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Chapter 2 The cell as the basic unit of life

Multiple-choice questions

[10174194] Cross-topic High order thinking

** Directions: The following two questions refer to the table below, which shows
the relative abundance of different organelles in four types of cells.
Cell Relative abundance
type Endoplasmic reticulum Mitochondrion Chloroplast
R + +++ +
S + + -
T +++ + -
U + +++ -
Key: Number of 8+9 indicates the relative abundance of the organelle;
8-9 indicates the absence of the organelle

Which cell type is most likely the root hair cell?

A R
B S
C T
D U
D
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[10174207] Cross-topic High order thinking

** Which cell type is most likely found in the wall of a capillary?

A R
B S
C T
D U
B
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[10174211] Mathematical skills

* Directions: The following two questions refer to the diagram below, which
shows a drawing of a cell observed under an electron microscope.

2 µm

What is the magnification of the drawing?

A ×10 000
B ×20 000
C ×100 000
D ×1 000 000
A
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[10174214] High order thinking

* Which of the following diagrams shows the same cell observed at a

magnification of ×400 under a light microscope?
A B

C D

D
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Short questions

[10174218] Scientific investigation Cross-topic Mathematical skills

** A student prepared a temporary mount of the lower epidermis of a leaf. She

observed the slide under a light microscope and obtained views M and N below
at two different magnifications. The diameters of the fields of views M and N are
2 mm and 0.5 mm respectively. Both views were obtained using a 10X eyepiece.
2 mm 0.5 mm

View M (×100) View N (×400)

a Which of the fields of views should be chosen to find out the stomatal
density of the epidermis? Explain your choice. (1 mark)
b Using the suitable field of view, calculate the stomatal density of the
epidermis. Show your working and correct your answer to the nearest
integer. (Take p = 3.14) (2 marks)
c Describe the sequence of steps in using a light microscope to obtain view N
from view M. (4 marks)

-- answer --
a View M should be chosen because it has a larger field of view. 1m
b 11 / (3.14 × 1 mm × 1 mm) 1m
» 4 stomata per mm2 1m
c Move the part of specimen you want to observe in detail to the centre of the field of
view. 1m
Rotate the nosepiece to select the 40X objective. 1m
Focus with the fine adjustment knob. 1m
Adjust the diaphragm to brighten the view. 1m
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[10174228] Photomicrograph Comparison

* The micrograph below shows part of a pancreatic cell observed under a

transmission electron microscope.

500 nm

a Calculate the magnification of the electron micrograph. (1 mark)

b The cell synthesizes large amounts of proteins. Name two of the organelles
in the micrograph and explain how they are involved in protein synthesis.
(4 marks)
c Besides the transmission electron microscope, the cell can also be observed
under a scanning electron microscope.
i Give one advantage of using a transmission electron microscope over a
scanning electron microscope to observe the cell. (1 mark)
ii Give one advantage of using a scanning electron microscope over a
transmission electron microscope to observe the cell. (1 mark)

-- answer --
a 15 000 000 nm / 500 nm = 30 000 1m
b Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis. / are associated with messenger RNA
in the process of translation. /
Rough endoplasmic reticulum provides a large surface area for the attachment of
ribosomes for protein synthesis. / is involved in the transport of proteins within the
cell. /
Mitochondria provide energy / ATP for protein synthesis.
The nucleus contains DNA which codes for proteins / which is involved in the
process of transcription. (any 2) 2m x 2
c i It allows observation of the internal structures of the cell. 1m
ii It gives three-dimensional image of the surface of the cell. /
Sectioning of the cell is not required. 1m
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Structured question

[10174232] Mathematical skills High order thinking

** The diagrams below show the drawings of a prokaryotic cell and a eukaryotic
cell observed at different magnifications under an electron microscope. They are
drawn the same length.

actual length
= 2 µm
p

Prokaryotic cell (×48 000) Eukaryotic cell (×600)

a The actual length of the prokaryotic cell is 2 µm. Calculate the actual length
of the eukaryotic cell (y). Show your working. (2 marks)
b Both the prokaryotic cell and eukaryotic cell have a cell membrane. Explain
why cells need a cell membrane. (2 marks)
Mitochondria are found in eukaryotic cells. It has been proposed that
mitochondria originated from prokaryotic cells. A long time ago prokaryotic cells
were engulfed by larger prokaryotic cells and both of them benefited from the
relationship. This is called the endosymbiont theory.
c Suggest why the following structural features of mitochondria are evidence
for the endosymbiont theory.
i Mitochondria are bounded by a double membrane. (2 marks)
ii Mitochondria contain DNA and ribosomes. (1 mark)
d Explain why the two mitochondria labelled p are different in shape.
(2 marks)

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-- answer --
a (2 × 48 000) / 600 1m
= 160 µm 1m
b The cell membrane encloses the cell / separates the cell contents from the outside
environment. 1m
The cell membrane controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
1m
c i The inner membrane may come from the prokaryotic cell being engulfed.
1m
The outer membrane may come from the larger prokaryotic cell. 1m
ii Like mitochondria, prokaryotic cells contain DNA and ribosomes. 1m
d The rod-shaped mitochondria orientate differently. 1m
Different sections of the rod-shaped mitochondria are cut. 1m
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Chapter 3 Movement of substances across

cell membrane

Multiple-choice questions

[10174292] Cross-topic High order thinking

** Which of the following processes in the human body involve membrane

proteins?
(1) breakdown of starch into maltose in the mouth cavity
(2) breakdown of maltose into glucose in the small intestine
(3) transmission of nerve impulses from one neurone to another across a
synapse
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
C
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[10174301] Cross-topic High order thinking

* Which of the following processes does not require energy?

A white blood cells engulf bacteria
B glucose is absorbed from the lumen of the small intestine into the villi
C nitrate is absorbed from the soil into the roots
D oxygen enters red blood cells in the lungs
D
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Short questions

[10174314] Scientific investigation Data interpretation

* A student used a beetroot to investigate the effect of alcohol concentration on the

permeability of the cell membrane. He cut from the beetroot six pieces of tissue
of the same size, washed them in running water and put them into test tubes
containing alcohol of different concentrations. After 30 minutes, he discarded the
beetroot and measured the intensity of red colouration in the solutions. The table
below shows the results.
Alcohol concentration (%) Colour intensity (arbitrary unit)
0 0.00
20 0.18
40 0.22
60 0.36
80 0.61
100 0.73

a What was the dependent variable in this investigation? How was it

measured? (2 marks)
b Beetroot cells appear red because a red pigment is stored in their vacuoles.
Explain, with reference to the structure of the cell membrane, why some
solutions became red after 30 minutes. (3 marks)
c What can be concluded about the effect of alcohol concentration on the
permeability of the cell membrane? (1 mark)

