Kcse Biology Essay Questions and Answers

KCSE BIOLOGY
BIOLOGY ESSAY QUESTIONS WITH MARK SCHEMES
1. Explain the various ways in which a typical cell is adapted to its functions
Has a cell membrane; with pores; that regulates substances entering and leaving the cell;
cytoplasm; contain sugars and salts; for maintaining its osmotic pressure; also has a liquid
medium; for all biochemical reactions; nucleus; contain chromosomes having hereditary
material; and controls all the activities of the cell; ribosomes; are sites for protein synthesis;
golgi bodies/apparatus; for secretion of hormones and enzymes; formation of lysosomes;
lysosomes; contain lytic enzymes for breaking down worn-out organelles; secretory vesicles;
formed from golgi apparatus for secreting substances; smooth endoplasmic reticulum;
synthesizes and transports lipids; rough endoplasmic reticulum; transport proteins;
nucleolus; controls the activities of the nucleus; produces ribosomes; mitochondria; form
sites for energy production; centrioles; formation of cilia and flagella; forms spindle fibres
used in cell division; plant sap vacuoles; store salts and other dissolved substances; controls
osmotic pressure and turgidity of cells; food vacuoles involved in digestion of engulfed food;
chloroplasts; form sites for photosynthesis in plant cells; Max. 20 mks
2. Explain how the various specialized cells are modified to carry out their functions
in plants and animals
Animal cells: Sperm cell; has acrosome containing lytic enzymes; that digest the egg
membranes for penetration during fertilization; has a long tail; containing numerous
mitochondria; to generate maximum energy for propulsion/swimming in the vaginal fluid
after ejaculation; Red blood cells; are flattened, circular/spherical biconcave in shape; to
increase the surface area for packaging of haemoglobin; has haemoglobin; that combines
with respiratory gases; for transport to and from body tissues; White blood cells; are
amoeboid in shape hence able to change shape; to engulf pathogens through phagocytosis;
lymphocytes produce antibodies to fight pathogens; Nerve cell; has extensions/dentrites; to
receive and send information for sensation; Ciliated epithelial cells; have cilia for propulsion
of mucus that traps dust and micro-organisms in the respiratory tract; Muscle cells;
elongated, striated and contractile; to bring about movement; Plant cells: Guard cells; bean-
shaped; to regulate the size of the stomata allowing gaseous exchange; and control water
loss; has chloroplasts with chlorophyll; for photosynthesis; Root hair cell; elongated; thin-
walled; with dense cytoplasm for absorption of water and mineral salts; Epidermal cell; thin;
for protection of inner tissues from mechanical and micro-organism attack; Palisade cell;
contains numerous chloroplasts with chlorophyll; for photosynthesis; elongated; to increase
surface area for trapping maximum amounts of light energy; Meristematic cell; thinwalled;
with dense cytoplasm; for primary and secondary growth; Max. 20 mks
3. Describe how the mammalian body protects itself against infections
Pathogenic microbes are found on the skin, respiratory tract, mouth, vagina and the
intestinal tract; the skin; has a keratinised and waterproof cornified outer layer; that
provides a mechanical barrier to microbes/prevents entry of microbes; sebaceous gland;
produces sebum; which has antiseptic properties; the respiratory tract; produce mucus
secretions that trap dust; cilia sweep/waft/propel the microbes to the pharynx for
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swallowing or to be coughed out; reflex actions of coughing/sneezing/vomiting help
remove foreign materials from the respiratory tract/digestive tract; lysozymes/enzymes in
saliva/nasal secretions/tears; digest walls of bacteria destroying them; gastric secretions
such as hydrochloric acid lowers the pH in the stomach killing micro-organisms; clotting of
blood; prevents entry of microbes after damage of blood vessels; phagocytosis; by
phagocytes engulf and destroy microbes and other foreign bodies; lymphocytes are
stimulated to produce antibodies; by proteins present in microbes protecting the body;
antibodies destroy/kill micro-organisms through various ways: agglutinins; bind to
pathogens making them clump together; killing them; Lysins; bind to pathogens and make
them burst or disintegrate; opsonins; bind to pathogens making them easily recognized
hence be engulfed/destroyed by other lymphocytes; anti-toxins; bind and neutralize toxins
produced by micro-organisms; vagina is acidic; hence making it not conducive for growth
and reproduction of micro-organisms; Max: 20 mks
4. How are the leaves of higher plants adapted to their functions?

Broad and flattened lamina; to increase surface area; for absorption of light; thin blade; to
reduce distance for diffusion of gases and penetration of light waves; transparent epidermis
and cuticle; to allow light to penetrate to tissues; cuticle layer absent on stomata; to allow
for gaseous exchange; one-cell thick epidermal layer; to reduce the distance over which
sunlight penetrates; palisade cells have numerous chloroplasts containing chlorophyll; to
trap maximum amounts of light energy; have stomata on the epidermis; to allow for gaseous
exchange; and control of water loss through transpiration; palisade layer have elongated
cells located at right angles to the leaf surface; for maximum absorption of light energy;
spongy mesophyll; consists of spherical and loosely-packed cells; to create air spaces; which
communicate with the atmosphere through stomata; for purposes of gaseous exchange and
control of water loss; veins have conducting tissues: xylem; for movement of water and
dissolved mineral salts; phloem; for translocation of manufactured food; Max. 20 mks
5. Explain how the various teeth adapt mammals for nutrition
Incisor; sharp; chisel-shaped; for biting; and cutting food; one root for support in the jaw
bone; Canines; long; sharp; pointed; for holding prey; piercing; and tearing flesh from prey;
single root; for support in the jaw bone; Premolars; large/wide; to increase surface area for
grinding food; highly cusped; to increase surface area for grinding food; two roots; for firm
support/anchorage in the jaw bone; molars; large/wide; to increase surface area for
grinding food; highly cusped; to increase surface area for grinding food; Max. 20 mks
6. Describe what happens to a meal of oily beans and maize from the time of
ingestion up to the time of absorption
In the mouth; starch in maize; is digested by salivary amylase/ptyalin/diastase into
maltose; food is chewed and mixed by teeth and the tongue; rolled into boluses by
peristalsis; it enters into the stomach via the cardiac sphincter; in the stomach, gastric juice
containing pepsinogen that is activated to pepsin; digests proteins in the beans; into shorter
peptides; food is churned and allowed into the duodenum; via the pyloric sphincter muscle;
in the duodenum; bile juice secreted by the gall bladder; emulsifies the oils in the beans into
tiny oil droplets; pancreatic juice; secreted by the pancrease; contains pancreatic amylase;
that digests starch to maltose; pancreatic lipase; that digests the oil in the beans to fatty

acids and glycerol; trypsin; digests proteins into shorter peptides; food enters into the
ileum; where succus entericus is secreted; it contains maltase enzyme; that digests the
maltose into glucose; that is absorbed; peptidase; digests peptides into amino acids; lipase
digests the remaining lipids (oil) into fatty acids and glycerol; which is absorbed through
the lacteals of the villi; Max. 20 mks
7. How are the small intestines in mammals adapted to their functions?
Small intestines consists of the duodenum and the ileum; most digestion of food occurs in
the duodenum; bile from the gall bladder of the liver is secreted through the bile ducts; and
it is used to emulsify fats/break fat particles into tiny droplets; to increase the surface area
for enzyme action; the pancreaset secretes pancreatic juice to the duodenum; the juice
contains pancreatic amylase; that helps to breakdown the remaining starch into maltose;
trypsin; (that is secreted in its inactive form, trypsinogen, and activated by enterokinase
enzyme); hydrolyses proteins into shorter peptides; pancreatic lipase; converts lipids into
fatty acids and glycerol; sodium hydrogen carbonate is also produced; to neutralize the
acidic chyme from the stomach; and provide a suitable alkaline medium for pancreatic and
other intestinal enzymes; the ileum is long; and narrow; to increase the surface area for
complete digestion of food; and maximum absorption of digested food; highly-coiled; to
reduce speed of food flow; for maximum digestion; and absorption; presence of villi; and
microvilli; to increase surface area; for maximum absorption; dense network of capillaries; to
transport blood; for efficient transport of absorbed food; presence of lacteals in the villi; for
absorption of fatty acids and glycerol molecules; presence of enzymes: Lipase; for digestion
of lipids into fatty acids and glycerol; maltase; for digestion of maltose to glucose molecules;
peptidase; for breakdown of peptides into amino acids; sucrase; for digestion of sucrose into
glucose and fructose; lactase; for digestion of lactose into glucose and galactose; goblet cells;
produce mucus; to lubricate the walls of the ileum; for smooth flow of food; coats the walls
of ileum to prevent digestion by peptidase enzyme; Max. 20 mks
8. Outline and explain the various homeostatic functions of the liver in mammals
Deamination; process of removal of an amino group from an amino acid molecule; the
process gets rid of excess amino acids in the body; as the body is not able to store them; the
amino group enters the ornithine cycle; where it is combined with carbon (IV) oxide to form
urea; which is excreted in urine through the kidney; Heat production; many metabolic
activities take place in the liver; releasing heat energy; that is distributed by the blood to
other parts of the body; this helps in thermoregulation; Storage of vitamins and mineral
salts; Vitamins A, B, D, E and K; are stored in the liver; worn-out red blood cells, are broken
down to yield iron; which is stored in the liver in form of ferritin; this is used later in case of
shortage; Formation of red blood cells; occurs in the liver of the foetus; the liver also breaks
down old/exhausted red blood cells; leading to formation of more in the bone marrow to
replace the worn-out cells; to enhance oxygen and carbon (IV) oxide distribution;
Regulation of blood sugar level; liver cells convert excess glucose into glycogen and fats
under the influence of insulin hormone; the stored glycogen is however converted back to
glucose; when glucose levels are low; by the liver cells; under the influence of glucagon
hormone; Regulation of plasma proteins; plasma proteins such as prothrombin and
fibrinogen are manufactured in the liver using the amino acids found in the liver; they play a
major role in blood clotting; that prevents excessive blood loss and infection at the injured

area; other plasma proteins produced by the liver such as serum and albumen; contribute to
the maintenance of osmotic pressure in the body; non-essential amino acids are also
synthesized by the liver; for use by the body; Storage of blood; the liver is highly
vascularised; hence it is capable of holding a large volume of blood when the blood vessels
dilate during hot conditions; when the temperatures are low, the blood vessels constrict
under the influence of the endocrine and nervous systems; hence less blood is stored in the
liver; this contributes to thermoregulation; Detoxification; this is the process where harmful
compounds such as drugs and poisons; are converted to less toxic compounds in the liver;
toxicity is caused by medication, drugs and microorganisms; the toxic compounds are later
excreted in urine; detoxification prevents the accumulation of toxins in body cells; which
could lead to death or malfunctioning of the body cells; Max. 20 mks
9. Explain why the following conditions are necessary for photosynthesis

a) Carbon (IV) Oxide
Required in the dark stage of photosynthesis; it combines with the hydrogen ion from the
light stage; to form glucose, proteins and lipids; low concentrations reduces the rate of
production of energy and food; while high concentrations leads to an increase in the amount
of energy and food formed;
b) Light
It is used to break down water molecules (through photolysis); into hydrogen ions, oxygen
and energy; the energy and hydrogen ions formed are used in the dark stage;
c) Chlorophyll
Green pigment that traps light energy from the sun; that is used in photolysis of water
molecules;
d) Suitable temperature and pH
Temperature affects the enzymes involved in photosynthesis; suitable/optimum
temperatures activate enzymes; for maximum production of food; while extremely low
temperatures inactivate enzymes; leading to less or no production of food; high
temperatures denature enzymes; stopping the process of photosynthesis; photosynthetic
enzymes work well in low pH; so the rate is high; while higher pH reduces enzyme activity;
lowering the rate of photosynthesis;
e) Water
Forms a medium for the chemical reactions; it is split to yield hydrogen ions, oxygen and
energy for use in the dark stage; solvent for the materials used in photosynthesis; Max. 20
mks
10. How is the ileum adapted to its functions?

