REPUBLIC OF LEBANON Center for Educational
Ministry of Education Research and Development
and Higher Education

Action Verbs
Physics, Chemistry
and Life Science
Definitions and Examples
2012
 Prepared by: The committee responsible for unifying
some of the action verbs in Physics,
Chemistry, and Life Science.

Coordinator
Head of Science Department
in CERD: Ibtihaj Saleh

Members representing Afaf El Hajj

the General Directorate Fouad Nabhan
for Education: Huguette Dagher
Michel Zeitunlian
Mohamad Abdelmalak
Mohamad Issa
Riad Dakroub

Members representing Antoine Skaf

the Center for Educational Brenda Ghazale
Research and Development: Fouad Yehya
Jamila Azar
Rana AbdAllah

Proofreading
English Department: Dr. Gizel Hindi
 Introduction

This document is designed to unify the definition of certain action verbs used in
the different scientific disciplines: Physic, Chemistry, and Life Science. It includes a
list of certain action verbs which are frequently used in these disciplines, accompanied
by supporting examples.

This list does not include all the action verbs that can be used during the
formulation of questions. The proposed examples give an idea about the required
answers for these verbs.

The Committee
 Index

Content Page

List of Action verbs 1

Examples on Action Verbs – Official Exams - Grade 9

Physics 3

Chemistry 15

Life Science 29

Examples on Action Verbs – Official Exams - Third year of secondary cycle

Physics 49

Chemistry 57

Life Science 69
List of some of the action verbs and their requirements

1- Analyze: Decompose a whole into its constituent elements to make

evident the variations.
2- Calculate: (Compute) Perform mathematical operations.
3- State: Express without explaining .
4- Compare: Indicate the similarities and/or differences between two or more
entities.
5- Complete: Add what is missing.
6- Conclude: Reach to a decision.
7- Determine: Reach to a decision or a result through logical reasoning,
calculation, ...
8- Describe: Express, using scientific language, to give the details of an
observation, an experiment, a schema, an apparatus, ...
9- Show: Prove something is evident by logical reasoning, experimenting,
calculating,…
10- Deduce: Draw using logical reasoning new information from given or
existing information.
11- Draw out: Draw from a set of given and without reasoning a relation, a
role, a law,…
12- Distinguish: Recognize or discern one thing from another according
to particular traits.
13- Explain: Clarify, make understandable a phenomenon, a result,...
14- Identify: Recognize something based on its characteristics or its
properties.
15- Interpret: Analyze and give significance to the result.
16- Indicate: Designate something without justification.
17- Justify: Prove something as true and real.
18- Specify: Indicate and justify.
19- Pick out (Extract): Select one or more information from a document.
20- Verify: Confirm using arguments, logical reasoning, … whether
something is true or false.

1
2
EXAMPLES ON ACTION VERBS
OFFICIAL EXAMS - GRADE 9

PHYSICS

3
4
1- Analyze: Decompose a whole into its constituent elements to make evident the
variations.

 Example: Analyze the function of screwdriver tester “Live main indicator” in

studying the terminals of an outlet (socket)?

 Answer: Elements: Neon lamp glows under voltage greater than 80V,
metallic head and metallic cap. Variations: Insert the metallic head
in one of the female terminals of the outlet and your thumb on the
metallic cap (to close the circuit with the earth):
If the lamp lights, the terminal is phase.
If the lamp does not light, the terminal is neutral.

2- Calculate: (Compute) Perform mathematical operations.

 Example: An Ohmic resistor R of resistance 20Ω, is traversed by a current

I = 0.6 A.
Calculate the voltage U across the resistor.

 Answer: The voltage U is given by: U = R x I = 20x 0. 6 = 12V.

3- State: Express without explaining .

 Example: State the various components of the circuit below.

 Answer: The electrical circuit

shown consists of: E
K
- A generator (G) of constant P N D
DC voltage;
- An ammeter (A); A
- A lamp (L);
- Two Ohmic resistors of R1
resistances R1 and R2; A C
- A switch (K); L
B
R2
- Connecting wires.

5
4- Compare: Indicate the similarities and/or differences between two or more
entities.

 Example :
- A lens (L) of focal length f = 20cm, gives for an object AB = 5cm, A on
the axis, an image:
- A'B' when the object is at distance d1 = 30cm from the optical center of
(L). (Figure 1)
- A'' B'' when the object is at distance d2 = 10cm from the optical center of
(L). (Figure 2)

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, compare A'B' and A'' B'' (Nature, orientation,
position, and magnitude).

(L)

B 5c m
X' F F A’ 10c m X
A O �
Figure 1
B’

(L)
B’
’ B 5c m
X' F F 10c m X
A’’ O �
Figure 2

 Answer:
- A'B' is real while A'' B'' is virtual image.
- A'B’ is inverted relative to AB where A'' B'' is erect compared to AB.
- A'B' is 60 cm from the optical center O of (L), while A’'B’' is 20 cm from
the optical center O of (L).
- A'B 'and A'' B'' are of same size = 10cm.

6
5- Complete: Add what is missing.

 Example: A converging lens (L) gives for an object AB, perpendicular to its
optical axis, A on the axis, a real image A'B'.

Complete the path of the incident ray BI.

I
B
X' F A’ X
A O F

B’

 Answer :
(L)
I
B
X' F A’ X
A O F
�
B’

6- Conclude: Reach to a decision.

 Example: A solid (S) is placed successively in three containers, contains water

of density ρ1 = 1g.cm-3, oil of density ρ2 = 0.9 g.cm-3 and alcohol of
density ρ3= 0.8 g.cm-3 respectively. The table below shows the
value of the immersed volume of (S) in the three liquids.

l i qui d water oil Alcohol

density (g.cm-3) ρ1 = 1 ρ2= 0,9 ρ3= 0,8
Immersed Volume (cm3) V1=500 V2= 555 V3= 633

Conclude about the variation of the immersed volume of (S) depending

on the density of the liquid.

 Answer: From the table above, we recognize that when the density decreases
the immersed volume of (S) increases.

7
7- Determine: Reach to a decision or a result through logical reasoning,
calculation,...
K
E
P N D
 Example: The given circuit consists
of a generator (G) of
UPN = 12V, an ammeter A
(A) of negligible
R1
resistance; a 6V lamp;
two ohmic resistors A C
L
B
R1 = R2 = 20Ω; a switch R2
(K); and connecting
wires.

Determine the intensity of the current measured by the ammeter (A).

 Answer : The law of addition of voltages:

UPN = UPA + UAB + UBC + UCD + UDN (1)
But UPA = 0V (the resistance of the ammeter is negligible).
UAB = 6V (the lamp lights normally).
𝑅1𝑋𝑅2
UBC = Re x I = 10 I, since Re =𝑅1+𝑅2=10Ω.
UCD = 0 (wire).
UDN = 0 (closed switch)
Substitute in equation (1)
12−6
12=0+6+10I+0+0, so I = = 0.6A.
10
The ammeter (A) shows 0.6 A.

8- Describe: Express, using scientific language, to give the details of an observation,

an experiment, a schema, an apparatus, ...

 Example: Observe the figure below and describe the two physical phenomena
which appear when the incident ray SI strikes the air-glass surface
of separation (AB).
N
S R1

i=45o i1=45o
Air
A B
glass I

r=30o
R
N’

8
  Answer: When the incident light ray meets the surface of separation (AB) of
the system air-glass with an angle of incidence i = 45o, this ray
undergoes:
- Refraction where the refracted ray IR makes an angle of
refraction r = 30 °.
- Partial reflection where the reflected ray IR1 makes an angle of
reflection i1 = 45o.

9- Show: Prove something is evident by logical reasoning, experimenting,

calculating,… .

 Example : A 10V Lamp is supplied by a LFG which delivers a sinusoidal

voltage u. The figure below shows the screen of an oscilloscope
which displays the waveform of u.
The vertical sensitivity of the oscilloscope is: Sv = 5V/div.
Take: √ 2 = 1.4.

Show that the lamp functions normally.

 Answer: A lamp illuminates normally when the effective voltage of LFG is

equal to its nominal voltage.
The effective voltage Ue = Um / (√ 2)
But Um = (5V/div) x2.8div = 14V => Ue = 14/1.4 = 10V.
The nominal voltage of the lamp is10v, so (L) lights normally.

10- Deduce: Draw using logical reasoning new information from given or existing
information.

 Example: The electrical circuit of the figure below, contains in series,

- A generator (G) providing a constant voltage across its terminals
UPN = 12v;
- An ammeter (A) of negligible resistance;
- A lamp (L) (6v, 3w);
- An ohmic resistor of resistance R;
- A switch (K).
When K is closed, (L) lights normally.

9
 Deduce the value of R.

G
P N

A K

A R C
L
B

 Answer: The law of addition of voltages gives:

UG = UR +UA + UL + UK  12 = UR + 0+ 6 + 0
12 = 0+ 6 +UR + 0
But UA = 0, the resistance of (A) is negligible,
UK = 0, the switch is closed,
UL = 6v, the lamp is operating normally.
So, UR = 12-6 = 6V.
The lamp operates normally: UL = 6v and P=3w.
With P = U.I, we obtain: I = P / U = 3/6 = 0.5A.
Use Ohm's law: UR= R.I and we deduce R= UR / I = 12Ω.

11- Draw out: Draw from a set of given and without reasoning a relation, a role, a
law, ….

 Example: Let (R) a spring of initial length L0 = 10cm. Its length becomes L
when it is subjected to a force T. The table below gives some values
of T and the corresponding values of L.

T (N) 2 4 6
L (m) 0.14 0.,18 0.22

𝑇
Comparing the ratio 𝐿−𝐿𝑜 , draw out a relation between T, L and L0.

 Answer:
𝑇 2 2
𝐿−𝐿𝑜
= 0,14−0,10 = 0,04 =50N/m.
𝑇 4 4
𝐿−𝐿𝑜
= 0,18−0,10 = 0,08 =50N/m.
𝑇 6 6
= = =50N/m.
𝐿−𝐿𝑜 0,22−0,10 0,12

𝑇
We found: 𝐿−𝐿𝑜
= 50N/m.

10
12- Distinguish: Recognize or discern one thing from another according to particular
traits.

 Example: Distinguish between a convergent lens and a divergent one.

 Answer: The lens is illuminated by a cylindrical beam of light. If the emergent

beam:
- Converges, the lens is convergent.
- Diverges, the lens is diverging.

13- Explain: Clarify, make understandable a phenomenon, a result, ...

 Example: The circuit below has, in series:

- A generator (G) provides DC voltage UPN = 12V;
- An ammeter (A) of negligible resistance;
- An ohmic resistor (R) = 10Ω
- A lamp (L) marked 6V;
- A switch (K). R L
If (K) is closed, and the ammeter A B C
shows 0.6 A, the lamp (L) glows
normally.
A E K
Explain why the lamp (L) glows
normally.
P
G N
 Answer: Voltage across the lamp.
Apply the law of addition of voltages: UPN = UR + UL + UA + UK.
But UA = 0V, the resistance of (A) is negligible,
Uk = 0V, the switch is closed,
and UR = RI (from Ohm's law) so:
UPN = IR + UL + 0+0
12 = 10 x 0.6+ UL
so UL = 12-6 = 6V.
As the voltage across the lamp is equal to its nominal voltage, the
lamp glows normally.

14- Identify: Recognize something based on its characteristics or its properties.

 Example: A solid (S) of mass M = 400g, floats in equilibrium on the surface

of a liquid (L) of density ρ, the immersed volume of (S) is
Vi = 500 cm3.
The table below shows the density of some liquids.

l i qui d alcohol oil water Salty water

density (g/cm3) 0.8 0.9 1 1.02

Based on the given table, identify (L).

11
  Answer: The solid (S) is subjected to two forces: Its weight 𝑊���⃗ and up-thrust
���⃗
𝐹.
At equilibrium: 𝑊 𝐹 = �⃗
���⃗ +���⃗ 0 , but in magnitude W = F =>
Mg = ρVig => M = ρVi , so ρ = M / Vi = 400/500 = 0.8g/cm3.
Referring to the above table the liquid (L) is alcohol since its
density is equal to 0.8g/cm3.

15- Interpret: To analyze and give meaning to the result.

 Example: Consider a beaker containing a certain amount of F

water of density ρ = 1g/cm3. A solid (S) of mass
m= 600g and volume 800cm3 is pushed to become
immersed completely in the container. When (S)
is released, it rises to the surface of the water.
Interpret.

 Answer: Inside the water, the solid (S) is subject to two

W
forces: Its weight W and up-thrust force F.
The magnitude of the weight W is: W = M x g = 0.6 x 10 = 6N.
The magnitude of the buoyant force F is:
F = ρ Vi x g = 1000 x 0.0008 x 10 = 8N.
(Vi = VS = 0.0008m3 because the solid is completely immersed in
water).
Since F> W, it appears clearly that the solid will rise to the surface
of the water, but since F decreases as Vi decreases so F becomes
equal to W, and the solid floats on the liquid surface.

16- Indicate: Designate something without

D L
justification.
A B C
 Example: Indicate, in the adjacent
circuit, the direction of electric
current I. A E K

 Answer: The direction of I is from the P

positive pole P of the dry cell G N
(G) through the circuit to the
negative pole N.

17- Justify: Prove something as true and real.

 Example: Justify that the resistance of lamp is not ohmic resistor

 Answer: The (I-V) characteristics graph of a lamp is not a straight line

passing through the origin. So the resistance of the lamp is not
ohmic resistance.

12
18- Specify: Indicate and justify.

 Example: The figure below shows a converging lens (L) of focal length
f = 10cm. Its principle axis x’x, passes through the optical center O
and two points A and B.
Specify the position of the object focus of (L).

Incident direction

 Answer: “A” is the position of the focus object for the convergent lens (L).
The object focus point is by the side of the incident light and at the
distance f = 10cm from optical center O.
Since the distance OA = 2divx5cm/div = 10cm,
A is the position of the object focus of (L).

19- Pick out (Extract): Select one or more information from a document

 Example: Figure 1 shows the waveform of a sinusoidal voltage u.

