IB Biology 3ED PEQs
IB Biology 3ED PEQs
IB Biology 3ED PEQs
IB DIPLOMA
PROGRAMME
THIRD EDITION
Biology
C. J. Clegg
Andrew Davis
Christopher Talbot
Practice
Exam-style
Questions
Contents
A Unity and diversity
A1.1 Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
A1.2 Nucleic acids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
A2.1 Origins of cells (HL only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
A2.2 Cell structure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
A2.3 Viruses (HL only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
A3.1 Diversity of organisms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
A3.2 Classification and cladistics (HL only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
A4.1 Evolution and speciation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
A4.2 Conservation of biodiversity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
A1.1 Water
■ Paper 1
1 Which diagram correctly indicates the polarity in a water molecule?
A δ– B δ+ C δ– D δ–
O O O H
H H H H H H O O
δ– δ+ δ– δ– δ+ δ+ δ+ δ+
Higher Level Paper 1, Time Zone 1, May 09, Q8
thermometer
70 Key uncovered
covered with wet
60 tissue paper
temperature/°C
50
40
30
20
10
0
0 4 8 12 16 20
time/minutes
4 What is the same in all parts of homologous 9 What did Erwin Chargaff discover?
chromosomes? A The number of adenine bases equalled the
A Base pair sequence number of thymine bases
B Sequence of genes B The number of bases varies between
C Alleles different organisms
D Insertions C Uracil is found in RNA
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 1, May 18, Q14 D DNA is the genetic material in cells
10 What is the role of histones?
A Construction of the cytoskeleton in cells
B Packaging of DNA in chromosomes
C Giving stability to plasma membranes
D Enzymic activity in cells
G d
4 The synthesis of complex organic molecules in sea water is believed to be an important step in
the evolution of life on Earth. Researchers investigated whether the evaporation of sea water
containing amino acids could catalyse the formation of dipeptides such as divaline (valine–
valine) under pre-biotic Earth conditions. They placed different amino acid combinations
in a chamber to simulate the evaporation cycles between high tides in shallow seas. In one
investigation the amino acid valine was used as the substrate and the percentage yield of
divaline was measured after different numbers of evaporation cycles. The experiment was
repeated without a catalyst and with either glycine or histidine as catalysts.
2.25
Key
2.00 no catalyst
percentage yield of divaline/%
1.75 glycine
histidine
1.50
1.25
1.00
0.75
0.50
0.25
0.00
1 4 7
evaporation cycles
a Compare the effectiveness of the two amino acid catalysts used in this experiment. [3]
b This investigation was performed in a chamber at 85 °C leading to total evaporation of
the salt water within one day. The atmosphere inside the chamber consisted of nitrogen,
carbon dioxide and water vapour. Evaluate the experiment on the basis of similarity
with conditions that existed on pre-biotic Earth. [3]
c Outline other possible locations where conditions could have allowed the synthesis of
organic molecules under pre-biotic conditions. [2]
Higher Level Paper 3, Time Zone 1, May 13, Option D Q1
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme A2.1 Origins of cells (HL only) 6
■ Paper 2 (HL only)
1 a State the name for primitive, phospholipid-enclosed structures that may have preceded
cells.[1]
b State two conditions of pre-biotic Earth. [1]
c Identify two properties of RNA which may have contributed to the origin of life. [2]
2 I
II
III
a i The apparatus above was used in the Miller–Urey experiment. State what condition
of pre‑biotic Earth is simulated by I. [1]
ii State two substances used in II to simulate the early atmosphere of the Earth. [1]
iii Identify a compound (not RNA) isolated in III by Miller–Urey in this experiment. [1]
b State two roles of RNA in pre-biotic Earth. [1]
Higher Level Paper 3, Time Zone 0, November 05, Option D Q2
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme A2.1 Origins of cells (HL only) 7
A2.2 Cell structure
■ Paper 1 6 A highly magnified electron micrograph of an animal
1 Which is not an idea contained within cell theory? cell was magnified ×9600. The following features were
A Cells can only arise from pre-existing cells measured. Complete a copy of the table, expressing the
B All cells contain a nucleus actual size of the features in appropriate units.
C Living organisms are composed of cells which Feature Measurement on scale bar Actual size
are the smallest unit of life diameter of the nucleus 56 mm
B
reproductive cycle X reproductive cycle Y
X Y A B
A lytic lysogenic virus DNA provirus
4 What happens when a bacterial cell that is infected by bacteriophage lambda divides?
A Viral RNA is replicated
B Viral RNA is transcribed from viral DNA
C Viral DNA is replicated
D Viral DNA is made from viral RNA
8000
7000
number of deaths
6000
5000
4000
3000
2000
1000
0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
months since outbreak in December 2013
■ Paper 2
1 More than 8 million different species are alive today but (Questions 3 and 4 HL only)
over the course of evolution, more than 4 billion may 3 Explain how species can be identified from
have existed. environmental DNA in a habitat using barcodes. [7]
a Outline the criteria that should be used to assess 4 a Outline how dichotomous keys can be used to
whether a group of organisms is a species. [3] identify specimens. [4]
b Describe the changes that occur in gene pools b Suggest possible limitations of using
during speciation. [5] dichotomous keys to identify specimens. [2]
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 0, November 20, Q8a–b
2 Which evolutionary pathway is most likely to result in the evolution of analogous structures in
Species W and Z?
Species Y
Species Y Species W
Species Z Species Z
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme A3.2 Classification and cladistics (HL only) 13
4 The diagram shows living organisms divided into the three domains. Select the row in the
table that correctly identifies W, X, Y and Z.
animals
slime
moulds
fungi
plants
ciliates
*
*
flagellates
Z
* Y
* X
W X Y Z
A prokaryote LUCA archaea eukaryote
5 The figwort family is a large one consisting of many flowering plants that look similar.
For what reason have some members of the family been reclassified into a new family?
A Cladistic analysis shows the differences in flower structure to be fewer than the
shared similarities
B DNA analysis shows the similarities in flower shape to be a product of convergent evolution
C DNA analysis shows some of the families to have suffered recent mutations in only one gene
D DNA analysis shows the similarities between the seed dispersal strategies to be a
product of divergent evolution
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 2, May 18, Q23
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme A3.2 Classification and cladistics (HL only) 14
■ Paper 2 (HL only)
1 Analyse the following cladogram, showing evolutionary relationships between humans and
other primates.
25
40
50
58
63
time (mya)
2 The scientific name of the Arizona mud turtle is 4 Describe what is shown in a cladogram. [3]
Kinosternon arizonense and for the yellow mud turtle it Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 0, November 19, Q3a
is Kinosternon flavescens.