-- answer --
a The permeability of the cell membrane 1m
It was measured by the intensity of red colouration in the solutions. 1m
b The cell membrane and the vacuole membrane are composed of a phospholipid
bilayer. 1m
Phospholipid molecules dissolved in alcohol. The cell membrane and the vacuole
membrane of the beetroot cells were damaged. 1m
The red pigment in the vacuoles thus leaked out by diffusion. 1m
c The higher the alcohol concentration, the higher the permeability of the cell
membrane. 1m
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[10174320] NOS High order thinking

* The table below shows some historical events that contributed to our knowledge
of the cell membrane structure.
Year Historical events
1935 Davson and Danielli suggested that the cell membrane was made up
of a phospholipid bilayer sandwiched between two layers of
proteins.
1963 Branton froze the cell membrane, split it between the two
phospholipid layers and observed the internal sides of the layers
under a scanning electron microscope. He found that some structures
were protruding from the smooth surface. These structures were
believed to be proteins.
1972 Based on the findings of Branton and many other scientists, Singer
and Nicolson proposed the fluid mosaic model, which is the model
widely accepted today.

a Do the findings of Branton support Davson and Danielli9s cell membrane

model? Explain your answer. (2 marks)
b State two functions of the proteins in the cell membrane. (2 marks)
c Elaborate on how the above historical events can be used to demonstrate the
two aspects of the nature of science listed in the table below.
Nature of science Elaboration
Science is evidence based.

Scientific knowledge is tentative

and subject to change.

(2 marks)

-- answer --
a No. 1m
The findings of Branton show that some proteins are embedded half-way in the
phospholipid bilayer or span the bilayer instead of coating the phospholipid bilayer.
1m

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b Act as channel proteins / carrier proteins for the transport of materials. /

Act as antigens for cell recognition. /
Act as receptors for receiving chemical messengers. /
Act as enzymes to speed up reactions. (any 2) 1m x 2
c
Nature of science Elaboration
Science is evidence based. Singer and Nicolson built a scientific
model based on findings.
Scientific knowledge is tentative Branton9s findings disapproved the
and subject to change. model proposed by Davson and Danielli,
showing that scientific knowledge will
change when there is new evidence.
1m x 2
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Structured questions

[10174329] STSE Application High order thinking

** a Chloride ions cannot diffuse across the cell membrane. With reference to
the structure of the cell membrane illustrated by the fluid mosaic model,
explain why. (2 marks)
b Cholera is a disease caused by a bacterium. The bacterium releases a toxin
which causes chloride ions to move from the epithelial cells lining the inner
wall of the intestine to the lumen. This results in diarrhoea. The patient
produces a large amount of watery faeces.
i Explain why the movement of chloride ions from the epithelial cells to
the lumen of the intestine results in diarrhoea. (3 marks)
Diarrhoea patients can drink a solution called oral rehydration solution to
help recovery. The solution contains glucose, salts and water. Glucose and
salts in the solution help the absorption of water in the intestine.
ii Describe how the glucose and salts in the oral rehydration solution help
the absorption of water in the intestine. (2 marks)
iii Sports drinks also contain glucose, salts and water, but the
concentration of glucose is usually higher than that in oral rehydration
solution. Explain why drinking sports drinks cannot help the recovery
of diarrhoea patients and may even make diarrhoea worse. (2 marks)

-- answer --
a The cell membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer. 1m
Chloride ions carry a charge. They cannot dissolve in the phospholipid bilayer.
Thus they cannot move across the cell membrane by diffusion. 1m
b i As the chloride ions move to the lumen, the water potential in the lumen
becomes lower. 1m
This causes water to move from the epithelial cells to the lumen by osmosis.
1m
The intestine of the patients does not absorb water / absorbs only a small
amount of water, thus a large amount of watery faeces is produced. 1m
ii Glucose and salts in the oral rehydration solution are absorbed into the
epithelial cells. 1m
This lowers the water potential of the epithelial cells. Water in the lumen of
the intestine then enters the epithelial cells by osmosis. 1m

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iii After drinking sports drinks, the high concentration of glucose lowers the
water potential in the lumen. 1m
This causes water to move from the epithelial cells to the lumen by osmosis,
making diarrhoea worse. 1m
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[10174341] Design experiment High order thinking

* a Describe and explain what happens when a carrot strip is put into a
hypotonic solution. (3 marks)
b You are provided with the following materials and apparatus:
boiling tubes, measuring cylinder, cork borer, knife, ruler,
plastic food wrap, electronic balance, tissue paper, distilled water,
sucrose solutions of different concentrations (0.2 M, 0.4 M, 0.6 M, 0.8 M
and 1 M)
Describe how you would perform an experiment to find out which
concentration of sucrose solution has the same water potential as the carrot
tissue. Choose the appropriate materials and apparatus. (5 marks)
c When a carrot grows for a longer time before harvest, some of the stored
sugars in it will be converted into starch. How would the results in the
experiment in b be different if such a carrot was used instead? Explain your
answer. (2 marks)

-- answer --
a The volume of the carrot strip increases. 1m
The water potential of the hypotonic solution is higher than that of the carrot tissue.
1m
There is a net movement of water into the carrot tissue by osmosis. 1m
b Cut six carrot strips from a carrot using a cork borer. Cut each strip to 5 cm long
using a knife and then divide it into six discs of equal thickness. The six discs from
each strip are regarded as one group. 1m
Blot each group of discs with tissue paper and weigh them with an electronic
balance immediately. 1m
3
Transfer 20 cm of distilled water and sucrose solutions (0.2 M, 0.4 M, 0.6 M, 0.8 M
and 1 M) into six boiling tubes respectively using a measuring cylinder. Put one
group of discs into each boiling tube. Cover the tubes with plastic food wrap. Leave
them for one hour. 1m
Blot each group of discs and weigh them immediately. 1m

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Calculate the percentage change in total mass of each group of discs. Plot a graph
of percentage change in total mass against concentration of sucrose solution. The
sucrose solution has the same water potential as the carrot tissue when the
percentage change in total mass is 0. 1m
(or other reasonable answers)
c A sucrose solution of lower concentration would have the same water potential as
the carrot tissue. 1m
Soluble sugars lower the water potential of the carrot tissue while insoluble starch
does not affect the water potential. As the carrot contained less stored sugars, the
water potential of its tissue would be higher. 1m
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Chapter 4 Enzymes and metabolism

Multiple-choice questions

[10174388] Graph interpretation Mathematical skills

* Directions: The following two questions refer to the graph below, which shows
the energy profile for an enzyme-catalysed reaction.
energy level

reactants
Q

products
progress of reaction

What does (Q - P) indicate?

