Advanced Placement (AP) Biology Practice Exam

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What are pheromones primarily used for?

To signal the secreting cell to undergo apoptosis.
To communicate with other individuals of the same species.
To regulate internal physiological processes.
To directly interact with enzymes in metabolic pathways.

The correct answer is: To communicate with other individuals of the same species.

Pheromones are chemical signals produced and released by an individual into the environment, specifically for communication with other individuals of the same species. These substances play a crucial role in various behaviors such as mating, territorial marking, alarm signaling, and social interactions. The effectiveness of pheromones lies in their ability to convey information over distances, influencing the behavior and physiology of recipients. For example, certain pheromones can trigger mating behaviors in insects or can alert members of a species to potential threats. This method of communication is essential in maintaining social structures and reproductive success within species. The other options focus on unrelated biological processes, such as apoptosis, internal physiological regulation, and enzyme interaction, which are not the primary functions of pheromones.