5 Outline the types of evidence that can be used to place a
a State what is meant by the binomial system of
species in a particular clade. [3]
naming living organisms. [2]
b State if these two turtles belong to the same 6 Living organisms have been placed in three domains:
i) class ii) genus iii) species. [3] archaea, eubacteria and eukaryote. Distinguish the
c Sophora flavescens is the scientific name of a eukaryote from the archaea. [3]
different organism. State if this particular species Eukaryote Archaea
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme A3.2 Classification and cladistics (HL only) 15
7 The following cladogram shows three possible evolutionary routes for the turtle (Turtles 1,
Turtles 2 and Turtles 3). The taxa in italics are extinct.
mammals
Milleretta
Eunotosaurus
Odontochelys
Proganochelys
Turtles 3
Turtles 2
lizards
tuatara
Turtles 1
Diapsida
birds
crocodiles
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme A3.2 Classification and cladistics (HL only) 16
A4.1 Evolution and speciation
■ Paper 1 5 Humans have been selectively breeding animals and
1 Lamarck and Darwin had different theories for how plants for thousands of years.
species changed over time. Which statement is part of a Outline how selective breeding provides
Darwin’s evolutionary theory? evidence for evolution. [3]
A Changes an organism experienced during its life b Compare and contrast selective breeding and
can be passed on to offspring natural selection. [4]
B The inheritance of acquired characteristics (Questions 6–9 HL only)
C Change in the heritable characteristics of 6 Which is the correct definition for sympatric speciation?
a population A Speciation that occurs with geographical separation
D Complexity arises due to usage or disuse of B Speciation that occurs without
particular traits geographical separation
2 Which of the following is an example of C Speciation that occurs on islands
artificial selection? D Speciation that occurs through selective breeding
A Keeping animals in zoos 7 Which of the following is a cause of
B Breeding of wild mustard to create different allopatric speciation?
types of vegetable A Sexual dimorphism
C Evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria B Hybridization
D The pentadactyl limb of vertebrates C Cohabitation
3 Why are DNA or RNA base sequences or amino acid D Geographical isolation
sequences in proteins considered evidence for evolution? 8 Which statement correctly defines polyploidy?
A Closely related organisms have similarities in A A process resulting from non-disjunction
their base and amino acid sequences B A process that results in more than two sets of
B DNA sequences are converted into mRNA chromosomes in the nuclear genome
C mRNA is used to produce proteins C A process that results in one diploid and one
D All organisms contain DNA and proteins haploid nucleus
4 Birds, bats and humans are all vertebrates with D A process that results in four polar bodies
pentadactyl limbs. Birds and bats use their forelimbs
to fly whereas humans can use them to lift and
manipulate objects. Outline how the bird, bat and
human forelimb can be used to illustrate the concept
of homologous structures. [2]
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 1, May 18, Q2b
large tree
finch medium ground
small ground
Camarhynchus finch
finch
psittacula Geospiza
Geospiza
fuliginosa fortis
small tree
finch
Camarhynchus large ground
parvulus finch
Geospiza
tip-biting magnirostris
woodpecker
finch
Camarhynchus
pallidus cactus
mainly edge
finch
probing animal crushing
Geospiza
mainly scandens
plant
sharp-billed mixed
ground finch These finches are exclusive and, hence, endemic
Geospiza probe diet to the Galápagos Islands. There are 14–15
difficilis and crush species in total all derived from a common
ancestor and living in the same, largely
undisturbed environment.
a Explain how these various species of finches could have arisen. [3]
A new honeycreeper has been found on Daphne Major, one of the Galápagos Islands. Based on its
structural and behavioural features (such as song), biologists suggested that the new species is a
hybrid of the medium ground finch (Geospiza fortis) and the large cactus finch (Geospiza conirostris).
Genomic sequencing has confirmed this new species of Darwin’s finch.
b Suggest why it is not advisable to determine the phylogenetic relationship of this newfound
finch to the rest of the Galápagos Island finches purely based on morphological and
behavioural features (form, structure and activity). [1]
2 Look at the four ecosystems listed below. Which 7 In two areas of moorland of the same approximate size,
ecosystem would have the highest species richness? the number of plants was counted. The results are shown
A Desert in the table.
B Rainforest Type of plant Moorland Moorland
area 1 area 2
C Temperate forest
rosebay willow herb (Chamerion 456 35
D Hydrothermal vent angustifolium)
3 Species of beetle were collected in four different sheep’s sorrel (Rumex acetosella) 421 1 420
habitats. The Simpson’s reciprocal index was calculated heath bedstraw (Galium saxatile) 386 150
for each habitat, as shown in the table. bog asphodel (Narthecium 437 95
ossifragum)
Habitat Simpson’s reciprocal index
Total 1 700 1 700
1 2.35
2 4.00 a Compare and contrast the abundance, richness
3 2.50 and evenness of the two areas of moorland. [2]
4 1.50 b Explain which would have the highest Simpson’s
reciprocal index. [3]
Which statement is correct?
c Suggest reasons for the differences in diversity
A Habitat 1 has the largest number of species
between the two areas. [2]
B Habitat 1 has the greatest evenness
C Results for Habitat 1 and Habitat 3 are not 8 Look at the graph below.
significantly different a Explain the relationship between forest area and
D Habitat 4 has the lowest genetic diversity number of forest-interior bird species. [1]
b Suggest why there is variation in the data. [1]
4 What does the evidence of fossils suggest about the
c Suggest what other factors, apart from forest
number of species on Earth today?
area, would affect the number of forest-interior
A The number of species is increasing rapidly
bird species. [3]
B The number of species has stabilized
C There are currently more species alive on Earth 10
today than at any time in the past
D The number of species is fluctuating
species richness
5
5 Which of the following is an example of an
anthropogenic cause of species extinction?
A An asteroid impact
2
B Volcanic eruptions
C Logging leading to rainforest loss forest-interior birds
D Ice ages 1
1 10 100 500
forest area/ha
Key
level of cod fishing, exploitation rate
300 amount (biomass) of cod spawning (reproducing) 60
100
35
50 30
1963 1973 1983 1993 1997
year
a Describe the changes in the amount of cod spawning between 1963 and 1997. [2]
b Explain the relationship between the level of cod fishing and changes in spawning
stock biomass. [3]
c Evaluate the success of fish management techniques over this period. [3]
virus virulence/%
3 The European wild rabbit was introduced to Australia 60
90
in 1859. The herbivore spread rapidly. There were no
natural predators in Australia to control their number 40
H H
8 The diagram shows two polysaccharides, formed from
C O
condensation of many glucose molecules. What are the
H
C C names of X and Y?
OH H
OH C C OH
H OH
A β-glucose
B Fructose X Y
C α-glucose
X Y
D Deoxyribose
A glycogen amylose
B amylopectin amylase
C amylase glycogen
D amylose amylopectin
1.6
1.2
1.4
1.0
1.2
1.0 0.8
0.8 0.6
0.6
0.4
0.4
0.2
0.2
0.0 0.0
HT WS AR MW HT WS AR MW
species species
a Describe, using the triglyceride levels graph, the results at Site 1 and Site 2 for all of
the birds. [2]
b Explain the differences in the triglyceride level and the butyrate level for the hermit
thrush at Site 1 and Site 2. [2]
c Scientists have hypothesized that the food quality is better at Site 1 than at Site 2.
Evaluate this hypothesis using the data provided. [2]
d Suggest one advantage and one disadvantage for blood sampling rather than weighing
birds to assess food quality at stopover sites. [2]
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 2, May 10, Q1e–h
2 a Distinguish between the structure and function of starch and cellulose in plants. [5]
b Explain how the structure of cellulose makes it suitable as a component of cell walls. [3]
3 Explain the advantages of having both lipid and glycogen as energy stores in the
human body. [3]
A H R O O R H D H O
H
H N C C C C N H N C C OH
H
H H R
B O R H H R O
R O
H
HO C C N N C C OH
N C C OH
H H H
H
C H
R O H R O
N C C N C C OH
H
H H
2 How many molecules of water are required to completely hydrolyse a polypeptide made up of
23 amino acids?