Referring to Figure 1, Pick out the characteristics of u.

5V
5ms

Figure 1

 Answer:
From Figure 1, the characteristics of u are:
The maximum voltage Um = Sv x y = 5V/div x 2.8div = 14V.
The effective voltage: Ue = Um / (√ 2) = 14/1, 4 = 10V.
The period T= Sh × x = 5ms/div x 5div = 25ms.
The frequency f = 1 / T = 1/0. 025 = 40Hz.

13
20- Verify: Confirm using arguments, logical reasoning, … whether something is
true or false.

 Example: The circuit below includes:

- A DC generator (G) UPN = 12V;
- An ammeter (A) of negligible resistance;
- A lamp (L) with a nominal voltage 6V;
- An ohmic resistor (R) = 10Ω;
- A switch (K).

The switch (K) is closed. The ammeter indicates 0.3 A.

Verify that the lamp may burn out.

(L)

A B

(D)
A E K

P C
(G) N

 Answer: By applying the law of addition of voltages

UPN = UPA + UAB + UBC + UCN
But UPA = 0V (ammeter of negligible resistance),
UBC = IxR = 10 x 0.3 = 3V (ohm's law),
UCN = 0V (switch closed), we find: 12 = 0 + 3 +0 + UAB
UAB = 9V.
So, the voltage across the lamp exceeds its rated voltage, so the
lamp will burn out.

14
EXAMPLES ON ACTION VERBS
OFFICIAL EXAMS - GRADE 9

CHEMISTRY

15
16
1- Analyze: Decompose a whole into its constituent elements to make evident the
variations.

 Example: The “greenhouse” effect is associated to the increasing amount

of carbon dioxide in the air.
The curve given below shows the changes in the amount of
carbon dioxide in ppm (parts per million) through the years
1975-1991.

Analyze this curve.

 Answer: The amount of carbon dioxide is 320 ppm in1975.

The curve is an increasing curve, the amount of carbon dioxide
increases 2 ppm in two years and becomes 322 ppm in the year
1977, but after two other years it increases by 4 ppm and
becomes 326 ppm in the year 1979. This pattern is repeated in
the intervals of four years, from 1979 to 1983, from 1983 to 1987
and from 1987 to 1991; it becomes 344 ppm in the year 1991.

17
2- Calculate: (Compute) Perform mathematical operations.

 Example: Chlorine exists in nature as an isotopic mixture.

The figure given below shows the representation of the isotopes
of chlorine and the percentage relative abundance of each isotope
expressed as X% and Y%.

37
Calculate, based on the figure, the % relative abundance of the isotope 1 7 Cl.

37
 Answer : The % relative abundance of 1 7 C l is:
90
% 3177 Cl X% u 100 25% .
360

3- State: Express without explaining.

 Example: Corrosion of underground metallic pipes and tanks can be greatly

prevented by connecting the pipes or the tanks to a more active
metal such as zinc or magnesium.

State how underground iron storage tank can be prevented from rusting.

 Answer : Underground iron storage tank can be prevented from rusting by

connecting it to an active metal such as zinc.

18
4- Compare: Indicate the similarities and/or differences between two or more
entities.

 Example 1: The graph given below shows the change of the amount of NO2
gas in 103tons released into the air between the years 1950 and
2005 .

Compare the amount of NO2 gas released into the air in 1970 to that
released in 2005.

 Answer: The amount of NO2 gas released into the air in 1970 is
250x103 tons.
The amount of NO2 gas released into the air in 2005 is
150x103 tons.
The amount of NO2 gas released into the air in 1970 > than the
amount of NO2 gas released into the air in 2005.

 Example 2: Below is given the schemas (I) and (II) of a zinc-copper galvanic
cell.

Compare the two given schemas.

19
  Answer : Schema (I) and Schema (II) consist of zinc half-cell and copper
half cell associated to each other by a salt bridge. The external
part of each galvanic cell consists of a lamp and a switch in
series.
In schema (I), the switch is open, the lamp is not lighting.
In schema (II), the switch is closed, the lamp is lighting.
In Schema (II), the immersed part of the zinc strip is thinner than
that in schema (I) and the immersed part of the copper strip is
thicker than that in schema (I).
In schema (I), the intensity of the color of the solution containing
Cu2+ ions is more than that of schema (II).

5- Complete: Add what is missing.

 Example: The bar graphs given below show the components of the nucleus
of each of the atoms: fluorine, sodium and neon.

Complete the table given below:

Atoms Atomic number Mass number Number of electrons

Fluorine (F)

Sodium ( Na)

 Answer :

Atoms Atomic number Mass number Number of electrons

Fluorine (F) 9 19 9

Sodium ( Na) 11 23 11

20
6- Conclude: Reach to a decision.

 Example: The normal boiling point temperatures and the IUPAC names of
several straight-chain alkanes are given in the table below:
Alkanes ethane propane butane pentane hexane octane
Normal boiling point -89 - 42 0 36 69 126
Temperature ( oC)

Indicate, referring to the table, the variation of the normal boiling point
temperatures of these alkanes according to the number of carbon atoms in
their molecules. Conclude.

 Answer : The normal boiling point temperature of these alkanes increases

from -89oC for ethane to 126oC for octane.
It can be concluded that the normal boiling point temperatures of
straight-chain alkanes increases as the number of carbon atoms
in their molecules increases.

7- Determine: Reach to a decision or a result …, through logical reasoning,

calculation,…

 Example: At the refinery, the cracking of heptane gives an alkane (A) of

molecular formula C4H10 and a hydrocarbon (B) of molecular
formula CXHy according to the equation:

C7 H16 o C4H10 + CXHy

Determine the molecular formula of (B).

 Answer : According to the law of conservation of mass (atoms), in a

chemical reaction the number of atoms of each element is
conserved.
For C atoms: 7 = 4 + X Ÿ X = 3
and for H atoms: 16 = 10 + Y Ÿ Y = 6
Therefore, the molecular formula of hydrocarbon (B) is C3H6.

8- Describe: Express, using scientific language, to give the details of an observation,

an experiment, a schema, an apparatus,...

 Example:

Available Materials:
- Magnesium strip and copper strip - Two beakers
- Solution containing magnesium (Mg2+) ions - U-shape salt bridge
- Solution containing copper (II) (Cu2+) ions - Connecting wires
- Voltmeter
Describe the construction of the galvanic cell schematized below.

21
  Answer:
1- Into a beaker, pour a small amount of the solution containing
Mg 2+ ions and dip the Mg strip in it.
2- Into another beaker, pour a small amount of the solution containing
Cu 2+ ions and dip the Cu strip in it.
3- Associate the two solutions by a salt bridge.
4- Connect the voltmeter to the Mg strip and to the Cu strip using connecting
wires.

9- Show: Prove something is evident by logical reasoning, experimenting,

calculating,...

 Example 1: The normal boiling point temperature of a straight-chain alkane

depends on the number of carbon atoms in its molecule.

22
 Show , referring to the text and the schema, that the normal boiling point
temperature of pentane (C5H12) is between 0oC and 70 oC.

 Answer : A pentane molecule consists of 5 C atoms in straight chain; its

carbon chain is longer than that of butane molecule and shorter
than that of hexane molecule.
The normal boiling point temperature of pentane is between 00C
and 70 oC.

 Example 2: The nucleus of sodium atom has a relative charge +11.

(Relative charge of a proton = +1)

Show that the atomic number of sodium is 11.

 Answer : Relative charge of the nucleus, Qn = (+1)Z , where Z is the

number of protons in the nucleus.
+11 = (+1) Z Ÿ Z=11,

Atomic number = Z = number of protons in the nucleus

=> Atomic number of sodium is 11.

10- Deduce: Draw using logical reasoning new information from given or existing
information.

 Example: In the laboratory, oxygen gas can be obtained by applying

electrolysis on water to which a small amount of sulphuric acid
is added. The electrodes used are inert.

The half-reaction that takes place at the anode is:

2H2O o 4H+ + O2 + 4e- (I)

The half-reaction that takes place at the cathode is:

2H+ + 2e- o H2 (II)

Deduce the equation of the overall reaction of this electrolysis.

 Answer : Number of electrons released at the anode should be equal to the

number of electrons captured at the cathode.
The half-reaction that takes place at the anode is:
2H2O o 4H+ + O2 + 4e-

Multiplying half-reaction (II) by 2.

The half-reaction at the cathode is: 4H+ + 4e- o 2H2

Adding the two half- reactions
The equation of the overall reaction is: 2H2O o 2H2 + O2

23
11- Draw out: Draw from a set of given, and without reasoning a relation, a role, a
law,….

 Example: The table given below shows the IUPAC names of three alkanes
and their normal boiling point temperatures.

Alkanes pentane 2-methylbutane 2,2- dimethylpropane

Normal boiling point 36 28 10
Temperature (oC)

Draw out a relation between the variation of the normal boiling point
temperature and the number of branching in the molecules of the
mentioned isomers.

 Answer: The normal boiling point temperature of the isomers decreases as

the number of branching increases in the molecules of the
isomers.

12- Distinguish: Recognize or discern one thing from another according to particular
traits.

 Example: Addition of hydrogen molecule to an alkene produces an alkane.

Distinguish the structure of the molecule of an alkene from that of an

alkane.

 Answer : In the structure of the molecule of an alkene there exists only

one double covalent bond between two consecutive carbon
atoms. In the structure of the molecule of an alkane all the
carbon-carbon bonds are single covalent bonds.

13- Explain: Clarify, make understandable a phenomenon, a result, ...

 Example: One molecule of ethene reacts with one molecule of chlorine; a

compound (D) is formed.

Explain which of the following two structural formulas (I) or (II) can be
associated to compound (D).

24
  Answer : Ethene is an alkene of formula C2H4. It undergoes addition
reaction with chlorine. One of the bonds of the double covalent
bond of the molecule C2H4 breaks and the bond in a chlorine
molecule breaks; one chlorine atom is added to each carbon
atom. => Structural formula (I) can be associated to compound
(D).

14- Identify: Recognize something based on its characteristics or its properties.

 Example: Given: Electron configuration of:

1 H: K1 ; 6C: K2, L4 ; 7N: K2, L5 ; 8 O: K2, L6 and 16S: K

2
, L8, M 6

Identify among the given atoms (H, C, N, O, and S) those that belong to
the same period (row) and those that belong to the same column (group).

 Answer : The elements that belong to the same period (row) are C, N, and
O, because they have the same number of occupied energy
levels.
The elements that belong to the same group (column) are O and
S, because they have the same number of electrons on their
valence energy level.

15- Interpret: Analyze and give significance to the result.

 Example: The graph given below shows the average amount of sulfur
dioxide SO2 gas emitted into the air from the combustion of fuel
containing sulfur as impurity. SO2 gas contributes to the
formation of acid rain. The maximum tolerable level of SO2 in
air is 75 (Pg /m3).

25
 Interpret the contribution of the average amount of sulfur dioxide SO2
gas emitted into the air during the months shown on the graph to the
formation of acid rain.

 Answer : The average amount of SO2 in air is: In June19 (P g/m3), in July
60 (P g/m3) and in September 70 (P g/m3). The contribution of
SO2 to acid rain formation is slight, because the average amount
of SO2 in air did not pass the maximal tolerable level of SO2
75 (P g/m3 ).
The average amount of SO2 in air is: In August 80 (P g/m3), in
October 100 (P g/m3), in November 115 (P g/m3) and in
December 140 (P g/m3).During these months, the emission of
sulfur dioxide passed the maximal tolerable level 75 (P g/m3).
The contribution to the formation of acid rain is strong.

16- Indicate: Designate something without justification.

 Example: The Lewis dot structure of the molecule of an organic compound

(A) is shown in Figure -1.

Indicate the type of bond between the nitrogen atom and each of the
carbon atoms (C1 and C2) in the molecule of compound (A).

 Answer : The Nitrogen - Carbon (C1-N) bond is a single covalent bond.

(N - C)
The Nitrogen - Carbon (C2=N) bond is a double covalent bond.
(N ═ C)

17- Justify: Prove something as true and real.

 Example: Halomethanes are compounds used as refrigerants, solvents,

anesthetics... They are obtained from the reaction of methane
with halogens according to the equation:

CH3-H + X2 sunlight CH3-X + HX

Where, X2 is the formula of a halogen molecule such as Cl2 or Br2.

Justify that the reaction represented by the above given equation is a

substitution reaction.

26
  Answer: It is a substitution reaction because one hydrogen atom of
methane is replaced by one halogen atom.

18- Specify: Indicate and justify.

 Example: The tendency to lose electrons of three metals: Silver, copper and
zinc are arranged in an increasing order on a horizontal axis.
Ag Cu Zn
| | |
Tendency to lose electrons
in an increasing order.

In a galvanic cell, the greater is the difference in the tendency to lose electrons
of the metals serving as electrodes, the greater is the voltage of the galvanic
cell.
Two galvanic cells (G1) and (G2) have respectively the following written cell
representations:

a) Zn | Zn2+ ― salt bridge ― Cu2+| Cu

b) Zn | Zn2+ ― salt bridge ― Ag+ | Ag

Specify among the given written cell representations, the written cell
representation of the galvanic cell which has the greater voltage.

 Answer : The written cell representation which has the greater voltage is:
Zn | Zn2+ ― salt bridge ― Ag+ | Ag ; because the difference in
the tendency to lose electrons between Zn and Ag is greater than
the difference in the tendency to lose electrons between Zn and
C u.

19- Pick out (Extract): Select one or more information from a document.

 Example: Fresh fruits and vegetables have various colors, tastes and odors.
They are very important to our health. Parsley contains vitamin
C, carotene, potassium, calcium... . Red cabbage contains
vitamin C more than orange. Red cabbage is rich in compounds
that contain sulfur.

Pick out the names of three chemical elements mentioned in the passage.

 Answer : The names of three chemical elements are potassium, calcium

and sulfur.

27
20- Verify: Confirm using arguments, logical reasoning, … whether something is
true or false.