A the amount of energy needed to start the enzyme-catalysed reaction
B the amount of energy released during the enzyme-catalysed reaction
C the amount of energy absorbed during the enzyme-catalysed reaction
D the amount of energy stored in the products
B
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[10174390] Comparison

* Which of the following graphs shows the energy profile of the reaction if the
enzyme is absent?
A B

enzyme absent
energy level

energy level
enzyme present
enzyme present

enzyme absent

progress of reaction progress of reaction

C D

enzyme absent
energy level

energy level

enzyme present enzyme present

enzyme absent

progress of reaction progress of reaction

C
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Short questions

[10174415] Design experiment Data presentation Communication

** Casein is a milk protein and trypsin is a protease that digests casein. When
trypsin is added to a milky-white solution of milk powder, casein is digested and
the solution becomes clear.
You are provided with the following materials and apparatus:
trypsin solution, milk powder solution, water bath, test tubes, test tube rack,
pipettes, thermometer, stop-watch
a Describe how you would perform an experiment to find out the effect of
temperature on the digestion of casein by trypsin. (5 marks)
b Sketch a graph to show the results you would expect to obtain for the
experiment answered in a. (2 marks)

-- answer --
a Pipette 10 cm3 of milk powder solution into one test tube and 1 cm3 of trypsin
solution into another test tube. 1m
Place the two test tubes in a test tube rack inside a water bath at 20 °C. 1m
After 10 minutes, mix the trypsin solution with the milk powder solution. 1m
Record the time taken for the mixture to become clear using a stop-watch. 1m
Repeat the steps above at other temperatures (e.g. 30 °C, 40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C,
70 °C and 80 °C). 1m
(or other reasonable answers)
b

Effect of temperature on the digestion of casein by trypsin

become clear (min)
time for mixture to

20 30 40 50 60 70 80
temperature (°C)

Correct title and axes 1m

Correct shape of curve 1m
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[10174435] STSE Cross-topic Communication

* Tracy has frequent diarrhoea (watery faeces) and is diagnosed with coeliac
disease. Her doctor told her that she lacked the enzyme for digesting gluten, a
protein found in wheat, but she could digest proteins in meat using other
proteases produced in her body. She was advised not to eat food containing
gluten because gluten could damage the villi in her small intestine. Damaged villi
result in poor absorption of digested food and this in turn causes diarrhoea.

Normal villi Damaged villi in

coeliac disease

a Using your knowledge of enzymes, explain why proteases produced in the

body of Tracy can digest proteins in meat but not gluten in wheat.
(3 marks)
b How does poor absorption of digested food cause diarrhoea? (4 marks)

-- answer --
a Each enzyme has its unique active site. 1m
Molecules of proteins in meat and gluten in wheat are different in shape. 1m
Proteins in meat can fit into the active sites of the proteases but gluten cannot.
1m
b As less digested food is absorbed into the villi, there is more digested food present
in the lumen of the small intestine. 1m
The water potential in the lumen becomes lower. 1m
This causes water to move from the epithelial cells of the villi to the lumen by
osmosis. 1m
The intestine cannot absorb so much water, thus watery faeces are produced.
1m

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Structured question

[10174464] Scientific investigation Application Graph interpretation

** The cells of many fruits and vegetables such as apples contain the enzyme
catechol oxidase and its substrate catechol. Catechol oxidase and catechol are
present in the cytoplasm and the vacuole respectively. They are involved in the
following reaction which is responsible for the browning in fruits and vegetables.

catechol non-enzymatic
oxidase oxidation
Catechol benzoquinone melanin
(colourless) (brown)

a Explain why an apple would have a bruise if it is dropped onto the ground.
(3 marks)
b Explain why the following treatment can prevent browning in fruits and
vegetables.
i Mix cut fruits with an antioxidant such as ascorbic acid. (1 mark)
ii Immerse cut vegetables in boiling water for one minute. (1 mark)
In an investigation, 1 cm of catechol oxidase solution was added to 5 cm3 of
3

catechol solution in a boiling tube and the mixture was kept in a water bath at
30 °C. A sample of the mixture was removed every two minutes and its colour
intensity was measured. The graph below shows the results.

Changes in colour intensity of the mixture over time

colour intensity (arbitrary unit)

0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32
time (min)

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c Describe and explain the changes in colour intensity of the mixture shown
in the graph. (3 marks)
d Draw labelled curves on the graph to show the results you would expect to
obtain if the investigation was repeated
i at 20 °C instead of 30 °C. (1 mark)
3 3
ii using 2 cm of 1 cm of catechol oxidase solution. (1 mark)

-- answer --
a The vacuole membrane is broken when the apple is dropped. 1m
Catechol oxidase and catechol come into contact, 1m
leading to the production of benzoquinone and then melanin. Melanin makes the
apple bruised. 1m
b i No oxygen is available for converting benzoquinone into melanin. 1m
ii Catechol oxidase is denatured at high temperatures. 1m
c Initially, a large amount of catechol is available. It collides with catechol oxidase
more frequently and this increases the chance of forming enzyme-substrate
complexes. Thus melanin is produced at a higher rate and the colour intensity
increases quickly. 1m
As time goes by, catechol is being used and less catechol is available. It collides
with catechol oxidase less frequently and the chance of forming enzyme-substrate
complexes decreases. Thus melanin is produced at a slower rate and the colour
intensity increases more slowly. 1m
Finally, catechol is used up in the reaction. No more melanin is formed and the
colour intensity remains unchanged. 1m
d i Compared with the graph provided in the question, the increase in colour
intensity is more slowly but finally reaches the same colour intensity. 1m
ii Compared with the graph provided in the question, the increase in colour
intensity is more quickly but finally reaches the same colour intensity. 1m
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Chapter 5 Food and humans

Multiple-choice questions

[10174509] Scientific investigation Data interpretation

* Directions: The following two questions refer to the table below, which shows
the average number of drops of different fruit juices needed to decolourize 1 cm3
of DCPIP solution in an investigation.
Average number of drops needed to
Fruit juice
decolourize 1 cm3 of DCPIP solution
P 14
Q 7
R 28
S 16

From the results, which fruit juice is best for preventing scurvy?
A fruit juice P
B fruit juice Q
C fruit juice R
D fruit juice S
B
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[10174557] Scientific investigation

* Why would it have been useful to display all the results before the average
number was calculated?
A to ensure the results were recorded correctly
B to avoid wrong calculation of the average number
C to increase the accuracy of the results
D to identify any anomalous results
D
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Short questions

[10174565] Cross-topic Comparison High order thinking

** Proteins from different sources differ in their abilities to promote growth. The
biological value is a measure of protein quality and is calculated as follows:

biological the amount of protein used in maintenance and growth

= × 100%
value
the amount of protein digested and absorbed

A protein with a higher biological value has a larger supply of essential amino
acids to the body. In determining the biological value, nitrogen is used as an
index of proteins.
a Express the following in terms of nitrogen intake (I), nitrogen in faeces (F)
and/or nitrogen in urine (U).
i The amount of protein digested and absorbed (1 mark)
ii The amount of protein used in maintenance and growth (1 mark)
b Why can nitrogen be used as an index of proteins? (2 marks)
The table below shows the biological values of proteins from different sources.
Source of protein Biological value (%)
Egg 98
Milk 91
Oatmeal 58
Wheat 64
Beef 80
Soya bean 74
c Compare the biological values of proteins from animal sources and plant
sources. (1 mark)

