Chemistry
What is the chemical symbol for potassium?
K
What is the function of the nucleus in a cell?
It houses the cell's genetic material (DNA) and controls its activities.
What is the term for a drug that mimics the action of a neurotransmitter?
Agonist
What is the purpose of a "vector" in genetic engineering?
To deliver genetic material into cells.
What is homogenization in food processing?
A process that breaks down fat molecules in milk so that they stay integrated rather than separating.
What type of element is neon?
Noble gas
Which blood cells are responsible for fighting infections?
White blood cells (leukocytes)
What type of drug is used to treat bacterial infections?
Antibiotic
What does "GMO" stand for?
Genetically Modified Organism
What is the role of pectin in food products?
Pectin is a natural thickening agent used in jams and jellies.
What is the common name for HCl when dissolved in water?
Hydrochloric acid
What part of the plant is responsible for photosynthesis?
The leaf, specifically the chloroplasts within the cells.
What is the generic name for Tylenol?
Acetaminophen
What is "cloning" in a biological context?
Producing genetically identical copies of an organism or cell.
What is the purpose of fortifying foods?
To add nutrients to food to improve its nutritional value.
What is the primary component of natural gas?
Methane (CH4)
What is the primary role of lipids in the cell membrane?
They form a bilayer that serves as a barrier and provides structural integrity and fluidity to the membrane.
Name the route of administration that involves injecting a drug directly into a vein.
Intravenous (IV)
Describe the role of "ligase" in DNA replication.
DNA ligase is an enzyme that joins the Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand, sealing nicks in the sugar-phosphate backbone.
What is the main difference between baking soda and baking powder?
Baking soda is a single ingredient (sodium bicarbonate), while baking powder contains sodium bicarbonate and an acidifying agent.
What is the difference between "molecular" and "empirical" formulas?
A molecular formula shows the exact number of each type of atom in a molecule, while an empirical formula shows the simplest whole-number ratio of these atoms.
Explain the role of lysosomes in cellular digestion.
Lysosomes contain enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris, recycling cellular components.
What is a "prodrug," and why is it used?
A prodrug is an inactive compound that is metabolized in the body to become active, used to improve bioavailability or reduce side effects.
Explain the process of "RNA interference (RNAi)."
RNAi is a biological process where small RNA molecules inhibit gene expression by causing the degradation of specific mRNA molecules.
What is aseptic packaging, and why is it used?
A technique that involves sterilizing both the food and the packaging separately and then combining them in a sterile environment to extend shelf life without refrigeration.