 Example: The graphs (1) and (2) show the number of carbon and hydrogen
atoms in the molecules of (A) and (B).

Verify, referring to the graphs (1) and (2), whether the molecular formula
of (A) is C2H4 and that of (B) is C4H8.

 Answer: For (A):

From graph (1) Number of C atoms = 2 ;
From graph (2) Number of H atoms = 4
Molecular formula of (A) is: C2H4.

For (B):
From graph (1) Number of C atoms = 4 ;
From graph (2) Number of H atoms = 10
Molecular formula of (B) is not C4H8.

28
EXAMPLES ON ACTION VERBS
OFFICIAL EXAMS - GRADE 9

LIFE SCIENCE

29
30
1- Analyze: Decompose a whole into its constituent elements to make evident the
variations.

 Example 1 : At the level of pulmonary alveoli, hemoglobin (Hb) in red blood

cells fixes oxygen gas (O2) forming an unstable product:
oxyhemoglobin (HbO2). In the presence of carbon monoxide
(CO), a harmful gas contained in tobacco smoke, hemoglobin
fixes (CO) forming a stable product (HbCO).

Many studies showed the effect of (CO) on the transport of O2

gas by hemoglobin. The results of these studies are shown in the
following table.

Quantity of CO in the alveoli (in %) 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5

Quantity of HbO2 In the blood (in %) 90 80 70 60 50

Analyze the obtained results.

 Answer: The quantity of HbO2 in blood is 90% when the quantity of CO

in the alveoli is 0.5%. This quantity of HbO2 decreases to 50%
with the increase in the quantity of CO to 2.5%.

 Example 2: We put in three tubes

A, B, and C the same
quantity (100g) of
starch. Trypsin is added
to tube A, lipase to tube
B, and amylase to tube
C. These three tubes
are placed in a water
bath at 37oC for 20
minutes. The media in
these tubes are
convenient: Tubes A and B have a medium of pH= 8, and tube
C has a medium of pH= 7. The results are presented in the
adjacent document.

Analyze the obtained results.

31
  Answer: In tube A which contains trypsin and tube B which contains
lipase, throughout the experiment, the quantity of starch remains
constant and equal to 100g, but in tube C which contains
amylase, the quantity of starch decreases from 100g to 0g after
20 min.

2- Calculate: (Compute) Perform mathematical operations.

 Example1: An ear of corn contains: 225 black grains and 75 yellow grains.

Calculate the proportions of the obtained grains.

 Answer: Calculation of proportions.

Total number of grains = 225 +75= 300
Proportions of black grains: 225 / 300= 3 /4
Proportions of yellow grains: 75 / 300= 1 /4
Or
We divide by the smallest number.
Black grains: 225/75= 3
Yellow grains: 75/75 = 1
Total: 3 + 1= 4
Proportions of Black grains: ¾
Proportions of Yellow grains: ¼

 Example 2: An ear of corn contains: 225 black grains and 75 yellow grains.

Calculate the percentages of the obtained grains.

 Answer: Calculation of percentages.

Total number of grains = 225 +75= 300
Percentages of black grains: 225 x 100 = 75%
300
Percentages of yellow grains: 75 x 100 = 25%
300

3- State: Express without explaining .

 Example 1: State the characteristics of the respiratory exchange surface.

 Answer: The characteristics of respiratory exchange surface are:

- Thin wall
- Large surface area of exchange
- Surface rich in blood vessels.

 Example 2: State 2 factors which are capable of stopping the transformation

of a given kind of food during digestion.
 Answer: Temperature, medium pH, duration, enzyme (State only 2
factors).

32
4- Compare: Indicate the similarities and/or differences between two or more
entities.

 Example 1: The chromosomes are

carriers of the genetic
information. Any change in
the number or form of a
chromosome can lead to a
modification in the
expression of the genetic
program. A fragment "S"
located only on chromosome
Y, carries the genetic
information responsible for the appearance of masculine
characteristics. The above document presents the sex
chromosomes of three individuals.

Compare the sex chromosomes of individual 3 to those of individual 2.

 Answer: Individual 3 has an X chromosome of the same length as the X

chromosome in individual 2; whereas, the other X chromosome
in individual 3 is longer, carrying an additional fragment S, than
that in individual 2.

 Example 2: Respiratory gases move between the alveolar air and blood, from
a medium of higher pressure to a medium of lower pressure.
The table below represents the pressures of oxygen gas and
carbon dioxide in alveolar air and blood.

Pressure of O2 gas Pressure of CO2 gas

(in mm Hg) (in mm Hg)
Alveolar air 105 40
Blood 45 45

Compare the pressures of O2 gas and CO2 gas in alveolar air with those in
blood.

 Answer: The pressure of O2 gas in alveolar air, 105mm of Hg, is greater

than that in blood, 45mm Hg; while, the pressure of CO2 gas in
alveolar air, 40mm Hg, is smaller than that in blood, 45mm Hg.

33
5- Complete: Add what is missing.

 Example : The adjacent document

represents two phases of
the cell cycle of a cell
having 4 chromosomes.

Complete the diagram by

drawing the chromosomes
obtained in each of the daughter
cells.

 Answer:

6- Conclude: Reach a decision.

 Example 1: In a region polluted by sulfur dioxide gas (SO2), we notice that

the number of hospitalized patients due to respiratory difficulties
varies with the quantity of SO2 in air (document 1).
Document 1
Number of hospitalized patients per day

112

111

110

109

108

107

106

105 Quantity of SO2 in air

3
2 6 10 14 (mg/m )

1- Analyze the graph in document 1.

2- What do you conclude?

34
  Answers :
1- The number of hospitalized patients due to respiratory
difficulties is 106 patients/day when the quantity of SO2 gas
in air is 2mg/m3. This number increases progressively with
the increase in the quantity of SO2 gas till it reaches 112
patients/day when the quantity of SO2 gas is 14mg/m3.
2- SO2 gas favors the occurrence of respiratory difficulties.

 Example 2 : The document below presents the variations of the volumes of

oxygen gas and carbon dioxide gas in the blood at the level of
the lungs
Blood (100 mL)
Entering the lungs Leaving the lungs
Oxygen gas
15 20
(in mL)
Carbon dioxide gas
53 48
(in mL)

1- Compare the volumes of oxygen gas and carbon dioxide gas

in blood entering and blood leaving the lungs.
2- What do you conclude?

 Answers:
1- The volume of oxygen gas in blood entering the
lungs,15mL/100mL, is smaller than that in blood leaving the
lungs, 20 mL/100mL. The volume of carbon dioxide in
blood entering the lungs, 53mL/100mL, is greater than that
in the blood leaving the lungs, 48mL/100mL.
2- In the lungs the blood is enriched with oxygen and
impoverished in carbon dioxide.

7- Determine: Reach a decision or a result, through logical reasoning, calculation...

 Example 1: Thalassemia or Mediterranean anemia is a recessive disease that

affects children since birth and leads to death if not treated.
Some people who are heterozygous (carry the recessive allele)
show no symptoms of the disease, but they can be identified by
blood tests.

Determine the percentages of the phenotypes and the genotypes of the

descendants obtained from a normal heterozygous couple.

 Answer: Let "T" be the symbol of the dominant allele determining the
normal phenotype.
Let "t" be the symbol of the recessive allele determining the
disease.
Since the normal parents are heterozygous (Tt), each one of them
should carry the recessive allele (t) determining the disease

35
 which is masked phenotypically. The phenotypic and genotypic
percentages should be the same in F2 generation as in the case of
monohybrid dominance. So, the descendants of this couple
should have the following percentages of the theoretical
phenotypes and genotypes:

Phenotypes : Genotypes:
75% normal children 25% TT
50% Tt
25% diseased children 25% tt

Or Factorial Analysis
Let "T" be the symbol of the dominant allele determining normal
phenotype.
Let "t" be the symbol of the recessive allele determining the
disease.
♂ x ♀
Parental phenotypes: Normal Normal
parental genotypes : Tt Tt
γP : 50%T 50% t 50%T 50% t

Table of cross (punnet square) :

♂
♀ 50%T 50%t

50%T 25%TT 25%Tt

50%t 25%Tt 25%tt

Genotypes Phenotypes
25% TT 75% normal children or [T]
50% Tt
25% tt 25% diseased children or [t]

 Example 2: The ABO blood group system is controlled by a gene located on

chromosome pair no9. This gene exists in three versions or
alleles: A, B and O. The alleles A and B are codominant relative
to each other and dominant over allele O. Allele O is recessive
and is not expressed phenotypically except in the case of
homozygous.
A couple had three children: Ziad is of blood group O, Zeina is
of blood group AB and Nada is of blood group B.

Determine the alleles present in each of the parents, as well as the blood
type of each.

36
  Answer: This couple had a child (Ziad) of blood type O who is
homozygous recessive and this blood type is only expressed
when the allele "O" exists in two copies. So, this child has taken
an allele O from his father and an allele O from his mother. This
means that each parent has allele O.
Similarily, the couple had another child (Zeina) of blood type
AB. This child took allele A from one parent and allele B from
the other parent. This means, one of the parents has alleles A and
O and is of blood group A, and the other parent has alleles B and
O and is of blood group B.

8- Describe: Express using scientific language, to give the details of an observation,

of an experiment, a schema, an apparatus...

 Example 1: Write a short text describing the heart activity during the two
phases presented in the following document.

 Answer: Auricular systole: The simultaneous contraction of both auricles

pumps blood from the right auricle to the right ventricle through
the opened tricuspid valve and from the left auricle into the left
ventricle through the opened bicuspid valve. During this phase,
the sigmoid valves are closed.

Ventricular systole: The simultaneous contractions of both

ventricles pumps blood from the right ventricle into the
pulmonary artery and from the left ventricle into the aorta
through the opened sigmoid valves. During this phase, the
bicuspid and tricuspid valves are closed

37
  Example 2: The adjacent document
summarizes the
experimental conditions
of in vitro digestion of
starch paste.

Describe this document.

 Answer: 2 ml of starch paste is

put into each of the two
tubes A and B. Fresh
saliva is added to tube A and gastric juice to tube B. The two
tubes are placed in a water bath at a temperature of 37oC for 15
minutes.

9- Show: Prove “something” is evident by logical reasoning, experimenting,

calculating…

 Example 1: The table below summarizes the experimental setup of a series of

experiments done in the laboratory. Each of the tubes contains a
medium of pH=8 and is placed at a favorable temperature of
37˚C for a sufficient duration of time: 60 minutes for proteins
and 20 minutes for starch paste.

Tubes Tube A Tube B Tube C Tube D

Contents

Beginning of the Proteins Starch paste Proteins Starch paste

experiment Water Water Water Water
Trypsin Amylase Amylase Trypsin
End of the Amino acids Maltose Proteins Starch paste
experiment W ater Water Water Water
Trypsin Amylase Amylase Trypsin

Show that the enzyme remains intact during the chemical transformation
of foods.

 Answer: At the end of the experiment, we observe that food

transformation took place in tubes A and B since proteins and
starch in both tubes disappeared and were replaced by amino
acids and maltose respectively. However, the enzymes, trypsin in
tube A and amylase in tube B, are still present at the end of the
experiment. So, we can say that the enzyme remains intact at the
end of experiment.

38
  Example 2: In the human species the trait
right-handed and left-
handed show autosomal
mode of transmission. The
gene responsible for this
heriditary trait is
represented by 2 alleles.
The allele responsible for
right-handed (R) is
dominant over the allele
responsible for left-handed (L). The above pedigree represents
the genealogical tree of a family which some of its members are
left-handed.

Show that if female 9 marries a homozygous right-handed male, then all

her offsprings will be right-handed.

 Answer: Female 9 is left-handed: This trait is recessive and is only

expressed in people who are homozygous for this trait. This
means that her genotype is ll and she gives her children only one
type of alleles (l) which is recessive.

If this female marries a right-handed male who is homozygous of

genotype RR, this male gives his children only one type of
alleles (R) which is dominant. So, all the children will have the
genotype Rl where the recessive allele (l) taken from the mother
will be masked by the dominant allele (R) taken from the father,
so their phenotype will be right-handed.

10- Deduce: Draw, using logical reasoning, new information from given or existing
information.

 Example 1: In a series of five test tubes, we introduce in each 2g of

coagulated and fragmented ovalbumin (a protein), pepsin, and
hydrochloric acid. These tubes are placed at different
temperatures. After one hour, the quantity of ovalbumin is
measured in each tube. The results are presented in the table
below.

Temperature Quantity of
Tube Content
(ºC) ovalbumin (g)
A 2g of ovalbumin + pepsin+ HCl 0 2
B 2g of ovalbumin + pepsin + HCl 20 1,7
C 2g of ovalbumin + pepsin + HCl 37 0
D 2g of ovalbumin + pepsin + HCl 45 1,7
E 2g of ovalbumin + pepsin+ HCl 60 2

Deduce the temperature which is favorable for the activity of pepsin.

39
  Answer: The results at the end of the experiment show that a total
transformation of ovalbumin occurred only in tube C where the
temperature is 37oC. Therefore, the most favorable temperature
for the activity of pepsin is 37oC

 Example 2: The following table presents the variation of the volume of

oxygen gas and carbon dioxide in air and in blood at the level of
the lungs.

Air (100mL) blood (100mL)

Inspired Expired Entering the lungs Leaving the lungs
Oxygen gas
21 16 15 20
(in mL)
Carbon dioxide gas
0.03 5 53 48
(in mL)

1-Calculate the variations in the volume of oxygen gas and the

volume of carbon dioxide gas in the air and in the blood.
2- Deduce the gas exchange taking place at the level of the
lungs?

 Answers:
1- The variation in the volume of O2 gas between the inhaled air
and exhaled air is: 21-16 = 5 mL.
The variation in the volume of CO2 gas between the inhaled
air and exhaled air is: 5-0.03 ≈ 5 mL.
The variation in the volume of O2 gas between blood entering
and blood leaving the lungs is: 20-15 = 5 mL.
The variation in the volume of CO2 gas between blood
entering and blood leaving the lungs is: 53 - 48 = 5 mL.