Long; and narrow; to increase the surface area for complete digestion of food; and maximum
absorption of digested food; highly-coiled; to reduce speed of food flow; for maximum
digestion; and absorption; presence of villi; and microvilli; to increase surface area; for

maximum absorption; dense network of capillaries; to transport blood; for efficient transport
of absorbed food; presence of lacteals; for absorption of fatty acids and glycerol molecules;
presence of enzymes: Lipase; for digestion of lipids into fatty acids and glycerol; maltase; for
digestion of maltose to glucose molecules; peptidase; for breakdown of peptides into amino
acids; sucrase; for digestion of sucrose into glucose and fructose; lactase; for digestion of
lactose into glucose and galactose; goblet cells; produce mucus; to lubricate the walls of the
ileum; for smooth flow of food; coats the walls of ileum to prevent digestion by peptidase
enzyme; Max. 20 mks
11. a) What is homeostasis?
(Mechanisms of) control and maintenance of a constant internal environment
regardless of the external conditions; 2 mks
b) Name any three factors that must be maintained constant in mammalian
bodies
Temperature; Water; Salt or ion content; Carbon (IV) oxide; Glucose; amino acids;
Max. 3 mks
c) Explain how endotherms respond to heat and cold conditions in their

environment
Heat/hot conditions: Increased sweating; to lose heat through latent heat of
vaporization; dilation of arterioles under the skin; to bring more blood to the skin surface to
lose heat to the atmosphere; decreased body metabolism; to reduce heat generation; erector
pili muscles relax; making hair follicles to relax hence hair lies flat on skin, no air is trapped;
to lose heat; slow/reduced muscular activity due to slow metabolism; to reduce heat
production; panting to expose tongue and mouth; to release heat; moving to shades to avoid
direct heat; aestivation; to escape the extreme heat; flapping of ears to create currents to
carry away heat; Cold conditions: stamping of feet; to generate heat; basking in the sun to
gain heat directly; less production of sweat; to reduce water loss through latent heat of
vaporization; vasoconstriction of arterioles; hence less blood flow to the skin surface to
reduce heat loss; increased metabolism through release of more thyroxine hormone; to
generate heat; erector pili muscles contract; pulling hair follicles hence hair is raised; to trap
a layer of moist air; to prevent heat loss; shivering/rapid contraction of muscles; to yield
heat to warm body; Max. 15 mks
12. Describe the route taken by water from the soil up to the evaporating surface of
a plant Water is drawn into the root hair cells by osmosis; due to the presence of
dissolved substances in the cell sap of root hairs, the concentration of cell sap is greater than
that of the surrounding solution in the soil/concentration gradient; this exerts a higher
osmotic pressure, thus drawing the water molecules across the cell wall and cell membrane
into the root hair cells; more water drawn into the root hair cells dilutes the cell sap;
making it less concentrated than that in the adjacent cortex cell of the root; due to osmotic
gradient, water moves from the adjacent cells to the next by osmosis; until it enters the
xylem vessels located in the center of the root; the xylem vessels of the root then conduct
the water up into the xylem vessels in the stem into the leaves; there is a force in the roots

which pushes water up the stem; this force is known as root pressure; and can be
considerably high in some plants; energy from the endodermal cells of the root is
responsible for driving this force; in the xylem vessels, water would rise up by capillarity; to
some extent because the vessels are narrower and there is a high attractive force between
the water molecules and the cell walls; the cohesive; and adhesive forces are important in
the maintenance of a continuous and uninterrupted water column in the xylem vessels up
the tree to the leaves; water vaporizes from the spongy mesophyll cells; their cell sap
becomes concentrated than the adjacent cells. This increases the osmotic pressure of the
spongy mesophyll cells; as a result of this, water flows into the cell from other surrounding
cell, which in turn takes in water from xylem vessels within the leaf veins; this creates a
pull/suction force that pulls a stream of water from xylem vessels in the stem and roots.
This force, known as transpiration pull; helps in maintaining a continuous column of water
from the roots to the leaves; water flows from the midrib into leaf veins from where it enters
leaf cells; from the mesophyll cells, it enters the airspaces; then the substomatal air
chambers; from where it evaporates through the stomata; to the atmosphere; Max. 20 mks
13. How is the mammalian heart adapted to its functions?
Heart is enclosed in a pericardial membrane/pericardium; that produces a fluid; to lubricate
it; the membrane also keeps the heart in position; It is covered in a fatty layer; that acts as a
shock absorber; made up of cardiac muscles; which are interconnected/interacted hence
contract and relax without fatigue or nervous stimulation/myogenic; for continuous
pumping of blood throughout the lifespan of the animal; the muscles are supplied by
nutrients and oxygen; by the coronary arteries; and the coronary veins take away wastes
and carbon (IV) oxide; heart is divided into 4 chambers; for efficient double circulation/
avoid mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood/carry large volume of blood; has
interventricular septum; to separate oxygenated and deoxygenated blood; ventricles are
thick/muscular; to generate high pressure to pump blood out of the heart; left ventricle has
thick muscles/more muscular; to pump blood to all body tissues; heart has bicuspid; and
tricuspid valves; to prevent back flow of blood to left auricle; and right auricle respectively;
valves have tendinous cords/valve tendons; to prevent them from turning inside out; semi
lunar valves located at the beginning of major arteries; prevent backflow of blood into the
ventricles; has sino-artrio node located in the muscles of the right auricle; to initiate heart
beat/contractions of heart muscles/cardiac muscles, rate of heart beat is controlled by
nerves; vagus nerve; slows down heartbeat; while sympathetic nerve; speeds up the
heartbeat; has aorta; to transport oxygenated blood to all body parts; has pulmonary artery;
that transports deoxygenated blood from right ventricles to lungs for oxygenation; has
pulmonary vein; that transports oxygenated blood from lungs to the left ventricles; for
distribution to all body parts; has the venacava; that receives deoxygenated blood from all
body parts to right ventricles; Max. 20 mks
14. Describe double circulation in mammals
Deoxygenated blood from body tissues (except lungs); enters the heart via the right auricle;
through the venacava; it flows to the right ventricle; via the tricuspid valve; the right
ventricle contracts; pumping blood; via the semi lunar valves; through the pulmonary
artery; to the lungs for oxygenation; the oxygenated blood from the lungs; flow through the
pulmonary vein; to the left auricle; via the bicuspid valve; to the left ventricle; the left
ventricle contracts; pumping blood via the semi lunar valves; through the aorta; to the rest
of the body tissues; Max. 20 mks

15. Describe the process of urine formation in the mammalian kidneys
The afferent arteriole which is a branch of the renal artery supplies blood to the glomerulus;
the afferent arteriole has a wider lumen/diameter than the efferent arteriole; which takes
away blood from the glomerulus; the differences in the diameter of the afferent and the
afferent vessels causes high pressure; leading to ultrafiltration of blood; the walls of the
blood capillaries are one-cell thick; hence glucose, amino acids, vitamins, hormones, salts,
creatine, urea and water filter into the Bowman’s capsule; to form glomerular filtrate; white
blood cells, red blood cells, plasma proteins such as globulin and platelets are too large to
pass through the capillary wall; hence remain in the blood capillaries; useful substances in
the human body are selectively reabsorbed; back into the blood stream at the proximal
convoluted tubule; the tubule is highly coiled; to increase the surface area for reabsorption
of the substances; the useful substances include amino acids, glucose, vitamins, hormones,
sodium chloride and water; many mitochondria found at the proximal convoluted tubule;
provide energy for reabsorption of these substances against a concentration gradient; the
glomerular filtrate flows into the descending and the ascending limb of the loop of Henle;
blood in the capillaries and the glomerular filtrate in the loop of Henle move in opposite
directions/counter-current flow; this provides a steep concentration gradient that leads to
maximum absorption of water through osmosis; sodium chloride is actively absorbed from
the ascending limb into the blood capillaries; under the influence of aldosterone hormone;
the glomerular filtrate flows into the collecting tubule from where, more water is
reabsorbed into the blood stream; antidiuretic hormone influences the amount of water to be
reabsorbed depending on the osmotic pressure of the blood; the glomerular filtrate from
several collecting tubules now referred to as urine; is emptied into the collecting duct; the
urine passes through pyramid, pelvis and ureter into the bladder; where it is stored for some
time. The sphincter on the urethra relaxes to allow urine to be released from the body; Max.
20 mks
16. Explain the role of the following hormones during homeostasis

a) Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)
Secreted by the (posterior lobe/end) pituitary gland; in response to an increase in the
osmotic pressure of blood; the hormone stimulates the distal convoluted tubules and the
collecting ducts; to increase their permeability to water; this increases the reabsorption of
water into the bloodstream; concentrated and less urine is excreted; when the osmotic
pressure decreases, less or no hormone is produced; hence the tubules become impermeable
to water; less water is reabsorbed into the bloodstream; hence more dilute urine is excreted;
fluctuations in the osmotic pressure is detected by the hypothalamus;
b) Insulin
Secreted by the pancrease; in response to a rise in blood sugar level; it stimulates liver cells
to convert the excess glucose into glycogen and fats for storage in the liver and muscle
cells; increases the oxidation of glucose in respiration to yield water energy and carbon (IV)
oxide/increases metabolism in the body; this leads to a fall in blood glucose to normal level;
c) Glucagon

Secreted by the pancreas; in response to a decline in blood glucose level; it stimulates liver
cells to convert the stored glycogen and fats back to glucose; stimulates the conversion of
amino acids to glucose; and stops the oxidation of glucose in the body cells; the glucose
formed is released to the blood stream causing a rise of blood glucose level to normal; Max.
20 mks
17. a) Distinguish between Diabetes mellitus and Diabetes insipidus