A 11 B 22 C 23 D 24
3 What is denaturation?
A A structural change of a protein that results in the loss of its biological properties
B A change in the genetic code of an organism
C A change in the amino acid sequence of a protein causing a disruption of its three-dimensional shape
D The process by which amino acids are broken down and ammonia is released
4 Which of the molecules contain peptide bonds or are sugar molecules?
I O H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
HO C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C H
H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
CH3
B III II, IV
C I, III, IV II
D I III, IV
0.4
(Questions 6–12 HL only) 0.3
6 The image shows the structure of the protein 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
haemoglobin. temperature/°C
synthesis/arbitrary units
0.8
0.7
rate of protein 0.6
0.5 Key
0.4 experimental
0.3 control
0.2
0.1
0
0 10 20 30 40 50
time/min 60
utes
a Identify the rate of protein synthesis in the control group at 40 minutes. [1]
b Identify any pattern in the rate of protein synthesis in the experimental group
throughout the experiment. [2]
c Compare and contrast the rate of protein synthesis in both groups. [3]
2 a Define the term proteome.[1]
b Identify the location in the cell where polypeptides are synthesized from amino acids. [1]
c A short polypeptide is comprised of five amino acids. Calculate the possible number of
different amino acid sequences for this polypeptide, assuming that 20 amino acids are
available for protein synthesis. [1]
3 a Draw a molecular diagram of an amino acid to show its general structure [3]
Standard Level Paper 2, Time Zone 2, May 17, Q5a
H H C H
H O H O
N C C N C C
H OH H OH
H H
glycine alanine
a On a copy of the diagram, draw a box to identify the R-group of alanine. [1]
b Draw a labelled diagram to show the reaction between alanine and glycine to form
a dipeptide. [3]
b Describe the impact of primary structure on the form and function of proteins. [3]
8 Explain how chemical diversity in the R-groups of amino acids is the basis for the
immense diversity in protein form and function. [5]
9 Outline the effect of polar and non-polar amino acids on the tertiary structure of proteins. [4]
10 Distinguish between conjugated and non-conjugated proteins. [3]
11 Explain the relationship between form and function in globular and fibrous proteins. [7]
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme B2.1 Membranes and membrane transport 27
8 Which type of transportation happens in the sodium– 12 Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are an example of:
potassium pump? A Voltage-gated potassium channels
A Simple diffusion B Voltage-gated sodium channels
B Osmosis C Ligand–receptor interaction
C Facilitated diffusion D Neurotransmitter-gated ion channels
D Active transport 13 Cholesterol is found in the cell membrane.
(Questions 9–14 HL only) An experiment was carried out to investigate the
9 Which statement applies to cholesterol? effects of temperature on the fluidity of the membrane.
A It is hydrophobic and found on the inside of the The results are shown in the graph below.
phospholipid bilayer fluid-like
B It is hydrophilic and found outside the without
cholesterol
phospholipid bilayer
C It impacts on membrane fluidity with
membrane
cholesterol
fluidity
D It is transported in association with glucose in
the blood
10 Which of the following is used in indirect
active transport?
A Sodium–potassium pumps solid-like Tm
14 An investigation was carried out on the composition of fatty acids in the cell membranes
of a bacterium, Chryseobacterium frigidisoli PB4, sampled from Antarctic glacier soils.
The habitat of the bacteria is characterized by extremely low temperatures.
The effect of changing temperature on fatty acid composition was analysed. Data are
presented in the graph below, which shows the relative proportion of unsaturated and
saturated fatty acids from C. frigidisoli PB4 cultivated at different temperatures
20
b Explain the trends seen in the data for
saturated and unsaturated fatty acids at
different temperatures. [7]
c Suggest reasons why the composition
10
of both fatty acids changes in the way
Key
saturated fatty acids demonstrated by the data. [3]
unsaturated fatty acids
0
0 5 10 15 20
temperature/°C
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme B2.1 Membranes and membrane transport 28
■ Paper 2 (Question 4 HL only)
1 Draw and label a 2D section of an animal 4 The figure below shows two mechanisms for
cell membrane. [4] transporting material across membranes.
2 a Outline the roles of phospholipids, cholesterol X
and glycolipids in the plasma membrane at the
cell surface. [6]
b Outline the functions of proteins in
cell membranes. [5]
Standard Level Paper 2, Time Zone 1, May 19, Q7b (modified)
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme B2.1 Membranes and membrane transport 29
B2.2 Organelles and compartmentalization
■ Paper 1 6 Adaptations of the chloroplast for photosynthesis include:
1 Which structure found in eukaryotes has a I Contains 70S ribosomes
single membrane? II Large surface area of thylakoid membranes
A Nucleus with photosystems
B Lysosome III Small volumes of fluid inside thylakoids
C Chloroplast A I only
D Mitochondrion B I and II
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 1, May 17, Q1 C II and III
D I, II and III
2 What do chloroplasts and mitochondria have in common?
A Both are found in the cells of prokaryotes ■ Paper 2
B Both contain 70S ribosomes 1 State the part of the chloroplast where enzymes and
C Both occur in all eukaryotic cells substrates of the Calvin cycle are found. [1]
D Both are found in a Paramecium 2 Define the term nuclear pore.[1]
(Questions 3–6 HL only) 3 Diversity is a property of life at all levels of
3 The mitochondrion's form relates to its function because: biological organization.
A It has a folded inner membrane which increases a Outline the diversity of carbon compounds. [7]
ATP production b Eukaryotic cells contain a variety of
B It has a cylindrical shape which is hydrodynamic different organelles. Describe the role of
C It is small and so has a small surface area compartmentalization in cells. [4]
compared to its size for diffusion c Biodiversity is the variety of life in all its forms,
D It is transparent and so light can pass through levels and combinations. Explain the advantages
4 The advantages of having a membrane surrounding the of classification in biology. [4]
genetic material of the cell include: 4 Outline the advantages of separating the contents of the
I Protects DNA from other cellular reactions nucleus from those of the cytoplasm. [5]
that occur in the cytoplasm 5 Describe how different organelles are adapted to
II Allows gene transcription and translation to perform specific functions. [6]
be kept separate 6 Explain how the development of ultracentrifugation led
III Stops DNA from being removed by exocytosis to an increased understanding of cell biology. [7]
A I only
7 Outline the role of membranes in the
B I and II
compartmentalization of cells. [7]
C I and III
D II and III
5 What is the function of the Golgi apparatus?
A Processing and packaging of proteins for export
from the cell
B Protein synthesis
C Production of ATP
D Programmed cell death (apoptosis)
B
polysome
B Cells lose some genes as development occurs 48-hour old gerbil 3 13 4.30
C Genes do not determine the structure of a cell adult male pygmy shrew 5 19 3.80
adult male mouse 29 70 2.41
D Cells must practice division of labour in order
4-day old hamster 67 139 2.08
to survive
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 0, November 18, Q1 adult female gerbil 74 107 1.45
adult mole 76 97 1.28
3 Look at the sizes of the cells below. What is the correct adult male rat 410 405 0.99
order of size from smallest to largest? adult female hamster 681 616 0.91
I Cell I 90 µm adult grey squirrel 650 444 0.68
II Cell II 0.1 mm a Suggest why mass not volume was used in
III Cell III 200 nm this investigation. [1]
IV Cell IV 2 × 10−6 m b Describe the relationship between surface
A I → II → III → IV area : mass ratio and the size of animals in the
B II → III → IV → I investigation.[1]
C III → IV → I → II c Suggest the effects of increased size on heat loss
D IV → III → II → I in mammals. [4]
4 Which graph represents the change in cell surface area- Table 2 shows the mass, area of skin, and surface
to-volume ratio with increasing cell diameter? area : mass ratio of juvenile (infant) and adult mammals.