-- answer --
a i I-F 1m
ii I-F-U 1m
b Proteins contain nitrogen. 1m
Thus the amount of nitrogen is proportional to the amount of proteins. 1m
c The biological values of proteins from animal sources are higher than those of
proteins from plant sources. 1m
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[10174588] STSE Communication

* In the space provided below, suggest one change in the diet to reduce each of the
problems and explain your answers. (6 marks)
Problem Dietary change

Anaemia

Constipation

Obesity

-- answer --
Anaemia:
Eat more beef / liver / beans / cabbage / spinach / raisins to increase the intake of iron.
1m
Iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin in red blood cells. 1m
Constipation:
Drink more water 1m
so that faeces are soft and can be passed out of the body more easily. 1m
OR
Eat more fruits / vegetables / wholemeal products to increase the intake of dietary fibre.
1m
Dietary fibre adds bulk to food to stimulate peristalsis / Dietary fibre holds a lot of water
so that faeces can be passed out of the body more easily. 1m
Obesity:
Eat a balanced diet / Choose low-fat food to reduce the energy intake. 1m
There will be no more weight gain if the energy intake is less than the energy output.
1m
OR
Eat more fruits / vegetables to increase the intake of dietary fibre. 1m
High-fibre food is filling and can help control body weight. 1m
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Structured question

[10174599] STSE Mathematical skills High order thinking

** Molly is 8-year-old. Most of her daily liquid intake comes from a juice drink
diluted from a juice drink concentrate. The diagram below shows the nutritional
information of the juice drink concentrate. Molly9s mother dilutes 1 part of the
concentrate with 4 parts of water and Molly drinks 1.5 L of this diluted juice
drink daily.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Serving size: 100 mL (undiluted)
Servings per bottle: 10
Per serving
Energy 1340 kJ
Protein 0 g
Total fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Total carbohydrate 78 g
- Sugar 52 g
- Dietary fibre 1.2 g
Calcium 0 mg
Sodium 70 mg
Vitamin C 150 mg

a Calculate how much sugar is present in 1.5 L of this diluted juice drink.
Show your working. (2 marks)
b The daily energy requirement for a 8-year-old is 6500 kJ. What percentage
of Molly9s daily energy requirement is provided by 1.5 L of this diluted
juice drink? (1 mark)
c Write three possible health risks to Molly if she continues to drink 1.5 L of
this diluted juice drink daily. (3 marks)
d Describe and explain how the dietary requirement of Molly would change
after she has entered puberty. (4 marks)

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-- answer --
a [(1500 mL / 5) / 100 mL] × 52 g 1m
= 156 g 1m
b {[(1500 mL / 5) / 100 mL] × 1340 kJ × 100%} / 6500 kJ = 61.8% 1m
c A higher risk of obesity if her total energy intake is more than her energy
requirement 1m
A higher risk of dental caries 1m
Lack of important nutrients, resulting in deficiency diseases if hunger is satisfied by
this drink 1m
(or other reasonable answers)
d She would need more energy for her higher basal metabolic rate. 1m
She would need more proteins for the growth of muscles. 1m
She would need more calcium for bone growth. 1m
She would need more iron due to menstruation. 1m
(or other reasonable answers)
--------------------------------------------------

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Chapter 6 Nutrition in humans

Multiple-choice questions

[10174628] STSE High order thinking

* Directions: The following two questions refer to the diagram below, which
shows part of the human digestive system.

organ P

A woman has her organ P removed in a surgery. Which of the following foods
should she avoid after the surgery?
A skim milk
B banana
C steamed rice
D full-fat cheese
D
---------------------------------------------------

[10174634] STSE Cross-topic High order thinking

* Which of the following foods is the most suitable replacement that can provide
similar amounts of the other food substances present?
A wholemeal bread
B tofu
C whole milk
D beef
B
---------------------------------------------------

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Question Bank 3 New Questions

[10174637] Mathematical skills Recall of facts

* The table below lists the dental formulae for some animals.
Animal Dental formula
3142
P
3143
0033
Q
3133
2033
R
1023
1003
S
1003

Which of the following animals has two canines?

A animal P
B animal Q
C animal R
D animal S
B
---------------------------------------------------

[10174672] High order thinking

* After passing through a certain organ, blood is found to contain more carbon
dioxide and digestion products, but less oxygen. This organ is most probably
A the lungs.
B the heart.
C the pancreas.
D the small intestine.
D
---------------------------------------------------

[10174678] Comparison

* Which of the following comparisons of gastric juice and pancreatic juice is not
correct?
Gastric juice Pancreatic juice
A contains mucus contains mucus
B cannot emulsify lipids cannot emulsify lipids
C contains proteases contains proteases
D is acidic is alkaline
A
---------------------------------------------------
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Short question

[10174684] STSE Application High order thinking

* A feeding tube is often used to provide extra nutrition to a malnourished patient.

It is inserted through the nostril. As the tube is passing into the throat, the patient
is given some water to swallow. This helps the tube move more easily towards
the stomach. To check whether the tube is placed correctly in the stomach,
contents are withdrawn from the body through the tube and their pH is found
using the pH paper.

feeding tube

a Explain why swallowing water during the placement procedure can help the
feeding tube move more easily towards the stomach. (2 marks)
b If the position of the feeding tube is placed correctly in the stomach, what
would the pH of the contents withdrawn be? Explain your answer.
(2 marks)

-- answer --
a Swallowing promotes peristalsis and this helps push the feeding tube down the
oesophagus. 1m
Water lubricates the alimentary canal and this helps the feeding tube move more
easily. 1m
b The pH would be less than 5 1m
due to the presence of hydrochloric acid in the gastric juice. 1m
--------------------------------------------------

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Question Bank 3 New Questions

Structured questions

[10174691] Scientific investigation Data interpretation

** A student carried out an experiment to investigate the effects of bile salts and
lipase on the digestion of lipids. He prepared 25 test tubes containing the same
amounts of whole milk and phenol red. Phenol red changes from red to yellow
when the pH of a solution changes from above 8.2 to below 6.8. He varied the
amounts of bile salt solution and lipase solution in each tube and added distilled
water to make up to the same volume. Then he measured the time required for
the solution in each tube to change from red to yellow. The table below shows
the time in minutes.