Diabetes mellitus is a condition/disease caused by failure of the pancrease to produce
adequate insulin hormone; leading to excess glucose levels in the body some of which is
released in urine while diabetes insipidus is a condition caused by failure/inability of the
kidney tubules to control the amount of water in urine as a result of a defect in production
of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) leading to production of more dilute urine; Max. 2 mks
b) Explain how mammalian bodies regulate glucose and protein levels in their
blood
When glucose level is high (above 90mg/100cm3), the brain sends impulses to the (β cells
of islets of Langerhans) pancrease cells; to release insulin hormone; the hormone stimulates
liver cells to convert the excess glucose into glycogen and fats for storage in the liver and
muscle cells; increases the oxidation of glucose in respiration to yield water energy and
carbon (IV) oxide/increases metabolism in the body; this leads to a fall in blood glucose to
normal level; However, when the glucose level falls below normal (below 90mg/100cm3);
the brain sends impulses to the (α cells of the islets of Langerhans) pancrease cells; which
are stimulated to release glucagon hormone; the hormone stimulates liver cells to convert
the stored glycogen and fats back to glucose; stimulates the conversion of amino acids to
glucose; and stops the oxidation of glucose in the body cells to avail more glucose; the
glucose formed is released to the bloodstream causing a rise of blood glucose level to
normal; The level of plasma proteins such as prothrombin, globulins, albumins and
fibrinogen; which play a major role in osmoregulation and blood clotting; are controlled by
the liver; which manufactures them using the amino acids found in the liver; when their
levels reduce, more is produced; but when the level is high, less of the proteins is produced
in the liver; excess amino acids are deaminated; as the body is not able to store them; the
process involves removal of an amino group from an amino acid molecule; the amino group
enters the ornithine cycle; where it is combined with carbon (IV) oxide to form urea; which
is excreted in urine through the kidneys; Max. 18 mks
18. Explain how the various abiotic factors may affect plants
Temperature; affects soil formation and distribution of plants; affect transpiration rate as
high temperatures lead to high rates of transpiration; It also affects the rate of
photosynthesis with the direct influence on enzyme activity; Light intensity; affects the rate
of photosynthesis; Wind; increase the transpiration rates; affects dispersal of seeds and
fruits; agents of pollination; affect distribution in terms of wind storms/breakages;
Atmospheric pressure; high atmospheric pressure leads to low rates of transpiration; high
oxygen and carbon (IV) oxide concentration; high photosynthetic rates; while low

atmospheric pressure leads to high transpiration rates; less concentration of oxygen and
carbon (IV) oxide; leading to low rates of photosynthesis; Water/Rainfall; forms a raw
material for photosynthesis; helps in support in plant tissues; affects distribution of plants;
Humidity; low humidity leads to high transpiration rates; while high humidity leads to low
rates of transpiration; pH; affects distribution of plants; some grow in acidic soils; others in
alkaline soils; Edaphic/soil factors; affects plant distribution; in terms of being sources of
water and mineral salts; provide a substratum for anchorage of plants; Max. 20 mks
19. Discuss the causes, effects and control measures for water pollution
Causes of water pollution are varied: industrial effluents; have heavy metals that poison
aquatic organisms; untreated organic matter has phosphates/sulphates/nitrates/salts; that
cause eutrophication; causing algal bloom that deprives the water of nutrients; when the
algae die, they lead to an increase in putrefying bacteria whose decomposition activities lead
to the release of awful smells/odours; oil effluents clog respiratory surfaces of aquatic
organisms/death due to suffocation; domestic effluents/sewage; form a habitat of pathogens
that spread water borne diseases; decomposing sewage promotes eutrophication leading to
algal bloom; death promotes/attracts saprophytic bacteria that use up oxygen in water;
causing suffocation/death to aquatic organisms; agrochemicals/fertilizers;
phosphates/nitrates; cause eutrophication; heavy metals in agrochemicals
(herbicides/pesticides); affect respiratory surfaces/cause breathing problems; Hot water;
raise temperature of water; killing organisms; dissolves less oxygen; reducing its content in
water; Oil spillage; in oceans from tanks/refineries; soak feathers of marine birds preventing
flight; clogs respiratory surfaces leading to death; coats photosynthetic phytoplanktons;
reduces light penetration hampering photosynthesis; Sediments; from soil erosion makes
water dirty; making it unfit for consumption; clogs respiratory surfaces hindering gaseous
exchange; reduces light penetration hindering photosynthesis; Control methods:
Enforcement of environmental laws; Use of unleaded fuel/petroleum products; Proper
treatment and disposal of sewage wastes; Treatment of industrial effluents before release;
Public education on correct use of inorganic fertilizers and agrochemicals; and use of
alternatives such as biological control of weeds/pests/organic manure; Use of undersea
pipelines instead of tankers to transport oil products; Cooling hot water before release to
water bodies; Max. 20 mks
20. How are xerophytes and hydrophytes adapted to their habitats?

Xerophytes: thick waxy cuticle; minimize water loss; leaves are folded and reduced in size;
to minimize stomatal transpiration; sunken stomata; to reduce rate of transpiration;
thick/succulent leaves, side branches or stems; for water storage; shedding of leaves during
the dry periods; to reduce surface area exposed for transpiration; reversed stomatal rhythm;
prevent excessive loss of water; deep penetrating roots; to absorb water from deep below
the surface; superficial roots; to absorb surface water run-off; leaves covered in scales/hairs;
to trap a moist layer of air; to reduce the rate of transpiration; drought-resistant seeds; that
remain dormant till favourable weather resumes; underground organs (corms/bulbs); for
storage of water and reproduction; most stomata located on the lower leaf surface; to avoid
exposure to direct light; to reduce evaporation; reduced number of stomata; to reduce the
rate of transpiration; Hydrophytes: stomata on the upper surface of leaves; to provide a

large surface area for gaseous exchange; and loss of excess water; poorly-developed roots
that lack root hairs; to reduce/avoid absorption of water; aerenchyma tissue in leaves, stems
and roots; to store air; and for buoyancy; deeply-dissected leaves; to provide a large surface
area for absorption of light; highly-sensitive; and numerous chloroplasts; for photosynthesis;
greatlyreduced vascular bundle; to avoid absorption of water; flowers raised above the
water; to allow for pollination; lack of a cuticle or very thin cuticle; for faster loss of water;
Max. 20 mks
21. Outline the differences between wind and insect pollinated flowers
Flowers of wind pollinated plants are small; with no bracts, sepals or petals; if present the
petals are small, inconspicuous; often white or green in colour; while insect pollinated
flowers are large; often with brightly coloured petals, bracts or inflorescence; to attract
insects. Flowers of wind pollinated plants have no nectaries; and no scent; while flowers of
insect pollinated plants are scented; and produce nectar; in wind pollinated flowers, the
anthers are large; and loosely attached on a flexible filament; to allow pollen grains to be
readily released when wind blows on the anthers; while anthers of insect pollinated flowers
are usually small; and firmly attached on the filaments; this ensures that the insect rub
against the anther; as they crawl into the flower collecting pollen grains onto their bodies;
in wind pollinated flowers, the stigmas are feathery; widely spread; this acts as nets to catch
pollen as it floats through the air; while in insect pollinated flowers the stigmas are small;
smooth; and sticky; and are also enclosed; this feature ensures that pollen grains from the
body of an insect stick onto it; in wind pollinated flowers, the flowers are simple with no
particular shape; while some flowers that are insect pollinated have petals with grooves or
dark lines; leading from the petal boarder to the nectaries; some have tubular or funnel-
shaped corolla; and landing platforms; to guide the insect to the source of the nectar for
their food; flowers of wind pollinated plants are either on long stalks above the leaves; or
develop from flower buds that open before the leaf buds; to increase the flower exposure to
air currents; while flowers of insect pollinated plants are on short stalks; often enclosed by
the corolla; Max. 20 mks
22. Describe what happens in a flower from the time of pollination up to the time of
seed and fruit development
After pollination, the pollen grain absorbs nutrients from the stigma; and develops a
pollen tube; it grows down the style to the embryosac; taking along the male nuclei; the
tube nuclei initiates and maintains pollen tube growth; while the generative nucleus divides
by mitosis; to form two male gamete nuclei; which follow behind the tube nucleus as the
pollen tube grows down the style; pollen tube enters the ovule through the micropyle; its tip
bursts open; while the tube nucleus disintegrates; one of the male gamete nucleus fuses with
the egg cell nucleus/oosphere/megaspore; to form the zygote; while the other fuses with
the two polar nuclei; to form a triploid nucleus; called the primary endosperm nucleus; after
fertilization, the zygote undergoes repeated mitotic divisions; to form an embryo consisting
of the plumule, radicle and seed leaves/cotyledons; primary endosperm nucleus divide
repeatedly, become separated by membranes; to form an (semi-fluid nutritive) endosperm;
ovary walls change into the pericarp; ovary changes/develops into a fruit; while ovules lose

water and become seeds; the integuments; change into seed coats/testa;
style/filaments/petals/sepals wither and fall off (or may persist); Max. 20 mks
23. Discuss the adaptations of the female reproductive system of humans

Elastic uterine walls; to expand so as to accommodate the growing foetus; muscular
foot of the pelvis and bladder support the weight of the growing foetus; funnel-shaped ends
of the oviduct; direct the ova released to the uterus; muscular uterine walls; contract and
relax to expel the foetus at birth; long vaginal canal; allow sufficient entry of penis to avoid
wastage of sperms; the two ovaries maximize chances of releasing ovum after every circle
(28 days); ovaries are well vascularised/have good blood supply; to ensure nourishment of
cells involved in oogenesis (primordial mother/germ cells) or egg formation; high number
of potential mother cells; ensures maximum number of ova which develop to maturity;
plenty of yolk in egg cells; which nourish the foetus before the placenta becomes functional;
the vitelline membrane of the ovum thickens after fertilization; preventing further entry of
sperms; the oviduct wall is able to contract; in order to facilitate movement of ovum down
the oviduct; has cilia to waft the ovum forward; wall of the vagina/vulva produce mucus; to
lubricate the penis during copulation; clitoris; has many nerve endings; to provide maximum
stimulation during copulation for maximum ejaculation and faster movement of
spermatozoa; Max. 20 mks
24. Describe the process of gaseous exchange in terrestrial plants