A B ■ Table 2 Masses and skin area for juvenile and adult mammals of
surface area :
surface area :
two species
volume
volume
surface area :
volume
C
B
I
A
5 μm
II
Higher Level Paper 1, Time Zone 1,
November 21, Q40 (modified)
III
8 Where in the body are type I pneumocytes found?
A Alveoli
B Small intestine
C Capillaries
D Bronchi
9 How do respiratory gases cross the membrane of
pneumocytes during gas exchange? a This muscle is made from repeating dark bands
A Facilitated diffusion (structure I). State the name of this type of
B Gated-ion channels muscle.[1]
C Active transport b Identify the structures labelled II and III in the
D Simple diffusion micrograph.[2]
10 What feature distinguishes striated muscle fibres from c Discuss whether the tissue shown in the
cheek cells, sperm cells and epithelial cells of the small micrograph consists of cells or not. [2]
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 0,
intestine? November 19, Q5ai–b (modified)
A Mitochondria
B Nucleoid regions
C Multinucleate structure
D Membrane-bound organelles
B contract fall
C relax rise
D contract rise
4
volume/dm3
0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140
time/s
12
0
0 1 2 3 4 5
number of leaves removed
5 In an experiment to explore the effect of exercise on ventilation rate, a subject breathed into a
data logging sensor that measured air flow.
The graphs show the result before the subject exercised and immediately after the exercise
had finished.
before exercise
0
volume/L
–1
–2
0 5 10 15
time/s
after exercise
0
volume/L
–1
–2
0 5 10 15
time/s
20
10
0
sea level 4000 m
a State one other variable that should have been controlled in this study. [1]
b Compare and contrast the effect of increasing exercise intensity at sea level and at an
altitude of 4000 m. [2]
c Outline how ventilation rate could have been monitored in this study. [2]
Standard Level Paper 3, Time Zone 2, May 19, Q3a–c
7 A spirometer was used to measure the ventilation rate of a person at rest and pedalling at
22 km per hour on an exercise bike.
at rest
Key
air volume/dm 3
2 inhalation exhalation
0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120
time/s
22 km per hour
2
air volume/dm 3
0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120
time/s
a Calculate the difference in ventilation rate between resting and exercising. [1]
b Explain the change in the tidal volume during exercise. [3]
Standard Level Paper 3, Time Zone 1, May 17, Q3a–b
oxygen saturation/%
■ Paper 2 50
1 The graph shows the ventilation rate and tidal volume
of a well-trained runner during exercise on a treadmill.
The tidal volume is the volume of air being moved in
and out of the lungs in each breath.
0
80 2.8 pO2
Key
ventilation rate 2.6 a An increase in metabolic activity results in
70 tidal volume
2.4 greater release of CO2 into the blood. On a copy
of the graph, draw the oxygen dissociation
ventilation rate/breaths min −1
60 2.2
curve during intense exercise when the CO2
tidal volume/L breath −1
B 20 mm
A
C
ring of tissue blood vessel
D
clamp
C
80 C Pulmonary artery
Key D Hepatic portal vein
60 aorta
left ventricle 12 The diagram shows red blood cells and undifferentiated
40
left atrium tissue cells.
D Diffusion of oxygen from blood cells to tissue cells is
20 A
represented by arrow 3 in the diagram. What molecules
are shown diffusing by arrow 1 and arrow 2?
0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6
1
time/s
Arrow 1 Arrow 2
A carbon dioxide urea
B water glucose
×100
a Outline how the specialized structures of arteries help them to achieve their functions. [3]
Standard Level Paper 2, Time Zone 0, November 21, Q4a (modified)
phases
sinoatrial node
1
2
left atrium 0 3
4
atrioventricular
node
conducting fibre
ventricular
muscle
b Distinguish between the different phases of the cardiac cycle in the atria and in the
ventricular muscle. [2]
Standard Level Paper 3, Time Zone 2, May 19, Q18b–c
5 Compare and contrast the single circulation of bony fish and the double circulation
of mammals. [4]
6 Outline the control mechanism of the heart rate. [5]
7 Outline how root pressure is generated in xylem. [5]
8 Explain the formation and reuptake of tissue fluid. [7]
6 The diagram shows two states of skeletal muscle, relaxed and contracted.
Which process is part of muscle contraction?
Z line
relaxed muscle
contracted muscle
Z line
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme B3.3 Muscle and motility (HL only) 42
■ Paper 2 (HL only) 2 The figure shows part of a myofibril from
1 Figure 1 is a diagram that shows part of a skeletal muscle.
muscle myofibril.
Z line thick filament Z line thin filament Z line
Z Y Z
A band A band
sarcomere sarcomere
Figure 2 Figure 3
Figure 3
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme B3.3 Muscle and motility (HL only) 43
B4.1 Adaptation to environment
high
■ Paper 1
number of wolves
wolves wolves
1 Over time, the hull of a sunken ship may become eliminated reintroduced
colonized by a wide range of marine organisms. (1926) (1995)
number of elk
culling
C A population (1968)
D An ecosystem
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 1, May 21, Q20
2 What is the ecological term for a group of the same type low
1900 1920 1940 1960 1980 2000
of organism living together in one area? year
A Community
a Outline the changes in elk population between
B Domain
the years 1930 and 2004. [3]
C Ecosystem
b List two biotic factors, other than wolf predation
D Population
or culling, that could affect the elk population. [2]
3 In 1789 Gilbert White, a naturalist, observed eight
Higher Level Paper 3, Time Zone 0, November 20, Q18a–b
breeding pairs of swifts (Apus apus) in the English village
of Selborne. On average, each pair of swifts produces two 2 The climograph shows data collected at Mangalore,
offspring per year. This would allow the population to India. The natural vegetation of the surrounding area is
rise to 1030 swifts over 200 years. A bird survey carried forest and the climate is tropical.
out in 1983 revealed only 12 breeding pairs in this village. 1200 35
Key
What could have prevented the numbers rising to 1030? 30
1000 temperature
I The number of nesting sites remained the same
precipitation/mm
temperature/°C
25 precipitation
800
II The food supply of the swifts remained constant 20
III Predatory birds in the area were exterminated 600
15
A I only 400
10
B I and II only 200 5
C II and III only
0 0
D I, II and III J F M A M J J A S O N D
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 0, November 18, Q19 months
I
–10
taiga compared to 2008. [1]
ii Evaluate the conclusion that the decline in the
0 population of M. lucifugus is due to infection
by the fungus. [2]
10
The graph shows data from a small group of infected
bats that died during hibernation. The average time
20 II
III IV interval between hibernation emergence periods and the
date of death were recorded using temperature sensors
30
0 1 2 3 4 for these bats.
mean annual rainfall/m
14
Myotis lucifugus
Myotis lucifugus
(affected) (affected)
30 30 6 Outline adaptations to life in hot deserts and
Lasiurus cinereus
Lasiurus cinereus
25 25 (unaffected) (unaffected) tropical
rainforest. [5]
20 20 7 Explain how abiotic factors can affect the distribution of
15 15 species in an ecosystem. [6]
Standard Level Paper 3, Time Zone 1, May 18, Q15 (modified)
10 10
submerged
rooted plants
plants stems provide a
floating
are microhabitat for
plants
producers algae growing
plankton
on them
examples
herbivores reed swamp
of habitats
eat plants of margin
carnivores open surface
consumers eat animals water
detritivores
eat dead mud deposited
organic on pond bottom
matter
decomposers on
detritus
surface of mud sediment
feeding
containing
fish on
nutrient
pond mud
reserve
Determine which of the terms shown below describe each of the listed features of a freshwater
lake (one or more terms may fit each feature).
population ecosystem habitat abiotic factor community biomass
a The whole lake [1]
b All the frogs of the lake [1]
c The flow of water through the lake [1]
d All the plants and animals present [1]
e The total mass of vegetation growing in the lake [1]
f The mud of the lake [1]
g The temperature variations in the lake [1]
germination/%
germination/%
15
A Autotrophs 15
B Heterotrophs
C Mixotrophs 10 10
D Saprotrophs
3 Which organism can be described as an autotroph? 5 5
I A fungus that digests its food externally and
absorbs the products of digestion 0
0 basic acidic acidic
II A single-celled eukaryote that is able basic
soils soils
to photosynthesize
III A koala bear that feeds by ingesting leaves a Describe the results of this experiment. [2]
from an acacia tree b Suggest a reason for the results, and what they
A I only indicate about the fundamental and realized
B II only niches of both species. [3]
C I and II
D I and III
Jul
May
Apr Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Jan Jun
Dec
Feb Mar
Factor X
lethal critical low medium high optimal
6 Ecologists studied the distribution of five species of insectivorous wood warblers of the genus
Dendorica living on different parts of coniferous trees in mature forests.