Amount of bile salt solution (cm3)

0 0.5 1 1.5 2
0 - - - - -
0.5 29 22 17 11 9
Amount of lipase solution
1 13 9 6 4 3
(cm3)
1.5 6 4 2 1 0.5
2 6 4 2 1 0.5
Remarks: 8-9 indicates that the solution remained red after 30 minutes

a What was the dependent variable in the above experiment and how was it
measured? (2 marks)
b Explain why the solution in some tubes changed from red to yellow.
(2 marks)
c Draw three conclusions from the results. (3 marks)
d Explain the effect of bile salts on the digestion of lipids. (2 marks)
-- answer --
a The rate of digestion of lipids 1m
It was measured by the time required for the solution to change from red to yellow.
1m
b When lipids in the milk were digested by lipase, fatty acids and glycerol were
produced. 1m
The fatty acids lowered the pH of the solution from above 8.2 to below 6.8, thus
phenol red in the solution changed from red to yellow. 1m

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c Bile salts alone could not digest lipids into fatty acids and glycerol. /
In the presence of lipase, the larger the amount of bile salts, the higher the rate of
digestion of lipids into fatty acids and glycerol. /
Lipase alone could digest lipids into fatty acids and glycerol. /
In the presence of 2 cm3 of the lipase solution, the amount of lipase was not a
limiting factor of the rate of digestion of lipids into fatty acids and glycerol.
(any 3) 1m x 3
d Bile salts emulsify lipids into small droplets 1m
to increase the surface area for the lipase to act on. 1m
---------------------------------------------------

[10174719] Scientific investigation Data presentation

* A student carried out the following experiment to simulate the process of

digestion of steamed rice in the human body.
(1) Chew 20 g of steamed rice for one minute in the mouth cavity.
(2) Mix the rice with water, hydrochloric acid and pepsin in a test tube and
leave the mixture at 37 °C for 30 minutes.
(3) Adjust the pH of the mixture to 8 and add amylase to it. Leave the mixture
at 37 °C for 120 minutes.
(4) Draw samples from the mixture at 15-minute intervals for measurement of
the amount of reducing sugar.
(5) Repeat steps (2) to (4) with steamed rice that has been chopped up in a
blender for one minute.

The table below shows her results.

Amount of reducing sugar (arbitrary unit)
Time (minute)
Chewed rice Chopped rice
0 14 0
15 49 30
30 66 46
45 75 56
60 78 62
75 80 68
90 80 74
105 80 80
120 80 80

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a What was the purpose of mixing the rice with water, hydrochloric acid and
pepsin in step (2)? (1 mark)
b Suggest one way to adjust the pH of the mixture in step (3). (1 mark)
c Using the graph paper below, plot a graph to show the results. (5 marks)

d Why was reducing sugar present in chewed rice but not in chopped rice at
the beginning of the 120-minute? (3 marks)

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-- answer --
a To simulate the role of gastric juice in the digestion of steamed rice in the stomach.
1m
b Add a buffer to the mixture to bring the pH to 8. 1m
c
Changes in the amount of reducing sugar during the digestion of steamed rice

80 ´ ´
amount of reducing sugar (arbitrary unit)

chewed rice ´
70
´
´
60
´
50
´ chopped rice
40

30 ´

20

10

´
0
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120
time (minute)
Correct title 1m
Choice of axes 1m
With labels and units 1m
Correct plotting and joining of lines 2m
d During chewing in the mouth cavity, salivary amylase from the saliva 1m
digested starch in steamed rice into maltose (a reducing sugar). 1m
No amylase was present to digest starch in chopped rice into reducing sugar
before the beginning of the 120-minute. 1m
--------------------------------------------------

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Essay

[10174777] Comparison Communication

* Compare and contrast how starch in potato and proteins in egg white are digested
in the human digestive system. (10 marks)

-- answer --
Both potato and egg white are broken down into smaller pieces physically during
mastication in the mouth cavity. 1m
Both potato and egg white are broken down into smaller pieces physically during
churning in the stomach. 1m
Both potato and egg white are broken down into smaller pieces physically during
peristalsis in the alimentary canal. 1m
Starch in potato is digested into maltose by the salivary amylase from the saliva in the
mouth cavity, while egg white is not. 1m
Proteins in egg white are digested into peptides by the pepsin from the gastric juice in
the stomach, while potato is not. 1m
The remaining starch in potato is digested into maltose by the pancreatic amylase from
the pancreatic juice and the maltose is further digested into glucose by the maltase from
the intestinal juice in the small intestine. 1m
Peptides from egg white are further digested into amino acids by the proteases from the
pancreatic juice and intestinal juice in the small intestine. 1m
Communication 3m
--------------------------------------------------

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Chapter 7 Gas exchange in humans

Multiple-choice questions

[10174789] Graph interpretation High order thinking

** The graph below shows the change in volume of the lungs of a person within a
period of time.

volume
of the
lungs

W X Y Z

time

At which periods of time is the air pressure in the lungs lower than the
atmospheric pressure?
A W and X
B W and Z
C X and Y
D Y and Z
D
---------------------------------------------------

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[10174818] High order thinking

* The diagrams below show the human breathing system in two different stages of
breathing.

Stage X Stage Y

rib

lung

diaphragm

Which of the following combinations correctly describes the changes in the

diaphragm muscles and the air pressure in the lungs from stage X to stage Y?
Diaphragm muscles Air pressure in the lungs
A contract increases
B contract decreases
C relax increases
D relax decreases
C
---------------------------------------------------

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Short question

[10174831] STSE Application High order thinking

** When a person drowns, oxygen supplied to the brain decreases. This may lead to
unconsciousness. Mouth-to-mouth ventilation can be performed for rescue. It
involves blowing exhaled air into the drowned person9s lungs through the mouth.

a Suggest one reason why oxygen supplied to the brain decreases during
drowning. (3 marks)
b Based on the composition of exhaled air, explain why mouth-to-mouth
ventilation can help rescue a drowned person. (2 marks)
c Suggest why it is necessary to follow the instructions below when blowing
exhaled air through a drowned person9s mouth.
i Keep the drowned person9s head tilted back instead of letting it lie flat.
(1 mark)
ii Observe whether the drowned person9s chest rises. (1 mark)

-- answer --
a During drowning, water enters the lungs. 1m
Water accumulated in the lungs blocks gas exchange between the air in the air
sacs and the blood in the capillaries. 1m
The oxygen level in the blood decreases, so oxygen carried to the brain
decreases. 1m
(or other reasonable answers)
b Exhaled air contains 16% oxygen. 1m
This oxygen can be supplied to the brain of the drowned person. 1m
c i To ensure that the entrance of the trachea is open. 1m
ii To ensure that air is blown into the drowned person9s lungs. 1m
---------------------------------------------------

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[10174836] Application Comparison High order thinking

* Asthma is an inflammatory disease of the airways. The diagrams below show the
cross sections of a normal bronchiole and a bronchiole during an asthma attack.

Normal bronchiole Asthmatic bronchiole

muscles

lumens

mucus

a With reference to the diagrams, state three changes in the bronchioles

during an asthma attack. (3 marks)
b Explain why less oxygen is taken up by the body cells during an asthma
attack. (3 marks)

-- answer --
a The muscles in the wall of bronchioles constrict. /
The wall of the bronchioles becomes thicker. /
Mucus secretion increases. /
The lumen of the bronchioles becomes narrower. (any 3) 1m x 3
b Since the lumen of the bronchioles becomes narrower, less fresh air enters the
lungs. 1m
The concentration gradient of oxygen between the air in the air sacs and the blood
becomes less steep. 1m
Less oxygen diffuses into the blood and less oxygen is carried by the blood to the
body cells. Thus, less oxygen is taken up by the body cells. 1m
---------------------------------------------------

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Structured question

[10174838] Design experiment Graph interpretation

** The graph below shows the percentages of various gases in inhaled air, exhaled
air, air sample collected in the air sacs and air sample collected in the trachea of a
human.