2- The volume of O2 gas (5ml) remaining in the lungs is equal to

that gained by the blood leaving the lungs(5ml). The volume
of CO2 gas eliminated from the blood entering the lungs (5ml)
is approximately equal to that gained by the exhaled air
≈ 5 mL.

We deduce that O2 gas brought by the inhaled air passes from

the lungs to the blood, and CO2 gas brought by the blood to
the lungs exit the lungs with the exhaled air.

40
11- Draw out: Draw from a set of given and without reasoning a relation, a role, a
law….

 Example1:
Certain individuals cannot tolerate gluten, a wheat flour protein, in their diet.
This intolerance appears generally in 6 to 18 months-old babies, and is
expressed by diarrhea, weight loss, hypo-nutrition (undernourishment),
fatigue.... A sample taken from the intestinal mucosa reveals atrophy (a
decrease in volume and malfunctioning) of the intestinal villi. Digestive
troubles disappear with a strict diet that includes the suppression of gluten; i.e.
the suppression of the flour of wheat, barley, oats…etc. Medical analysis shows
that the intestine recovers its normal features within a few months, but any
reintroduction of gluten would lead (or leads) to a new atrophy of the villi.

Draw out from the text the disrupted biological phenomenon due to
intolerance to gluten.

 Answer: The disrupted biological phenomenon due to intolerance to

gluten is intestinal absorption.

 Example 2: In a region polluted by sulfur dioxide gas (SO2), we notice that

the number of hospitalized patients due to respiratory difficulties
varies with the content of SO2 in air.

The document below shows the aspect of the bronchi of a

healthy individual A and of another individual B who live in this
region polluted by SO2.

Draw out the effect of sulfur dioxide on the bronchi that leads to these
respiratory difficulties.

 Answer: Sulfur dioxide narrows the bronchi and renders the circulation of
air at this level difficult thus leading to respiratory difficulties.

41
12- Distinguish: Recognize or discern one “thing” from another according to
particular traits.

 Example: Distinguish an artery from a vein.

 Answer: The wall of the artery is thick while that of the vein is thin. The
opening of the artery is widely opened while that of the vein is
flaccid.

13- Explain: Clarify, make understandable a phenomenon, a result...

 Example 1: In the framework of studying the action of pepsin on ovalbumin

(protein), two tubes A and B are placed at a temperature of 37 °
C for 1 hour. The two tubes A and B contain:
Tube A: water + ovallbumin + pepsin; pH = 7
Tube B: water + ovallbumin + pepsin; pH=2
The results , at the end of the experiment, show a positive result
with the coagulation test in tube A and negative result with the
same test in tube B.

Explain the obtained results.

 Answer: The positive result with coagulation test indicates the presence of
proteins while the negative result indicates its absence. The
transformation of ovalbumin took place in tube B where
ovalbumin disappears , but not in tube A where ovalbumin is
still present and not transformed. In both tubes, the enzyme is
pepsin which is specific for proteins, but it is only active in
acidic medium. For that, the transformation of protein took place
in tube B where the pH is equal to 2(acidic medium) but not in
tube A where the enzyme is inactive at pH = 7 (neutral medium).

 Example 2: The cigarette fumes contain several toxic substances: Nicotine,

tar, carbon monoxide gas (CO). This gas can fix easily on a
hemoglobin molecule leading to the formation of a stable
compound HbCO.

Explain how a high concentration of CO gas in blood causes intoxication.

 Answer: CO gas forms a stable compound with hemoglobin. Also,

Hemoglobin transports O2 and CO2 gases. The formation of
HbCO compound hinders the transportation of Oxygen gas
indispensable for the cells and hinders the transportation of CO2
gas to the lungs to be eliminated out by the exhaled air. CO2
remains in blood and causes intoxication.

42
14- Identify: Recognize “something” based on its characteristics or its properties.

 Example: The following tests are realized on two foods:

o Banana + iodine water cold blue color.

o Grapes juice + Fehling solution heat red brick precipitate.

till boiling

Identify the carbohydrates present in each of these foods.

 Answer: Starch gives a blue color with iodine solution, and this means
that banana contains starch.

Reducing sugar gives a brick-red precipitate with Fehling’s

solution when it’s heated, and this means that grape juice
contains reducing sugar.

15- Interpret: Analyze and give significance to the result.

 Example 1: In the framework

of studying the
role of pancreatic
juice on digestion,
we realized the
experiment
presented in the
adjacent
document.

Interpret the obtained results.

 Answer: The results at the end of the experiments indicate a complete

transformation of oil into fatty acids and glycerol in tube A in the
presence of bile and pancreatic juice. However, oil remains
intact, dispersed as drops of oil in water, in tube B in the
presence of bile and absence of pancreatic juice. Therefore,
pancreatic juice is responsible for transformation of oil into fatty
acids and glycerol.

 Example 2: To realize an in vitro digestion of lactose, milk sugar, we put 5ml

of milk and 0.5 ml of NaOH (to render the medium basic) in
each of the two tubes A and B. We add lactase in tube B only.
We place the two tubes at a temperature of 37 °C and for a
convenient duration of time. Moreover, we measure the quantity
of sugars present in each of the two tubes at the beginning and at
the end of the experiment.
The measured results are presented in the following document.

43
 Interpret obtained results.

 Answer: At the beginning of the experiment, the quantity of lactose is

100% in both tubes A and B. At the end of experiment, this
quantity of lactose remains the same (100%) in tube A which
does not contain lactase, but it disappears and there is appearance
of 50% of galactose and 50% of glucose in tube B which
contains lactase. This means that the lactase has permitted the
transformation of lactose into galactose and glucose.
Or
In tube A which does not contain lactase, the quantity of lactose
stays the same(100%) from the beginning till the end of the
experiment. However, in tube B which contains lactase, the
quantity of lactose (100%) present at the beginning of the
experiment, disappears at the end of the experiment and there is
appearance of 50% galactose and 50% glucose.
This means that the lactase has permitted the transformation of
lactose into galactose and glucose.

16- Indicate: Designate “something” without justification.

 Example 1: Indicate the true expressions.

1- During ventricular systole, blood is pumped from the
ventricles into the veins.
2- Auricular systole is the simultaneous contraction of both
auricles.
3- During diastole, auricles and ventricles contract.
4- During auricular systole, the bicuspid and tricuspid valves
are closed.
5- The valves prevent the back flow of blood.

44
  Answers: 2 – Correct
5 - Correct

 Example 2: The heart contracts and relaxes in a rhythmic way. It ensures the
circulation of blood. The document below shows the
organization of the heart, the principle blood vessels and the two
phases of cardiac activity.

Indicate, by referring to the above document:

a- The blood vessels that ensure the arrival of blood to the heart
and those that ensure its exit out of the heart.
b- What happens during the ventricular contraction phase and
the relaxation phase of the heart.

 Answers:
a-The blood vessels that ensure the arrival of blood to the heart
are the superior and inferior vena cava and the pulmonary
veins.
The blood vessels that ensure the exit of blood out of the
heart are the aorta and the pulmonary arteries.
b-During the ventricular contraction phase, blood is propelled
out from the ventricles to the arteries.
During the relaxation phase, blood arrives the auricles
through the veins and fills the heart.

17- Justify: Prove “something” as true and real.

 Example 1: Sickle cell anemia, a hereditary disease characterized by the

synthesis of abnormal hemoglobin, is due to a gene located on
the chromosome pair No. 11. For a person to be diseased, it
necessitates the presence of the abnormal allele on each of the
two chromosomes of pair 11. If one chromosome carries the
abnormal allele and the other carries the normal allele, the person
will be normal and not affected by the disease.

Justify how a normal couple can give birth to a diseased child.

45
  Answer: The allele for the disease is recessive. Normal couples who are
heterozygous carry the allele responsible for sickle cell anemia
disease but is masked .When each of the parents gives the
recessive allele responsible for the disease to the child, this child
will be homozygous and sick.

 Example 2: Hemoglobin is called "functional protein ".

Justify this statement.

 Answer:
Hemoglobin is known as a functional protein because it is used
for the transport of respiratory gases: CO2 and O2.

18- Specify: Indicate exactly and justify.

 Example 1: The chromosomes

are carriers of the
genetic information.
Any change in the
number or form of a
chromosome can
le a d to a
modification in the
expression of the
genetic program. A
fragment (S), located only on chromosome Y, carries the genetic
information responsible for the appearance of masculine
characteristics. The opposite document shows the sex
chromosomes of three individuals.

Specify the sex of individuals 1 and 2.

 Answer: Individual 1 is a male and individual 2 is a female.

Individual 1 is a male because he has two different sex
chromosomes X and Y. Individual 2 is a female because she has
two identical sex chromosomes X.

 Example 2: The blood groups of ABO system are controlled by a gene

located on chromosome pair no9. This gene has three alleles A, B
and O. The alleles A and B are codominant with respect to each
other and dominant over the allele O. Allele O is recessive and
is expressed phenotypically when it is present in two copies
(homozygous).
A man of blood group A married a woman of blood group B.
This couple had a daughter of blood group B.

Specify the alleles which determine the blood group of this girl.

46
  Answer: This girl has allele B and allele O. Being of blood group B, she
received an allele B from her mother who is of blood group B,
and an allele O, recessive with respect to allele A, from her
father, of blood group A. Otherwise, she will not be of blood
group B.

19- - Pick out (Extract): Select one or more pieces of information from a document.

 Example: Wheat starch is a complex molecule constituted of many

molecules of glucose. During digestion, starch reacts with water
and is degraded into very small-sized molecules. This chemical
reaction is called hydrolysis. The enzymes, contained in saliva
and pancreatic juice, activate the hydrolytic reaction and favor
the molecular simplification of starch. These enzymes remain
intact at the end of this reaction.

1- Pick out from the text:

a- The constituent molecules of the wheat starch molecule.
b- The definition of hydrolysis.
c- The phrase which indicates the role of enzymes.

 Answers:
a- The constituent molecules of the wheat starch are the
glucose molecules.
b- A Hydrolytic reaction is when starch reacts with water
and is degraded into molecules of very small size.
c- The enzymes activate the hydrolytic reaction and favor
the molecular simplification of starch.

20- Verify: Confirm using arguments, logical reasoning, whether something is true
or wrong.

 Example 1: To verify the hypothesis "tobacco favors lung cancer", studies

were conducted in a medical center and the results are presented
in the document below.

Non smokers Smokers

Quantity of tabacco consumed
0 1-4 5-14 15-24 >25
(in g/person/day)
Percentage of patients with lung
31 36 48 53 73
cancer

Verify, based on the obtained results, if the hypothesis is valid.

47
 Answer: The percentage of patients with lung cancer is 31 in non-smokers
and it increases to 36% in smokers who consume 1 to 4 g of
tobacco per person per day. This percentage continues to
increase with the increase in the quantity of consumed tobacco to
become 73% when tobacco consumption exceeds
25 g/ person / day. Therefore, tobacco increases the risk of lung
cancer occurrence, so the formulated hypothesis is valid.

 Example 2: Sickle cell anemia, a hereditary disease characterized by the

synthesis of an abnormal hemoglobin, is due to a gene located on
the chromosome pair No. 11. For a person to be diseased, it
necessitates the presence of the abnormal allele on each of the
two chromosomes pair 11. If one chromosome carries the
abnormal allele and the other carries the normal allele, the person
will be not affected by the disease.

Verify, by making the necessary factorial analysis, that a normal couple

can have a sick child.

 Answer: Let N be the symbol of the dominant allele determining the non-
affected person (normal).
Let s be the symbol of the recessive allele determining the
disease.
In cases where both normal parents are heterozygous, each of the
parents can give the abnormal allele to the child that will be
homozygous and affected.

♂ x ♀
Parental phenotype: [N] [N]
Parental Genotype: Nd Nd
γP: ½N ½d ½N½d

♂ ½N ½d
♀
½N ¼ NN ¼ Nd
½d ¼ Nd ¼ dd

Results: ¾ normal [N]

¼ sickle cell anemia [d]
According to the table of cross, a child with genotype dd is sick.
So, the unaffected parents can have a sick child.

48
EXAMPLES ON ACTION VERBS
OFFICIAL EXAMS
THIRD YEAR OF SECONDARY CYCLE

PHYSICS

49
50
1- Analyze: Decompose a whole into its constituent elements to make evident the
variations.

 Example: Analyze the function of loud speaker.

 Answer: Elements of loudspeaker are: coil- magnet creates magnetic field –

membrane that fixed to the coil. When a variable current traverses
the coil, the elastic membrane is set in vibration due to the
electromagnetic force acts on it.

2- Calculate: (Compute) Perform mathematical operations.

 Example: Calculate the value of the capacitance C of a capacitor in RC series

circuit of constant voltage, knowing the values of the time constant
W , and the resistance R.

 Answer: The time constant τ =RC for the RC group , knowing τ and R,
calculate C = τ/R

3- State: Express without explaining .

 Example: State the main components of a transformer.

 Answer: The main components are: coil and soft iron core.

4- Compare: Indicate the similarities and/or differences between two or more

entities.

 Example 1: Compare the functioning of a loud speaker and the microphone.

 Answer: A loud speaker converts an electrical signal into a mechanical sound

signal. A microphone converts sound signal to electrical signal.

 Example 2: Compare the Pseudo period T to the proper period To of an elastic

oscillator.

 Answer: The pseudo-period T is slightly greater than the proper period TO.

51
5- Complete: Add what is missing.

 Example: A car is moving along x- axis. At time t its position is given by its
coordinate x and velocity v. The table below gives values of x and v
at successive instants. Complete this table:

t(s) 0 t1 = W = t2 = 2 W t3 = 3 t4 = 4 W t5=5 W t6 = 6 W
60 W
Position A0 A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6
x (mm) 0 7. 2 28.9 64.9 115 181 259
v (m/s) 0 0.24 0.72 1.20

x 3  x1 57.7 u 10 3
 Answer: V2 =
2W
=> v 2
0.12
0.48m / s

116.1 u 10 3
v 4
0.12
0.97m / s.