Cape May
Blackburnian (D. tigrina)
(D. fusca)
Black throated
Bay-breasted green (D. virens)
(D. castanea)
Myrtle
(D. coronata)
total volume of
alkali added/ml
D Enzymes can be immobilized pH meter 15
25
20
total volume of
alkali added/ml
pH meter 15
Key
pH probe 10 papain 1%
stirrer
pancreatin 1%
reaction 5 papain 0.1%
vessel pancreatin 0.1%
0
water 0 50 100 150 200 250
bath duration of hydrolysis/min
Figure 1 Figure 2
reaction rate
D Metabolic processes of the Calvin cycle
7 Why is heat generation in metabolic
reactions inevitable?
A Energy transfers are not 100% efficient
B Energy can neither be created nor destroyed
C Energy transfers are exothermic
substrate concentration
D Most animals are warm blooded
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 2, May 17, Q2a
5 The oxygen consumption rate of the fish Oplegnathus insignis was examined in a respirometer
at three different water temperatures and at four different body masses.
respirometer
water out
400
oxygen consumption
300
rate/mg O2 kg−1 h−1
200
Key
100
23 °C
18 °C
13 °C
0
0 200 400 600
body mass/g
a Suggest how the oxygen consumption rate is determined using this apparatus. [2]
b State the relationship between body mass and the oxygen consumption of fish. [1]
c Predict the effects of global warming on aerobic respiration in fish. [2]
Standard Level Paper 3, Time Zone 2, May 17, Q1a–c
wire mesh
chlorophyll a chlorophyll a
(blue-green) (blue-green)
chlorophyll a
chlorophyll b (blue-green)
(yellow-green)
xanthophylls
xanthophylls (yellow) fucoxanthin
(yellow) (bright orange-brown)
chlorophyll c
(pale green)
lamp
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
a State the name of the process which occurs in the chloroplasts of Chlorella that uses CO2.[1]
b The colours of the indicator in the jars ranged from yellow to purple after five hours.
Predict the distribution of indicator colours in jars 1 to 9. [1]
c Explain the scientific reasoning for your hypothesis. [3]
d Suggest one other factor that has to be kept constant in all the jars during the experiment. [1]
Higher Level Paper 3, Time Zone 0, November 20, Q3a–bii
30 25 °C 35 °C
7 Draw a diagram of a chloroplast to show its structure
mol m−2 s−1
25
20 as revealed by electron microscopy. Annotate your
15 diagram to indicate the adaptations of the chloroplast to
10 its functions. [3]
5
0
drought recovery 8 Explain the role of hydrogen ions used in
25
photosynthesis.[7]
rate of photosynthesis/
5
10 Compare and contrast chemiosmosis in
drought recovery mitochondria and chloroplasts. [7]
0
0 14 30 35 38 50 11 Explain the role of proteins in photosynthesis. [9]
time/days
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme C2.1 Chemical signalling (HL only) 58
■ Paper 2 (HL only)
1 The diagram below shows the effect of insulin on glucose uptake.
a Suggest, in humans, one type of cell where insulin receptors are mainly found. [1]
b Describe the processes 1–4 in the diagram. [4]
c Outline the role that insulin plays in cell metabolism. [3]
2 Describe the importance of ATP in cell signalling. [3]
3 Suggest one advantage and one disadvantage of a signalling cascade. [2]
4 Explain the role of kinases in cell signalling. [2]
5 Describe how insulin and glucagon control blood glucose levels. State where these
hormones come from, the type of receptors they bind to and how they affect the levels
of blood glucose. [6]
6 Compare and contrast the role of hormones and neurotransmitters in chemical signalling. [7]
7 Explain why cell signalling is important for the functioning of organisms. [9]
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme C2.1 Chemical signalling (HL only) 59
C2.2 Neural signalling
■ Paper 1
1 Which statement applies to an axon at rest?
A There is no electric potential difference between the external and internal surfaces of
the plasma membrane
B The external surface of the plasma membrane is positive relative to the internal surface
C The external surface of the plasma membrane is negative relative to the internal surface
D The internal surface of the plasma membrane has a much higher concentration of
sodium ions
Higher Level Paper 1, Time Zone 1, May 21, Q22
2 The image shows a neuron. Which letter shows the cell body?
C
A
B D
3 Neurotransmitters are released into the synaptic cleft 5 The graph shows changes in the membrane potential in
from the presynaptic neuron and travel to a receptor on an action potential. What is the approximate value of the
the postsynaptic neuron membrane. Which processes threshold potential?
are required for this to happen? +50
Release into synaptic cleft Travel to postsynaptic
membrane potential/mV
neuron membrane
A exocytosis diffusion 0
0 1 2 3 4 5
(Questions 4–7 HL only) time/ms
4 Which of the following definitions refers A −89 mV
to repolarization? B −70 mV
A The return of polarity towards the resting C −50 mV
potential following depolarization D +47 mV
B A temporary and local reversal of the Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 0,
resting potential November 21, Q28 (modified)
C A period during which a nerve is unresponsive to
6 What can oscilloscopes be used to measure?
further stimulation
I Resting potentials
D The potential difference produced across the
II Action potentials
plasma membrane of the nerve cell when stimulated
III Number of impulses per second
A I only
B I and II
C I, II and III
D III only
■ Paper 2
1 Analyse the data shown in the figure below, which shows the effect of nerve fibre diameter on
conduction velocity for a variety of different animals.
Pendeus
Teleost Earthworm
myelinated medial giant
Macrobrachium
100
MYELINATED
Squid
Mammalian
conduction velocity/m s−1
Crayfish giants
myelinated
Prawn
Hydrozoan [Na+]
Cat unmyel.
1
1 10 100 1000
fibre diameter/µm
Hydrozoan [Ca2+]
Lines indicate general relations over a range of diameters, many taken from Bullock and Horridge
(1965) but adjusted to a standard temperature of 20 °C (Chapman and Pankhurst 1967). Specific
labelled points or lines from the following sources: Squid: Hartline & Young 1936 cited in Pumphrey
and Young (1938); Earthworm: Eccles, Granit & Young (1932); Penaeus and Macrobrachium:
Kusano (1966). Crayfish: Govind and Lang (1976); Hydromedusa: Mackie and Meech (1985).
a Compare and contrast the speed in myelinated and non-myelinated fibres. [4]
b Explain the effect of size of axon diameter and myelination on conduction velocity. [7]
2 The diagram shows part of two neurons.
Ca2+
X
Na+
G1 neurons
3
Key
Figure 2
60
brain to muscles. [3]
50
4 Compare and contrast the structure and function of
sensory and motor neurons. [6] 40
50
Key
auxin concentration in L6/pmol g−1
400
control NPA-treated
40
200
20
10 100
0 0
0 2 4 6 12 24 0 2 4 6 12 24
time after cutting/hours time after cutting/hours
d i Compare and contrast the changes in auxin concentration in the stem base over
time for the control and NPA-treated cuttings. [2]
ii Deduce the effect of NPA on auxin transport between L6 and the stem base. [2]
e Based on all the data presented and your knowledge of auxin, discuss the pattern of
auxin production and distribution in the leaves, and the possible relationship to root
formation in leafy cuttings of Petunia hybrida. [3]
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 2, May 17, Q1a–e
9 Outline how the hormone auxin controls phototropism in plant shoots. [5]
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 1, May 21, Q6b
2 A person was infected with a pathogen and then later in life they were reinfected with the
same pathogen. The graph shows the concentration of antibodies found in the blood that were
produced in response to these two infections.
concentration of antibodies
0 10 20 30 40 0 10 20 30 40
What is the reason for the faster rise in antibody concentration after the second infection?