Key:
100 oxygen
90 carbon dioxide
water vapour
78.5
80 nitrogen
percentage of gases (%)

74.5 74.9
73.1
70

60

50

40

30
20.9 19.6
20 15.7
13.7

10 6.2 5.2 6.2 6.2

3.6
0.04 0.5 1.1
0
inhaled air exhaled air air sample air sample
collected in collected in
the air sacs the trachea

a Explain why the percentage of oxygen in the air sample collected in the air
sacs is lower than that in inhaled air. (1 mark)
b Explain why the percentage of carbon dioxide in the air sample collected in
the air sacs is slightly higher than that in exhaled air. (2 marks)
c State the difference in the percentages of water vapour in inhaled air and in
exhaled air. Explain your answer. (2 marks)
d Explain why the percentages of nitrogen in inhaled air and in exhaled air are
similar. (1 mark)
e You are provided with the following materials and apparatus:
glass jars with glass plates, water trough, rubber tubing,
hydrogencarbonate indicator, water
Describe how you would perform an experiment to show the carbon dioxide
content in exhaled air is higher than that in inhaled air. (4 marks)

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-- answer --
a In the air sacs, some of the oxygen in the air diffuses into the blood during gas
exchange. 1m
b During exhalation, air leaving the lungs is mixed with the air in the trachea, 1m
which has a lower percentage of carbon dioxide. 1m
c The percentage of water vapour in exhaled air is higher than that in inhaled air.
1m
Air is moistened by the mucus lining the respiratory tract and the water film lining
the air sacs. 1m
d Nitrogen is not used or produced by the body cells. 1m
e Collect a jar of inhaled air (atmospheric air). Cover the jar with a glass plate.
1m
Collect a jar of exhaled air as shown below. After the jar is completely filled with
exhaled air, cover it with a glass plate. 1m

exhaled air
blow deeply and
slowly into glass jar
water trough
rubber tubing
water

Add about 5 cm3 of hydrogencarbonate indicator to the jar of inhaled air. Quickly
cover the jar and shake it gently. Repeat the steps with the jar of exhaled air.
1m

inhaled air shake shake exhaled air

hydrogencarbonate
indicator

The colour of the indicator in the jar of inhaled air should remain red while the
indicator in the jar of exhaled air should change from red to yellow. 1m
---------------------------------------------------

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Chapter 8 Transport in humans

Multiple-choice questions

[10174908] Graph interpretation High order thinking

** Figure I shows the change in blood pressure in the aorta and figure II shows a
cross section of the human heart.

Figure I Figure II

X
blood
pressure Y

P time

What are the conditions of valves X and Y at time P?

X Y
A open open
B open closed
C closed open
D closed closed
C
---------------------------------------------------

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[10174938] Cross-topic High order thinking

* The diagram below shows the human circulatory system.

head, neck, arms

lungs

liver
heart

Q small intestine

kidneys

legs

Which of the following statements are correct?

(1) P carries blood with the highest oxygen content.
(2) Q carries blood with the highest urea content.
(3) R carries blood with the highest glucose concentration after a meal.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
C
---------------------------------------------------

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Short questions

[10174940] Reading comprehension High order thinking

** Read the following paragraph and answer the questions.

There is a disorder in which a certain valve in the heart does not close tightly.
Some of the oxygenated blood in the ventricle therefore flows backwards into
the atrium instead of flowing out of the heart to the rest of the body. Patients
with this disorder often feel tired easily.

a Name the valve that is not functioning properly in the disorder. (1 mark)
b When the valve in a is closed, what is the relative pressure in the heart
chambers it separates? (1 mark)
c Why do patients with the disorder often feel tired easily? (4 marks)

-- answer --
a Bicuspid valve 1m
b Pressure in the left ventricle is higher than that in the left atrium. 1m
c As the bicuspid valve does not close tightly, the oxygenated blood in the left
ventricle flows backwards into the left atrium when the ventricle contracts. 1m
This reduces the amount of oxygenated blood pumped out of the heart in each
heart beat. 1m
Oxygen supplied to the body cells is insufficient for respiration. 1m
Less energy is released from respiration to support body activities, thus the
patients feel tired easily. 1m
---------------------------------------------------

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Structured questions

[10174943] NOS High order thinking

** The table below shows some historical events that contributed to our knowledge
of the human circulatory system.
Year Historical events
190 Claudius Galen believed that blood was produced in the liver and
moved in veins to organs, where it was used up. He also stated that
blood could flow from one ventricle to the other through pores in
the septum of the heart.
1579 Hieronymus Fabricius discovered that veins contain valves.
1628 William Harvey dissected hearts of animals to show that there were
no pores in the septum. He also did experiments to prove that blood
was circulated in the body.
1661 Marcello Malpighi observed capillaries in the lungs using a
compound microscope, which was newly invented at that time. He
concluded that capillaries provided connections between arteries
and veins.

a Based on your knowledge of the human circulatory system, state two ways
in which Galen9s ideas are wrong. (2 marks)
b Explain how valves help maintain the blood flow in veins. (2 marks)
c The table below shows some aspects of the nature of science. Put a tick (ü)
in the space next to the statement and provide an explanation if the aspect is
demonstrated in the above historical events. Put a cross (û) if the aspect is
not demonstrated. (5 marks)
Nature of science ü or û Explanation
Science is affected by the
technology and the types of
equipment available at the time.
Scientists are both collaborative
and competitive by nature.
Scientists only dissect animals
or do experiments on them when
necessary and ethically sound.

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-- answer --
a Blood is not used up, but it is circulated in the body. 1m
There are no pores in the septum. Blood cannot flow from one ventricle to the
other through the septum. 1m
b The force for blood flow in veins is mainly provided by the contraction of skeletal
muscles lying next to the veins. 1m
Valves prevent the backflow of blood when the veins are squeezed by the
muscles. This helps maintain the blood flow in the veins. 1m
c
Nature of science ü or û Explanation
Science is affected by the ü Marcello Malpighi observed
technology and the types of capillaries in the lungs using a
equipment available at the compound microscope, which was
time. newly invented at that time.
Scientists are both û
collaborative and
competitive by nature.
Scientists only dissect ü William Harvey dissected hearts
animals or do experiments of animals to show that there were
on them when necessary no pores in the septum.
and ethically sound.
1m x 5
---------------------------------------------------

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[10174949] Cross-topic Comparison High order thinking

* a The graph below shows the changes in blood pressure when the blood
travels from the heart to the capillaries and returns to the heart.