6- Conclude: Reach to a decision.

 Example: Without transformer, transmission of electric energy occurs with a

loss of energy by Joule’s effect, but with a step up transformer the
loss of energy is reduced E'<< E; conclude about the role of the
transformer in the transport of electric power over long distances.

 Answer: The transformer greatly reduces the loss by Joule’s effect through the
transmission lines.

7- Determine: Reach to a decision or a result through logical reasoning,

calculation,...

 Example: A horizontal elastic pendulum consists of mass m and spring of

k
stiffness constant k, has a differential equation x cc  x 0, where
m
x is the abscissa of the center of inertia of the solid relative to the
origin O of the x-axis. At equilibrium center G of m is at O.
Determine the expression of the natural period T0 of the pendulum
in terms of m and k

k 2
 Answer: The differential equation x cc  x 0, is of the form xcc  Z 0 x 0 ,
m
2 k 2S
the proper angular frequency is Z 0 = , but T0= , we obtain
m Z0
m
T0= 2 S
k

52
8- Describe: Express, using scientific language, to give the details of an observation,
an experiment, a schema, an apparatus, ...

 Example: Describe the appearance of fringes observed on the screen in

Young’s double-slit experiment.

 Answer: On the screen, the fringes are rectilinear, parallel to the slits, they are
equidistant and alternately bright and dark.

9- Show: Prove something is evident by logical reasoning, experimenting,

calculating,… .

 Example 1: Show that the skydiver, falling vertically will reach a limiting
speed.

 Answer: Forces acting on the parachute are: weight 𝑊 ���⃗ , and air resistance 𝑅�⃗
Apply Newton's second law:
���⃗ + 𝑅�⃗ = m𝑎⃗.
𝑊
At the beginning of the fall, the magnitude of the weight W is greater than the
magnitude of air resistance R. Over time, the speed increases, this leads to
increase the magnitude of R, where W remains constant. At a certain point R
becomes equal to W, and the motion will be a uniform rectilinear motion and
the parachute reaches a limiting speed.
E

 Example 2: Show that in steady state, the current

in RL series circuit fed by a constant
voltage E is I= E/R.
L + R

di
 Answer: Using the law of addition of voltages: E = Ri + L .
dt

di
At steady state, i = constant, and =0
dt
so E = IR, and I = E/R.

10- Deduce: Draw using logical reasoning new information from given or existing
information.

 Example 1: What condition must the angular abscissa θ satisfy so that motion
of a pendulum is simple harmonic? Deduce the expression of
the proper period of the oscillations knowing that the differential
equation governing the motion of the pendulum is:
Mga
Tcc  sin T 0.
I

53
  Answer: If θ <100, sin θ = θ (in radians), the differential equation is then:
Mga
Tcc  T 0 Ÿ sinusoidal motion of angular frequency
I
Mga 2S I
Z0 and proper period T0 = = 2S
I Z0 Mga

 Example 2: Calculate the mass defect [mass before (mb) - the mass after ( ma)]
in a nuclear reaction. Deduce that this nuclear reaction releases
energy.

 Answer: Calculating the mass before reaction and the mass after reaction, we
find that the mass before reaction is greater than the mass after
reaction, so there is a reduction in mass during this nuclear
reaction, and this loss of mass is converted into released energy.

11- Draw out: Draw from a set of given and without reasoning a relation, a role, a
law,….

 Example: Draw out from the table of the planets of the solar system, how the
period of revolution of a planet varies with its distance from the
Sun.

 Answer: As the distance from the Sun increases, the period of revolution of a
planet increases.

12- Distinguish: Recognize or discern one thing from another according to particular
traits.

 Example: Distinguish between the emission spectrum and the absorption

spectrum of an atom.

 Answer: The emission spectrum of an atom is made up of colored lines on a

black back ground; the absorption spectrum is composed of black
lines on a colored background.

13- Explain: Clarify, make understandable a phenomenon, a result, ...

 Example: Explain the charging phenomenon of a capacitor under a constant

dc voltage

 Answer: The positive pole of the generator A

attracts the free electrons of the E R
armature A of the capacitor and
electrons move from the negative pole C
of the generator to the armature B of
B
the capacitor, so voltage UAB appears.

54
 This process continues until the voltage uC = UAB = E (e.m.f.
generator), and the current becomes zero.

14- Identify: Recognize something based on its characteristics or its properties.

 Example: Using the waveform of adjacent uD

Figure, identify the electric Ri
dipole (D), placed in a series
circuit of resistor R and a L.F.G
delivering a sinusoidal
alternating voltage.

 Answer: The voltage across the dipole uD

lags the current i, so (D) is a
capacitor.

15- Interpret: Analyze and give significance to the result.

 Example: Interpret the functioning of loud speaker.

 Answer: When a variable current (I) traverses the coil placed in a magnetic
field of magnitude B, the coil is subjected to a variable
electromagnetic force (Laplace) F proportional to (I). The elastic
membrane that is fixed to the coil is set into vibration.

16- Indicate: Designate something without justification.

 Example: Indicate the direction of the displacement of the central bright

fringe in Young’s double slits if parallel plate is placed in front of
one of them.

 Answer: The central bright fringe moves on the same side of the parallel plate.

55
17- Justify: Prove something as true and real.

 Example: Justify that the transformer does not work under DC voltage.

 Answer: If a DC voltage is applied across the primary turns of a transformer,

the current in the primary is constant, so the flux M 2 is constant, and
the induced electromotive force e2 across the secondary is
dM 2
e2 = 0 v, and so the transformer will not function.
dt

18- Specify: Indicate and justify.

 Example: Specify the mode of the electric oscillations that take place in a
circuit formed of a charged capacitor of capacitance C, and a coil L
of negligible resistance (LC circuit).

 Answer: The oscillations are free un- damped since no external intervention
(free) and R = 0 (un-damped).

19- Pick out (Extract): Select (extract) one or more information from a document.

 Example: Pick out, from the text, the sentence which indicates the
transformation of radiant energy into thermal energy.

“…The radiant energy, apparently rarely used, is however one of the

most important forms. Sun rays, heating up Earth, make life, and
especially the growth of plants possible…Nowadays, we use the solar cells
to produce electric energy…”
 Answer: The rays that come from the Sun heats the Earth.

20- Verify: Confirm using arguments, logical reasoning, … whether something is

true or false.

t
E 
 Example: Verify that i = e RC is the solution of the differential equation
R
di
i + RC 0.
dt
t

di 1 E RC
 Answer: Derive i with respect to time u e
dt RC R

Replace in the differential equation:

t t
 
E RC 1 E RC
e + RC ( u e ) = 0, so verified.
R RC R

56
EXAMPLES ON ACTION VERBS
OFFICIAL EXAMS
THIRD YEAR OF SECONDARY CYCLE

CHEMISTRY

57
58
1- Analyze: Decompose a whole into its constituent elements to make evident the
variations.

 Example: Titration of a strong acid against a strong base is carried out

using a pH meter. The curve below represents the variation :
pH = f (V).

Analyze this curve.

 Answer: For :
0 < V < 14 mL, pH varies slightly.
14 < V < 18 mL, pH varies sharply (sudden jump of pH value).
V > 18 mL, pH varies slightly.

2- Calculate: (Compute) Perform mathematical operations.

 Example: A mixture of 0.5 mol of ethanoic acid and 0.5 mol of ethanol is
heated, in the presence of concentrated sulfuric acid. A reaction
takes place according to the equation:

CH3 – CH2OH + CH3 – COOH ⇌ CH3 – COO CH2 –CH3 + H2O

59
 The study of the variation of the number of moles of ester formed versus time
gives the following result:

Calculate the yield of this reaction.

 Answer: Yield of this reaction is:

n(ester) obtained at equilibriu m 0.33
R= = = 0.66.
n(ester) theoretica l ( initial) 0.50

3- State: Express without explaining.

 Example: A mixture of salicylic acid and an excess methanol is subjected

to reflux heating in the presence of few drops of concentrated
sulfuric acid.

State the two kinetic factors involved in this experimental activity.

 Answer: The two kinetic factors involved in this activity are:

The temperature and the catalyst represented by concentrated
sulfuric acid.

4- Compare: Indicate the similarities and/or differences between two or more

entities.

 Example: Greasy substances such as tallow, olive oil, peanut oil,… are
triesters of fatty acids (saturated or unsaturated) and glycerol.

Compare the structure of a saturated fatty acid to that of a mono-

unsaturated fatty acid.

 Answer: In the molecule of saturated fatty acid all the carbon-carbon

bonds are single covalent bonds, whereas, in the molecule of a
mono unsaturated fatty acid there is only one double covalent

60
 bond between two consecutive carbon atoms in addition to the
single covalent bonds of the carbon–carbon atoms.
These two fatty acids have the same functional group -COOH.

5- Complete: Add what is missing.

 Example: The volume V of nitrogen gas released is measured at different

instants of time, in the decomposition reaction of C6H5 – N2Cl
according to the equation:
C6H5 – N2Cl (aq) → C6 H5 – Cl (aq) + N2 (g).

The results are given in the following table:

t (min) 0 3 6 9 12 14 18 22
V (mL) 0 10.5 19 27 33 36 41 45
[C6H5 – Cl] t 10-4 (mol.L-1)

Complete the preceding table such that: [C6H5–Cl]t = 4.10-5x V; where V

(expressed in mL) is the volume of nitrogen gas released at instant t.

 Answer: Multiplying by 0.4, we get:

t (min) 0 3 6 9 12 14 18 22
[C6H5 – Cl]t x10-4
0 4.2 7.6 10.8 13.2 14.4 16.4 18.0
mol.L-1

6- Conclude: Reach to a decision.

 Example: Iodide ions react with peroxydisulfate ions according to the

following equation:
S2O 82 + 2 I – → 2 SO 24 + I2
A reaction system consists of a volume V1 of solution potassium
iodide (K+ + I-) and a volume V2 = 100 mL of sodium
peroxydisulfate solution (2Na+ + S2O 82 ), is kept at constant
temperature (T). Samples of this reaction system are titrated in
order to determine the concentration of the iodine formed. The
experiment is repeated, at the same temperature (T), but in the
presence of few drops of iron II sulfate solution at the beginning
of the reaction.
The results of the two experiments are:

Experiment in the absence Experiment in the

of Fe2+ presence of Fe2+
Half-life time of reaction: t1/2 24 min 11 min

Conclude the role of Fe2+ ions.

61
  Answer: The half- life t1/2 (in the presence of Fe2+) < t1/2 (in the absence
of Fe2+), it can be concluded that the presence of Fe2+ ions
increases, at a given temperature, the rate of the reaction.
 Fe2+ is a catalyst of this reaction.

7- Determine: Reach to a decision or a result …, through logical reasoning,

calculation,…

 Example: A volume Va = 20.0 mL of solution (S) is titrated with sodium

hydroxide solution (Na+ + OH –) of concentration
Cb = 3.0x10-2 mol.L-1, in the presence of a convenient indicator.
The volume added to reach the equivalence point is
VbE = 13.6 mL.
The equation of the titration reaction is:

C6H5COOH + OH – → C6H5COO – + H2O

Determine the concentration Ca of solution (S).

 Answer: At the equivalence point, n(C6H5COOH) in Va = n(OH – )

in VbE. => CaxVa = CbxVbE.
3.0 x10 2 x13.6
Therefore; Ca= = 2.0x10-2 mol.L-1.
20

8- Describe: Express, using scientific language, to give the details of an observation,

an experiment, a schema, an apparatus,…

 Example: It is required to prepare a volume of 500 mL of ammonium

chloride
(NH 4 + Cl) solution (B) of concentration C2 = 0.10 mol.L -1.

Given:
 Flask containing pure crystals of ammonium chloride
NH4Cl; M (NH4Cl) = 53.5 g.mol-1.

Describe, briefly, the procedure for the preparation of solution (B)

choosing the materials needed from the given list of available materials.

List of Available Materials

 Precision balance, watch glass, spatula, funnel, magnetic stirrer
 Beakers: 100, 200 and 500 mL
 Graduated cylinders: 100, 200 and 500 mL
 Volumetric flasks: 100, 200 and 500 mL
 Volumetric pipets: 10 and 20 mL

62
  Answer: In order to prepare 500 mL of solution (B), the mass needed is:
m = 0.1 x500x10 -3 x53.5 = 2.675g. Using precision balance,
spatula and watch glass, weigh 2.675 g of NH4Cl(s).Using funnel,
introduce the weighed solid into a 500 mL volumetric flask
containing a little of distilled water, shake to dissolve the solid;
add more distilled water to fill the volumetric flask till the line
mark. Stopper the volumetric flask; invert it several times to
homogenize the solution.

9- Show: Prove something is evident by logical reasoning, experimenting,

calculating,...

 Example: C6H5 – N2Cl is an explosive, not containing oxygen, it is stored

at a temperature less than 50C. The decomposition of
C6H5 – N2Cl in an aqueous medium at a temperature of 250C is
slow. This decomposition takes place according to the following
equation:

C6H5 – N2Cl (aq) → C6H5 – Cl (aq) + N2 (g).

Given:
- Molar volume of gas at the experimental conditions:
Vm = 25 L.mol-1.
- C6H5 – N2Cl is decomposed in a solution of volume 1 L.

Show, at each instant t, that the concentration of C6H5 – Cl, expressed in

mol.L-1 is given by the following expression: [C6H5 – Cl]t = 4x10-5xV ;
where V is the volume, in mL, of nitrogen gas formed at instant t.

 Answer: At each instant t: n (C6H5Cl) formed = n (N2) formed.

Dividing by the volume of solution (1 L), we get:
V (N 2 ) Vx10 3 Vx10 3
[C6H5Cl] t = = = 4x10-5 x V
Vm xVsolution Vm x1 25

10- Deduce: Draw using logical reasoning new information from given or existing
information.