Gaseous exchange occurs in the spongy mesophyll; During the day, air diffuses into large
air spaces of the spongy mesophyll; through the stomata; the carbon (IV) oxide in the air
diffuses into photosynthetic cells; in solution form; during photosynthesis, carbon (IV) oxide
is used up; while oxygen is produced; some of the oxygen is used in respiration; while the
rest diffuses out of the leaf; through the stomata; During the night, air diffuses into the air
spaces; through the stomata; the air dissolves into the film of moisture; oxygen in the air
diffuses into the cells; and is used for respiration; carbon (IV) oxide produced; diffuses out
through stomata; due to a concentration gradient/diffusion gradient; At night, carbon (IV)
oxide accumulates in the leaf since photosynthesis does not occur; some gaseous exchange
also takes place through the cuticle; and through the epidermis of young leaves, roots and
stems; some plants exchange gases through breathing roots/pneumatophores; older stems
exchange gases through lenticels; Max 20 mks
25. How is the mammalian gaseous exchange system adapted to its functions?
Nasal cavity; has cells that produce mucus; that together with hairs/cilia; trap and
propel dust/microbes to the pharynx to be breathed out/swallowed; cavity is supplied with
capillaries; that warm the air for faster flow in the channels; epiglottis; covers the trachea
during swallowing; so that particles of food and water may not enter the trachea; trachea
and bronchi; have cartilage rings; to keep the passages open/prevent them from collapsing;
so that air moves in and out freely and continuously; are also lined with mucous membranes
which have hairs/ciliated; whose movement/wafting push out dust particles collected in the
passages into the pharynx; richly-supplied with blood vessels; to warm the air; for faster
flow; lungs; have numerous alveoli; to increase the surface area for gaseous exchange;
alveoli have a thin epithelium; to reduce the distance through which gases diffuse for easier

and faster diffusion; alveoli are moist; to dissolve oxygen for faster transport; lungs are
spongy; because of many air sacs that contain a large amount of/volume of air; Lungs are
also supplied with many blood vessels; for transportation of gases; they are also supplied
with a network system of trachea, bronchi and bronchioles; to provide an efficient
system/large surface area for gaseous exchange; Lungs are enclosed in a pleural membrane;
which secrete pleural fluid; that protect the lung surface; lubricate the chest cavity; allowing
smooth movement of lungs as they change volumes; ribs have intercostal muscles; that
moves/contracts and relaxes to allow for inhalation and exhalation; ribs also protect the
lungs; has the diaphragm muscles whose contraction and relaxation leads to inhalation and
exhalation respectively; Max. 20 mks
26. Describe the structure and function of the mammalian skin

It has a cornified layer made up of dead cells and is tough and impermeable to water; to
protect the skin against mechanical damage; bacterial infections and water loss; granular
layer; whose cells divide to form the cornified layer; malpighian layer; which is made up of
diving cells that give rise to a new granular layer; contains melanin; to protect skin against
ultra-violet rays/radiations; Sebaceous glands; which secrete sebum; to make the skin
supple/soft and waterproof; sebum is also antiseptic; Blood vessels; dilate during hot
weather; increasing blood flow near the skin surface; heat loss is enhanced; constrict; in cold
weather; less blood flow; minimize heat loss; Sensory nerve endings and receptors; enable
detection of external environmental changes; Highly coiled sweat glands; secrete sweat; to
control body temperature; when hot sweat evaporates cooling the body; sweat contains
excretory products; subcutaneous fat/adipose tissue in dermis; for insulation; hair; to
regulate body temperature; in cold weather erector pili muscles contract; hair is raised, air
trapped to insulate the body; in hot weather, erector pili muscles relax; hair lies flat
reducing insulation; dense network of blood capillaries; supply nutrients/oxygen to skin
tissues; as well as carrying away wastes and carbon (IV) oxide away from the skin tissues;
adipose tissue/sub-cutaneous layer; serves as an insulator; helping in temperature control;
helps in manufacture of vitamin D; Max. 20 mks
27. Describe the role of the following hormones in the menstrual cycle
a) Luteinising Hormone (LH) Produced by the pituitary gland; under the influence of
oestrogen hormone; cause the bursting of the Graafian follicle; to release a mature
egg/ovum/causes ovulation; stimulates the change/conversion of the Graafian follicle; into
the corpus luteum; stimulates the corpus luteum; to secrete progesterone hormone;
b) Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Produced by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland; it stimulates the maturation of the
Graafian follicle in the ovaries; stimulates the ovarian tissue/wall to secrete oestrogen;
c) Oestrogen
Brings about/stimulates the healing and repair of the uterine wall; after menstruation;
stimulates the pituitary gland; to secrete luteinising hormone;
d) Progesterone

Secreted by the corpus luteum; it stimulates the thickening of the endometrium/uterine
wall; in preparation for implantation; inhibits secretion of the Follicle Stimulating Hormone;
therefore preventing further development of the Graafian follicle; Max. 20 mks
28. a) What is secondary growth?

Type of growth that occurs due to cambium activity in woody plants/stems;
resulting in an increase in girth/width of plants; 2 mks
b) Describe the process of secondary thickening in a woody stem
Facilitated by meristematic cells (cambium) located between the phloem and the
xylem (intervascular cambium); it divides radially to form cambium tissues; with xylem
forming the outer ring/to the inside; while the phloem forming the outer ring/to the
outside; division of the cambium ring; form a secondary parenchyma; hence increases/forms
the medullary rays; other xylems (secondary xylem) are formed; hence pushes the phloem
and cambium ring outwards; this creates pressure on the outer cells; resulting in stretching
and eventual rupturing of epidermal cells; a new band/volume of cambium cells are formed
in the cortex beneath the epidermis (cork cambium cells/phellogen); to replace these
ruptured cells; the phellogen cells divide on either side; where the inner cells become the
secondary cortex; while those produced on the outside become cork cells; which are tightly
packed; and become coated with an oily/waxy water-proof material/suberin; further
multiplication of cork cells; lead to formation of the bark; which forms a protective layer
(against water loss and damage by organisms); seasons results into annual rings; some cork
cells form a loose mass/lenticels that allow gaseous exchange through the stem; Max. 18
mks
29. Discuss the various mechanisms of opening and closing of stomata
Photosynthetic theory; during the day, guard cells carry out photosynthesis manufacturing
glucose; This increases the osmotic pressure of the sap vacuole; which becomes higher than
that of the neighbouring epidermal cells; guard cells therefore take in water by osmosis; and
become turgid; the outer thin wall stretches easily; pulling the thicker inner wall outwards;
thus the stomata opens; At night, there is no light hence no photosynthesis takes place;
plant cells respire using up more glucose; the osmotic pressure of the sap vacuole of the
guard cells reduces; becoming lower than the neighbouring epidermal cells; the guard cells
lose water by osmosis; to adjacent epidermal cells; they then become flaccid; pulling
together the thick inner walls; and stomata closes; Enzymatic inter-conversion between
starch and glucose/sugar; At day time, plants continuously use carbon (IV) oxide for
photosynthesis; leading to an increase in the pH of the guard cells; this causes starch to be
converted to sugar/glucose; the glucose increases the osmotic pressure of the guard cells;
hence water is taken in by osmosis; the cells become turgid and bulge outwards; causing the
stomata to open; At night, no photosynthesis occurs but respiration takes place; carbon (IV)
oxide accumulates in guard cells; lowering the pH; the low pH favours conversion of
glucose into starch; starch is osmotically inactive; this lowers the osmotic pressure of guard
cells; guard cells therefore lose water by osmosis to the adjacent epidermal cells; become
flaccid; pulling together the thick inner walls; and the stomata closes; Active ion exudation;
during the day, there’s an accumulation of potassium and sodium ions; as a result of active
pumping of the ions by the ATP formed through photosynthesis; carbon (IV) oxide fixation

occurs in the guard cells; the guard cells become turgid; and stomata open; At night, before
the stomata close, the ions diffuse out of the guard cells into epidermal cells; the osmotic
pressure of guard cells is lowered; they lose water to epidermal cells by osmosis; and become
flaccid; thereby closing the stomata; Max. 20 mks
30. a) What is natural selection?

(Theory put forward by Charles Darwin that explains that) Nature selects for
individuals that are well adapted to a particular environment; and against those that are less
adapted; 2 mks
b) Discuss three examples of natural selection in action
Melanic forms of peppered moths; in Europe, there are two forms of peppered moths; white
and black; before industrialization, the tree trunks were white; therefore the white peppered
moths were white; hence were camouflaged; the black varieties were easily noticed and fed
upon by predatory birds; the white form therefore reproduced and increased in number;
during industrialization, the smoke from industries coated tree trunks black; the black
variety became camouflaged; reproduced and increased in population; the white variety were
easily noticed and fed upon by predators; they reduced in population; Resistance against
drugs and antibiotics; where microorganisms are continually exposed to a certain drug;
their cells synthesise specific proteins; which counter the drug; this ability to synthesize the
protein is passed onto the offspring; Resistance to pesticides by insects; insects such as
mosquitoes when continually exposed to a particular pesticide; synthesize a specific protein
which make them resistant to the pesticide; this is then inherited by their offspring; Max. 18
mks
31. Discuss Lamarck’s and Darwin’s theories of evolution
Larmarck’s theory states that when the environment demands the need or use of a
particular structure in the body; the body develops it in response; for example giraffes used
to have short necks; when all the grass was exhausted, they started stretching their necks in
search of leaves on trees; therefore they developed long necks; which then were inherited by
their offspring; however, when a structure is not continually used, it reduces in size and
becomes dysfunctional; this theory fails to explain how acquired characteristics become
inherited; Darwin’s theory suggests that in nature there occur struggle for existence; only
those individuals with the desired adaptations survive; those poorly adapted fail to compete;
and become extinct; there also occurs variation in nature; where organisms with desired
adaptations pass on their characteristics to offspring during reproduction; those poorly
adapted fail to reach maturity; and do not reproduce; therefore, nature selects for individuals
best suited to an environment; and against those poorly adapted (natural selection); as there
occurs survival of the fittest; Max. 20 mks
32. a) Explain how the following blood cells are adapted to their functions
i) Red Blood Cell Presence of haemoglobin molecules; with a high affinity to combine with
oxygen as/to form oxyhaemoglobin; bi-concave shape; to increase the surface area for
packaging of haemoglobin; absence of nucleus; to accommodate maximum/more
haemoglobin molecules; thin membrane; for faster diffusion of gases; Max. 6 mks

ii) White blood cell Irregular in shape/amoeboid; which changes to enable the cell to
squeeze through the capillaries; lymphocytes produce antibodies; which help to prevent
diseases; phagocytes are amoeboid-shaped; to change shape and engulf bacteria cells; Max. 6
mks
b) Explain the different ways in which Carbon (IV) Oxide is transported by blood
Carbon (IV) oxide diffuses out of the tissues into the red blood cells where it reacts with
water; in the presence of carbonic anhydrase enzyme; to produce carbonic acid; The acid
dissociates into hydrogen and hydrogen carbonate ions; the hydrogen carbonate ions then
diffuse out of the red blood cells into the plasma; where it further dissociates to produce
carbon (IV) oxide on reaching the alveolar cavities of the lungs and diffuses into the alveoli;
some carbon (IV) oxide combines with the amine group in the haemoglobin molecule
forming carbaminohaemoglobin; which dissociates in the lungs producing carbon (IV)
oxide; some carbon (IV) oxide dissolves in the blood plasma forming carbonic acid, which
dissociates to carbon (IV) oxide on reaching the lungs; Max. 8 mks
33. Describe how the following vertebrae are adapted to their functions
a) Atlas
Has a wide neural canal; to accommodate the large spinal cord at the neck region; has
large/broad wing-like cervical ribs; to increase the surface area for attachment of the neck
muscles; has facets on the anterior side; for articulation with the occipital condyles of the
skull; allowing up and down movement/nodding of the head; has posterior facets for
articulation with the anterior facets of the axis; forming a joint that allows sideways
movement of the head;
b) Axis
Has a broad centrum; that projects to form the odontoid process; for articulation with the
neural canal of the atlas; a joint that allows turning of the head; has a large and
broad/flattened neural spine; and flat cervical ribs; to increase the surface area for
attachment of neck muscles;
c) Lumbar
Has many transverse processes; and additional projections (metapophyses, hypapophyses,
anapophyses); to offer a large surface area for attachment of abdominal muscles; broad
neural canal; to allow passage of the large spinal cord at the upper abdominal area;
large/thick centrum; to support the weight of the body; and withstand strains/upthrust
force due to movement;
d) Thoracic
Long/elongated neural spine; to offer a large surface area for attachment of the large back
muscles; have a large centrum and neural canal; to offer support to the thoracic cage; has
tubercular facet on the transverse processes; to articulate with the tuberculum of the ribs;
while the capitular demifacets on the centrum; articulates with the capitula of the ribs;