blood
pressure

venules
heart

aorta

heart
arteries

veins

vena cava
arterioles
capillaries

i Compare the blood pressure in arteries and that in veins. Suggest two
reasons for the difference. (3 marks)
ii Explain why there is a great drop in blood pressure in capillaries.
(1 mark)
b When the blood pressure in the arteries of a person is persistently higher
than normal, the person is said to have high blood pressure.
i A certain hormone can decrease the amount of water excreted from the
body. Explain why an increase in secretion of this hormone may cause
high blood pressure. (3 marks)
ii Explain why high blood pressure may lead to an accumulation of tissue
fluid in the body tissues. (2 marks)
iii Suggest two lifestyle changes that may help reduce the risk of high
blood pressure. (2 marks)

-- answer --
a i The blood pressure in veins is much lower than that in arteries. 1m
The blood in arteries is directly under the pumping action of the heart while
that in veins is not. 1m
The blood in veins has overcome great resistance of the blood vessel walls
after travelling a long distance away from the heart. 1m
ii The small diameter of capillaries results in a high resistance to blood flow.
This leads to a great drop in blood pressure. 1m

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b i An increase in secretion of the hormone causes a decrease in the amount of

water excreted. As a result, more water remains in the body. 1m
The volume of blood in the body increases. 1m
The heart beats more strongly in order to pump a greater volume of blood.
Thus, blood pressure becomes higher. 1m
ii Due to the higher blood pressure, more water and other components of the
plasma are forced out of the capillary walls to form tissue fluid at the arteriole
end of the capillary beds 1m
and less water is drawn into the capillaries at the venule end of the capillary
beds. 1m
iii Reduce salt intake. /
Reduce fat intake. /
Reduce alcohol intake. /
Avoid stress. /
Do exercise regularly. /
Stop smoking. /
Lose weight. (any 2 or other reasonable answers) 1m x 2
---------------------------------------------------

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Chapter 9 Nutrition and gas exchange

in plants

Multiple-choice questions

[10175025] Scientific investigation

* Directions: The following two questions refer to the table below, which shows
the set-ups used in an investigation. The colour of the indicator in each set-up
was recorded after 4 hours. The compensation point was found to occur in
set-up Y.

Set-up X Set-up Y Set-up Z

under bright light under dim light in the dark

boiling
tube

Hydrilla

red
hydrogencarbonate
indicator

The boiling tube in the control set-up

A should contain lime water instead of red hydrogencarbonate indicator.
B should contain more Hydrilla.
C should contain no Hydrilla.
D should not be stoppered.
C
---------------------------------------------------

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[10175026] Scientific investigation High order thinking

* If water shrimps are introduced into set-up Y, which of the following shows the
colour of the indicator 4 hours later and the correct explanation?
Colour Explanation
A yellow more carbon dioxide is released in respiration
B yellow more oxygen is consumed in respiration
C purple more carbon dioxide is released in respiration
D purple more oxygen is consumed in respiration
A
---------------------------------------------------

[10175032] Graph interpretation High order thinking

** The graph below shows the results of a series of experiments (P2S) for
investigating the effects of temperature, magnesium concentration in soil and
light intensity on the rate of carbon dioxide (CO2) uptake or release of a certain
plant species.

S (20 °C; 20% magnesium)

rate of CO2
uptake

R (20 °C; 10% magnesium)

Q (10 °C; 20% magnesium)

P (10 °C; 10% magnesium)

0 light intensity
rate of CO2
release

In which of the experiments are both temperature and magnesium concentration

in soil limiting the rate of carbon dioxide uptake or release at high light
intensities?
A P only
B Q and R only
C P, Q and R only
D Q, R and S only
A
---------------------------------------------------

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Short questions

[10175040] Graph interpretation Communication High order thinking

** The graph below shows the rates of carbon dioxide (CO2) uptake and release of
two plant species, P and Q, when they are exposed to different light intensities.

plant species P
10
M N
rate of CO2 uptake
(arbitrary unit)

6
plant species Q
4

0 light intensity
rate of CO2 release

10 20 30 40 (arbitrary unit)
(arbitrary unit)

a Suggest two factors which may be limiting the rate of carbon dioxide uptake
of plant species P between points M and N. (2 marks)
b Using information from the graph, explain why plant species Q is better
adapted than plant species P to growing at lower light intensities.
(4 marks)

-- answer --
a Carbon dioxide concentration, temperature 1m x 2
(or other correct answers)
b The rate of respiration of plant species Q is lower than that of plant species P.
1m
Less glucose produced from photosynthesis is broken down in respiration of plant
species Q. 1m
The compensation point of plant species Q is lower than that of plant species P.
1m
At lower light intensities, the rate of photosynthesis of plant species Q is higher
than that of plant species P. 1m
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[10175062] Scientific investigation Graph interpretation

* In an investigation, similar rice plants were grown in pots of soil containing 15 g

and 25 g of magnesium. The plants were watered every day, exposed to the same
temperature (28 °C) but different light intensities. Six months later, the grains
produced by the plants were collected and weighed. The graph below shows the
results.

25 g magnesium
240
produced by each plant (g)
mean mass of grains

200

160
15 g magnesium
120

80

40

0
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
light intensity (arbitrary unit)

a Besides the variables mentioned in the question, suggest two other variables
which should be kept constant in this investigation. (2 marks)
b State the range of light intensities at which the amount of magnesium in the
soil was limiting the production of grains in rice plants. Explain with
evidence from the graph. (2 marks)
c Explain why the amount of magnesium in the soil affected the production of
grains in rice plants. (2 marks)

-- answer --
a The amount of soil in each pot 1m
The amount of water given to each pot 1m
(or other correct answers)
b 22235 arbitrary units of light intensities 1m
The mean mass of grains produced by each plant was increasing when the
amount of magnesium in the soil increased from 15 g to 25 g. 1m
c Magnesium was used in the synthesis of chlorophyll. 1m
Chlorophyll was essential for photosynthesis. 1m
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Structured question

[10175077] STSE Graph interpretation Comparison

** Plants of a certain species are grown and sold as houseplants by farmers. The
graph below shows the effects of light intensity on the rates of carbon dioxide
(CO2) uptake and release of two of the plants, P and Q, which have been grown
in bright light conditions and dim light conditions respectively.

10 plant P
rate of CO2 uptake
(arbitrary unit)

6
plant Q
4

0 light intensity
rate of CO2 release

(arbitrary unit)
100 200 300 400
(arbitrary unit)

a Compare the effect of light intensity on the rates of carbon dioxide uptake
and release of plant P with that of plant Q. (4 marks)
b Find the compensation point of plant Q from the graph. (1 mark)

Plants of that species are usually grown in bright light conditions but farmers
then move the plants to dim light conditions for some time before sale to lower
their compensation point. The graph below shows how the compensation point of
the plants decreased over 20 days after the farmer had moved the plants from
bright light to dim light conditions.