 Example: 0.05 mol of propanoyl chloride is reacted with an excess of a

saturated non cyclic mono alcohol (D) designated as (R-OH) in
the presence of a suitable catalyst. At the end of the reaction, an
ester (E) is obtained, having the odor of a fruit and of mass equal
to 5.8g, according to the following equation:

C2H5 – CO – Cl + R – OH Ester + HCl

(E)

1- Determine the molar mass of ester (E).

2- Deduce the molecular formula of alcohol (D).

63
  Answer :
1- According to the law of conservation of mass:
M (C2H5COCl) + M(D) = M(ester) + M(HCl)
M (D) = (116 + 36.5) - 92.5 = 60 g.mol -1.
2- Alcohol (D) has a molecular formula CxH2x+1 OH ;
or M (CxH2x+1 OH) = 14x +18 = 60 and x = 3.
Therefore, the molecular formula alcohol (D) is C3H7OH.

11- Draw out: Draw from a set of given and without reasoning a relation, a role, a
law, ….

 Example: Carbon monoxide, CO, is largely used in industry to synthesize

different basic organic compounds. The reaction of propene, with
a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen gas in the presence
of a convenient catalyst, leads to a mixture of two isomeric
aldehydes having 4 carbon atoms and consequently to 1-butanol.
Similarly, 1-pentanol can be obtained from carbon monoxide,
hydrogen gas and 1-butene by reacting.

Draw out, from what has preceded, the importance of carbon monoxide in
organic industry.

 Answer: In organic industry, carbon monoxide participates in the

synthesis of organic compounds having longer carbon chains
than the starting compounds.

12- Distinguish: Recognize or discern one thing from another according to particular
traits.

 Example: Using pH meter, titration is carried out for the following two
cases:
- Strong acid-strong base
- Weak acid-strong base

The results obtained are given by the graph given below.

64
 Distinguish, based on the obtained results, a strong acid from a weak
acid.

 Answer: Case of strong acid-strong base: The curve admits one inflection
point of pH =7
Case of weak acid-strong base: The curve admits two inflection
poi nt s .

13- Explain: Clarify, make understandable a phenomenon, a result, ...

 Example: A tablet of effervescent aspirin contains acetylsalicylic acid and

an excess of sodium hydrogen carbonate (NaHCO3). These two
ingredients are inert in anhydrous medium and are reactive in an
aqueous solution giving A- ions. These ions (A-) produce (HA)
in acidic medium in the form of very tiny dispersed crystals.

Explain how the formulation of effervescent aspirin facilitates the

absorption of aspirin by the stomach.

 Answer: The formulation of effervescent aspirin has the advantage of

dispersing the active site in the ionic form (A-) in an aqueous
solution. In the stomach, this ion reacts with gastric juice (H3O+)
to produce HA (salicylic acid) in the form of very tiny crystals
that are dispersed all over the mucous wall of the stomach where
they are rapidly absorbed.

14- Identify: Recognize something based on its characteristics or its properties.

 Example: A volume of hydrogen peroxide solution is placed in a 100 mL

volumetric flask. The volumetric flask is placed on an precision
balance.
At time t=0, a volume of 2 mL of iron (III) nitrate solution is
poured into the volumetric flask.
After a short time, the release of large amount of oxygen gas is
observed from the decomposition reaction according to the
following equation:
2 H2O2 (aq) → 2 H2O(l) + O2 (g)

As time elapses the balance indicates a decrease in mass. During

this decomposition, the variation in mass Δm is recorded which,
practically represents the mass of oxygen gas released at each
instant of time t.

Given :
- Oxygen gas practically is insoluble in water.
Δm
- n(H2O2) left at t = 4.46×10-2 -
16

65
 Identify the chemical species present in the obtained solution at the
instant where Δm is equal to 713 mg.

 Answer: For Δm = 713 mg, we get n(H2O2) left at t ≈ 0

 H2O2 has reacted completely and the chemical species
present in the obtained solution are : H2O which is the
solvent and is one of the products in the reaction, Fe3+
which is a catalyst and NO 3 which is an indifferent
(spectator) ion.

15- Interpret: Analyze and give significance to the result.

 Example: Permanganate ions (MnO 4 ) react with oxalic acid (H2C2O4) in

acidic medium according to the following equation:

2 MnO 4 (aq) + 5 H2C2O4(aq) + 6 H3O+(aq) → 2 Mn2+(aq) + 10 CO2(g) + 14 H2O(l)

Where, (MnO 4 ) is the only colored species in the reaction-

medium.
In order to study the effect of some kinetic factors on the rate
of the above reaction, the three following mixtures are
prepared. (Potassium permanganate solution is added to each
mixture at t = 0).

Mixture (A) Mixture (B) Mixture (C)

H2C2O4 : C1 = 2.0x10-2 mol.L-1 V1 = 20 mL V1 = 20 mL V1 = 20 mL
H2SO4 concentrated V2 = 10 mL V2 = 10 mL V2 = 10 mL
Distilled water 0 60 mL 0
Temperature θ ºC 20 ºC 20 ºC 40 º C
KMnO4 : C3 = 1.0x10-2 mol.L-1 V3 = 10 mL V3 = 10 mL V3 = 10 mL
Δt Δt (A) = 140 s Δt (B) = 190 s Δt (C) = 22 s

Δt is the time needed to obtain decolorization of the mixture.

Interpret the decolorization of the solution in each mixture at the end of

the reaction.

 Answer: In each of the three mixtures, the only colored species is the
MnO4- ion. At the end of the reaction, there is complete
disappearance of this species and the appearance (formation) of
the colorless Mn2+ species; this interprets the decolorization of
the solution in each mixture.

16- Indicate: Designate something without justification.

 Example: The carboxylate ion (R – COO – ) of a soap is formed of two

parts, the hydrocarbon chain (R –) and the carboxylate group
(– COO –).

66
 Indicate, in the carboxylate ion, the part that corresponds to the hydrophilic
group and the part that corresponds to the hydrophobic group.

 Answer: The hydrocarbon part (R –) is hydrophobic group and the part

(– COO – ) is hydrophilic group.

17- Justify: Prove something as true and real.

 Example: A solution of (H3O+ + Cl –) is gradually added into a beaker

containing sodium ethoxide solution and few drops of
bromothymol blue until equivalence point is reached.
The pH of the solution at the equivalence point is equal to 7.

Justify this result based on the chemical species present in this solution.

 Answer : At the equivalence point, the major species present in the

solution are: Na+ , Cl –, C2H5OH and water. The species:
Na+, Cl – and C2H5OH (conjugate acid of strong base) are
indifferent with respect to water.
The pH will be equal to that of pure water at 25oC; pH = 7.

18- Specify: Indicate and justify.

 Example: A solution of (H3O+ + Cl –) is gradually added into a beaker

containing sodium ethoxide solution and few drops of
bromothymol blue, until equivalence point is attained.

Given :
Bromothymolblue : Yellow 6.0 Green 7.6 Blue.

Specify the color change observed at the equivalence point.

 Answer : At equivalence point, adding a single drop will cause the color of
the solution to change from blue to green.

19- Pick out (Extract): Select one or more information from a document.

 Example: A healthy food helps to improve general health and the

wellbeing. A healthy diet can help with better feeling, ensures
more energy, and helps to remain active, in good form and to
fight the stress…

Pick out from the text four advantages of healthy diet.

 Answer: The four advantages are:

Helps with better feeling, ensures more energy, helps to remain
active and in good form and to fight the stress.…

67
20- Verify: Confirm using arguments, logical reasoning,… whether something is
true or false.

 Example: Sodium hydrogencarbonate (NaHCO3) commercially known as

sodium bicarbonate is much used in everyday life.

Conjugate acid-base pair HCO 3 /CO 32 (CO2,H2O) / HCO 3 H2O/OH – H3O+/H2O
pKa 10.3 6.4 14 0

A volume of sodium hydrogencarbonate solution Vb = 20 mL is

introduced into a beaker. A hydrochloric acid solution of
concentration Ca = 0.10 mol.L-1 is added gradually into the
beaker and the pH change is measured using a calibrated pH
meter.

The results are recorded in the table below:

Va(mL) 0 1 2 4 6 10 12 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 25
pH 8.0 7.2 7.0 6.8 6.6 6.3 6.2 6.1 6.0 5.8 5.3 4.0 2.8 2.4 2.3 2.1

1- Plot, on a graph paper, the curve pH = f(Va).

Take as scale; on X-axis: 1 cm for 2 mL; Y-axis: 1 cm for 1 pH unit.
2- Verify, graphically, the value of pKa of the conjugate acid- base pair
(CO2,H2O)/ HCO 3 .

 Answer:

1-

[base]
2- At half-equivalence point: pH = pKa + log with [base] = [acid].
[acide]
 pH = pKa ; for Va = 9.5 mL, => pKa = 6.4.

68
EXAMPLES ON ACTION VERBS
OFFICIAL EXAMS
THIRD YEAR OF SECONDARY CYCLE

LIFE SCIENCE

69
70
1- Analyze: Decompose a whole into its constituent elements to make evident the
variations.

 Example 1: Experiment The parathyroid glands that are situated at the base
of the neck are four in
number. Their structure
shows no excretory ducts, but
they are richly irrigated by
blood vessels. The
parathyroid glands do not
secrete calcium.
In order to determine the role
of these glands, we inject a
substance isolated from
parathyroid extracts into a
normal animal and we
measure the evolution of calcemia. The obtained results are
presented in the adjacent document.

Analyze the obtained results.

 Answer : From day 0 till day 2 before the injection of parathyroider

extracts, calcemia rate remains constant at 100 mg.L –1.Then it
increases from 100mg/L to 210 mg/L between D 2 and D 4.5
after two successive injections of parathyroid extracts at D2 and
D3.

 Example 2 : Adipose cells

(adipocytes) are
extracted from a
healthy person
and from another
person affected
with type 2
diabetes. These
cells are cultured
in a medium
containing 14C-
labelled glucose. Insulin is added to this medium and the amount
of 14C contained in the adipocytes is measured. The results are
shown in the adjacent document.
Analyze the obtained results.

71
  Answer: The quantity of 14C absorbed by the adipocytes of a healthy
person increases from 120 a.u to 300 a.u. as the quantity of
insulin added increases from 0.01 mmol to 100 mmol. Also, for
the same quantity of added insulin, the quantity of 14C absorbed
by the adipocytes of a person affected with type 2 diabetes
increases, but slightly, and fluctuates between 100 and 150a.u.

2- Calculate: (Compute) Perform mathematical operations.

 Example 1 : Geneticists crossed a mouse having curly hair and malformed

eyes with a mouse having smooth-hair and normal eyes. All the
mice of the first generation (F1) have curly hair and normal eyes.
The results of (F2) generation resulting from crossing of F1
female mice with F1 male mice are the following:
 42 mice having smooth-hair and normal eye.
 127 mice having curly hair and normal eyes.
 41 mice having curly hair and malformed eyes.
 14 mice having smooth hair and malformed eyes.

Calculate the phenotypic proportions of the F2 generation.

 Answer: Calculation of proportions of F2:

42/14 = 3 ; 127 / 14 = 9,07 ≈9 ; 41/14 = 2,92 ≈ 3 14 / 14 = 1
Total = 3 + 9 +3 +1 = 16

3/16 mice having smooth-hair and normal eye.

9/16 mice having curly hair and normal eyes.
3/16 mice having curly hair and malformed eyes.
1/16 mice having smooth hair and malformed eyes.

 Example 2: Calculate the BMI (body mass Index) of an individual whose

mass is 80 kg and whose length is 160cm knowing that
BMI= M/T2 (mass in kg, length in m).

 Answer: BMI = M/T2 = 80 / (1.6) 2 = 31.25 kg/m2.

3- State: Express without explaining .

 Example 1: State the steps of the transmission of nerve message at the level
of synapse.

 Answer:
 Arrival of the A.P. to the terminal buds of the presynaptic
neuron.
 Entrance of Ca2+ into the terminal buds of presynaptic neuron.
 Exocytosis of synaptic vesicles.
 Liberation of the neurotransmitter to the synaptic cleft.

72
  Fixation of the neurotransmitters on specific receptors on
postsynaptic membrane
 Opening of the postsynaptic channels.
 Generation of postsynaptic potential.
 Degradation of the neurotransmitters by specific enzymes or/and
recapturing of neurotransmitters through the presynaptic
membrane.

 Example 2: State (List) three biological effects resulting from cortisol

discharge during stress.

 Answer: Three of five effects:

 Increases the amount of glucose in the blood.
 Slows down water excretion by the kidneys.
 Contributes to body's resistance against aggression.
 Has an anti-inflammatory effect.
 Reduces the glucose consumption by cells except the brain
cells.

4- Compare: Indicate the similarities and/or differences between two or more

entities .

 Example 1: In the framework of studying the role of insulin, the researchers

measured the absorption of glucose and the amount of stored
glycogen in a muscle placed in a medium with or without insulin.
The results are shown in the following document.

Quantity of absorbed glucose Quantity of glycogen contained

by muscle in the muscle
(in mg/g of muscle) every 10 minutes (in mg/g of muscle) after 10 minutes
Medium without Medium with Medium without Medium with
insuline insulin insuline insulin
2.85
1.43 1.88 2.45

Compare the obtained results.

 Answer: Every 10 min, the quantity of glucose absorbed by the muscle in

a medium containing insulin(1.88mg/g of muscle) is greater than
that absorbrd by the muscle in a medium deprived of insulin
(1.43mg/g of muscle). Similarily, after 10 min, the quantity of
glycogen contained in the muscle present in the medium with
insulin(2.85mg/g of muscle) is greater than that contained in the
muscle in the medium without insulin ( 2.45 mg/g of muscle).

 Example 2 : Document 1 reveals the foods consumed by a person in one day,

document 2 reveals the distribution of the energy supply by these

73
 foods, and document 3 reveals the distribution of energy supply
recommended by dietitians.

 Breakfast: tea, cake, cereals, Breakfast: 20% Breakfast: 25%

orange juice.
 Lunch: half an avocado, pasta, Lunch: 40% Lunch: 30%
lamb meat, fresh pineapple, water.
 4 O'clock snack: two biscuits, 4 O'clock snack:10% 4 O'clock snack:15%
apple, water.
 Dinner: fish, carrots, potatoes, Dinner: 30% Dinner: 30%
yoghurt, orange, bread, water.