together with the ribs and the sternum form the thoracic/rib cage; for protection of heart
and lungs; and for breathing process; Max. 20 mks
34. a) Why is locomotion necessary in higher animals?
Animals move in order to look for food; mates; escape danger/predators; look for shelter/
suitable environmental conditions; 4 mks
b) Explain how bony fish are adapted to their habitats
Have streamlined bodies; to reduce friction; body is covered with scales; which
overlap backwards; to reduce friction; skin produces mucus; which covers the body making
it slippery; reducing friction; have swim bladder; which stores air; for buoyancy hence make
the fish float; myotomes/muscle blocks; that contract alternately; for forward thrust in
water; lateral line system; on either side of the body which is sensitive to pressure and water
currents; possess fins; that are used for locomotion: tail/caudal fins; for propulsion; dorsal;
and anal fins; prevent rolling; pectoral fin; used for breaking/steering; prevents yawing/side
to side movement; controls pitching; pelvic fins; for steering/pitching; Max. 16 mks
35. Describe how the various supportive tissues in plants adapt them to their
habitats Sclerenchyma tissue; long, slender cells with tapering ends; with walls
thickened with lignin; provide support and protection to the more delicate tissues; and
resistance to storms and strong winds; main constituent of wood; Xylem vessels;
longitudinally-elongated cells; with perforated end walls; with heavily lignified walls; to
increase rigidity and strength to the plant; a main constituent of wood; Tracheids; mainly
found in angiosperms; made up of long tapering dead cells; cell walls are highly lignified;
and pitted; cells lie in large overlapping groups; to offer extra support; Collenchyma tissue;
longitudinally elongated living cells; located beneath the epidermis and mid rib of leaf veins;
thickened at the corners by cellulose and pectin compounds; to provide support in leaves,
herbaceous plants and young woody plants; Parenchyma tissue; large; spherical cells; with
thin cellulose walls; forming the bulk of cortex and pith of most plants; become tightly
packed and rigid when turgid; to attain and maintain an erect posture of plants; main
support structures in herbaceous stems/plants; Max. 20 mks
36. a) What is a reflex action?
Rapid and automatic; response to a particular stimulus; 2 mks
b) Outline the activities that occur in the body when one touches a hot object
When the hot object is touched, the pain receptors; in the skin of the finger are stimulated;
nerve impulses are initiated and transmitted through the sensory neurone; to the grey
matter; of the spinal cord to the brain; for interpretation; the impulses are then transmitted
through the relay neurone; via a synapse; the impulses from the relay neurone are
transmitted via the motor neurone; through another synapse; to the effector; which are the
biceps muscles of the upper arm; making the muscles to contract; straightening the arm; and
the arm is withdrawn from the hot object; Max. 18 mks
37. Describe the nitrogen cycle
This is the cycling of nitrogen and its compounds in nature; plants absorb nitrogen in form
of nitrates and then assimilate it into plant proteins; animals obtain this nitrogen in plant
proteins through feeding on plants; when the animals die and decompose, they release the

nitrogen in form of ammonia to the soil; free atmospheric nitrogen is converted into nitrates
through a process known as nitrogen fixation; the process occurs in two ways: biological
and nonbiological; biological fixation of nitrogen is done by nitrogen-fixing bacteria; which
are either free-living or symbiotic; symbiotic bacteria are of the genus Rhizobium; and are
found in root nodules of legumes (such as pea, clover and alfalfa); the bacteria convert
atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia; that is used directly by the leguminous plants to form
nitrogen containing organic compounds (amino acids, nucleic acids, proteins); when plants
die, the nodules release ammonium compounds into the soil; which are then converted to
nitrites; by nitrifying bacteria of genus Nitrosomonas and Nitrococcus (nitrite bacteria) and
then to nitrates by Nitrobacter (nitrate) bacteria; free-living micro-organisms that fix
nitrogen include putrefying/saprophytic bacteria; (such as Azobacter spp, Clostridium and
some algae such as Anabaena, Chlorella and Nostoc); the organisms fix nitrogen into
ammonia by break down of protein material in dead organisms; the ammonia is converted to
nitrites; then to nitrates; However, denitrifying bacteria (e.g. Pseudomonas denitrificans and
Thiobacillus denitrificans); break down/reduce nitrates to nitrites, ammonium compounds
and even gaseous nitrogen; a process known as denitrification; the process helps to release
free nitrogen into the air for recycling; nonbiological nitrogen fixing is carried out by
lightning during thunderstorms; the lightning energy, causes atmospheric nitrogen and
oxygen to combine forming oxides of nitrogen; which dissolve in rain water to form nitrous
acid/nitric acid; that is washed down into the soil; the nitric acid formed reacts with other
chemical compounds dissolved in soil water; to form nitrates; the nitrates are then utilized
by plants; Max. 20 mks
38. Discuss how the various tropisms adapt plants to their habitats
Phototropism; growth curvature in response to direction of light; enables plant shoots to
grow and get light for maximum photosynthesis; allows for leaf mosaic; Thigmotropism;
growth curvature in response to contact/hard surface; makes plants with weak stems to get
support on large plant/trees; this makes them to reach and get light for maximum
photosynthesis; Geotropism; growth curvature in response to gravity; enables plant roots to
grow deep into the soil for maximum support/anchorage; Hydrotropism; growth curvature
in response to moisture/water; water is then used as a raw material during photolysis stage
of photosynthesis; Chemotropism; growth curvature in response to chemical concentration
gradient; enables pollen tubes to grow down the style and into the ovary for fertilization to
occur in plant flowers; Thermotropism; growth curvature in response to temperature
changes; enables plants to grow to where they can acquire optimum temperature for
effective plant process (e.g. sunflower orientates towards the direction of the sun); Max. 20
mks
39. Discuss the various evidences of organic evolution

Comparative anatomy/taxonomy; members of a phylum/group show similarities; organs
have similar structure/organs performing the same function such as the digestive system,
urinary system, vertebrate heart; homologous structures are structures with the same
embryonic origin but have been modified to perform different and specific functions; show a
form of divergent evolution; e.g. the pentadactyl limb in vertebrates which has been
modified for racing; swimming and flight or beaks of finches and birds; while analogous

structures are those with different embryonic origin but have been modified to perform the
same function e.g. wings of insects, bats and birds; eyes in octopuses and humans; show a
form of convergent evolution; vestigial structures; have been reduced in size and become
functionless; in the course of evolution; e.g. limbs in snakes, human hair and tail; Cell
biology/cytology; occurrence of similar organelles such as the mitochondria and the
endoplasmic reticula point to common ancestry; Fossil records/Paleontology; remains of
organisms preserved in naturally-occurring materials for many years; fossil records show
morphological changes of organisms over a long period of time e.g. skull of humans and
horse; they provide a direct evidence of existence of organisms at a particular ecological era;
however, since only hard parts are preserved, no evidence is available for existence of soft-
bodied organisms; and there are many missing links; since remains are accidentally
preserved in rudimentary rocks and resins; Comparative embryology; vertebrate embryos
are morphologically similar during the early stages of development; suggesting that the
organisms had a common ancestry/origin e.g. larvae of mollusks/annelids, embryos of
chicken, humans, sheep; the closer the semblance between embryos, the closer their
ancestral backgrounds; Geographical distribution; present continents are thought to have
been a large land mass joined together; as a result of continental drift; isolation occurred
bringing about different patterns of evolution; where plants and animals from different
continents yet with common ancestry can no longer interbreed; because they evolved into
different species; examples of animals that moved to different areas are the jaguars and
Llamas in south America, lions in Africa, Tigers in Asia, marsupials in Australia;
Comparative serology/physiology; semblance in blood components such as blood proteins,
antigen-antibody reactions, structure of haemoglobin in all vertebrates; reveal some
phylogenic relationship among organisms/show common ancestry; Max. 20 mks
40. Describe the structure and functions of the various parts of the mammalian ear
Pinna; is wide/funnel-shaped to collect/gather sound waves; and direct them to the
auditory canal into the ear; Eardrum/tympanic membrane is thin and light; to convert
sound waves into vibrations; Ear ossicles/maleus, incus and stapes are of high density; to
magnify/amplify sound waves; Oval window is smaller than eardrum; to magnify the sound
waves; and direct them to the inner ear; Cochlea is long and coiled; to increase surface area;
for attachment of receptor cells/sensory hairs; cochlea has many sensory hairs; which
receive sound vibrations and generate impulses; Liquid or fluid/endolymph in cochlea;
transmit sound vibrations; auditory nerve; transmit impulses to the brain for interpretation;
Eustachian tube; link the mouth and middle ear to equalise pressure; between middle and
outer ear to prevent damage to delicate eardrum; Round window; lose excess vibrations; to
avoid continuous stimulation; Semicircular canals; contain receptors for body balance and
posture; External auditory canal cells produce/secrete wax; to trap dust
particles/solid/micro-organisms that can damage eardrum; Max. 20 mks
41. Discuss the various ways employed by preys to avoid the predators
Some preys resemble inedible inanimate and animate objects; this is called mimicry; e.g.
walking stick insect resembles dry twigs of plants, some moths look like bees or flowers of
some plants; this prevents birds from easily notifying and eating them; many have the
ability to run very fast; because of having muscular bodies; and long legs; enabling them to

escape predators e.g. antelopes, zebras; some have a body colour that resembles the
surrounding; which helps them to camouflage or conceal in the background environment;
e.g. zebras, giraffes; some graze in large herds; this enables them to fight off predators; e.g.
wildebeests and buffaloes; some have evolved tough skin or coverings like shells; which can
not be broken by some predators e.g. snails, tortoises, armadillo; production of foul smell
e.g. in skunks; that discourages the predators; confrontational display that can scare away
the predator e.g. porcupine; large eyes on both sides of the head give animals such as zebra a
wide field of vision; enabling them to keep track of their enemies from far; and take
precautions; Max. 20 mks
42. a) What is meant by the term symbiosis?