A The patient had previously been vaccinated with the antibody
B Antibodies had been stored after the first exposure
C Lymphocytes rapidly reproduced to form plasma cells
D The second exposure was more infectious
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 0, November 21, Q26
sea otter
4°
−
F
crabs
3°
F
trophic level
+ −
isopods
2°
F + −
−
+ + algae growing
−
− on seagrass
C
1° F+
seagrass
+/−
F
nutrients
Key
top-down effect + positive effect
bottom-up effect − negative effect
direct effect C competition
indirect effect F feeding relationship
A Open systems
B Isolated systems K
C Closed systems
D Deterministic systems
2 In a woodland ecosystem, each tree provides food for CO2 in atmosphere and L
green plants
dissolved in water
numerous aphids which feed on the sap of the tree. The
aphids are eaten by carnivorous beetles, as shown in the
food chain. Which two processes correspond to the labelled arrows?
A K is combustion and L is catabolism
oak tree → aphids → beetles
B J is anabolism and K is respiration
Which pyramid of energy represents this relationship? C J is combustion and K is respiration
D J is anabolism and L is catabolism
A B
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 0, November 17, Q18
Higher Level Paper 1, Time Zone 2, May 18, Q22 Which organism is a tertiary consumer?
4 Which of the following does chemoautotrophic nutrition A Organism T
involve? B Organism U
A Use of light as the external energy source C Organism W
B Parasitic relationships D Organism Y
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 1, May 19, Q18
C Consuming other organisms
D Oxidation reactions as the energy source
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme C4.2 Transfers of energy and matter 70
8 The diagram shows the energy flow between five ‘sinks’ 9 Which statement is true for secondary production?
in a terrestrial ecosystem. A It is higher than primary production
B It is the accumulation of carbon compounds in
biomass by autotrophs
secondary consumer detritus feeder
C It is the accumulation of carbon compounds in
biomass by heterotrophs
D It is measured in g m2
primary consumer detritus 10 Plankton are major producers in marine ecosystems.
Only a small proportion of the energy harvested
by plankton is passed to the primary consumers.
Which process in phytoplankton results in the largest
autotrophs loss of energy that could otherwise be utilized
by consumers?
A Reproduction
B Homeostasis
C Excretion
In a typical terrestrial ecosystem, which trophic level
D Respiration
would have the highest biomass?
Higher Level Paper 1, Time Zone 0, November 20, Q16
A Autotrophs
B Primary consumers
C Secondary consumers
D Detritus feeders
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 1, May 21, Q21
11 The diagram shows interactions between food chains in an ecosystem in the African savannah.
Which arrows indicate the flow of chemical energy?
sunlight
I hare III
II
cheetah
star grass gazelle
shrike
grasshopper
A I and II only
B I and III only
C II and III only
D I, II and III
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 0, November 18, Q17
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme C4.2 Transfers of energy and matter 71
■ Paper 2
1 The blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) is a plant that grows in deciduous woodlands in many parts
of the world. A 30 m transect was laid out in a woodland to investigate the relationship between
light intensity and blackberry growth. The percentage cover of blackberries and the light intensity
were measured at 26 positions along this transect.
100
90
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600
light intensity/lx
2 The figure below shows the food web of a rocky shore community.
seabirds
blenny
sea-slugs crab
mussel
flat winkle
rough and edible sponge
isopods, shrimps, winkles limpet topshell
Gammarus, etc.
a The food web is a model of a real ecosystem. Using the food web as an example,
explain what is meant by the term model.[3]
b Draw a food chain from this food web, showing at least three organisms. [1]
c Analyse the number of trophic levels occupied by seabirds in this food web. [1]
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme C4.2 Transfers of energy and matter 72
3 The mass of an individual organism can affect its physiology and feeding ecology.
a State one process that results in the loss of carbon dioxide from a marine organism such
as a crustacean or a jellyfish. [1]
b The crustacean and the jellyfish obtain carbon compounds by feeding. State one source
of carbon for marine organisms, other than feeding. [1]
c Explain how energy enters, flows through and is lost from marine food chains. [3]
d Suggest with a reason whether having a large body mass is an advantage or
disadvantage for jellyfish. [1]
Standard Level Paper 2, Time Zone 2, May 21, Q4a–c, dii
4 Life on Earth is based on carbon compounds, such as proteins, carbohydrates and lipids.
Outline the recycling of carbon compounds in the carbon cycle. [7]
5 Explain the reasons for food chains rarely containing more than four or five trophic levels. [3]
Standard Level Paper 2, Time Zone 0, November 21, Q3bii
6 Describe how detritivores obtain nutrition and the effects they have in ecosystems. [4]
Standard Level Paper 2, Time Zone 1, May 19, Q8a
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme C4.2 Transfers of energy and matter 73
D1.1 DNA replication
■ Paper 1 5 Over 50 years ago, Meselson and Stahl investigated
1 How is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) similar to the mechanism of DNA replication. They transferred
the replication of DNA? a rapidly growing population of Escherichia coli from
I DNA is heated to break hydrogen bonds a growth medium containing only 15N to a growth
II DNA strands are separated medium with only 14N. DNA samples were centrifuged
III Free nucleotides are used at high speed in a salt density gradient. In the original
IV DNA polymerase is required published research, DNA molecules of the same density
A I only appear as a band in the UV absorption photographs
B II and IV only as shown.
C I, II and III only
D II, III and IV only
2 What occurs as a result of base pairing during
DNA replication?
A Both strands of the DNA have the same sequence
of purines and pyrimidines
B In each strand, the number of purine bases equals
the number of pyrimidine bases
C Purine bases in one strand become hydrogen-
bonded to purine bases in the other strand
D The number of purine bases in one strand equals
the number of pyrimidine bases in the other strand
3 Why can Taq polymerase be used in the polymerase
chain reaction (PCR)?
A It ensures that primers match the end sequence of
the DNA fragment
B It works with helicase in PCR
C It ensures desired sequences are amplified rather
than non-target DNA
D It does not denature at high temperatures
4 Which are necessary to make DNA replication
semi‑conservative?
I Separation of the strands by RNA polymerase
II Complementary base pairing a The density of the DNA band at generation 0 is
III Use of a pre-existing strand as a template 1.724 and the density of the dark band of DNA
A I and II only at generation 4.1 is 1.710. Estimate the density of
B I and III only the DNA band at generation 1.0. [1]
C II and III only b Describe the nitrogen composition of the DNA
D I, II and III band in the E. coli at generation 1.0. [1]
Standard Level Paper 1, Time Zone 2, May 17, Q9 c Explain the pattern shown in generation 3.0. [3]
d This experiment was designed to
demonstrate whether replication was semi-
conservative or conservative. Distinguish
between semi-conservative replication and
conservative replication. [2]
Standard Level Paper 3, Time Zone 0, May 16, Q2a–d
3 The diagram represents transcription and translation. What structures do the letters
X and Y represent?