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(arbitrary unit of light intensity)

compensation point
80

60

40

20

0
5 10 15 20
time in dim light conditions (day)

c Calculate the percentage decrease in the compensation point of the plants

over these 20 days. Show your workings. (2 marks)
d Suggest how long the farmers should keep the plants in dim light conditions
before sale. Explain your answer. (2 marks)
e Using evidence from the graph, explain why buyers should not grow the
plants indoors where the light intensity is below 30 arbitrary units.
(3 marks)

-- answer --
a At zero light intensity, the rate of carbon dioxide release of plant P was the same
as that of plant Q. /
As light intensity increased from zero, the rates of carbon dioxide release of both
plants P and Q decreased and then became zero. /
As light intensity increased, the rates of carbon dioxide uptake of both plants P and
Q increased and then became constant. /
As light intensity increased from zero, the rate of carbon dioxide release of plant Q
decreased faster than that of plant P. /
As light intensity increased, the rate of carbon dioxide uptake of plant Q increased
faster than that of plant P. /
At high light intensities, the maximum rate of carbon dioxide uptake of plant P is
higher than that of plant Q.
(any 4 or other reasonable answers) 1m x 4
b 60 arbitrary units 1m
c (90232) / 90 × 100% 1m
= 64.4% 1m
d 15 days 1m
The compensation point did not further decrease after 15 days. 1m
(or other reasonable answers)

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e Below 30 arbitrary units of light intensity, the compensation point cannot be

reached. 1m
The rate of respiration is faster than the rate of photosynthesis. 1m
Plants of that species fail to grow. 1m
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Chapter 10 Transpiration, transport and

support

Multiple-choice questions

[10175122] Graph interpretation

* The bar chart below shows the volumes of water transpired and absorbed by a
herbaceous plant during different periods.

10
Key:
volume of water (cm )

8
3

water transpired

6 water absorbed

0
060020800 080021000 100021200 120021400
time

From the bar chart, which of the following can be concluded?

(1) The rate of transpiration increases faster than the rate of water absorption
from 0600 to 1400.
(2) The herbaceous plant stands upright from 0600 to 1200 and droops from
1200 to 1400.
(3) The stomata of the herbaceous plant are fully open from 1200 to 1400.
A (1) only
B (1) and (2) only
C (1) and (3) only
D (2) and (3) only
A
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[10175126] Graph interpretation Comparison

* The three lines in the graph below show the volumes of water transpired by the
same plant under different conditions.

(1)

volume of water
(2)

transpired (3)

time

Which of the following combinations lists the possible conditions for each line?
Line (1) Line (2) Line (3)
A still air at 18 °C still air at 28 °C moving air at 28 °C
B still air at 18 °C moving air at 28 °C still air at 28 °C
C moving air at 28 °C still air at 28 °C still air at 18 °C
D moving air at 28 °C still air at 18 °C still air at 28 °C
C
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[10175136] High order thinking

* The diagram below shows the percentage saturation of air with water vapour
near a stoma.

air space
guard cell

100
(1) (4)
90
80
atmosphere 70
60
(3)
(2)

In which direction the rate of transpiration is the highest?

A (1)
B (2)
C (3)
D (4)
A
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Short questions

[10175140] Scientific investigation High order thinking

* The diagrams below show the appearances of the upper and lower sides of a leaf
when the leaf was put into a beaker of hot water.

bubble

hot water

upper side lower side

a Explain why bubbles were produced. (2 marks)

b From the diagrams, compare the relative abundance of stomata on the upper
and lower sides of the leaf. (1 mark)
c Suggest why this relative abundance of stomata on the upper and lower
sides of the leaf is beneficial to the plant. (2 marks)

-- answer --
a Gas in the air spaces in the leaf expanded in hot water. 1m
The gas escaped through the stomata on both sides of the leaf and thus bubbles
were produced. 1m
b There were more stomata on the lower side than on the upper side of the leaf.
1m
c The upper sides of the leaves are directly illuminated by the sun and thus the
temperature of the upper sides is higher than that of the lower sides. 1m
Having fewer stomata on the upper sides helps reduce water loss due to
transpiration. 1m
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[10175143] Cross-topic Communication

* The diagram below shows the lower part of a leaf. The water potential of three
spongy mesophyll cells (X, Y and Z) is given.

xylem vessel
Y
X 2900 kPa
21150 kPa
Z
spongy 21300 kPa
mesophyll cells

a Draw on the diagram the directions of water flow between the xylem vessel
and spongy mesophyll cells X, Y and Z. (2 marks)
b Describe and explain how water moves from a spongy mesophyll cell to the
atmosphere outside the leaf during transpiration. (3 marks)

-- answer --
a

xylem vessel
Y
X 2900 kPa
21150 kPa
Z
spongy 21300 kPa
mesophyll cells

Correct directions 2m
b Water on the surface of the cell evaporates into the air space. 1m
The water vapour concentration in the air space is now higher than that in the
atmosphere outside the leaf. 1m
Water vapour diffuses through the stomata into the atmosphere down the water
vapour concentration gradient. 1m
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Structured question

[10175165] Scientific investigation

* A student used the following set-up to compare the rates of transpiration of two
plants, P and Q. Plant P lived in a moist environment and plant Q lived in a dry
environment. She measured the distance travelled by the air bubble in the
capillary tube in 10 minutes for each plant. The position of the plunger of the
syringe was fixed during the experiment.

graduated syringe
capillary tube with water
air bubble
leafy shoot
of plant P / Q

water
beaker

a State three precautions the student should have carried out and explain why
they are necessary. (3 marks)
b The set-up actually measured the rate of water uptake rather than the rate of
transpiration. What assumption was made when the rate of water uptake
was used as an indirect measurement of the rate of transpiration?
(1 mark)
c The capillary tube only measured the distance travelled by the air bubble.
Describe how the student could calculate the rate of water uptake by the
leafy shoot of each plant. (2 marks)
d The rate of water uptake and hence the rate of transpiration in plant Q was
found to be lower than that in plant P. State two possible features of the
leaves of plant Q and explain how each feature could account for the lower
rate of transpiration. (4 marks)

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-- answer --
a Cut the leafy shoot of each plant and fit it into the set-up under water. This
prevents air bubbles from entering the xylem vessels and blocking water uptake.
1m
Blot dry the leaves after cutting the shoots under water. This removes water which
blocks the stomata / slows down transpiration through the stomata. 1m
Leave the set-up undisturbed for 15 minutes before making a measurement. This
allows the rate of water uptake to acclimatize to the surrounding conditions. 1m
(or other reasonable answers)
b All the water absorbed by the plant was lost through transpiration. 1m
c Find out the radius (r) of the capillary tube. 1m
2
Multiply the cross-sectional area of the capillary tube (pr ) by the distance travelled
by the air bubble in 10 minutes. Then divide the product by 10 minutes. 1m
d Leaves were small / modified to form spines to reduce the surface area for
transpiration. 2m
Hairs were present on the epidermis to retain moisture. This decreased the
concentration gradient of water vapour between the air space and the surrounding
air, thus slowing down transpiration. 2m
(or other reasonable answers)
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