Nutritional association of two different organisms (2 plants or between an animal and
plant); for mutual benefit; the relationship enables the composite organism to survive where
neither can live on its own; Max. 2 mks
b) Describe five types of symbiotic relationships in a natural ecosystem

Lichens; these are composite plants consisting of blue-green algae; within a mycelial mass of
a fungus; algal cells are provided with support, obtain water, carbon (IV) oxide and minerals
and protection from fungus; while the fungus obtains oxygen and the carbohydrates made
by algae; this enables the plants to survive on hard bare rocks in high attitudes and polar
regions; Leguminous plants and nitrogen-fixing bacteria; the bacteria multiply and fix
nitrogen from air into nitrates for the benefit of the plant; bacteria are protected and obtain
nutrients from the plants; Ruminants and bacteria; the rumen has bacteria that secrete
cellulose; that digests cellulose in the food/vegetation consumed by the animal to glucose
for the animal; while the bacteria get shelter and use part of digested food; Mycorrhizal
fungi and higher plants; the fungi found on forest trees gain photosynthetic organic
products made by the trees; while the trees get nutrients/minerals absorbed by the fungus
from the soil; Tryconympha and termites; the former is a protozoan living in gut of
termites; and produce cellulase enzyme; that digests cellulose from the plant into digestible
products for the benefit of the termite; the termite on the other hand provides shelter and
protection; and absorbs some of the food for its use; Max. 18 mks
43. a) Describe the adaptations of Schistosoma spp to their parasitic mode of life
The parasite utilizes two hosts; the snail and humans; to increase chances of transfer of the
parasite from one place to another; have suckers for attachment to host walls; to prevent
them from being dislodged; the parasite produces many larval forms (e.g. miracidia,
cercariae and redia) in snails; to increase chances of transmission and survival; as this
feature poses barriers/difficulties in efforts aimed at eradicating the parasite; cercariae
larvae and eggs of the parasite have glands that secrete lytic enzymes; which soften the
tissues of humans/snails; to allow for penetration; chemical substances produced by the
adult worm; protects the parasite from the action of the hosts’ defense mechanisms; they
exist as separate sexes; with the male carrying the female; this ensures that eggs produced
by the female are fertilized before being shed into the blood stream; Max. 15 mks

b) Outline five measures that can be employed to prevent and control the spread
of the parasite
Proper disposal of human waste; urine and faecal material should not be disposed in water
bodies to avoid contamination by the eggs or adult worms; drainage of stagnant water pools
and use of molluscides to kill the intermediate hosts (snails); avoid swimming/bathing in
snail-infested water bodies; wearing protective clothing such as gloves and gumboots when
working or walking in swampy areas; personal hygiene that includes washing hands after
visiting the toilet and drinking of boiled or chemically treated water to kill the eggs and the
larval forms in the water; proper treatment of infected persons; Max. 5 mks
44. Describe the process of mitosis

Occurs in somatic/body cells; through five main stages/phases: Interphase/Resting
stage; intense internal activities occur in the cell at this stage in preparation for the division;
the activities include; replication of each chromosome to multiply genetic material to retain
chromosomal number in daughter cells; chromosomes appear as a diffuse tangle of threads
(chromatin); synthesis of new cellular organelles; build-up of energy stores (ATP) to drive
the entire cell division process; Prophase; chromosomes become visible; as they shorten and
thicken appearing as discrete strands (chromatids) lying parallel to each other; in animal
cells, centrioles separate and move to opposite ends (poles) of the cell; they radiate from
each of the ends forming spindle fibres; nuclear membrane begins to breakdown; nucleolus
disappear; Metaphase; chromosomes migrate/move to the centre of the cell; and align
themselves along the equatorial plane of the spindle; they get attached to the chromosomes,
by their centromeres; nuclear membrane breaks down and disappears; spindle fibres
lengthen; and attach to the centrioles at both poles forming asters; Anaphase; chromatids
separate at the centromere; shortening of the spindle fibres occurs; resulting in the
chromatids migrating to opposite poles of the cell; spindle apparatus begins to disappear;
Telophase; final stage where chromatids reach the poles; become densely packed together
and uncoil; a nuclear membrane forms around each mass/set of chromatids (now referred to
as chromosomes); cytoplasm divides into two (cytokinesis); in animal cells, the cytoplasm
divides by constriction of the cell membrane; while in plant cells, a cell plate forms within
the cytoplasm and grows to separate the cell into two; spindle fibres disappear within the
cytoplasm; and nucleoli reappear in the nuclei; of the two daughter cells formed at the end
of telophase; Max. 20 mks
45. Discuss the various mechanisms that hinder self-pollination and self-fertilisation
in plants
Protandry and protogyny; these are mechanisms where either the male or female parts of
the reproductive organs ripen at different times in some flowers; Protandry is a case where
stamens ripen earlier; and anthers release their pollen grains before the stigma is mature;
while protogyny refers to a case where the stigma matures earlier; and hence becomes ready
to receive pollen grains before the anthers are ready/ripe to shed the pollen grains; common

in plants of the grass family; Self-sterility or incompatibility; is a case where pollen grains
cannot germinate on stigma of the same plant; but only germinate on a different plant of the
same species; hindering self-pollination; Heterostyly; condition of having different
arrangements of style and stigma; for instance flowers could have shorter stamens than
pistils; hence becomes impossible for the pollen to land, germinate and fertilise the ovules of
the same flower; pistils on some flowers could also be shorter than the stamens therefore
other mechanisms that hinder self-pollination are utilized; Dioecius and monoecius plants;
dioecius plants have reproductive parts located separately on different plants of the same
species; discouraging self-pollination; while monoecius plants have the parts located at
different parts of the same plant body; encouraging cross-pollination; Max. 20 mks
46. How are seeds and fruits of plants adapted to their mode of dispersal?
Water; Fruit mesocarp/seed testa has air spaces; thus light/buoyant to float; carried away
by water; fruits/seeds protected from soaking by waterproof pericarp/testa; Animal; have
hooks for attachment to animals; thus carried to other places; fruits are brightly coloured;
succulent/fleshy; aromatic/scented; to attract animals; which feed on them; the seed
coats/hard seeds are resistant to digestive enzymes; thus are unaffected; seeds dropped
away from parent in faeces/droppings; Wind; have hairs/wing-like
structures/floss/extensions; which increase surface area/for buoyancy; making it easy to be
blown away; fruits/seeds are light due to small size; therefore easily carried away by wind;
censor mechanism; perforated/open/split/capsule; usually loosely attached to the
stalk/long stalk; is swayed by wind; scattering seeds; Selfdispersal/Explosive mechanism;
tension/pressure is created inside a dry pod; pod opens (violently) along lines of
weaknesses; the two halves curl outwards; scattering the seeds; Max. 20 mks
47. a) Distinguish between mutations, mutants and mutagens
Mutations are sudden, spontaneous and permanent changes; in an individual’s genetic
material; Mutants are individuals who develop and exhibit unusual characteristics that were
not previously present in the population; due to mutations; while mutagens are factors in
the environment; that cause mutations to occur; 6 mks
b) Give two causes of mutations
Irradiations such as gamma rays and ultra violet rays; chemical substances such as
mustard gas and other heavy metals (mercury, lead, asbestos); sudden extreme (high or low)
temperatures; Max. 2 mks
c) Describe the causes and effects of chromosomal mutations
Deletion; refers to the absence of a portion of a chromosome; it results from breakage and
falling off of a portion of a chromosome; leading to loss of a group of genes that may have a
disastrous effect on the development of an organism; Inversion; refers to reversal of normal
sequence of genes in portion of a chromosome; occurs when a middle portion of a
chromosome breaks, turns or rotates (inverts) through 180o and joins up again; this does
not change the genetic constitution of the organism; but may bring into close proximity
genes whose combined effects to an organism produce a beneficial effect to an organism; or
cause disadvantages to the organism; Translocation; attachment of a portion of a
chromosome to a non-homologous chromosome; occurs when a chromosome breaks and the

portion joins another non-homologous chromosome; this may lead to serious consequences,
even death depending on what genes are missing; Duplication; situation where a set of
genes is represented twice in a chromosome; a part of a chromatid formed during cell
division may replicate further to form an extra piece; which may attach onto the same or
another chromatid; resulting to traits controlled by some genes being excessively expressed;
Non-disjunction; this is failure of a pair of homologous chromosomes to separate during the
first stage of meiosis; resulting in one of the daughter cells formed after division of the cell
having two of one kind of a chromosome; while the other cell has less or none; diseases or
disorders known as syndromes are known to result from this aberration e.g. Down’s
Syndrome (Mongolism),Turner’s Syndrome, Klinefelter’s Syndrome; Polyploidy; this is the
presence of more than two sets of chromosomes in a cell; occurs due to a failure of a cell to
divide after the first stage of meiosis or after the chromosomes have replicated in mitosis;
common in plants than animals; in plants, it causes some improvements such as resistance to
drought, certain diseases and pests, improved yields and early maturity; Max. 20 mks
48. a) What is transpiration?

Process by which plants lose water to the atmosphere; in form of vapour (through
lenticels, stomata and cuticle); 2 mks
b) Explain how the various environmental factors affect the rate of transpiration
Temperature; an increase in temperature increase the water vapour holding capacity of air
in the spaces between mesophyll cells due to increased evaporation; therefore more water
diffuses from the cells increasing the water vapour pressure; this causes an increase in the
diffusion gradient between the intercellular spaces and the atmosphere; hence increasing the
rate of transpiration; low temperature decreases water vapour pressure and the diffusion
gradient hence; lowering the rate of transpiration; Light intensity; high light intensity
increases the rate of photosynthesis in the guard cells; causing the opening of stomata;
leading to increased water loss; it also increases the internal temperature of the leaf; that
increases the evaporation rate in the intercellular spaces; leading to a higher rate of
transpiration; low light intensity; reduces the rate of water loss; Humidity; a humid
atmosphere lowers the water vapour diffusion gradient; hence lowering the rate of water
loss; in a less humid/dry atmosphere, water diffusion gradient is high/steep; hence the rate
of transpiration increases; Availability of water in the soil; more water will diffuse to the
atmosphere when there is adequate or excess water; as more will be absorbed; increasing the
rate of water loss; the guard cell will also remain turgid; hence stomata are open; leading to
more water loss; however, less water in the soil leads to a reduced diffusion gradient
between the mesophyll cells and the atmosphere; thereby reducing the rate of transpiration;
Wind/air currents; wind blowing over a leaf surface carries pockets of moisture away from
the leaf; creating a steep diffusion gradient between the atmosphere and the leaf; increasing
the rate of water loss; in still air/on a calm day however, water vapour at the leaf area
becomes saturated; and the diffusion gradient is lowered; reducing the rate of transpiration;
Atmospheric pressure; low atmospheric pressure leads to a high rate of diffusion of water

vapour; since air molecules move at a faster rate; and this increases the rate of water loss; in
high atmospheric pressure conditions however, there is low rate of diffusion of water
vapour; hence the rate of water loss is lowered; Max. 20 mks
49. How is the mammalian eye adapted to its functions?