T
A
A
C
T
G
T
A
A
C
G
A
T
A
A A
A
T
U T
U
G U
A C
A U
C U
A G
U X
U Y
A
X Y
A DNA anticodon
B mRNA anticodon
C DNA codon
D mRNA codon
12 The diagram shows the arrangement of introns and exons in a segment of pre-mRNA.
Pre-mRNA is immature mRNA containing introns and exons.
Exon A Intron A Exon B Intron B Exon C Intron C Exon D
5’ 3’
13 Human DNA has been analysed and details of certain genes are shown in the table below.
Gene Gene size / kb mRNA size / kb Number of introns
insulin 1.7 0.4 2
albumin 25.0 2.1 14
phenyalanine hydroxylase 90.0 2.4 12
dystrophin 2 000.0 17.0 12
a Calculate the average size of the introns for the albumin gene (show your workings). [2]
b With reference to the table shown, describe the relationship(s) between the gene size
and the number of introns. [2]
2nd letter
U C A G
3rd letter
1st letter
2 Describe the stages in the production of mRNA 7 Describe how the information carried on mRNA allows
by transcription. [5] the synthesis of a complete polypeptide chain. [3]
3 Distinguish between transcription and translation. [4] 8 a State one function for a region of DNA that does
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 0, November 17, Q7b not code for proteins. [1]
b Outline the role of the A-site of ribosomes in
4 Outline how translation depends on complementary
translation.[1]
base pairing. [3]
c Outline the role of tRNA-activating enzymes
Standard Level Paper 2, Time Zone 1, May 17, Q5a
in translation. [2]
(Questions 5–12 HL only) Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 2, May 18, Q2biii–cii
5 Telomeres are parts of chromosomes in eukaryotic cells. 9 Describe the roles of the different binding sites for
a Describe the function of telomeres. [4] tRNA on ribosomes during translation. [5]
b Suggest why bacteria do not have telomeres. [1] Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 2, May 17, Q6b (modified)
6 5ʹ-capping and 3ʹ-polyadenylation are two kinds of
10 Describe the eukaryotic processing of pre-mRNA in
post-transcriptional modifications that are present in
terms of intron splicing, polyadenylation and 5ʹ capping.
eukaryotes but absent in prokaryotes.
[7]
Describe another post-transcriptional modification
11 Describe how protein synthesis in bacteria differs from
necessary to produce mature mRNA in eukaryotes. [2]
that in plant cells. [7]
12 Explain how a polypeptide chain is synthesized in a
eukaryotic cell. [7]
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme D1.3 Mutation and gene editing 80
D2.1 Cell and nuclear division
■ Paper 1 5 The figure shows cells of an onion root tip
1 Which of the following best describes cytokinesis? undergo mitosis.
A The movement of cytoplasmic elements in mitosis
B A process that divides the cytoplasm and is the A
same in animal and plant cells
C The splitting of cytoplasm in a parent cell
between daughter cells
D The process which precedes nuclear division
2 Which of the following include(s) the role of both
mitosis and meiosis in eukaryotes? B
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme D2.1 Cell and nuclear division 81
9 A sample from human epidermal tissue was examined 2 Distinguish between the terms haploid and diploid.[3]
under the microscope to determine a mitotic index. 3 During an immune response, cells divide by mitosis.
The number of cells in each stage of the cell cycle was Suggest how mitosis is involved in an
determined. Data from the investigation is shown in the immune response. [3]
following table:
4 Outline the process of mitosis and its role in
Stage of Interphase Prophase Metaphase Anaphase Telophase
maintaining genetic stability. [7]
cell cycle
Number 100 18 12 5 2 5 Explain the role of meiosis in natural selection
of cells and evolution. [7]
a Calculate the mitotic index for the tissue sample. [1] (Questions 6–10 HL only)
b Outline how the mitotic index can be used in the
6 Outline the role of mitosis in growth and repair of tissue.
identification and treatment of cancer. [3]
[3]
■ Paper 2 7 a Describe the phases of the cell cycle. [3]
1 Prokaryotic organisms such as E. coli divide by binary b Explain how the cell cycle is controlled. [5]
fission, not mitosis. Apart from ribosomes, prokaryotes 8 Suggest why embryonic stem cells do not give rise
have no organelles comparable to those found in to tumours. [3]
eukaryotes and have a circular ‘chromosome’ with 9 Describe the development of cancer as a
no centromere. multi-step process. [3]
With reference to the information above and your 10 Outline how mutations can affect the structure and
knowledge of mitosis, suggest why mitosis does not function of an organism. [7]
occur in prokaryotes. [2]
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme D2.1 Cell and nuclear division 82
D2.2 Gene expression (HL only)
■ Paper 1 (HL only) 5 The images in the figure below show chromosomal
1 Which of the following are used to regulate transcription? regions with different amounts of methylation in two
I Promoters pairs of identical twins. The photomicrographs were
II Enhancers taken during metaphase. The chromosome number is
III Transcription factors given for each chromosome (chromosomes 1, 3, 12 and
A I only C I, II and III 17 are shown).
B I and II D III only For each chromosome, the diagrams show changes in
2 Which of the following best defines epigenesis? levels of methylation between 3-year-old twins and
A The development of patterns of differentiation in 50-year-old twins.
the cells of a multicellular organism Green areas indicate high levels of methylation
B Heritable changes in gene activity that are not (hypermethylation) in one twin compared to the
caused by changes in the DNA base sequences other. Red areas indicate low levels of methylation
C Generation of epidermal cells by mitosis (hypomethylation) in one twin compared to the other.
D Process that occurs when an egg is fertilized by Yellow areas indicate similar levels of methylation in
a sperm both twins.
3 When glucose is absent and lactose is present, lactose
binds to the operon’s repressor.
Which statement best describes what happens next?
A Repressor binds to promoter, transcription
is initiated
B Repressor binds to operator, transcription is
not initiated
C Repressor fails to bind to structural genes,
transcription is not initiated
D Repressor fails to bind to the operator,
transcription is initiated
4 Which row of the table below gives the correct
definitions of genome, proteome and transcriptome?
Genome Proteome Transcriptome
A the genetic code the range of the transcription
of an organism amino acids factors used in
that determines found in a cell at a protein synthesis
which proteins particular time
are synthesized
3-year-old twins 50-year-old twins
B the genetic all the proteins the full range of
information expressed in mRNA molecules
contained within an organism expressed from a Compare and contrast levels of methylation in
the nucleus of the genes of chromosomes with increasing age of twins. [3]
an organism an organism
b Suggest what the methylation patterns seen in the
C the whole of all the proteins the range of
two sets of twins indicate. [4]
the genetic expressed within mRNA transcripts
information of a cell, tissue or produced in a
an organism organisms at a specific cell or
certain time tissue type at a
particular time
D varies with the the same in depends on
function, location all the cells of the differential
or environmental an organism expression of
conditions of genes within a cell
the cell
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme D2.2 Gene expression (HL only) 83
■ Paper 2 (HL only) 3 Outline how monozygotic twin studies can be used
1 Describe the role of lactose in the regulation of to investigate the effects of the environment on
lac operon. [3] gene expression. [7]
2 Describe and explain the effect of DNA methylation on 4 Explain the role of gene expression as the mechanism
the eukaryotic genome. [3] by which information in genes has effects on
the phenotype. [7]
5 Describe the role of inhibition in controlling
biological systems. [9]
Biology for the IB Diploma Programme D2.2 Gene expression (HL only) 84
D2.3 Water potential
■ Paper 1
1 Red blood cells were placed in solutions with different osmotic concentrations. The figure shows
the effect of each solution on the cells. Which of the following correctly describes the solutions
the red blood cells were placed in?