Document 1 Document 2 Document 3

Compare the distribution of energy supply of the foods consumed by this

person to that recommended by dietitians.

 Answer: In this person, the energy supply from breakfast (20%) is less
than that recommended by a dietitians (25%), and the energy
supply from 4 O'clock snack (10%) is less than that
recommended by a dietician (15%). However, the energy supply
from lunch (40%) is more than that recommended by dietitians
(30%), and the energy supply from dinner (30%) is the same as
that recommended by the dietitians (30%).

5- Complete: Add what is missing.

 Example 1: Oxytocin is a hormone produced by the posterior pituitary gland

which activity is controlled by the hypothalamus. This hormone
stimulates milk ejection by the mammary glands. For this reason,
the oxytocin concentration in the blood of a lactating female
(sheep or goat) increases during breast feeding (sucking milk).

Complete the functional diagram below illustrating the mechanism of

milk ejection by naming the structures that correspond to the numbered
boxes 1, 2 and 3.

 Answer:
1 : sensory receptor
2 : hypothalamus
3 : mammary glands

74
  Example 2: The document below represents a functional diagram showing
the mechanism of transmission of a nerve message at the level of
an excitatory synapse.

Complete the functional diagram by writing the convenient expression in

each of the empty boxes, 3 and 5.

1 2 3 4 5

 Answer:

1 2 3 4 5

6- Conclude: Reach to a decision.

 Example 1: Myotatic reflex is a

muscle response
triggered by a
stimulus which
receptor is the
neuromuscular
spindle.

Tapping the Achillean

tendon provokes the
stretching of the foot’s
extensor muscle into
variable lengths.
Simultaneously, and
during the same duration, we record the nerve message
transmitted all along a nerve fiber issued from the
neuromuscular spindle of this muscle. The results are shown in
document 1.
1- a) Interpret the obtained recordings.
b) What can you conclude?

 Answers:
1-a) Following a weak stretching of the neuromuscular
spindle, six action potentials (AP) of the same amplitude
of 100mV are recorded. This number increases to 34 AP,
in the same duration, when the stretching increases
(strong stretching), while the amplitude of the AP
remains constant. Therefore, the response of the nerve
fiber increases only in frequency when the intensity of the
stimulus increases.
b) At the level of a nerve fiber, the nerve message is coded
by modulation of frequency of AP and not by amplitude.

75
  Example 2: We inject, with a micropipette a certain quantity of the
neurotransmitter acetylcholine, at the level of the two categories
of neurons, A and B, that are in different states of activity. We
measure, at the same time, the frequency of action potentials
transmitted at the level of these neurons. The results are
presented in the table below.

Time (in seconds)

10 15 20 30 50
Frequency of AP
Neurons A 3 10 14 14 3
Neurons B 40 30 20 20 40

Injection of acetylcholine

1- a) Analyze the obtained results.

b) What can you conclude concerning the action of
acetylcholine?
 Answers:

1- a) 10 seconds before the injection of acetylcholine, the

frequency of AP recorded at the level of neurons A is 3,
and at the level of neurons B is 40.
After the injection of acetylcholine at the 15th second ,
the frequency of AP increases to 10 AP in neurons A
while decreases to 30 AP in neurons B. As injection of
acetylcholine continuous till the 30th second, the
frequency of AP continues increasing to 14 A.P. at the
level of neurons A while continues decreasing to 20 A.P.
at the level of neurons B, as the time proceeds to the 20th
second, then it stays constant in both neurons A and B
till the 30th second . After the arrest of acetylcholine
injection at the 50th second, the frequency of AP returned
back to their initial state before each injection in both
neurons A and B: 3 AP at the level of neurons A and 40
AP at the level of neurons B.
b) Acetylcholine has an excitatory action on neurons A, and
an inhibitory action on neurons B.

OR Acetylcholine has a double effect on neurons : Excitatory and

inhibitory.

76
7- Determine: Reach a decision or a result through logical reasoning, calculation...

 Example 1: Phenylketonuria is a
disease caused by a
deficit in a hepatic
enzyme – PAH –
responsible for the
transformation of an
amino acid,
phenylalanine, into
another one called
tyrosine. In Europe, the

risk of being heterozygous is 1/50. Document 1

Document 1 shows the pedigrees of two families A and B which

some members are affected with this disease. Couples (3, 4) of
family A and (1, 2) of family B ask for a prenatal diagnosis.
1- Determine, by rigorous analysis of the pedigree of family B,
whether the allele responsible for the disease is dominant or
recessive and the location of the gene responsible for the
disease.
2- Determine the genetic risk for each fetus to be affected with
this disease.

 Answers:
1- The pedigree of family B reveals that normal parents have a
daughter and a boy both affected. This means that the allele
responsible for the disease is present in the parents but
masked, which means it is recessive.
The gene is not located on gonosomes because if the gene
was Y-linked on the segment not homologous with X, the
females could not be affected, but this is not the case. If the
gene for the disease was X-linked on the segment not
homologous with Y, then, the diseased daughter in family B
would have both alleles for the disease carried on 2X
chromosomes, and this means that she would have inherited
one of these X chromosome from her father, then her father
should be diseased, but this is not the case. If the gene was
linked on the homologous segment of X and Y, then the
father of the diseased children in family B would have been
affected in order to give X and Y chromosomes, both
carrying the affected allele, to his daughter and son
respectively, but this is not the case.
Therefore, the allele responsible for this disease is located on
an autosome.
2- The risk for the fetus in family A to be diseased: Mother (3)
is healthy with no family history of phenylketonuria. Then,
the probability to be heterozygous is 1/50 and in this case,
half of her gametes will be carrying the mutant allele. Father

77
 (4) is healthy but has an affected brother, then the probability
to be healthy and heterozygous is 2/3 and to be healthy
homozygous is1/3.
If the father is healthy homozygous, the risk to obtain a
diseased fetus is nil since the father can only transmit the
normal allele to his descendants.
However, if the father is healthy and heterozygous, half of
his gametes will be carrying the mutant allele.
Then the risk to obtain a fetus which is diseased will be:
2/3 x1/2x1/2 x1/50= 1/300.
The risk of the fetus in family B to be diseased: The parents
of the fetus are necessarily heterozygous, then half of their
gametes will be carrying the allele of the disease.
Then the risk of having a fetus which is diseased will be:
1/2x1/2= ¼.

 Example 2: An experimenter connected two microelectrodes ,R1 and R2 to

the sensory neuron of an insect which is placed in physiological
liquid (doc 1) .

The sensory ending of this neuron is subjected to mechanical

stimuli of increasing intensities (I1< I2< I3 < I4). The obtained
results are represented in document 2.

Document 2
Determine, by referring to document 2, the form of coding of nerve
message at the level of nerve fiber.

 Answer: The number of APs recorded by R1 and R2 increases from 3AP

to 6AP during 4ms ,while their amplitude stays constant, as the
intensity of effective stimulation increases from I2 to I4. This
means that the at the level of a nerve fiber, the nerve message is
coded in terms of modulation of frequency of AP and not
amplitude.

78
8- Describe: Express using scientific
language, to give the details of an
observation, an experiment, a schema, an
apparatus...

 Example 1: In order to study one of

the characteristics of the
immune response, the
experiment shown in the
adjacent document was
carried out.

Write a short text describing the

experiment carried out as well as
the obtained results.

 Answer: Antigen A is injected into a mouse at t0. 7 days later, cells of the
lymphatic ganglia are extracted and put in 3 culture media:
Without antigens in medium (1), with antigen A in medium (2),
and with antigen B in medium (3). We observe the presence of
lymphocytes proliferation in medium (2) and absence of
lymphocytes proliferation in media (1) and (3).

 Example 2: Spider silk is a

protein which
is more
resistant than
steel and
lighter than
carbon fiber.
Being flexible
and recyclable,
this protein
became of
human interest
for various
applications:
stitching
threads for surgery, bone prostheses, anti-bullet vests….... One
inconvenience is that raising of spiders is difficult, and the
production of this silk is rare.
Studies showed that the mammary glands are similar to the
glands which secrete silk in a spider. From these studies, the
idea of transferring the gene coding for spider silk to a mammal,
such as the goat, came out. The above document shows the
technique of gene transfer achieved.

Describe this technique.

79
  Answer: We remove a cell from the spider and extract the gene of the silk
protein. We transfer this gene into the nucleus of a skin cell
taken from goat A. We take a zygote from goat B and we remove
its nucleus. Then we transplant the nucleus of the cell taken from
goat A into the anucleated zygote of goat B. We obtain a
transgenic zygote that gives an embryo, which becomes a
transgenic goat C. The milk produced by this goat contains the
silk protein that, after purification, gives the spider silk thread.

9- Show/ show that: Prove “something” is evident by logical reasoning,

experimenting, calculating…

 Example 1: In the midst of the twentieth Century, two hypotheses were

proposed to explain the high diversity of antibodies.

First hypothesis: Any lymphocyte encountering any antigen is capable

of producing antibodies specific to this antigen.
Second hypothesis: Only some lymphocytes which correspond to an
antigen are capable of producing antibodies specific to this antigen.
To know which of the two hypotheses is valid, an experiment was
performed on mice of the same strain. The steps and results of this
experiment are represented in the document below.

Show which of the two hypothesis is validated.

80
 Answer: Lymphocytes (Lot1) which are extracted from the normal mouse
S1 and injected in mouse S2 deprived of its lymphocytes, were
able to produce anti-BSA antibodies after their contact with ABS
antigen and anti-CGB antibodies after their contact with CGB
antigen.
However, Lymphocytes (lot2) ,originating from the same mouse
S1and traversing a column having ABS antigen attached to a
solid matrix then injected to mouse S3 deprived of its
lymphocytes, upon encountering the same type of antigens, were
not able to produce anti-ABS antibodies, but were able to
produce anti-CGB antibodies.
We can say that mouse (3) did not receive lymphocytes specific
to ABS antigen since these lymphocytes bind to ABS antigen
attached to the solid matrix of the column, but it received other
lymphocytes, some of which are specific to CGB antigen and
which were able to pass through this column. Then, for each
antigen, there are specific lymphocytes which produce specific
antibodies against it and not any lymphocyte encountering any
antigen is capable of producing antibodies specific to it. So, the
second hypothesis is valid.

 Example 2: The increase of

childhood obesity
in some countries
is alarming. 20 to
50% of obese or
overweight
children before
puberty will
remain obese in
adolescence. Of
these obese
adolescents, 50 to 70% will remain in adulthood.
The neighboring document shows the variations of the
percentage of obesity among children who are5 to 11 years old in
two different countries X and Y.

Show that childhood obesity is truly alarming

 Answer: From 1960 till 2000, the percentage of childhood obesity

increased from 2% to 16% in country X and from 2% to 20% in
country Y . Because the childhood obesity increases in both
countries , and as 20 to 50% of these children will remain obese
in adolescence and 50 to 70% of these adolescents will remain
obese in adulthood, then we can say that childhood obesity is
truly alarming.

81
10- Deduce: Draw using logical reasoning new information from given or existing
information.

 Example 1: To better understand

one of the immune
responses triggered
against the EBV virus,
we follow up the
evolution of anti-VCA
a nd anti-EBNA
antibodies directed
respectively against two
peptides, VCA and
EBNA, that are found
on the surface of this virus. The results are shown in the adjacent
document.

Deduce, based on this document, that the immune response revealed by

the results is specific for the antigen epitope (antigenic determinant).

 Answer: Since after the infection with EBV virus the organism produces
two different types of antibodies, anti-VCA and anti-EBNA
antibodies against the two peptides on the surface of the same
virus, we deduce that the immune response is specific for
epitopes on the antigen.

 Example 2: In the framework of studying the transmission of nerve message

at the level of the synapse, we realize the experimental setup
presented in document1. We stimulate the presynaptic axon and
register the recordings by electrode E0, placed at the level of the
postsynaptic membrane. Document 2 shows the results obtained
in two different cases:

1st case: Effective stimulation of the presynaptic neuron.

2nd case: Effective stimulation of the presynaptic neuron

preceded by an injection of a chemical substance,
curare, in the synaptic cleft. This substance has a high
affinity to the receptors of acetylcholine, a
neurotransmitter which interferes in the neuromuscular
synapse.

82
 Deduce the role of curare.

 Answer: After curare injection, no EPSP is recorded after effectively

stimulating the presynaptic neuron. We deduce that curare blocks
the action of acetylcholine.

11- Draw out: Draw from a set of given and without reasoning a relation, a role, a
law…

 Example 1: In order to
understand t he
functioning of the
neurons’ circuits
implied in
maintaining posture
during dancing, and
to know how
muscles interfere in
maintaining t he
body’s equilibrium
the following
experiment is
performed. A nerve fiber issued from a neuromuscular spindle
of an extensor muscle, the triceps surae, is stimulated. This
stimulation leads to modifications of the electric status of two
motor neurons, M1 and M2, located at the level of the gray
substance of the spinal cord. One of these motor neurons
innervates the extensor muscle while the other innervates the
flexor muscle, anterior tibialis. The above document reveals the
experimental set up and the results of the recordings.

Draw out, based on the document, the effect of the activity of the motor
neurons on the concerned muscles.

83
  Answer: M1 sent an excitatory nerve message to the triceps surae, so it
contracted; M2 did not send any message to the anterior tibialis,
so it remained relaxed.

 Example 2:

"Scurvy is one of the old known diseases. It was the main cause of death
among sailors. This disease starts with fatigue then it is manifested by edema
in arms and legs, followed by bleeding of the nose and gum. The teeth become
unstable and fall down. Persons having this disease are incapable of standing,
and die from exhaustion or from complications of respiratory infections. In
1593, the sailors of an English ship that was sailing to India did not get the
disease because their captain made them drink daily a few drops of fresh
citrus juice: orange and lemon. In May 20th, 1747, James Lind, an English
physician, prescribed six different treatments to 12 sailors, having the disease,
divided into groups of two. After six days, only the sailors who ate fresh
oranges and lemons were healed. Analysis showed that citrus fruits are rich in
ascorbic acid.