Sclera/sclerotic layer; white fibrous layer; made up of thick connective tissue; protects the
eye; maintains shape of eyeball; Cornea; transparent; disc-shaped layer; that allows light to
enter the eye; refracts light towards the retina; Conjunctiva; delicate membrane; lining the
inside of the eyelid; protects the cornea/eye; Eyelids and eye lashes; thin muscle with hairs;
protects the cornea/eye from mechanical/chemical damage/protects the eye from entry of
foreign particles; protects retina from bright light; Choroid; dark pigmented and
membranous layer; that prevents light reflection within the eye/absorbs light; to prevent
distortion of the image; has blood vessels; that nourish eye/retina/supply oxygen/remove
carbon (IV) oxide and wastes; extends to form the ciliary body and iris; Ciliary muscles;
have elastic muscles that contract and relax; to alter shape/curvature of lens during
accommodation; Ciliary body; thickened front edge of the choroids layer; that produces
aqueous humour; Suspensory ligaments; made up of elastic connective tissue whose
contraction and relaxation helps to adjust the shape of lens during accommodation/holds
lens in position; Lens; transparent; biconvex; balloon-like; it refracts light rays/focus light
onto the retina; Vitreous humour; nourishes cornea/lens; refraction of light; maintains
eyeball shape; Iris; thin circular ring; with circular and radial muscles; it gives eye
colour/absorbs light; controls the amount of light entering the eye/adjusts size of pupil;
Pupil; an aperture through which light enters the eye; Retina; has photoreceptor
cells/rods/cones for image formation; generates impulses to the brain for interpretation;
Fovea/Yellow spot; with only cones; for high visual acuity/most sensitive part of the retina
Blind spot; point where nerve fibres emerge from the optic nerve/where optic nerve leaves
eye/point where nerve fibres and blood vessels enter the eye; Optic nerve; transmits
impulses to the brain; Muscles; inferior and superior oblique muscles; move eye from left to
right; superior and inferior rectus muscles; move the eye up and down; external and internal
rectus muscles steady the eye in its up and down movement; Tear/Lachrymal glands;
secrete a watery and saline fluid containing lysozymes/lytic enzymes/is antiseptic (tears);
that moisten the conjunctiva and cornea; washes away dust and other foreign objects; kills
microorganisms entering the eye; Max. 20 mks
50. Discuss the role of the various hormones in plant growth and development
Indole Acetic Acid/Auxins; influences/promotes cell division/elongation (in cambium
causing secondary thickening); induces tropisms; promotes fruit formation/parthenocarpy;
promotes formation of abscission layer/leaf fall; promotes cell differentiation (of vascular
tissue); causes apical dominance/inhibits lateral bud formation; promotes growth of
adventitious roots; in conjunction with cytokinins, it induces callous tissue formation;
Gibberellins/Gibberellic acid; promotes cell division/elongation in dwarf plants; promotes
parthenocarpy; setting of fruit after fertilization initiating formation of fruits; formation of
side branches of stems/ends apical bud dormancy; inhibits adventitious root growth;
activates hydrolytic enzymes in germination/promotes germination of seeds/breaks seed
dormancy; affects leaf expansion and shape/retards leaf abscission; Cytokinins (e.g. Zeatin
or Kinetin); promotes flowering in some plant species; breaks dormancy in some plant

species; promotes cell division in presence of auxins; stabilizes protein and chlorophyll;
promotes root formation on a shoot; low concentration encourages leaf
senescence/increases cell enlargement in leaves; stimulates lateral bud formation;
Ethylene/Ethene; promotes ripening of fruits; induces thickening of stem/inhibits stem
elongation; promotes flower morphogenesis/formation or flowering in pineapples; causes
abscission of leaves/fruit/leaf fall; Abscissic acid; high concentration causes stomatal
closure; inhibits stem elongation/growth; inhibits sprouting of buds/induces bud dormancy;
inhibits seed germination/growth/causes/promotes seed dormancy; causes abscission of
leaves/fruits/leaf fall; Traumatin; heals wounds by promoting callous formation; Florigen;
promotes flowering; Max. 20 mks
51. Explain how the process of evolution may result to the formation of a new species
For a new species to be formed, a population of organisms must become completely isolated
or separated from others; over long periods of time so that any new variations that arise will
not therefore flow to the other population; there are various isolation mechanisms:
Geographical isolation; this is due to physical barriers such as oceans/seas/deserts;
Ecological isolation; a barrier resulting from the occupation of different types of habitats
from the original type; it may be due to isolation for reasons of feeding/predation/breeding;
as well as environmental changes such as climate and vegetation; which may result in a
population living in different habitats; to become ecologically separated from one another;
Behavioural isolation; alteration of behaviour proceeding mating; which include courtship
behaviour/lack of attraction between males and females in different populations; due to
production of different chemicals or pheromones or colouration/songs; Reproduction
isolation; a barrier to successful mating between individuals of a population; due to
structural differences in reproductive organs; as well as failure in
fertilization/incompatibility; Genetic isolation; even if fertilization takes place; the zygote
may be inferior/fails to develop; however if the zygote develops, the offspring may be
inferior or infertile/sterile; Max. 20 mks
52. Discuss the various ways in which anaerobic respiration is utilized in industries
and homes
Bread making; yeast is used to ferment sugar in wheat flour into carbon (IV) oxide and
energy; the carbon (IV) oxide is produced in form of bubbles that causes the dough to rise
and become porous; Beer making; yeast is used to ferment sugars in malt/grapes/fruits; to
form beer, wines and spirits; Sewage treatment; anaerobes break down raw sewage and
harmful industrial effluents; to harmless products of water, energy/heat and carbon (IV)
oxide; Silage formation; vegetation is fermented by bacteria to produce nutritious and good-
scented/flavoured animal feed that increases production/yields; Production of acids and
strong liquors; special bacteria and fungi ferment food products; to produce acids such as
citric acid, oxalic acid and vinegar; the products are used as food preservatives and
flavouring agents; Manufacture of dairy products; under controlled environments;
anaerobes help in fermentation hence manufacture of milk products such as butter, cheese,
ghee and yorghurt; Production of fuels such as biogas; and gasohol; cane sugar is fermented
by yeast; to produce gasohol for running engines or operating machinery; animal wastes
such as guano and cow dung; can be used to produce a mixture of methane and carbon (IV)
oxide gas; by exposing it to fermentation agents; methane is used to run simple machines
such as water pumps and for cooking; Production of fermented porridge and milk; maize or

wheat flour and milk is exposed to microbes in the air which ferment it; to produce sour and
sweet tasting porridge or milk; Max. 20 mks
53. a) What is digestion?

Digestion is (mechanical and chemical) the process by which large complex food
molecules; are broken down into soluble molecules (for absorption across intestinal wall to
bloodstream); 2 mks
b) What is the importance of a balance diet in human nutrition?
A balanced diet consists of all the food types in their right proportions; it includes proteins,
carbohydrates, minerals, lipids, water, vitamins and roughage; Proteins; used for growth
and repair of worn out tissues; provide energy incase of acute shortage of
carbohydrates/starvation; bind and transport specific molecules from one part of the body
to another; structural proteins support tissues in the body e.g. bone and cartilage tissues; act
as metabolic regulators such as enzymes and hormones; Carbohydrates; used to produce
energy/store energy; Lipids produce energy; form of storage of energy; insulate the body;
major structural components of the cell membrane; when oxidised, it provides metabolic
water; Vitamins; defense against infections; form coenzymes which activate enzymes; Water;
a universal solvent; medium for chemical reactions; used as coolant because of its high
specific heat capacity; maintains the shape of cells; hydrolysis of many substances; transport
medium in the body; Mineral salts; formation of teeth and bones; formation of hormones
(e.g. thyroxine); formation of blood; maintenance of osmotic pressure of body fluid;
transmission of nerve impulses; Roughage; makes food to be bulk; promotes peristalsis; and
absorption of water in the large intestines; induces mucus production; Max. 18 mks
54. Explain the factors that affect enzyme activity

Temperature; enzymes are protein in nature; and hence sensitive to temperature
changes; as temperature increases, enzyme activity also increases until optimum/maximum;
above this optimum the reaction decreases sharply; due to the destruction of the enzyme
structure/become denatured; making the enzyme ineffective/non-functional; most enzymes
have optimum temperature of between 35oC and 40oC; when temperature decreases, the
rate of enzyme reaction decreases as the enzyme becomes inactivated; pH/acidity or
alkalinity; most enzymes have optimum pH of close to 7/neutral which is the intracellular
pH; however some enzymes work best in an alkaline medium while others work best in an
acidic medium/condition; as the pH exceeds optimum, the enzyme activity decreases;
extreme acidity or alkalinity denatures most enzymes; Substrate concentration and enzyme
concentration; enzyme reaction increases with increase in substrate concentration; up to a
certain level where further increase in substrate concentration does not increase the rate of
enzyme reaction; this is because when substrate concentration is increased, all the active
sites of the enzyme are occupied; however, when the enzyme molecules are increased, there
is a proportional increase in the maximum rate of enzyme action; enzymes are however
required in small amounts hence; they speed up the rate of biochemical reactions without
altering the equilibrium; Enzyme cofactors/coenzymes; these are non-proteinous
substances which activate the enzymes; most enzymes will not work without them;
examples of cofactors are metallic ions such as iron, magnesium, zinc, copper and also

vitamins as enzyme coenzymes; these substances are required in small amounts and are used
repeatedly/can be recycled; Enzyme inhibitors; these are substances that inhibit enzyme
action by competing with the normal substrate for the active sites; there are two types:
competitive and non-competitive; competitive inhibitors have no permanent effect on the
enzyme action; while non-competitive inhibitors combine permanently with the enzyme
molecules thus distorting or blocking the active sites permanently; examples of these
inhibitors include cyanides, mercury, silver; inhibition can be reduced by reducing the
concentration of the inhibitors; or by increasing the substrate concentration; Max. 20 mks
55. Discuss the adaptations of the male reproductive system of humans

