide energy for other organisms.
What process allows scientists to copy a specific section of DNA millions of times?
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Why are control rods used inside a nuclear reactor?
To absorb neutrons and control the rate of the chain reaction.
What evidence suggests that the universe is expanding?
The red shift of light from distant galaxies.
What is homeostasis?
The maintenance of a stable internal environment.
What is biodiversity?
The variety of different species living in an area.
How can genomics help doctors provide more effective medical treatments?
By identifying genetic differences that allow treatments and medicines to be tailored to individuals (personalized medicine).
What is the main advantage of nuclear power compared with burning fossil fuels?
It produces large amounts of electricity with very low carbon dioxide emissions.
Why do stars appear to move across the night sky even though they remain in roughly the same positions relative to each other?
Because the Earth rotates on its axis.
Name one way the body responds when its temperature becomes too high.
Sweating or widening (vasodilation) of blood vessels in the skin.
Why are decomposers important in ecosystems?
They break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the environment.
Scientists compare DNA sequences from different organisms. What can these comparisons reveal?
Evolutionary relationships and common ancestry.
Why must spent nuclear fuel be stored carefully for many years?
Because it remains radioactive and can be harmful to living organisms.
What is the main process that powers stars like the Sun?
Nuclear fusion of hydrogen into helium.
During exercise, why does heart rate increase?
To deliver more oxygen and glucose to muscles and remove carbon dioxide more quickly.
Give one reason why protecting biodiversity is important.
It helps maintain stable ecosystems, supports food webs, preserves genetic diversity, and provides resources for humans.