Prepare for NEET with Botany-specific practice questions. Covering all major Botany chapters, this is perfect for your NEET Biology needs.
Prions, infectious protein particles, can induce conformational changes in normal proteins, leading to diseases like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. While exhibiting self-propagation, prions lack genetic material. Do prions challenge the conventional definition of living organisms, and why?
No, because they are composed of organic molecules.
Yes, because they lack heritable genetic material yet exhibit a form of 'reproduction'.
No, because they interact with living organisms.
Yes, because they cause disease.
Imagine a synthetic life form created in a lab that uses a novel information storage molecule distinct from DNA or RNA, but still exhibits heritability and undergoes evolution. Which of the following aspects of the current definition of life would MOST require reconsideration in light of this discovery?
The requirement for cellular structure
The dependence on carbon-based chemistry
The specific molecular basis of heredity
The ability to respond to environmental stimuli
While creating a phylogenetic tree for a genus of insects, a taxonomist finds conflicting information between a recently published monograph and a classical museum catalogue. Which resource should be prioritized and why?
The museum catalogue, due to its historical precedence and established nomenclature.
The monograph, as it likely incorporates newer molecular data and revised classifications.
Equal weight to both, synthesizing the information.
Neither, consult a field guide for practical identification.
Which of the following is not a limitation of classical taxonomy?
It relies heavily on morphological characteristics, which can be subject to convergent evolution.
It may not accurately reflect evolutionary relationships.
It can be difficult to distinguish between homologous and analogous traits.
It incorporates molecular data for a more comprehensive analysis.
The 'histone code' hypothesis proposes that specific combinations of histone modifications influence gene expression. If a researcher discovered a novel histone modification, which experimental approach would be LEAST informative for initially investigating its potential role in gene regulation?
Analyzing the genome-wide distribution of the modification using ChIP-seq.
Correlating the presence of the modification with gene expression levels.
Assessing the binding of specific regulatory proteins to the modified histone.
Determining the crystal structure of the modified histone.
A researcher is studying the transport of a novel molecule across a synthetic lipid bilayer. They observe that the molecule moves down its concentration gradient without the need for any membrane proteins or energy input. However, the rate of transport is significantly slower than predicted for simple diffusion. Which of the following BEST explains this observation?
The molecule is very large and its size restricts diffusion through the membrane.
The molecule is charged and is repelled by the hydrophobic core of the bilayer.
The molecule is polar and its passage is hindered by the hydrophobic core of the bilayer.
The molecule is binding to a specific receptor on the membrane surface, slowing its diffusion.
The primary mechanism for xylem sap ascent in tall trees is transpiration pull. However, root pressure plays a minor role. Which statement BEST describes the limited contribution of root pressure to overall xylem sap ascent in tall trees?
Root pressure generates excessive pressure that could damage the delicate xylem tissues in tall trees.
Root pressure is only active during the night and therefore cannot contribute to daytime transpiration.
Tall trees have a significantly lower root surface area to volume ratio, minimizing the contribution of root pressure.
Root pressure can only push water a limited height due to the opposing force of gravity and the relatively low pressure generated.
A new herbicide-tolerant crop variety has been developed. Which evaluation is MOST crucial before its commercial release, considering potential environmental impact?
Analysis of the nutritional content of the modified crop
Evaluation of the crop's yield compared to traditional varieties
Assessment of gene flow to wild relatives and the development of herbicide resistance in weeds
Study of the effects of the herbicide on non-target insects
Which of the following is a major ethical concern associated with the production of transgenic animals?
The high cost of producing transgenic animals.
The low success rate of creating transgenic animals.
Animal welfare and the potential for unforeseen health problems in the transgenic animals.
The limited applicability of transgenic animal models to human diseases.
Consider the following statements about fungal nutrition:
I. All fungi are heterotrophic.
II. Some fungi are saprophytic, while others are parasitic.
III. Fungi can digest complex organic compounds like cellulose and lignin.
IV. Fungi exclusively absorb nutrients through phagocytosis.
Which of the above statements are CORRECT?
I and II only
II and III only
I, II, and III only
I, II, III, and IV