Consists of two oval-shaped testes; lying outside the abdominal cavity in a special sac
known as the scrotal sac/scrotum; for protection; the testes are located outside the body to
provide a relatively cooler environment/lower temperature; suitable for sperm production;
the inside of the testis is divided into seminiferous tubules; these are three coiled and
twisted tubules; having rapidly/actively dividing cells that produce sperms; interstitial cells;
found between these tubules produce the male sex hormones/androgens (mainly
testosterone); important in promoting the development of secondary sexual characteristics;
and maintaining masculinity in males; the tubules join together to form the epididymis;
which are smaller ducts; that convey sperms out of the testes; they also form a temporary
storage area for sperms; the epididymis is connected to the sperm duct/vas deferens; which
has thick muscular walls; that contracts to propel sperms to the urethra; the sperm duct is
joined by a duct from the seminal vesicle; a blindly ending sac; that produces an alkaline
fluid containing nutrients for the spermatozoa/sperm cells; to provide energy; at the
junction of the two sperm ducts (one from each testis) and urinary bladder there is the
prostate gland; that secretes an alkaline fluid that neutralizes the acidic vaginal fluids; and
also activates the sperms; by addition of enzymes and diluting the sperms; below the
prostate gland is the cowper’s gland; which secretes an alkaline fluid which neutralizes the
acidity caused by urine; along the urethra. The urethra; is a long tube running the length of
the penis; used for conduction and expulsion of urine; as well as passage of sperms during
copulation; the urethra follows the penis; that projects from the body at the lower abdomen;
it consists of a retractable skin known as the prepuce/foreskin; that covers a
swollen/bulbous end region of the penis known as the glans; the glans excites the clitoris of
the female as it brushes on it during copulation; to stimulate ejaculation/orgasm; the penis
is made up of spongy erectile tissue; consisting of numerous small blood spaces, muscle and
blood vessels; the spongy tissue gets filled with blood; making the penis to become erect
during sexual stimulation excitement and activity; enabling the penis to penetrate the
vagina during coitus/copulation/sexual intercourse; in order to deposit sperms in the
vagina of the female; Max. 20 mks
56. Discuss the structure and functions of the various muscle tissues found in humans
Smooth/Visceral Muscle; consists of spindle-shaped cells; made up of long filaments or
myofibrils; the cells lack cross striations and sarcolemma; they are uninucleate/with one
cell; they contract and fatigue slowly; to bring about contraction and relaxation of the walls
of blood vessels, urino-genital tract and the gut; which aids in blood flow, urine and sperm
flow and peristalsis of food respectively; Skeletal/Striated muscles; made up of long

cylindrical cells; with long myofibrils running parallel to each other; the cells have cross
striations/stripes; are multinucleated; they form bundles of long fibres attached to bones by
tendons; they contract and fatigue rapidly; to bring about movement of bones; (on the body)
they contain contractile protein myosin and actin; Cardiac/Heart muscle; this is the muscle
of the heart; is made up of short cylindrical cells; with parallel myofibrils; the ends of each
all are thickened into intercalated discs; that connect adjacent cells; the myofibrils have
cross striations; each cell is uninucleate; the myofibrils contract without fatigue; Max. 20
mks
57. State the economic importance of members of Monera and Fungi and for each
economic importance name a suitable or appropriate organism
(20 mks)
Fungi: Yeast is used in the production of alcohol; and raising dough in baking; production
of vitamins B2 and B12 and for beer brewing; some mushrooms are used as food;
Saprophytic fungi such as Mucor spp/Rhizopus spp cause food spoilage; are also used in
retting of natural fibres such as flax; and in the curing of tea and tobacco; The fungi also
decompose organic matter helping to clean the environment and recycle materials.
Saprophytic fungi are also used to make silage; compost; and digesting sewage in sewage
treatment plants; Penicillium spp is used for the manufacture of antibiotics; Fungi is used
for making ghee and cheese in dairies; parasitic fungisuch as Phytophthora spp infest crops
e.g. potatoes and tomatoes and destroy them/cause blight; somefungi such as Aspergillus
spp produce food poisons and is also used in the synthesis of enzyme amylase; Mycorrizae
fungi enable trees e.g. pinus to absorb water amd mineral salts more efficiently in
silviculture/man-made forests; some fungi such as and Tinus spp cause diseases such as
yeast infections (Candidiasis, ‘Athlete’s foot’) and ‘ringworms’ respectively; some Candida
spp is used in making enriched food/single-celled proteins used in animal feeds/silage;
Gibberella spp is used in the synthesis of Gibberellins for plant growth; it also causes poor
crop growth through bolting of plants e.g. rice and wheat;
Bacteria: Some bacteria e.g. Vibrio spp cause disease to humans and other animals (any one
disease); Clostridium spp and Bacillus spp bacteria are used in retting of flax; Lactobacillus
spp are important in the manufacture of yoghurt/silage; and lactic acid; some bacteria e.g.
Streptomyces are used in making antibiotics (Streptomycin); organic acids such ac acetic
and ethanoic acids are made using Acetobacter spp of bacteria; some bacteria like the soil
bacteria (Bacillus spp) make enzymes used in detergents; Escherichia coli (E. coli)/colon
bacteria contaminates drinking water and may cause diseases; bacteria such as Bacillus spp
and are used in making hormones such as insulin through genetic engineering/modification;
all saprophytic bacteria such as E. coli/Bacillus spp/Pseudomonas spp are used in the
production of methane/biogas; Rhizobium spp of bacteria helps in nitrogen fixation making
soils fertile; Max. 20 mks
58. Describe the adaptations of the nervous system to its functions
(20 mks)
The central nervous system consists of the brain; and the spinal cord; and nerve fibres; that
serve the sensory organs ; and the effector organs and glands; the brain is a collection of
millions/billions/109 neurones; that form the biggest ganglion; it is highly convoluted; to
provide a large surface area for impulse reception, processing and transmission; the brain
and the spinal cord are protected by the meninges; the brain and the spinal cord have

spaces/canals and ventricles; filled with a cerebrospinal fluid; which acts as a bridge/supply
medium for oxygen and nutrients; and the removal of metabolic waste; the brain has centres
for the storage; retrieval and processing of impulses; the cerebrum processes and stores
information; the cerebellum; sends impulses to joints and muscles; to correct balance; the
medulla oblongata sends impulses to the cardiovascular; and breathing/ventilation systems;
to regulate them; the brain has the hypothalamus that secretes a neurosecretion to influence
a pituitary gland that secretes hormones; involved in reproduction; and homeostatic
functions; the hypothalamus; detects changes in temperature; and osmotic pressure; and
sends impulses to relevant effector organs for their regulation; the thalamus; receives
majority of the impulses and channels them to the relevant areas of the brain; both the brain
and the spinal cord have regions of the grey matter; that enable very rapid
processing/transmission of impulses; the nervous system has neurones (relay/intermediate,
motor and sensory); that transmit impulses at a very rapid note/speed (100 ms-1) to and
from the central nervous system to effect suitable responses; there exists in the central
nervous system an electrochemical gradient/concentration gradient; that allows for the
generation of electrical impulses; they have numerous mitochondria; for generating energy
for the function of the sodium pump; which enables polarization and repolarisation; during
impulse transmission and refractory/recovery periods; the spinal cord has no
integration/association functions and is therefore suited for reflex actions; needed in
emergencies; the spinal cord is long; and connects nerve fibres of the peripheral nerves with
the brain for storage of information; the spinal cord has a dorsal root for sensory
fibres/neurones; and a ventral root; for motor neurones/fibres; Accept any other correct
Max. 20 mks
59. Discuss the composition and functions of mammalian blood

(20 mks)
Mammalian blood consists of two main components: Blood plasma; and the blood cells;
(Red blood cells/Erythrocytes, White blood cells/Leucocytes and Platelets/Thrombocytes);
Blood plasma transport nutrients (glucose, amino acids, vitamins, fatty acids and glycerol,
dissolved oxygen) to tissues; transports hormones, enzymes/metabolic regulators to target
organs and tissues; Transport excretory substances/wastes from the cells; to excretory
organs for elimination from the body; Distribute heat energy; helping in thermoregulation;
transports/contains water, plasma proteins and dissolved mineral salts; important in
osmoregulation; Suspends blood cells; Red blood cells transport oxygen; and dissolved
carbon (IV) oxide; helps in regulation of pH; White blood cells help in protection/immunity;
by engulfing or producing antibodies to kill/destroy invading micro-organisms/pathogens;
Platelets help in blood clotting; preventing excessive blood loss; entry of pathogens; and
promotes healing of wounds; Acc. Adaptive features Max. 20 mks
60. Describe the defects that affect the mammalian eye and how they could be corrected
Short-sightedness (myopia); a condition where light rays from a distant object are
focused in front of the retina; while those from a near object are clearly focused on the
retina; it is caused by an abnormally elongated eyeball; or too much refractive power of the
eye lens; it is corrected by wearing concave/diverging lenses; which help to diverge light
rays; or reduce the refractive power of the eye before they reach the eye lens; Long-

sightedness (Hypermetropia); light rays from a near object are not focused by the time they
reach the retina; or may be focused behind the retina; while the rays from a distant object
are sharply focused; the defect is caused by an eyeball that is too short; or a weak lens
system (distance between lens and the retina is short); corrected by wearing a
convex/converging lens; which refracts light rays before reaching the eye lens; this
enhances refraction resulting in rays being sharply focused onto the retina; Astigmatism;
rays from an object are brought to focus on different planes; due to unequal curvature of the
cornea/lens; causing unequal refraction of light entering the eye; this defect is corrected by
wearing special cylindrical lens in front of the eye; the lens corrects the focus in the
defective planes; Colour-blindness; a genetic defect; in which an animal is unable to
distinguish between colours particularly within the red-green spectrum; the retina lacks
cones; pigments that respond to colour vision; Squintedness; an eye defect in which extrinsic
muscles of the eye; that controls the turning of the eyeball do not co-ordinate accordingly
on stimulation; it affects the paired rectus muscles that move the eyeball up and down; and
the lateral rectus muscles that move the eyeball left to right; the eyeballs therefore face
different directions; making focusing and accommodation difficult to achieve; corrected by
specialized surgery; Old sight (Presbyopia); caused by old age; when supplies of nutrients
and oxygen to the lens is far much reduced; hence the cells of the lens die; the lens’ elasticity
is reduced; and hence cannot change shape; and becomes fixed into a shape that is not
suitable for distant vision; managed by use of ‘reading glasses’ that have converging lenses;
to give the eyes an extra power to manage close work; Cataracts; associated with old age;
but may also be caused by an eye injury due to a blow; or complications of diabetes mellitus;
the eye lens become cloudy; blocking transmission of light rays; protein fibres become
denatured; and clump together making the lens opaque; corrected by surgery; to replace the
defective lens with a normal one from a donor; or use of artificial lens; Max. 20 mks

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KCSE BIOLOGY

BIOLOGY ESSAY QUESTIONS WITH MARK SCHEMES

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4. How are the leaves of higher plants adapted to their functions?

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9. Explain why the following conditions are necessary for photosynthesis

10. How is the ileum adapted to its functions?

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c) Explain how endotherms respond to heat and cold conditions in their

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16. Explain the role of the following hormones during homeostasis

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17. a) Distinguish between Diabetes mellitus and Diabetes insipidus

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20. How are xerophytes and hydrophytes adapted to their habitats?

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23. Discuss the adaptations of the female reproductive system of humans

24. Describe the process of gaseous exchange in terrestrial plants

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26. Describe the structure and function of the mammalian skin

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28. a) What is secondary growth?

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30. a) What is natural selection?

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ONLINE TUTORS www.onlinetutors.co.ke

39. Discuss the various evidences of organic evolution

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ONLINE TUTORS www.onlinetutors.co.ke

42. a) What is meant by the term symbiosis?

b) Describe five types of symbiotic relationships in a natural ecosystem

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44. Describe the process of mitosis

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ONLINE TUTORS www.onlinetutors.co.ke

48. a) What is transpiration?

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49. How is the mammalian eye adapted to its functions?

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ONLINE TUTORS www.onlinetutors.co.ke

53. a) What is digestion?

54. Explain the factors that affect enzyme activity

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55. Discuss the adaptations of the male reproductive system of humans

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ONLINE TUTORS www.onlinetutors.co.ke

59. Discuss the composition and functions of mammalian blood

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