" Doctor C.BINET, Vitamines et vitaminothermpie

Draw out from the text the cause of this disease.

 Answer: Scurvy is due to the absence of ascorbic acid found in fresh

citrus fruits.

12- Distinguish: Recognize or discern one “thing” from another according to

particular traits.

 Example 1: Distinguish Anaphase I from Anaphase II

 Answer: During Anaphase I homologous chromosomes ,each two

chromatids, separate and migrate to opposite poles of the cell,
while during anaphase II sister chromatids separate to opposite
poles of the cell.

13- Explain: Clarify, make comprehensive a phenomenon, a result...

 Example 1 : Female rabbits were mated with sterile males in order to induce
ovulation, and then they were inseminated with sperm cells taken
from different levels of the genital tract of adult fertile male
rabbits.
One day following the insemination, the aspect of the cells that
were taken from the oviducts was observed under the
microscope. Document 1 presents the percentages of the two
main aspects (schema X and Y) observed according to the site
where the sperm cells were removed.

84
 Explain briefly the structural modifications that take place during the
passage of the cell from aspect X to aspect Y.

 Answer: The scheme X represents an oocyte II blocked at metaphase II

after having released the first polar body. Once fertilized by a
sperm cell, this cell releases the content of its cortical granules
forming the fertilization membrane and resumes meiosis II and
releases the second polar body. The male and female pronuclei
are formed. This is how the cell passes from aspect X to aspect
Y.

14- Identify: Recognize “something” based on its characteristics or its properties.

 Example 1: Duchene
Myopathy is a
degenerative
disease of muscle
fibers which is
due to a gene
carried on the
non- homologous
segment of Document 1
chromosome X.
Boys affected with myopathy do not synthesize the muscle
protein, dystrophin, or synthesize an inactive form of dystrophin.
Document 1 represents the pedigree of a family having one of its
members affected with the disease.

85
 Parents (1&2) who are
expecting a baby want to
know whether their fetus is
at risk of developing the
disease. They consult a
doctor who proposes a
prenatal diagnostic test by
applying Southern Blot
technique. The results are
shown in document 2.

Identify, by referring to document 1 and the autoradiography of

document2, the allele responsible for the disease..

 Answer: Male 5 is diseased and has the genotype Xm//Y (document 1)

and the autoradiography( doc 2) shows that he possesses the
allele of length 1.3Kb. This means that the allele responsible for
the diseases corresponds to the fragment 1.3Kb.

 Example 2: We perform a series

of electric
stimulations of
increasing intensity
on a presynaptic
neuron, and we
record the electric
activity of t he
presynaptic and post
synaptic neurons. Document 1 shows the experimental set-up,
and document 2 represents the recordings obtained during a
certain time (t).

Identify the type of the synapse based on document 2.

 Answer:: After the stimulation of presynaptic neuron, the electric activity

recorded at the level of the postsynaptic neuron shows a number
of AP. This means synapse S allows the transmission of nerve
messages from the presynaptic neuron to the post synaptic
neuron which means that this synapse is excitatory.

86
15- Interpret: Analyze and give significance to the result.

 Example 1: In order to study

the characteristics
of a nerve message
in an achillian
reflex before and
after it passes
through the spinal
cord, we use the
experimental set
up presented in
document 1 and we realize the experiments described below. The
experimental set up in document 1 shows the location of the
stimulating electrodes on the afferent fibers and that of recording
electrodes on different oscilloscopes. Oscilloscope O1 permits
recording the effect of stimulations of one or more afferent
fibers; Oscilloscopes O2 and O3 permit the recording of the
electric responses of motor neurons M1 and M2 respectively at
the level of the implantation cone.

Oscilloscope O4
permits recording of
the electric activity at
the level of the axon of
motor neuron M1.
We apply two
successive effective
stimulations on one of
the afferent fibers Fa1,
and we vary the time
between these two
stimulations. The
results, recorded by O2, are shown in document 2.

Interpret the results obtained in document 2.

 Answer: Two hypopolarizations, of the same amplitude are obtained after

two successive stimulations separated approximately with a time
difference of 16 ms. These two hypopolarizations get closer and
sum up, producing an action potential with an amplitude 100 mV
when the time difference between the two stimulations decreases
to 6 msec. This means that the motor neuron M1 integrates the
successive messages arriving from the same afferent neuron
Fa1by performing temporal summation of EPSP.

87
  Example 2: Oxytocin is a hormone
produced by the posterior
pituitary gland. It
stimulates milk ejection by
mammary glands. In vitro,
the muscle cells of the
mammary glands contract
under the effect of oxytocin
added into the culture
medium. In order to
determine the stimulus at
the origin of oxytocin
secretion, we measure its concentration in the blood of a
lactating female (ewe or goat) before and during suckling (breast
feeding) periods by withdrawing 15 ml of blood each 10
seconds. The obtained results are presented in the adjacent
document.

Interpret the obtained results.

 Answer: 10 seconds before the beginning of suckling, the concentration

of oxytocin was 5 μU/ ml. After the beginning of suckling , this
concentration increases to reach a max of 40 μU/ ml after 10
seconds, then decreases to 5 μU/ ml after 40 seconds from the
beginning of suckling, then stabilizes at this level till the 50th
second inspite of the persistence of suckling. This implies that
suckling stimulates the secretion of oxytocin, but this effect is
momentary as it does not last during the time of suckling.

16- Indicate: Designate “something” without justification.

 Example 1: Indicate the true statements.

1. Proteins are long chains of fatty acids.
2. Energy expenditures of the body depend on the activity of its
cells.
3. In order to form blood hemoglobin, the body needs calcium.

 Answer: 2: Correct

 Example 2: In an attempt to study autosomal heredity in drosophilae, we

cross a drosophila of pure race having gray body, red eyes and
well-formed wings with another drosophila of pure race having
black body, purple eyes and deformed wings. We obtain in F1
100% drosophilae having gray body, red eyes and well-formed
wings.

Indicate the dominant allele and the recessive allele for each of the
studied genes.

88
  Answer: For the first trait, body color, the allele coding for gray body is
dominant over the allele coding for black body which is
recessive.
For the second trait, eye color, the allele coding for red eyes is
dominant over the allele coding for purple eyes which is
recessive.
For the third trait, appearance of wings, the allele coding for
normal wings is dominant over the allele coding for malformed
wings which is recessive.

17- Justify: Prove “something” as true and real.

 Example 1: The following

pedigree
represents a
family whose
some members
are affected by
phenylketonuria.

Justify that this disease is Healthy female Healthy male Fetus

recessive. Diseased Diseased male
female

 Answer: Couples (3-4) and (5-6) are normal but their children (7,10, and
11) are diseased. This means that the allele for the diseases is
present in each of the normal parents ,but it is masked. Then the
allele responsible for the disease is recessive.

 Example 2:

In an attempt to know the reason that makes smokers continue smoking,

doctors put rats in a cage having two holes. When the rats put their heads into
one hole, nothing happens. When they put their heads into the second hole, they
receive a nicotine dose.
At the beginning of the experiment, rats move toward the two holes in the same
way, then gradually, they start going toward the hole where they receive
nicotine.
Cerebral tissue analysis of the rats at the end of the experiment shows that
certain modifications appear: The links between the neurons are weakened, a
number of neurons are degenerated, and a number of neurons are not
renewed.”

Justify, based on the text and your knowledge, that nicotine found in
tobacco is a drug.

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  Answer: Throughout the experiment, more & more rats moved toward the
hole where they receive nicotine. So, nicotine altered the
behavior of rats by inducing a state of dependence. Also, nicotine
affects the function of cerbral neurons and their renewal. As the
drug modifies the function of the neuron and induce a state of
dependence, we can say that the nicotine in tobacco is a drug.

18- Specify: Indicate and justify

 Example 1: Duchene Myopathy

is a degenerative
disease of muscle
fibers which is due
to a gene carried on
the non- homologous
segment of
chromosome X.
Boys affected with myopathy do not synthesize the muscle
protein, dystrophin, or synthesize an inactive form of dystrophin.
The adjacent document represents the pedigree of a family
having one member of its family affected with this disease.

Specify the genotypes of the parents.

 Answer: The genotype of the father is XN//Y, and the genotype of the
mother is XN//Xm.
The father is normal, so he carries allele N on the only X
chromosome that he owns.
The mother is normal so she has allele N(XN), and her son (5) of
genotype XmY is diseased, so he takes from his mother ( Xm),.

 Example 2: We apply
stimulations of
increasing intensities
to a nerve and a
nerve fiber ,and we
record the electrical
activity of each of
them. The
amplitudes of the
responses are
represented in
documents 1 and 2.

Specify which of the two

documents corresponds to a
nerve fiber and which one to
a nerve.

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  Answer: Document 1 corresponds to the response of a nerve.
Document 2 corresponds to the response of a nerve fiber.
Document 1 corresponds to the response of a nerve since the
amplitude of the response increases from 0% to a max of 100%
as the intensity of stimulation increases from a minimal effective
intensity of stimulation or threshold intensity (3 a.u) to a
maximal Intensity of stimulation(10 a.u).

Document 2 corresponds to the response of a nerve fiber since

from the minimum effective intensity or the threshold intensity
(3 a.u.) and on, there is maximum response of amplitude (100%)
for any effective stimulation, whatever, the intensity of
stimulation is above 3 a.u,

19- Pick out (Extract): Select one or more information from a document.

 Example 1: In the framework of studying some aspects of the control

mechanism of muscle activity during dancing, studies were
carried out and summarized in the document below.

The movements of a dancer are performed in sequences, which are not always
predictable since each of these movements is triggered by an intention: the
body is then used as a means of expression.
However, any body’s movement is hindered by a force – gravity – which attracts it
towards the ground. To control body movement and to reach equilibrium, the
dancer uses muscles that block some joint movements and prevent falling down.
The posture is thus maintained thanks to a constant adjustment of the muscle: for
instance, every time a muscle is stretched, it contracts.

Pick out from the document a statement that justifies the presence of a
myotatic reflex, and another one that justifies the presence of a voluntary
motor activity.

 Answer:
1- Myotatic reflex: Each time the muscle is stretched it
contracts.
2- Voluntary motor activity: Certain movements are triggered
by an intention

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  Example 2:
Over the last 5 years, rice production has been sharply falling, even though
the Chinese population has not ceased growing. In China, Pyralids (insects)
attack 75%of rice fields causing the loss of one billion dollars every year.
Researchers have elaborated insect-resistant rice that inhibits ravagers from
digesting it. This transgenic insect-resistant rice which has the CPTi gene, a gene
taken from pea plants, will help avoiding thousands of poisoning cases by
pesticides. It will also save fish and crabs living in the flooded rice fields and will
improve the health of Chinese consumers who regularly ingest toxic products in
their food. Other transgenic rice that is resistant to herbicides, salinity or
dryness, has been also elaborated. If all Chinese rice farmers adopt the
transgenic rice (GMO), then 4 billion dollars would be saved annually due to the
usage of less pesticides and the employment of fewer handworkers.

Pick out from the text

1-1- The origin of the CPTi gene introduced in rice.
1-2- Two types of transgenic rice.
1-3- The advantage of transgenic rice on human health.

 Answers:
1-1- Origin : Pea plants.
1-2- Insect resistant transgenic rice and transgenic rice that is resistant to
herbicides, or to salinity or to dryness
1-3- It will help avoiding thousands of poisoning cases by pesticides

20- Verify: Confirm using arguments, logical reasoning, whether “something” is true
or false.

 Example 1: To determine the cause of juvenile diabetes in humans, we

performed on the same strain of mutant rats, which developed
diabetes in the first months of life, the following set of
experiments.

1st experiment: We Number of diabetic rats

take 100 mutant Lot A 5/ 50
newly born mice and Lot B 30/ 50
divide them into two
lots, A and B. We subject the rats of Lot A to removal of the
thymus, an organ where T cells undergo maturation, and kept the
rats of lot B as control. A few months later, we determined the
number of rats that had diabetes, the above document.

2nd experiment: We take 2 lots of normal healthy non-mutant

mice, C and D. We injected rats of Lot C by LT derived from
mutant diabetic rats and rats of Lot D by LT derived from
healthy rats. Only rats of Lot C develop diabetes.

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 Verify, based on results of the two experiments, that the LT obtained from
mutant mice are responsible for juvenile diabetes.

 Answer: The Document of experiment 1 reveals that the removal of the

thymus, just at birth, in mutant rats (lot A), allowed the onset of
juvenile diabetes in the proportions of 5/50 less than that
developed in (Lot B)control rats 30/50 which still have their
thymus. This allows us to say that the thymus, which is the site
of maturation of T cells, is responsible for the onset of diabetes.
In Lot A mice, the LT is not mature, so the number of rats with
diabetes decreased.

Experiment 2 reveals that the healthy rats of Lot C, injected with

LT from mutant mice develop diabetes while healthy rats of Lot
D, injected with LT from healthy rats do not develop diabetes.
This signifies that the appearance of the disease is related to the
presence of LT from mutant rats. This means that the onset of the
disease is related to the presence of LT from mutant rats.
So, these two experiments verify that the LT are responsible for
juvenile diabetes

 Example 2: A fasting monkey

is placed in a
cage supplied
with a lever.
When the
monkey hangs to
the lever, it
receives a drug
injection. In the
course of a few
hours, the
monkey steps on
the lever
repeatedly.
The average quantity of drug injected into the monkey is
measured for 7 weeks. The results are shown in the next
document.

Verify that the monkey is in a state of tolerance with respect to the drug.

 Answer: Tolerance is the increase in the dose of the drug consumed in

order to obtain the same pleasure of sensations felt with the
lower previous doses. The histogram reveals that the monkey is
gradually increasing the doses with time from 5mg/kg per day in
the first week to a max of 70mg/kg per day in the sixth week in
order to obtain the same previous effects; this means the monkey
is in a state of tolerance.

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