STAAR Biology EOC practice test

Front

What is the function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell, providing protection and support.

Front

Define photosynthesis.

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll, primarily converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Front

What is the role of mitochondria in a cell?

Back

Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell, as they generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is used as energy by the cell.

Front

Explain the concept of natural selection.

Back

Natural selection is the process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring, leading to evolutionary changes.

Front

What is the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Back

Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells do.

Front

Define ecosystem.

Back

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment, including both biotic and abiotic components.

Front

What is the purpose of DNA replication?

Back

DNA replication is the process by which a cell makes an exact copy of its DNA before cell division, ensuring that each new cell receives a complete set of genetic information.

Front

What are the main stages of the cell cycle?

Back

The main stages of the cell cycle are interphase (G1, S, G2) and mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).

Front

Define homeostasis.

Back

Homeostasis is the ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Front

What is the role of enzymes in biological reactions?

Back

Enzymes are catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur.