Previous IB Exam Essay Questions: Unit 10

Use these model essay questions and responses to prepare for essay questions on your in-class tests,
as well as the IB Examination, Paper 3. The questions below have appeared on IB HL Examinations
over the past several years. The answers following the questions are the markscheme ideal responses
used to evaluate student examination responses.

1. Outline the experiments of Miller and Urey into the origin of organic compounds on Earth.
6 marks

 apparatus contructed in which chemicals could circulate

 gases of pre-biotic Earth`s atmosphere mixed inside
 methane (as a carbon source)
 ammonia water vapor and hydrogen
 sparks/ electric discharge (to simulate lightning)
 high temperature/ boiling water
 no free oxygen
 amino acids spontaneously formed
 example of other organic compound formed

2. Outline the methods used by Miller and Urey in their experiments into the origin of
organic compounds on Earth. 2 marks

 conditions on pre-biotic Earth were recreated in their apparatus

 mixture of any three of methane, ammonia, water vapor, and
hydrogen
 water boiled and recondensed to simulate high temperature
 electrical discharge / sparks to simulate lightning

3. Outline the conclusion that Miller and Urey drew from their experiments. 2 marks

 organic compounds / amino acids were formed from inorganic

compounds
 organic compounds could have existed on pre-biotic Earth
 life might have arisen from non-living material

4. Discuss the possible role of RNA in the origin of life on Earth. 5 marks

 short polymers of RNA have been produced abiotically

 from dilute solution of RNA nucleotide monomers in test tube
experiments
 thus, RNA is capable of self-assembly
 when short RNA polytmers are added to a test-tube containing RNA
nucleotide monomers
 copies are made from the template following base-pairing rules
 thus, RNA is capable of self-replication
 if zinc is added, RNA polymers up to 40 nucleotides are copied with
less than 1% error
 RNA molecules are important catalysts in modern cells
 ribozymes remove introns from RNA
 ribozymes help catalyze the synthesis of new RNA
 thus, RNA is autocatalytic

5. Answer the following questions concerning endosymbiotic theory. 5 marks

a. Identify which one of the five kingdoms of living organisms was the first to appear on Earth. 1 mark
  Prokaryotes / Monera / Bacteria

b. State one organelle, apart from chloroplasts, which is part of the endosymbiotic theory. 1 mark

 mitochondrion

c. State three kingdoms in which this organelle is found. 1 mark

 any three of: fungi, protista, animals, plants

d. State two characteristics of mitochondria which support the idea that they were once independent
prokaryotes. 2 marks

 mitochondria have their own DNA and ribosomes / conduct their

own protein synthesis
 mitochondrial DNA is circular
 mitochondrial DNA lacks histones
 mitochondrial DNA lacks introns
 mitochondria replicate independently of the host cell nucleus
 mitochondrial size is similar to prokaryotes
 mitochondrial ribosomes similar to prokaryoties in size / antibiotic
sensitivity

6. Discuss the definition of the term species. 8 marks

 a species is a group of organisms

 a species shares a common gene pool
 showing similar morphology/characteristics
 capable of interbreeding
 and producing fertile offspring
 but dissimilar organisms sometimes interbreed
 mule formed by crossing horse and donkey/other example of
interspecific hybridisation
 interspecific hybrids are sometimes fertile
 sometimes organisms that are very similar will not interbreed
 Drosophila pseudoobscura and D. persimilis/other example of sibling
species
 reference to the problem of defining fossil species
 reference to the problem of species that only reproduce asexually
 reference to the problem of isolated populations gradually diverging

7. Discuss how isolation can lead to speciation. 7 marks

(Award 1 mark for each answer below up to 6 marks; Award 1 mark for some mention/'weighing up'
of arguments/likelihood of isolation leading to speciation. 7 marks maximum.)

 for speciation to occur populations of a species must beome isolated

 isolation can be geographical
 isolation of populations living together is less likely
 isolation may be ecological
 e.g. by different flowering
times/pollinators/temporal/behavioral/mechanical
 new traits by chance mutations
 natural selection/selection pressures will alter population by
favoring certain traits
  speciation can occur by divergent evolution
 e.g. by occypying different microhabitats/other example
 isolation prevents interbreeding
 gene pools become separated
 isolated populations can diverge by adapting to different conditions
 over a long period of time populations may diverge considerably
 with sufficient divergence, populations can no longer interbreed
 speciation has occurred when populations cannot interbreed

8. Discuss how different types of isolation contribute to speciation. 7 marks

 any type of isolation can contribute if it prevents

interbreeding/prevents gene flow
 geographical isolation is (probably) the commonest method
 physical barrier/long distance prevents interbreeding
 e.g. islands/mountain ranges/other barrier
 ecological isolation is harder to achieve
 e.g. populations occupy different habitats in the same area
 e.g. flower at different times/have different mating season
 other example of ecological isolation
 natural selection must act differently on the two populations
 populations must diverge sufficiently enough for interbreeding to be
impossible
 behavioral isolation
 structural isolation
 a small gene pool so any mutations show more quickly

9. Discuss the theory that evolution occurs by punctuated equilibrium. 3 marks

 long periods where there was no (apparent) change/stasis

 short periods of rapid evolution
 periods of mass extinctions leading to opportunities/caused by
environmental disruption/rapid environmental change in short
periods
 supported by lack of fossils showing gradual changes
 an example of such environmental disruption (meteors,
earthquakes, volcanoes, etc.)
 alternative theory is gradualism
 punctuated equilibrium is based on fossil evidence rather than
biochemical evidence

10. Compare evolution by punctuated equilibrium with evolution by gradualism. 3 marks

 punctuated equilibrium involves faster mutation rates

 punctuated equlibrium involves more powerful natural selection
 punctuated equilibrium implies that the environment undergoes
sudden changes
 punctuated equibrium involves discontinuous evolution
 gradualism implies continuous evolution
 punctuated equilibrium involves faster evolution rates (when it
occurs)

Previous IB Exam Essay Questions: Unit 11

Use these model essay questions and responses to prepare for essay questions on your in-class tests,
as well as the IB Examination, Paper 3. The questions below have appeared on IB HL Examinations
over the past several years. The answers following the questions are the markscheme ideal responses
used to evaluate student examination responses.

1. Outline the method for the dating of rocks and fossils using radioisotopes, with reference
to 14C and 40K. 5 marks

 accurate dating of fossils allows accurate sequencing of fossils

 select 14C for young samples / samples from 1,000 to 100,000
years old
 select 40K for older samples / samples over 100,000 years old
 extract isotopes from sample
 measure isotopes in sample as proportion of 14C / 40K relative to
breakdown products 14N / 40Ar
 14C/14N ratio decreases over time at a predictable rate / half-life =
5730 years
 40K/40Ar ratio decreases over time at a predictable rate / half-life
= 1,250,000 years
 compare 14C/14N / 40K/40Ar ratio with decay curve to determine
age of sample

2. Describe the major anatomical features that define humans as primates. 3 marks

 grasping limbs (with long fingers and a separated opposable thumb)

 mobile arm (with shoulder joints allowing movement in three planes
and the bones of the shoulder girdle allowing weight to be
transferred via the arms)
 stereoscopic vision / forward facing eyes on a flattened face /
binocular vision / overlapping fields of view
 skull modified for upright posture / foramen magnum forward in
base of skull

3. Outline the trends illustrated by the fossils of Ardipithecus, Australopithecus and Homo.
6 marks

 all three genera are hominids

 increasing adaptation to bipedalism / forward movement of foramen
magnum
 increasing brain size in relation to body size
 hominids originated in Africa and spread to other continents
 Ardipithecus / Australopithecus / Homo fossils found in Africa
 Homo erectus fossils found in Africa and in Asia
 Homo neanderthalensis fossils found in Europe
 Homo sapiens fossils found in all continents except Antarctica
 decreasing relative size of face / jaw / teeth / canines
 increasing relative size of brain case / forehead

4. Discuss the incompleteness of the fossil record and the resulting uncertainties with
respect to human evolution. 5 marks

 because the hominid fossil record is incomplete it is unclear how the

various hominid species are related
 the fossil record for hominids is incomplete because it is difficult for
remains of animals living in arid or semi-arid habitats to fossilize
  fossils only form when buried under sediment / before
decomposition occurs
 animal bodies are usually easten by detritivores / decomposed by
bacteria / broken down chemically
 therefore few fossils found of savanna-dwelling hominids
 most remains fossilized remain buried in sediment / remain unfound
 hominid fossils that have been found may not be representative of
hominid history
 hominid fossils that have been found are usually partial / the
remainder of the organism must be inferred / inferences may not be
correct
 only hard parts of individuals fossilize leaving many questions
concerning the rest of phenotype

5. Discuss the the correlation between the change in diet and increase in brain size during
hominid evolution. 8 marks

 early hominids / Australopithecus brain sizes were similar in size to

those of apes
 early hominids / Australopithecus had powerful jaws / teeth indicate
(mainly) vegetarian diet
 About 2.5 million years ago Africa became much cooler and drier
 About 2.5 million years ago savanna grassland replaced forest
 climate change may have prompted evolution of Homo
 climate change may have prompted better / more sophisticated
tools
 climate change may have prompted change to hunting / killing large
animals / increasing meat in diet
 change in diet corresponds to the start of increase in hominid brain
size
 in apes and early hominids, brain growth slows after birth
 Homo has rapid brain growth after birth
 eating meat increases supply of protein / fat / energy making larger
brain growth possible
 hunting / killing prey on savannas is more difficult than gathering
plant foods
 natural selection possibly favored larger brains / greater intelligence

6. Distinguish between genetic and cultural evolution. 6 marks

genetic evolution: max 3 marks

 genetic evolution is a product of selection for (adaptive) genes

 genetic evolution produces heritable traits
 genetic evolution is physically inherited as genes / coded within DNA
 genetic evolution is affected by random mutation
 natural selection determines likelihood of genetic inheritance
 acquired characteristics are not inherited
 genetic evolution occurs slowly / as gene pools alter gradually;

cultural evolution: max 3 marks

 cultural evolution is inherited from the environment

 cultural evolution is inherited independent of DNA
 cultural evolution is (specific) learning / learning done during one's
lifetime
  cultural evolution can be directed
 selection determines likelihood of inheritance;
 cultural evolution can occur rapidly

 genetic evolution is nature whereas cultural evolution is nurture

7. Discuss the relative importance of genetic and cultural evolution in the recent evolution
of humans. 2 marks

 genetic evolution continues to produce the phenotype of humans

 cultural evolution has played an increasingly greater role in the lives
of humans over time
 genetic change happens too slowly to produce the huge changes in
human culture
 some cultural changes have reduced natural selection pressures

8. Describe the adaptations for tree life which are found both in humans and in other
primates. 4 marks

If a list of adaptations only is given, award 3 marks maximum.

 grasping limbs / fingerprints / fingerpads / nails

 needed for grasping / holding on to / climbing trees (branches)

 rotating forelimb / shoulder blade (scapula) on back of thorax / free

wrist movement / well developed clavicle
 allows hanging from arms / arms support the weight of the body

 stereoscopic / binocular vision

 to judge distances

9. Explain the Hardy-Weinberg equation and why it is used. 6 marks

 mathematical model for genetic equilibrium / from which predictions

can be made
 used for sexually reproducing species / breeding must be random /
population large / no migration / no selection / no mutation
 used to calculate allele / genotype frequency
 by sampling from a population
 allele frequencies / genotype frequencies remain constant through
generations / no change
 if there is an observed change it suggests evolution is occurring (do
not accept just natural selection) / population is no longer in
equilibrium
 p and q represent the frequencies of two alleles of a gene
 frequency of alleles adds to 1 / (p + q)2
 (genotype frequencies) p2 + 2pq + q2 = 1
 p2 and q2 are the frequencies of the homozygotes
 2pq is the frequency of the heterozygotes

10. State three conditions under which the Hardy-Weinberg Principle does not operate. 3
marks

 natural selection
 non-random mating
  mutation
 migration / emigration / immigration / gene flow
 population(s) too small

11. Outline the value of classifying organisms. 4 marks

 classification arranges organisms into groups

 classification allows identification of species / organisms
 classification allows prediction of related taxa / based on common
characteristics
 classification reveals evolutionary links / shared derived
characteristics / inherited from common ancestors
 classification allows effective communication / all scientists use
same terminology
 classification avoids problem of convergence / ignores analogies
 classification emphasizes homologous structures / traits derived
from common ancestry

12. Explain the biochemical evidence for the common ancestry of living organisms. 5 marks

details of biochemical evidence: 4 marks max

 DNA structure is universal / same four nucleotides / adenine,

guanine, cytosine, and thymine
 RNA composed of same four nucleotides / adenine, guanine,
cytosine, and uracil
 ribosome structure is universal / composed of large and small
subunits / proteins and rRNA / site for mRNA attachment / two sites
for tRNA attachment
 protein structure is universal / composed of polymers / made of the
same 20 amino acids
 genetic code is universal / same codons for determining amino acid
sequence
 ATP is universal energy molecule / energy source for metabolism
 glycolysis is universal / biochemical pathway producing ATP from
glucose
 membranes structure is universal / proteins and phospholipid
bilayer

conclusion: 1 mark max

 biochemistry (near) identical in all organisms, therefore likely

related by common ancestry

13. Explain how variations in specific molecules can indicate phylogeny. 4 marks

 differences between molecules can be used to deduce phylogeny

 phylogeny is the evolutionary history of a (taxonomic) group
 mutation rates in DNA occur with predictable rates
 compare nucleotide sequences (of DNA) between taxa
 compare amino acid sequences (of proteins) between taxa
 differences can be used as a molecular clock
 to develop phylogeny
 to determine time since common ancestry

14. Discuss how biochemical variations can be used as an evolutionary clock. 5 marks
methods of using evolutionary clocks: 3 max

 differences in nucleotide base sequences / DNA / amino acid

sequences / proteins
 accumulate gradually over time
 differences accumulate at (roughly) predictable rates
 therefore the number of differences can be used as a clock
 to measure the time since two divergent groups shared a common
ancestor
 example; e.g. amino acid sequences in globin genes

problems with using evolutionary clocks: 2 max

 however variations are partly due to mutations

 which are unpredictable chance events
 so there must be caution in interpreting data
 establish a variety of molecular clocks for reliability

15. Distinguish, with examples, between analogous and homologous characterisitcs 4 marks

analogous characteristics: 2 marks max

 analogous characteristics are structures with a common function

 but a different evolutionary origin
 example: dolphin fins and shark fins

homologous characteristics: 2 marks max

 homologous characteristics are structures that have a common

evolutionary origin
 even if they have different functions
 example: dolphin forelimbs and human arms

16. Discuss the relationship between cladograms and the classification of living organisms.
4 marks

 cladograms (often) confirm existing classifications

 since both are based on phylogeny

 cladograms are (sometimes) different than traditional classifications

 because nodes can be placed at any point / arbitrary

 cladograms (sometimes) radically alter existing classifications

 example: birds grouped with dinosaurs

 strength of cladistics is that the comparisons are objective / rely on

molecular homologies
 weakness of cladistics is that molecular differences are based on
probabilities

Previous IB Exam Essay Questions: Unit 12

Use these model essay questions and responses to prepare for essay questions on your in-class tests,
as well as the IB Examination, Paper 2. The questions below have appeared on IB HL Examinations
over the past several years. The answers following the questions are the mark-scheme ideal responses
used to evaluate student examination responses.

1. Draw a labeled diagram of the human digestive system. 5 marks SL

Award one mark for every two of the following structures clearly drawn and labeled correctly.
Connections between organs must be correct for full marks

 mouth/ teeth/ tongue

 esophagus
 stomach
 small intestine
 large intestine/colon
 anus
 rectum
 sphincters
 salivary glands
 liver
 pancreas
 gall bladder

2. Describe the role of enzymes in the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids in
humans. 6 marks SL

Award one mark per role. Examples of specific enzymes:

 protease/trypsin/pepsin/chumotrypsin/other named protease digest

proteins into polypeptides/ dipeptides/ amino acids/ peptides
 lipase digest lipids into glycerol/ fatty acids
 amylase digest polysaccharides into disaccharides/ monosaccharides

Enzymes must match products.

 speed up/ catalyze reactions/ increased efficiency

 lower the (activation) energy required for digestive reactions to
occur
 occurs at body temperature
 require optimum pH
 enzymes are specific
 digestive enzymes carry out hydrolytic processes

3. Draw a diagram of a villus in vertical section. 5 marks SL

Award one mark for each of the following structures clearly drawn and labeled correctly.

 lymph vessel
 arteriole
 venule
 (central) lacteal
 capillary network
 epithelial layer/ lining/ epithelium
 microvilli
 goblet cells
4. State the sources, substrate, product, and optimum pH conditions for the enzyme
amylase. SL

 source:

salivary glands
pancreas

 substrate: starch/ glycogen (do not accept carbohydrate)

 product: maltose/ disaccharide
 optimum pH: 7-8/ neutral - slightly alkaline

5. Explain how the structure of the villi in the small intestine are related to absorption of
digested food. 3 marks SL

Award marks for a clearly drawn and correctly labelled diagram.

 large surface area by microvilli / protrusion of exposed parts

 epithelium only one layer thick
 protein channels allow facilitated diffusion and active transport
 mitochondria provide ATP
 blood capillaries close to epithelium/ surface
 absorption of glucose/ amino acids
 lacteal / lymphatic vessel in center to absorb fats
 tight junctions assist in controlling absorption

6. Describe the role of enzymes in digestion with reference to two named examples. 5 marks
SL

 large food molecules must be broken down

 such as carbohydrates/ proteins, etc.
 by hydrolysis of bonds / to form monomers
 in preparation for absorption
 rate of reaction at body temperature too slow
 enzymes increase the of breakdown / act as catalysts
 first enzyme example - name, substrate and product
 second enzyme example - name, substrate and product

Award 3 max if no examples given

7. Draw a labelled diagram to show the internal structure of the heart. 6 marks SL

Award one mark for each of the following structures clearly drawn and labelled correctly in a diagram
of the heart

 left and right ventricles

 left and right atria
 atrioventricular valves / bicuspid / mitral and tricuspid valves
 semilunar valves
 aorta and vena cava
 pulmonary artery and pulmonary vein
 ventricle thicker than atria
 left ventricle wall thicker than right ventricle wall
Do not award marks for a diagram with only the ventricles or atria. However, it is not necessary to
show the cordae tendinae.

8. Draw a labelled diagram of the heart showing all four chambers, associated blood vessels
and valves. 5 marks SL

Award one mark for any two of the following clearly drawn and correctly labelled.

 vena cava
 inferior and superior vena cava distinguished
 aorta
 pulmonary artery
 pulmonary vein
 left ventricle
 right ventricle
 left ventricle shown with thicker wall than right ventricle
 septum
 left atrium
 right atrium
 coronary artery
 two semi-lunar valves
 AV valves
 bicuspid and tricuspid valves distinguished

9. Outline the events that occur within the heart, which cause blood to move around the
body. 6 marks SL

 blood is collectred in the atria

 blood is pumped from the atria to the ventricles
 opened atrio-ventricular valves allow flow from the atria to the
ventricles
 closed semi-lunar valves prevent backflow from the arteries to the
ventricles
 blood is pumped out from the ventricles to the arteries
 open semi-lunar valves allow flow from ventricles to arteries
 closed atrio-ventricular valves prevent backflow to the atria
 pressure generated by the heart causes blood to move around the
body
 pacemaker (SAN) initiates each heartbeat

10. Explain the relationship between the structure and function of arteries, capillaries and
veins. 9 marks SL

(3 marks maximum for information on arteries.)

 carry blood away from the heart

 have thick walls to withstand high pressure / prevent bursting
 have muslce fibers to generate the pulse / help pump blood / even
out blood flow
 have elastic fibers to help generate pulse / allow artery wall to
stretch / recoil

(3 marks maximum for information on capillaries.)

 allow exchange of oxygen/carbon dioxide/ nutrients/waste products

from tissues/cells
  have a thin wall to allow (rapid) diffusion / movement in / out
 have pores / porous walls to allow phagocytes / tissue fluid to leave
 are narrow so can penetrate all parts of tissues / bigger total
surface area

(3 marks maximum for information on veins.)

 carry blood back to the heart / from the tissues

 have thinner walls because the pressure is low / to allow them to be
squeezed
 have fewer muscle / elastic fibers because there is no pulse /
because pressure is low
 have valves to prevent backflow

11. Draw a simple diagram of the gas exchange system in humans. 5 marks SL

For a diagram of the whole gas exchange system, award 1 mark for each of the following structures
clearly drawn and labeled correctly.

 trachea
 lungs
 bronchi
 bronchioles
 lungs (2 must be shown)
 intercostal muscles between ribs
 diaphragm

For a diagram of an alveolus only, award 1 mark for each of the following structures clearly drawn and
labeled correctly.

 alveolus
 bronchiole

12. Describe the mechanism of ventilation in the human lung. 5 marks SL

 consists of inhaling and exhaling air / exchanging stale air with fresh
air (with the environment)
 external intercostal muscles contract moving the rib cage up/out
 diaphragm contracts
 increaes volume of thorax / lowers lung pressure relative to air
pressure / pulls air in
 diaphragm relaxes
 abdominal muscles contract
 internal intercostal muscles contract moving the rib cage down/in
 force air out / decreases volume of thorax / raise lung pressure
relative to air pressure

13. Describe the need for a ventilation system. 6 marks SL

 (small) animals obtain oxygen (by diffusion) through skin / in

humans (large) animals skin is ineffective for ventilation
 humans are large / have a small ratio of surface area:volume
 so need ventilation system to increase surface area
 to maintain a concentration gradient in alveoli
  as oxygen is used in respiration (and carbon dioxide is produced)
 gaseous exchange occurs between air in alveoli and blood capillaries
 alveoli have high ratio of surface area:volume (to facilitate
ventilation)
 to bring in fresh air (and remove stale air)

14. Explain the need for, and mechanism of, ventillation of the lungs in humans. 8 marks SL

 draws fresh air / oxygen into the lungs

 removal / excretion of carbon dioxide
 maintains concentration gradient of oxygen / carbon dioxide /
respiratory gases

 diaphragm contracts
 (external) intercostal muscles contract
 increased volume (of thorax / thoracic cavity)
 decreasing air pressure in lungs
 air rushes in down air pressure gradient

 converse of the above causes exhalation

 abdominal muscles contract during active exhalation
 elastic recoil of lungs helps exhalation

15. Many processes in living organisms, including ventilation and gas exchange, involve
moving materials. State the differences between ventilation and gas exchange in humans. 4
marks SL

ventiallation: 2 max

 movement of air
 movement in and out of the lungs
 caused by muscles
 an active process
 involves mass flow / involves flow along air passages

gas exchange 2 max

 movement of carbon dioxide and oxygen

 (occurs when) oxygen moves from lungs / alveoli to red blood
cells / carbon dioxide moves to lungs / alveoli from red blood cells
 (occurs when) oxygen moves from red blood cells to tissues /
carbon cioxide moves to red blood cells from tissues
 a passive process / diffusion
 takes place across a surface

16. Describe homeostasis in relation to blood glucose concentration in humans. 6 marks SL

 homeostasis is maintaining internal environment at constant

levels/within narrow limits
 homeostasis involves both nervous and endocrine systems
 low blood glucose triggers glucagon release
 glucagon is produced å-islet cells in pancreas
 glycogen is converted to glucose
 high blood glucose concentration triggers insulin release
  insulin produced by ß-islet cells in pancreas
 glucose taken up by (liver/muscle) cells
 glucose converted to glyocgen
 blood gluose levels controlled by negative feedback
 correct reference to lowering or raising blood glucose levels

17. Define, with examples, the term homeostasis. 4 marks SL

 keeping conditions constant/ within narrow limits

 within the body/ internal environment
 e.g., temperature in humans kept at 37 degrees C/ other example
 e.g., blood sugar/ glucose in humans kept within limits/ other
example

18. Explain how blood glucose concentration is controlled in humans. 9 marks SL

 homeostasis maintains the internal blood glucose levels between

narrow limits
 70-110 mg glucose per 100 ml blood
 blood glucose level is maintained by negative feedback
 islets in pancreas monitor blood glucose levels
 after meal blood glucose increases
 high blood glucose stimulates release of insulin
 (release of insulin) by pancreatic islets/ by ß-cells
 causes muscles/ adipose tissue and liver to store glycogen
 glucose stored in the form of glycogen (in muscle/ liver)
 storage lowers blood glucose levels
 if blood glucose levels drops glucagon secreted
 secrete glucagon by pancreatic islets/ by å-cells
 this causes liver to break down glycogen (to glucose)
 glycogen breakdown causes blood glucose level increase

19. Describe the response of the human body to low external temperatures. 4 marks SL

 thermoreceptors/ sensory input

 hypothalamus acts as a thermostat
 metabolic rate increases
 shivering / goose bumps / hairs raising / swet glands inactive
 vasoconstriction of skin arterioles
 blood flow from extremities is reduced / blood flow to internal
organs is increased
 increased activity
 heat is transferred in blood

Use these model essay questions and responses to prepare for essay questions on your in-class tests,
as well as the IB Examination, Paper 2. The questions below have appeared on IB HL Examinations
over the past several years. The answers following the questions are the mark-scheme ideal responses
used to evaluate student examination responses.

1. Outline how the skin and mucous membranes prevent entry of pathogens into the body.
5 marks
To receive full marks, responses must have two answers for each.

skin: 3 max

 lower pH/ acid to keep bactgeria from growing/ chemical barrier

 fatty acids/ waxes antimicrobial
 physical barrier to prevent entry/ dry skin inhibits bacterial growths
 bacteria on skin/ mucous membranes prevent other bacteria from
growing
 antimicrobial/ lysozyme in sweat and saliva (mucous membrane) to
keep bacterial growth in check

mucous membranes: 3 max

 mucous traps bacteria/ sticky/ mucous slightly acidic e.g. vagina

 cilia sweep mucous up to be swallowed to kill bacteria
 contain macrophages/ phagocytes

2. Discuss the benefits and dangers of vaccinations against bacterial and viral infections. 8
marks

general statements: 3 max

 vaccinations stimulate antibody production/immunity

 against/resistance to specific pathogens/artificial immunity
 use either weakened pathogens or specfic antibodies
 primary response to first vaccination/secondary response to second
vaccination
 memory cells (are cloned) maintain long-term immunity

benefits: 3 max

 eradicated some diseases e.g. smallpox/ polio

 decrease child mortality
 MMR/mumps, measles and rubella prevent long-term health
problems
 e.g. deafness/ blindness/ heart damage from rubella/ male infertility
from mumps
 prevent epidemics/ pandemics

dangers: 3 max

 too many vaccinations may lower body's immunity to new diseases

 immunity may not be life-long/ may have severe version as adults
e.g. measles
 some vaccines may cause serious side effects
 e.g. whooping cough vaccine may cause encephalitis/ toxic effects
(Hg) in some vaccines/ allergic reactions
 may contract disease from vaccine

3. Explain the principle of immunization against bacterial or viral diseases. 3 marks

 vaccine injected / ingested / vaccination given

 contains weak / killed form of the bacterium /virus
 antibody production (by white blood cells) stimulated
  antibodies / memory cells persist
 refer to booster shots / repeated vaccination

4. Define the terms active and passive immunity. 2 marks

 active immunity - production of antibodies by the organism itself

 passive immunity - acquisition of antibodies from another
organism / from elsewhere

5. Explain the role of antibody production with regard to vaccinations. 8 marks

 vaccine injected into body / ingested

 containing killed / weakened pathogen / fragments of pathogen /
toxins
 macrophages ingest antigen / antigen presenting cells ingest
antigen
 T-helper cells bind to macrophages
 T-helper cells stimulated / activated

 antigen binds to B-cells

 activated T-helper cells then bind to B-cells
 activation of B-cells
 which divide / undergo mitosis to form clones of (plasma) cells

 B-cells / plasma cells produce antibodies

 memory cells produced
 second / booster shot sometimes given
 more antibodies and faster response / graph to show this
 antibodies are specific to antigen

6. Explain the production of antibodies against a pathogen. 8 marks

 antigen/pathogen engulfed by macrophage (by endocytosis)

 presentation of antigen by macrophage on membrane/MHC protein
 helper T-cell binds to macrophage
 helper T-cell activated
 activated helper T-cell binds to (inactive) B-cell
 B-cell is activated by helper T-cell
 B-cells start to divide/clone
 plasma cells formed/grow
 plasma cell increaes numbers of rough ER/Golgi apparatus
 B cells/ clone / plasma cells begin to produce antibodies to the
specific antigen
 antibodies secreted/ pass out through membrane (by exocytosis)
 memory cells give long-term immunity/ allow rapid antibody
production

7. Explain why antibotics are used to treat bacterial but not viral diseases. 2 marks

No credit for answers that state antibiotic means against life nor for the statement that viruses are not
alive.

 antibiotics block metabolic pathways in bacteria / inhibit cell wall

formation / protein synthesis
  viruses use host cell metabolic pathways / do not possess a cell wall
and so are not affected by antibiotics
 antibiotics are not used to treat viral diseases because they are
ineffective and may harm helpful bacteria

8. Describe the production of monoclonal antibodies. 2 marks

 (B) lymphocyte obtained that produces the desired antibody

 (B) lymphocyte fused with myeloma / tumor cells
 (hybridoma) cells formed in this way are cultured to produce
antibodies

9. Outline the role of fibrinogen. 2 marks

 soluble substance that can be converted to insoluble substance

 converted to fibrin (in cuts)
 helps to form a clot
 to seal a cut / prevent more blood loss / prevent entry of infection

10. Describe the process of clotting. 5 marks

 blood vessel damaged

 clotting factors released from damaged cells / platelets / blood
plasma
 clotting factors include Ca2+ and vitamin K
 thrombin produced
 clotting factors cause production of thrombin / conversion of
prothrombin to thrombin
 thrombin converts fibrinogen into insoluble fibrin
 fibrin traps cells to form a clot

11. Explain the role of antibody production and the principle of vaccination in immunity. 8
marks

antibody production:

 exposure to antigen
 leads to activation of (helper) T-cells
 leads to clonal selection / activation of specific type of B-cell
 production of plasma cells
 specific antibody produced
 memory cells produced which provide long lasting immunity

principle of vaccination:

 artificial exposure to antigen / artificial active immunity

 use dead / attenuated pathogen / protein material
 first vaccination produces lymphocytes specific to antigen
 booster shot causes more intense response / graph to show this
 immunity to disease before actually contracting the disease

12. Polio is a viral disease which affects the nervous system. Describe the different ways in
which the body could acquire immunity to this disease. 6marks

 natural immunity by catching the dieases

  antigen presentation by macrophages/MHC proteins
 helper T-cells activated
 lymphocytes/ B-cells react forming antibodies
 clonal selection/ multiply when they encounter antigen
 polyclonal if more than one clone formed
 memory cells formed
 natural passive immunity by placenta/ breast feeding
 artificial active by vaccination/ Sabin vaccine/ Salk vaccine
 artificial passive by injection of antibodies

13. Discuss the cause, transmission and social implication of AIDS 8 marks

the answer must include at least one reference to cause, transmission, and social implications in order
to receive full marks

cause:

 acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

 caused by HIV/ human immunodeficiency virus
 retrovirus/ RNA to DNA
 enters (and lowers number of) T-helper cells
 less antibodies produced/ immune system disabled/ weakened
 body vulnerable to pathogens (opportunistic infections)

transmission

 transmission through body fluids/ does not live long outside the
body
 through sexual intercourse
 sharing of infected needles
 mother to fetus/ across placenta
 blood transfusions
 blood products/ factor VIII used to treat hemophiliacs

social implications

 families and friends sugger grief

 great costs/ reduction in workforce/ economic implications
 discrimination/social stigma
 increase in number of orphans/ family structure/ stability affected
 reduces promiscuity/ encourages use of condoms

14. Tuberculosis is a disease of the ventilation system. Explain how white blood cells attack
the pathogens that cause this disease. 8 marks

 B-cells/ lymphocytes produce antibodies

 antigen recognized
 antigen can be protein in cell wall of pathogen
 macrophage presentation of antigen
 clone formed/ division of cells
 T-helper cells assist
 formation of antigen-antibody complex
(neutralization/agglutination/precipitation)
 phagocytes engulf
 engest by endocytosis
 pathogen kills
  digested by lysosomes
 formation of memory cells

15. Blood vessels carry blood to and from the kidney. Draw a labelled diagram to show the
internal structure of the kidney, including the vessels that are connected to it. 5 marks

Award 1 for each of the following structures clearly drawn and correctly labelled.

 cortex, shown at the edge of kidney

 medulla, shown inside the cortex (with pyramids)
 pelvis, whown on the concave side of the kidney
 ureter, shown connecting with the pelvis/; on concave side/ hilum
 renal artery, shown connected to the concave/ pelvis side/ away
from cortex
 renal vein, shown connected to the concave/ pelvis side/ away from
cortex

16. Explain briefly the function of the loop of Henle in the human kidney. 2 marks

 makes the medulla hypertonic / have higher solute concentration /

more negative water/ solute potential
 by raising the sodium / mineral ion concentration / release of
sodium ions into medulla / out of the ascending limb
 allows the production of hypertonic / concentrated urine / urine with
less water / more water absorption in collecting duct

17. Compare the composition of the blood arriving at the kidney via the renal artery with
the composition of the blood carried away from it in the renal vein. 4 marks

 more oxygen in the renal artery/ less in the renal vein/ oxygenated
versus deoxygenated
 less carbon dioxide in the renal artery/ more in the renal vein
 more urea in the renal artery/ less in the renal vein
 more ammonia/ ethanol/ toxins/ hormones in the renal artery/ less
in the renal vein

reject answers for the points above if "none" instead of "less" is indicated

 more salt/NaCl/ Na+/ Cl-/ ions (in total) in renal artery than in renal
vein
 more water (in total) in renal artery than in renal vein
 with ADH, lower salt concentration/ higher water concentration in
vein than in artery

18. Define excretion and osmoregulation. 4 marks

 removal of toxins / waste products from an organism

 waste products of metabolism

 control of water potential / level / content in a cell / organism

 and control of solute / osmotic potential / concentration

19. explain how hypertonic urine is produced in the medulla of the human kidney. 4 marks

 water reabsorbed from urine / filtrate

  as it passes down the collecting ducts / last part of nephron
 by osmosis
 because water potential of medulla is lower / solute concentration is
higher
 high salt / sodium ion / urea concentration in the medulla
 generated by the loop of Henle
 sodium passes from filtrate in the loop of Henle to the medulla
 in the ascending limb
 by active transport
 water in the medulla carried away by the blood system
 ADH makes the collecting duct wall permeable to water

Previous IB Exam Essay Questions: Unit 14

Use these model essay question responses to prepare for essay questions on your in class tests, as
well as the IB Examination, Paper 2. These questions have appeared on recent IB examinations,
exactly as shown below. Following each question is the markscheme answer which was used to
evaluate student answers on the examination paper.

1. Outline the general organization of the nervous system. 4 marks

 formed of central nervous system

 brain and spinal cord
 peripheral nervous system divdided into volumtary and autonomic
nervous systems
 autonomic nervous system consists of sympathetic and
parasympathetic nervous system
 voluntary nervous system has motor and sensory neurons

2. Draw a diagram to show the structure of a motor neuron. 5 marks

 cell body drawn and labelled with a nucleus shown inside (reject if
cell body not drawn at end of axon)
 axon drawn at least three times as long as the diameter of the cell
body and labelled
 Schwann cells / mylin sheath drawn and labelled
 gaps in the myelin sheath drawn and labeled
 at least five dendrites drawn leading to the cell body labelled
 at least two motor end plates / boutons / synaptic knobs / synaptic
terminals drawn and labelled

3. Outline the changes that lead to the depolarization of an axon as an action potential
travels along a neuron. 5 marks

 local currents / ions diffuse from adjacent depolarised section of

axon
 resting / membrane potential reduced
 voltage-gated ion channels affected
 sodium channels open
 sodium diffuses in / moves in rapidly
 therefore fewer positive charges outside and more inside / inside
becomes positive relative to outside / membrane polarity reversed
 before depolarisation outside was positive relative to inside
 when some sodium gates open entry of Na+ causes more sodium
gates to open
 membrane potential rises from -70mV to +40 mV ( -+ 10 mV)
(Award no marks for statements about potassium movement and repolarisation)

4. Explain how the nerve impulse passes along a neuron. 8 marks

 in resting potential
 sodium is pumped out by the active transport and potassium in
 a concentration gradient builds up electrical potential / voltage
 negative inside compared to outside
 when impulse passes / action potential
 must pass threshold level
 sodium channels open and ions diffuse into neuron
 membrane depolarized
 potassium diffuse out across membrane through ion channels
 active transport of ions once more
 slower in un-myelinated neuron than in myelinated
 an action potential in one part of the neuron causes the action
potential to develop in the next section

5. Explain how a non-mylenated neuron can maintain a resting potential and undergo an
action potential. 9 marks

(Award 1 mark for each point below; up to 9 marks max.)

 resting potential is a charge difference across the membrane /

-70mV
 inside negative compared to the outside
 active transport of ions across the membrane / pumps using ATP
 positively charged sodium ions / Na2 are pumped out
 fewer K+ are pumped in / 2 K+ compared to 3 Na+
 neurone contains negatively charged organic ions
 membrane allows little / no diffusion of ions
 to create action potential sodium ion channels open
 sodium ions move into the neurone
 therefore there is depolarisation / membrane polarisation is
reversed
 this causes similar changes further on along the neurone
 reference to diffusion of ions / local currents
 potassium ion channels open after the sodium ion channels
 potassium diffuses out causing some repolarisation

6. Explain how a nerve impulse is transmitted from a neuron to a muscle. 8 marks

 impulse reaches the motor end plates / synaptice knobs / boutons /

synaptic terminals
 synaptic vesicles contain neurotransmitter / acetylcholine
 calcium enters through the presynaptic membrane
 calcium causes the vesicle to move to and fuse with the
membrane / causes exocytosis
 neurotransmitter / acetycholine released into the synaptic cleft
 crosses / diffuses across the synoptic cleft to the muscle fibre
membrane / postsynaptic membrane
 binds to receptor sites
 causes depolarisation of the muscle fibre membrane / postsynaptic
membrane
 by opening sodium gates
 threshold of stimulation must be reached / all or nothing effect
  enzyme / acetylcholinesterase breaks down the neurotransmitter /
acetylcholine
 depolarisation causes sarcoplasmic reticulum to release calcium ions
 calcium ions cause / enable muscle contraction

7. Describe the principles of synaptic transmission in the nervous system. 6 marks

 nerve impulse reaches pre-synaptic knob / membrane

 calcium ions / Ca+2 enter pre-synaptic neuron / knob
 vesicles with neurotransmitter / acetylcholine release contents
 neurotransmitter diffuses across synapse / synaptic cleft
 binds to receptors on post-synaptic neuron / membrane
 sodium ions / Na+ enter post-synaptic neuron / sodium channels
open
 depolarization / action potential / nerve impulse (in post synaptic
neuron)
 calcium ions / Ca+2 pumped back into synaptic cleft / synapse
 neurotransmitter broken down

8. Explain the process of synaptic transmission. 7 marks

 presynaptic neurons pass stimulus / potential to postsynaptic

neurons
 presynaptic neuron releases neurotransmitter into synaptic cleft
 process involves exocytosis
 exocytosis requires Ca+2 entry into presynaptic neuron
 neurotransmitter binds with postsynaptic membrane receptor
 neurotransmitter binding can cause postsynaptic membrane ion
channel to open / increase / change permeability of post-synaptic
membrane
 increase / change permeability of post-synatic membrane
 open channel allows specific ions to enter / exit post-synaptic
membrane
 depolarization / hyperpolarization can result in / initiate action
potential
 outcome depends on type of postsynaptic receptor and type of
channel opened ; reference to excitatory and inhibitory synapses
 Na+ passing to the inside of the post-synaptic neuron (usually)
causes depolarization
 Cl- passing to the outside of the post-synaptic neuron (usually)
causes hyperpolarization
 (some) neurotransmitters are destroyed by enzymes

Accept any of the above points if accurately illustrated in a diagram.

9. Draw a labelled diagram of the human elbow joint. 4 marks

Award 1 for every two of the following structures clearly drawn and labelled correctly.

 humerus
 radius
 ulna
 cartilage (on ends of bones)
 ligaments (connecting humerus with radiuus / ulna)
 capsule (sealing joint)
 synovial fluid
  biceps (attached to radius)
 triceps (attached to ulna)
 tendons (connecting muscle to bone correctly)

10. Describe the roles of structures at the elbow joint, including nerves, muscles and bones,
in movements of the human forearm. 8 marks

 labelled diagram showing, biceps, humerus, radius, ulna

 cartilage reduces friction
 synovial fluid lubricates the joint
 capsule / capsular ligament seals the joint
 ligaments prevent dislocation / restrict the range of movement /
attach bones to one and another
 motor neurones stimulate muscles to contract
 bones provide a firm anchorage for muscles
 bones act as levers / change the torque / size / direction of forces
 tendons attach muscle to bone
 biceps and triceps are antagonistic
 biceps is the flexor / bends the elbow and triceps is the extensor /
straightens the elbow joint
 biceps is attached to the radius and triceps is attached to the ulna

Accept any of the above points if clearly drawn and correctly labelled in a diagram.

11. Describe the roles of nerves, muscles and bones in producing movement. 6 marks

 motor neurones carry impulses / messages to muscle

 nerves / neurones stimulate muscles to contract
 neurones control the timing of muscle contraction
 muscles provide the force for / cause movement
 muscles are attached to bone by tendons
 bones act as levers
 joints between bones control the range of movement
 antagonistic muscles cause opposite movements

12. Explain how a muscle fibre contracts, following depolarization of its plasma membrane.
6 marks

 calcium released from sarcoplasmic reticulum

 calcium binds to troponin
 troponin with calcium bound makes tropomyosin move
 movement of tropomyosin exposes binding sites (for myosin) on
actin
 contraction of muscle fibres is due to the sliding of filaments (over
each other)
 myosin heads bind to / form cross bridges with actin
 ATP binds to the myosin heads causing them to detach from the
binding sites
 hydrolosis of ATP / conversion of ATP to ADP causes myosin heads
to move
 myosin heads reattach to actin further along
 myosin pushes actin / actin pushed towards the centre of the
sarcomere / shortening of sarcomere

13. Explain how skeletal muscle contracts. 9 marks

  muscles / fibres / myofibrils contain (repeating) units called
sarcomeres
 muscle / sarcomeres contain actin filaments and myosin filaments
 actin fibres are thin and myosin fibres are thick
 arriving action potential causes release of Ca+2
 Ca+2 binds troponin
 causing troponin and tropomyosin to move (on actin)
 ATP binds to myosin heads releasing them / breaking cross bridges
 ATP hydrolysed / split into ADP + P
 ATP / energy causes myosin heads to change shape / swivel /
become cocked
 myosin heads bind / form cross bridges to (exposed) actin binding
sites
 myosin heads swivel / move actin (releasing ADP+ P)
 myosin filaments move actin filaments towards centre of sarcomere

14. Explain the process of muscle contraction. 9 marks

(Award 1 mark for each of the following, up to 9 marks)

 muscles contraction due to sliding filaments

 actin and myosin filaments slide over each other
 diagram / description of interdigitation of filaments
 action potential / stimulation causes calcium release in muscle fibres
 from the endoplasmic / sarcoplasmic reticulum
 calcium activates troponin
 troponin binds to tropomyosin / troponin and tropomyosin change
shape
 tropomyosin moves exposing binding sites on actin
 myosin heads bind to actin / cross bridges formed between actin
and myosin
 myosin heads / crossing bridges push actin filaments (inwards)
 myosin heads detach / cross bridges break
 myosin heads move back and reattach / ratchet mechanism
 ATP used (to break cross bridges)
 actin and myosin overlap more
 sarcomere becomes shorter
 myofibril / muscle fibre consists of many sarcomeres

Unit 15 Previous IB Exam Essay Questions: Neurobiology

Use these model essay question responses to prepare for essay questions on your in class tests, as
well as the IB Examination, Paper 3. These questions have appeared on recent IB examinations,
exactly as shown below. Following each question is the markscheme answer which was used to
evaluate student answers on the examination paper.

1. Compare the sensitivities of rod and cones cells to differences in light. 4 marks

maximum 1 mark for comparing sensitivity to light intensity: dim light versus bright light:

 rods especially effective in dim light whereas cones insensitive to

dim light
 rods effective under all conditions whereas cones especially effective
in bright light
maximum 1 mark for comparing sensitivity to light wavelength: all wavelengths versus specific
wavelengths

 rods have one type of pigment sensitive to all visible wavelength

whereas cones sensitive to different wavelengths
 rods have one type of pigment whereas cones have pigments
sensitive to either red, green or blue

maximum 2 marks for comparing passage of impulse from photoreceptor to bipolar neuron:

 rods dispersed throughout peripheral retina whereas cones are

concentrated only in the fovea
 several rods synapse with a single bipolar neuron whereas each
cone cell individually synapses with its own single bipolar neuron
 3:1 ratio of rods to bipolar neurons whereas 1:1 ratio in cones
 rods have greater sensitivity to low light intensity whereas cones
have lower sensitivity to low light intensity
 rods have poorer discrimination of detail whereas cones provide
finer discriminatory sensitivity

2. Draw a labelled diagram showing the main parts of the human brain. State one function
for each of two structures labelled in your diagram. 6 marks

Award one mark for up to four of the following structures clearly drawn and correctly labelled Award
one mark for up to two of the following functions correctly matched with one of the structures clearly
drawn and correctly labelled

 cerebral hemispheres: complex thought / memory / learning /

problem solving
 hypothalamus: controls secretion of hormones by the pituitary gland
/ hunger / thirst
 cerebellum: co-ordinates muscle movement / controls balance
 medulla oblongata: controls autonomic reflexes, e.g. breathing
rate / heart rate / regulates blood pressure / coughing
 pituitary gland: secretes hormones that control many processes in
the body

3. Compare the roles of the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems. 4 marks

 both are part of the autonomic nervous system

 antagonistic to each other / counteracts
 the sympathetic prepares the body for action while the
parasympathetic returns the body functions to normal
 example of any effect comparing the action of the sympathetic and
parasympathetic systems in a tissue or organ (e.g. heart:
sympathetic increases output and parasympathetic returns it back
to normal)
 a second example

4. Compare the effects of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems with
reference to the heart. 6 marks

sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems

 antagonistic / have opposite effects

  vagus nerve is parasympathetic
 accerator nerve is sympathetic
 vagus nerve and accerator nerve / both systems lead to the SA
node / pacemaker
 vagus / parasympathetic slows the heart and accerator /
sympathetic speeds it up
 vagus / parasympathetic secretes acetylcholine
 accerator / sympathetic secretes (nor) adrenaline / (nor)
epinephrine
 rate of heartbeat depends on relative amounts of stimuli from
sympathetic and parasympathetic

5. Describe the effects of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems on the control of
the heart and the iris of the eye. 6 marks

 unconscious / involuntary control

 antagonistic
 sympathetic system correlates with fight-flight responses / energy
generation
 parasympathetic system is correlated with calming effect / emphasis
on self-maintenance / return to normal state

heart

 sympathetic system: heart rate speeds up / more blood is pumped

to muscles
 parasympathetic system: heart rate slows down / less blood is
pumped to muscles

iris

 sympathetic system: radial muscles contract / pupil is dilated

 parasympathetic system: circular muscles contract / pupil constricts
to protect retina

Responses must include reference to both heart and iris to achieve full marks. Award 5 max if
reference to heart or iris is omitted.

6. Outline the pathway of neurons connecting the retina of the eye to the muscles of the
iris. 3 marks

 light received by retinal cells / neurons / bipolar neurons /

photoreceptor
 passed to optic nerve / cranial nerve II
 to visual cortex / relay neurons / intermediary neurons
 out via motor neurons / cranial nerrve III / effector neurons /
oculomotor nerve
 sympathetic neurons cause radial muscles to contract / pupil to
enlarge
 parasympathetic neurons cause circular muscles to contract / pupil
to reduce

7. Discuss how the pupil reflex is used for brain death. 2 marks

 shine light in eye to see if pupil constricts

  pupil reflex is cranial reflex / ANS reflex / controlled by the
brainstem
 (if pupil reflex is lost) patient is most likely brain dead
 some drugs (barbituates) / nerve damage may interfere with pupil
reflex

Credit annotated diagrams

8. Outline the role of endorphins in the body. 4 marks

 endorphins are produced by the brain

 they are neurotransmitters
 their action is inhibitory
 they act as pain killers
 they have specific receptor sites / receptor sites which accept
opiates
 they are produced at times of stress (e.g. labour)
 they open K+ channels and close Ca2+ channels / cause a net
positive outflow / prevent reaching threshold on post-synaptic
membrane

9. Outline the role of painkillers in the human body. 4 marks

 pain receptors located in skin / organs

 signal sent to brain / control center in CNS for conscious pain
sensation
 natural pain killers are endorphins / enkephalins
 enkephalins block calcium channels of pre-synaptic neurons
 block transmission of pain signals
 endorphins released by pituitary gland
 bind to receptors of membranes of neurons that send signal
 may block release of neurotransmitters / no signal sent

10. Explain how pre-synaptic neurons can either encourage or inhibit post-synaptic
neurons. 6 marks

 neurotransmitters released by pre-synaptic neurons

 diffuse across synapse
 bind to specific receptors on post-synaptic membranes
 some neurotransmitters increase permeability of post-synaptic
membrane to positive ions
 causing localized depolarization
 which helps an action potential to form / raises membrane above
threshold
 e.g. acetylcholine or other example
 other cause negatively charged chloride ions to move across post-
synaptic membrane into the cell / K ions move out of the post-
synaptic nerve cell
 e.g. GABA / other example
 leading to hyper-polarization
 which inhibits actions potentials

11. Explain how presynaptic neurons can affect postsynaptic transmission of impulses. 7
marks

(Note US names for transmitters, e.g. norepinephrine for noradrenaline)

  pre-synaptic neurons are excitatory or inhibitory
 cholinergic neurons release acetylcholine
 found in neuromuscular junctions / most synapses in voluntary NS /
many synapses in autonomic NS
 adrenergic neurons release noradrenaline
 found in sympathetic synapses (of ANS)
 both types of neuron can be excitatory
 attach to postsynaptic receptors
 make membrane permeable to Na+ which moves through / into /
across postsynaptic membrane
 causes depolarisation
 monoamine oxidase 'destroys' noradrenaline
 acetylcholine esterase 'destroys' acetylcholine
 other excitatory transmitters in brain - serotonin / dopamine /
glutamic acid
 inhibitory neurons release transmitters that make postsynaptic
membrane less permeable to Na+
 cause hyperpolarisation of the membrane
 by allowing K+ to diffuse out of postsynaptic membrane
 examples include glycine / gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) /
acetylcholine

12. Explain with examples how psychoactive drugs affect the brain. 6 marks

 excitatory drugs increase synaptic transmission

 named example e.g. nicotine, caffeine, cocaine / crack,
amphetamines / MDMA /ecstasy
 some drugs mimic the neurotransmitter
 some drugs inhibit the enzyme that breaks down the
neurotransmitter
 inhibitory drugs decrease synaptic transmission
 named example e.g. Valium / Temazepam / benzodiazepines /
cannabis
 some drugs block receptors preventing neurotransmitters binding to
them
 some drugs inhibit release of neurotransmitters

13. Discuss briefly the effects of inhibitory psychoactive drugs. 4 marks

 benzodiazepine / valium / diazepam / Temazepam is an inhibitory

psychoactive drug
 it relaxes (skeletal) muscle
 by enhancing the action of GABA / enhancing inhibition at the level
of the synapse
 cannabis causes relaxation / euphoria / enhanced awareness
(accept known alternatives to cannabis)
 inhibitory psychoactive drugs may reduce anxiety / muscle tension
 inhibitory psychoactive drugs may be addictive

14. Outline the behavior effects of tetrahydracannabinol (THC). 4 marks

 affects ability to concentrate

 loss of motor/ muscle control
 impairs perceptions / painkiller / loss of time sense
 memory loss
 relaxed attitude
 increased appetite
  depression

15. Explain the effect of psychoactive drugs on synaptic transmission using two named
examples. 6 marks

effect of psychoactive drugs: 4 max

 some psychoactive drugs act like neurotransmitters

 some psychoactive drugs act like neurotransmitters but are not
broken down (at the receptors)
 some psychoactive drugs interfere with the breaking down of the
neurotransmitters
 some psychoactive drugs interfere with the reuptake of
neurotransmitters
 some psychoactive drugs compete with neurotransmitters for
receptor binding sites
 some psychoactive drugs block the binding of neurotransmitters to
receptors
 affect the transmission of optic signal in the thalamus / optical
cortex

examples: 2 max

 amphetamines
 nicotine
 cocaine
 cannabis
 benzodiazepines
 alcohol

16. Explain the effects of excitatory psychoactive drugs using a named example. 4 marks

 psychoactive drugs affect the mind / brain and personality

 change / increase synaptic transmission
 (drugs) can block / similar in structure / inhibit breakdown of
neurotransmitter

Award 2 max per example, e.g. cocaine / nicotine / amphetamines.

 cocaine / crack
 stimulates synaptic transmission of adrenergic synapses
 increased energy / alertness / euphoria

 nicotine
 stimulates synaptic transmission of cholinergic synapses
 has a calming effect

 amphetamines / ecstasy
 stimulates synaptic transmission of adrenergic synapses
 similar effects to cocaine
 longer lasting effect / 2 to 4 hours

17. Explain, using examples, how inhibitory psychoactive drugs affect brain physiology. 6
marks
  block / decrease synaptic transmission
 can be inhibitory to pain
 examples are benzodiazepines / cannabis / alcohol
 benzodiazepines increase effect of inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA
 causing less transfer of information to the brain
 cannabis can block cannabinoid receptors in the brain stopping
transmission
 alcohol enhances effect of inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA
 also decreases activity of glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter
 use of psychoactive drugs can lead to dependence on them

Unit 16 Previous IB Exam Essay Questions: Behavior

Use these model essay question responses to prepare for essay questions on your in class tests, as
well as the IB Examination, Paper 3. These questions have appeared on recent IB examinations,
exactly as shown below. Following each question is the markscheme answer which was used to
evaluate student answers on the examination paper.

1. Outline the pain withdrawal reflex in humans. 6 marks

 pain sensed by receptor cells or nerve endings in the skin

 impulse passed along sensory neuron / nerve
 to the spinal cord / CNS
 passage through association neuron / neurons (accept alternative
terms for association neuron)
 in gray matter
 impulse passed along motor neuron / nerve
 to muscles / contraction of muscles
 pulls or moves limb away from source of pain

2. Describe the migration of a named species of bird or mammal. 6 marks

 name of species
 first area inhabited
 during which part of year / times of migration to and from this area
 second area inhabited
 route taken
 method of navigation
 length of time taken
 method of food supply
 other detail of behaviour during migration

3. Explain the role of natural selection in the development of migration in birds or

mammals. 4 marks

 individuals that do not migrate are selected against / vice versa

 due to severe weather / food shortage / no mates / other selective
agent
 second example of selective agent
 individuals that migrate unsuccessfully are selected against / vice
versa
 arrival in unsuitable area

4. Explain the role of natural selection in the development of behavior patterns. 6 marks
  innate behavior patterns are inherited
 animals show variation in their behavior
 behavior patterns are adapted to the environment / selected by the
environment
 those animals with adaptive behavior more likely to survive
 animals which survive leave more offspring (than those less
adapted) / change in allele frequency
 population / species starts to show more adaptive behavior
 population has evolved

5. Outline how natural selection can influence the development of behavior patterns. 4
marks

 innate behavior patterns develop independently of the environment

 stereotyped responses to environmental stimuli
 are controlled by genes / inherited from parents
 some types of behavior are better suited / adapted to their
environment
 behaviors (alleles for these) selected for
 increases the survival of those organisms
 leads to higher reproduction rate

6. Define innate behavior, and suggest one example of the survival chances of an animal
being increased by innate behavior. 3 marks

 behaviour shown in all members of a species

 despite any variation in environmental influences / due to heritable
factors
 behaviour not learned / born with

(Award 1 mark for any suitable example; up to 1 mark)

 e.g. withdrawal reflex

 fight or flight mechanism / moth response to bats

7. Define kinesis, and explain, using one example, how kinesis might improve an animal's
chance of survival. 4 marks

 non-directional response of organism in response to a stimulus

 rate but not direction of movement affected by the size of stimulus

(Award 2 marks maximum)

 wood lice move more in dry conditions

 better chance of finding damp areas

8. Discuss how learning may contribute to an organism's survival chances. 3 marks

 acquire information from past experiences to adapt to new

situations
 can better obtain food / shelter / resources
 can increases mating chances
 learns to avoid dangerous situations
 cooperation between individuals may increase survival
9. Outline Pavlov's experiments on the conditioning of dogs. 3 marks

 (unconditioned) stimulus of food / sight of food accompanied by bell

ringing
 salivation is the (unconditioned) response
 (conditioned) stimulus of bell ringing given before / without
unconditioned stimulus / sight of food
 salivation became the condititioned response (to the bell ringing)

10. Describe the roles of different members of a colony of honey bees. 6 marks

 queen: reproduction
 drone / male: fertilize queen / reproduction
 workers / (sterile females): wax making
 worker / nurse : feed larvae / secrete royal jelly
 worker / forager: look for food / nectar / pollen
 worker: clean / ventilate hive
 worker / soldier: protect hive
 worker / scout: communicate location of food to rest of hive

11. Describe the social organization of honey bee colonies. 6 marks

 caste system / division of labor

 cooperate to regulate internal temperature of hive
 colony contains one queen
 queen lays eggs
 queen produces pheromones to give instructions to the workers
 colony contains many workers
 swarming when there are more workers than the queen can control
 workers feed / nurse the brood / larvae
 workers forage for food / pollen / nectar
 workers communicate with each other by exchange of pheromones
 workers communicate with each other by dances
 colony contains fewer drones than workers
 drones mate with queens
 workers evict drones when they are not needed
 workers protect queen from invaders
 workers build / maintain / repair hive

12. Discuss briefly the role of altruistic behavior in social organizations, other than human
ones. 4 marks

 idea expressing doubt about the meaning / nature of altruism

 individuals help others that are not their offspring
 e.g. worker bees nursing offspring of queens and drones / other
example
 altruistic acts may lead to the individual's own death
 e.g. bees stinging attackers / other example
 members of the organization are genetically related
 helping the organization to survive ensures survival of individual's
genes

13. Describe, giving an example, the role of altruistic behaviour in social organizations. 4
marks
  altruistic behaviour - behaviour of an animal that is (potentially)
harmful to itself but beneficial to another animal
 specific example of an animal and its role in the social organization
 risk / possible harmful effect of behaviour
 benefit gained
 e.g. worker bee feeds larva and protects the colony
 worker bee may die in defense of colony
 queen bee / rest of colony are protected
 Other examples can be used, but not human ones.

14. Courtship is an important form of behaviour in many species of bird and mammal. 7
marks

(a) Describe the courtship behavior of either one species of bird or one species of non-human
mammal. 3 marks

 name of bird or mammal species and brief outline of courtship

 details of male behavior during courtship
 details of female behaviour during courtship

(b) Explain the role of natural selection in the development of this courtship behavior. 3 marks

 courtship behaviour allows members of a species to identify each

other
 courtship helps to attract a mate
 individuals that do more than (vigorous) courtship displays are
more successful
 genes for (vigorous) courtship displays are inherited by offspring

(c) State one type of behavior, other than courtship that has developed by natural selection. 1 mark

 reflexes / taxis / kinesis / mate selection / grooming /

communication / other

 Carefully draw and Clearly label (using a ruler or straight edge) all diagrams in
PENCIL. Diagrams should be large and take up about half a side of paper. Include
a title.
 The following is a list of required drawings
 -a generalized prokaryotic cell (1.2.1)
 -the ultrastructure of a generalized animal cell (1.3.1)
 -the fluid mosaic model of a membrane (1.4.1)
 -a generalized amino acid (2.2.2)
 -the ring structure of glucose and ribose (2.2.3)
 -the structure of glycerol and a fatty acid (2.2.4)
 -the structure of a generalized dipeptide showing the peptide linkage (2.2.6)
 -the simple molecular structure of DNA (2.4.5)
 -the carbon cycle and show the processes involved (4.1.14)
 -a sigmoid growth curve (4.2.2)
 -the digestive system (5.1.4)
 -the heart showing all four chambers, associated vessels and valves (5.2.1)
 -the ventilation system including trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, alveoli and lungs
(5.5.4)
 -male and female reproductive systems (5.7.1)
 -the structure of a mitochondrion as seen in electron micrographs (7.1.3)
 -the structure of the chloroplast as seen in electron micrographs (7.2.1)
 -the action spectrum for photosynthesis (7.2.7)
 -the structure of the testis as seen in the light microscope (9.1.1)
 -the structure of the ovary as seen in the light microscope (9.1.4)
 -the structure of a mature sperm and egg (9.1.6)
 -the structure of a motor neuron (11.1.2)
 -the human elbow joint (11.2.3)
 -the structure of skeletal muscle fibers as seen in electron micrographs (11.2.5)
 -the structure of the kidney (12.2.1)
 -the structure of a glomerulus and associated nephron (12.2.2)
 -the external parts of a named dicotyledonous plant (13.1.2)
 -plan diagrams to show tissue distribution in stem, root and leaf of a generalized
dicotyledonous plant (13.1.3)
 -the structure of a dicotyledonous animal pollinated flower as seen by the naked eye
and hand lens (13.3.1)
 -the external and internal structure of a named dicotyledonous seed (13.3.4)