Biology Basics Practice Questions
20 free Biology Basics practice questions for the Static GK. Tap an option to answer — you get instant feedback, the correct answer, and a detailed explanation for every question.
Which cell organelle is known as the 'Powerhouse of the Cell'?
- A Mitochondria
- B Nucleus
- C Ribosome
- D Golgi Apparatus
Correct answer: Mitochondria
Mitochondria are responsible for cellular respiration, where they generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP serves as the primary energy currency for various biological processes within the cell.
Which pigment gives human skin, hair, and eyes their color and protects against UV radiation?
- A Hemoglobin
- B Chlorophyll
- C Melanin
- D Keratin
Correct answer: Melanin
Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes in the skin. Its primary biological function is to absorb harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun to prevent DNA damage.
What is the basic structural and functional unit of the human kidney?
- A Nephron
- B Neuron
- C Alveoli
- D Hepatocyte
Correct answer: Nephron
A nephron is a microscopic structure that filters blood and produces urine. Each human kidney contains approximately one million nephrons that regulate water and soluble substances.
Which of the following vitamins is water-soluble?
- A Vitamin A
- B Vitamin D
- C Vitamin K
- D Vitamin C
Correct answer: Vitamin C
Vitamins are classified as either fat-soluble (A, D, E, K) or water-soluble (B-complex and C). Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the body in large amounts and must be consumed regularly.
Which component of blood is primarily responsible for the process of clotting?
- A Erythrocytes
- B Leukocytes
- C Plasma
- D Platelets
Correct answer: Platelets
Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, aggregate at the site of a blood vessel injury. They release clotting factors that initiate the formation of a fibrin mesh to stop bleeding.
In the human digestive system, where does the majority of nutrient absorption occur?
- A Stomach
- B Large Intestine
- C Esophagus
- D Small Intestine
Correct answer: Small Intestine
The small intestine has a highly folded surface with finger-like projections called villi. These structures vastly increase the surface area available for the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream.
Which type of plant tissue is responsible for the transport of water and minerals from the roots to the leaves?
- A Phloem
- B Xylem
- C Parenchyma
- D Pith
Correct answer: Xylem
Xylem is a vascular tissue that facilitates the upward movement of water via transpiration pull. Phloem, by contrast, transports organic nutrients like sucrose from the leaves to other parts of the plant.
What is the scientific name for the 'Voice Box' in humans?
- A Pharynx
- B Trachea
- C Larynx
- D Uvula
Correct answer: Larynx
The larynx is an organ in the neck involved in breathing, sound production, and protecting the trachea against food aspiration. It houses the vocal folds which vibrate to produce sound.
Which hormone is produced by the pancreas to help regulate blood sugar levels by allowing cells to take in glucose?
- A Glucagon
- B Insulin
- C Leptin
- D Thyroxine
Correct answer: Insulin
Insulin is secreted by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. It lowers blood glucose levels by promoting the storage of glucose as glycogen in the liver and muscles.
The study of fungi is known as:
- A Phycology
- B Mycology
- C Virology
- D Entomology
Correct answer: Mycology
Mycology is the branch of biology concerned with the study of fungi, including their genetic and biochemical properties. Phycology is the study of algae.
Which part of the human brain is primarily responsible for maintaining balance and coordination?
- A Cerebrum
- B Medulla Oblongata
- C Cerebellum
- D Thalamus
Correct answer: Cerebellum
The cerebellum, located at the back of the skull, coordinates voluntary movements such as posture, balance, and speech. It ensures that muscle movements are smooth and precise.
Which gas is primarily released by plants during the process of photosynthesis?
- A Carbon Dioxide
- B Nitrogen
- C Oxygen
- D Ozone
Correct answer: Oxygen
During photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen. The oxygen is released into the atmosphere as a byproduct, which is vital for aerobic life.
What is the hardest substance in the human body?
- A Cortical Bone
- B Cartilage
- C Tooth Enamel
- D Dentin
Correct answer: Tooth Enamel
Tooth enamel is the highly mineralized thin outer layer of the teeth. It is composed primarily of hydroxyapatite, making it more resistant to wear and damage than bone.
Which of the following is considered a 'Universal Donor' blood group in the ABO system?
- A AB positive
- B A negative
- C O negative
- D O positive
Correct answer: O negative
O negative blood lacks A, B, and Rh antigens on the surface of the red blood cells. Because it won't trigger an immune response, it can be safely given to patients of any other blood type in emergencies.
What is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells?
- A Meiosis
- B Mitosis
- C Fertilization
- D Budding
Correct answer: Mitosis
Mitosis is used for growth and tissue repair in multicellular organisms. It ensures that the chromosome number remains the same in the resulting daughter cells.
In which part of the human body are the 'Alveoli' located?
- A Heart
- B Lungs
- C Liver
- D Brain
Correct answer: Lungs
Alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place. They provide a large surface area for gas exchange between the air and the blood.
Which instrument is used by doctors to listen to the internal sounds of the human body, such as the heartbeat?
- A Sphygmomanometer
- B Endoscope
- C Stethoscope
- D Thermometer
Correct answer: Stethoscope
The stethoscope was invented to acoustically monitor heart and lung sounds. It allows medical professionals to identify abnormalities in heart valves or respiratory patterns.
The deficiency of which mineral in the human diet can lead to 'Goiter'?
- A Iron
- B Calcium
- C Potassium
- D Iodine
Correct answer: Iodine
Iodine is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. A lack of iodine causes the thyroid gland to enlarge in an attempt to capture more iodine, leading to the condition known as goiter.
Which organ in the human body is primarily responsible for the detoxification of chemicals and the production of bile?
- A Colon
- B Kidney
- C Pancreas
- D Liver
Correct answer: Liver
The liver processes blood and breaks down, balances, and creates nutrients. It also metabolizes drugs into forms that are easier to use for the rest of the body or that are nontoxic.
What is the total number of chromosomes found in a normal human somatic cell?
- A 23
- B 44
- C 48
- D 46
Correct answer: 46
Humans typically have 23 pairs of chromosomes, totaling 46. One set is inherited from the mother and the other from the father, containing the genetic blueprint for the individual.