X Y Z
Cell X Cell Y
ψp = 1000 kPa ψp = 0 kPa
ψs = −1800 kPa ψs = −1000 kPa
ψw = −1000 kPa
6 Which hormone is detected by a pregnancy test? 11 Outline the role of chemical signalling in the control of
A Insulin pregnancy and childbirth. [7]
B Epinephrine
C Thyroxin
D Human chorionic gonadotropin
Key
Queen Victoria Prince Albert female without haemophilia
female carrier
?
male without haemophilia
Alice Louis IV Leopold Beatrice
male with haemophilia
a i Draw a Punnett grid to show all the possible genotypes of Queen Victoria’s children.[2]
ii Deduce the genotype of Queen Victoria’s daughter Alice. [1]
The diagram shows the structure of two chromosomes after the first division of meiosis,
assuming that there was no crossing over or chiasmata formation.
A A A A
B B b b
b i Draw the same chromosomes to show their structure at the same stage of meiosis
if there had been one chiasma between two gene loci. [1]
ii State the stage of meiosis where chiasmata formation may occur. [1]
c Explain gene linkage and its effects on inheritance. [2]
d Explain the mechanism that prevents polyspermy during fertilization. [2]
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 0, November 21, Q2ai–c
9 Autosomal genes are located in chromosomes that are not sex chromosomes. The inheritance
of autosomal genes is affected by whether the genes are linked or unlinked. Explain the
two types of inheritance, using the example of parents that are heterozygous for two genes
A and B. [7]
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 2, May 21, Q5a
individuals in a population? 30
A Predation
25
B Transfer of pathogens
C High or low temperatures 20
D Competition for limited resources 15
4 Which of the following is a description of
10
sexual selection?
A Process where organisms better adapted to their 5
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
percentage of unbanded shells per sample
a Determine the maximum percentage of yellow base colour shells found in woods. [1]
b Suggest either one possible advantage or one disadvantage of having a banded shell,
stating whether it is an advantage or disadvantage. [1]
c Using the data in the graph, distinguish between the distribution of C. nemoralis shells
in woods and fields. [2]
The population of C. nemoralis has been studied for many years in open fields in a similar
area. In the following graph, each data point represents the percentage of adults of a given base
colour plotted against the percentage of juveniles of the same base colour collected each year.
40
percentage of adults
20
Key
Shell base colour
yellow
pink
brown
0
0 20 40 60
percentage of juveniles
d Deduce from the data in the graph which shell base colours are on average most and
least frequent among adult snails. [2]
e Discuss whether there is evidence in the data that colour plays a role in the survival
of the snails. [3]
f Using the theory of natural selection, explain the differences shown in the graph
between the three colours of snail. [3]
Standard Level Paper 2, Time Zone 1, May 18, Q1a–f
2 Some lice live in human hair and feed on blood. Shampoos that kill lice have been available for
many years but some lice are now resistant to those shampoos. Two possible hypotheses are
shown in the table.
Discuss which hypothesis is a better explanation of the theory of evolution by natural selection.
Hypothesis A Hypothesis B
Resistant strains of lice were present in the population. Exposure to anti-lice shampoo caused mutations for
Non-resistant lice died with increased use of anti-lice resistance to the shampoo and this resistance is passed
shampoo and resistant lice survived to reproduce. on to offspring.
[3]
Standard Level Paper 2, Time Zone 2, May 17, Q4bii
3 Suggest how natural selection could have brought about the evolution of the skeleton of
a bat’s wing. [5]
4 Compare and contrast natural selection and sexual selection. [5]
5 Referring to each level of biological organization, outline how natural selection leads
to evolution. [7]
(Questions 6–8 HL only)
6 Explain what is meant by directional, stabilizing and disruptive selection. Give examples
of each type of selection. [6]
7 Outline how allele frequencies in gene pools can be used to assess whether natural selection
is taking place. [7]
8 Discuss whether or not the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria is an example of
artificial selection. [6]
■ Paper 2
1 Bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis) are top carnivores in the marine ecosystem. Some
radioisotopes of elements are produced by nuclear reactors. Following a nuclear accident at
Fukushima in Japan in March 2011, the levels of certain radioisotopes were measured in the
bodies of bluefin tuna caught off California in August 2011, the other side of the Pacific Ocean
from Japan. The becquerel (Bq) is a measure of radioactivity.
1000
radioisotope concentration/Bq kg−1
100
Key
2008
2011
10
1
134 137 40
Cs Cs K
radioisotope
Explain how the levels of the caesium (Cs) radioisotopes could have accumulated in the
tissues of these fish. [3]
Standard Level Paper 3, Time Zone 0, November 19, Q14a
W E
S Key
camping site
city
a Predict one example of macroplastic pollution that is likely to be found in this lake. [1]
b State two possible effects on organisms of microplastic pollution. [2]
c Outline the effect of wind on the distribution of plastic pollution in this lake. [2]
d Suggest changes in the management of the national park that could reduce the amount
of macroplastic pollution. [3]
Higher Level Paper 3, Time Zone 0, November 16, Q15a–d
3 Extensive areas of the rainforest in Cambodia are being cleared for large-scale rubber
plantations. Distinguish between the sustainability of natural ecosystems such as rainforests
and the sustainability of areas used for agriculture. [3]
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 0, November 18, Q8a
glacier
meltwater streams
a State one abiotic factor that will determine the type of ecosystem in a succession. [1]
b Predict the process of succession that takes place on exposed bare ground as the
glacier retreats. [3]
Higher Level Paper 3, Time Zone 1, May 18, Q15a–b
10 The graph is a model showing biomass and respiration levels in a field where farming stops at
time zero and the abandoned land develops into forest.
biomass
respiration
forest succession
0 20 40 60 80 100
years
2 The emission of greenhouse gases such as CO2 and CH4 (Questions 4–6 HL only)
have different impacts on global warming depending on 4 Which of the following are examples of phenological
their concentration in the atmosphere, their atmospheric research?
lifetime and their global-warming potential (GWP). I The timing of flowering events
GWP was developed to allow comparisons of the global II Bud set in deciduous trees
warming impacts of different gases, and is a measure III Bird migration and nesting
of how much energy the emissions of 1 ton of a gas A I only
will absorb over a given period of time, relative to the B I and II
emissions of 1 ton of carbon dioxide (CO2). C I, II and III
Which row best describes the characteristics of these D III only
greenhouse gases? 5 Which of the following can lead to disruption in the
CO2 CH4 synchrony of phenological events?
A higher GWP lower GWP A Increased rainfall
from anthropogenic activities from anthropogenic activities B Negative feedback mechanisms
B
such as decomposition of such as management of C Higher temperatures earlier in the year
organic waste at landfills manure from livestock
D Lower temperatures later in the year
C from natural processes such from natural processes, such
as soil respiration as cow digestion 6 Which of the following is an example of evolution as a
D shorter atmospheric lifetime longer atmospheric lifetime consequence of climate change?
A Increases to the number of insect life cycles
within a year
B Adaptive radiation in Galápagos finches
C Increase in dark brown tawny owls in
populations usually dominated by pale grey owls
D Increase in melanic form of the peppered moth
40 24.50
the ocean temperature has
an effect on coral cover. [2]
30 24.45
c Suggest causes for
20 24.40 the changes in ocean
10 24.35 temperature.[2]
0 24.30
1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004
year
Key
percentage coral cover
ocean temperature
In order to test the effect of temperature, live samples of a species of coral, Pocillopora
damicornis, were placed in an experimental chamber at a constant pH, water depth and low
light. All the coral samples were started at 26 °C and half of them were rapidly increased
to 30 °C.
light source
pH meter
coral sample
The pie charts show the percentage of live and dead tissues at the end of the experiment.
Key
live
dead
d Identify one advantage of conducting this experiment in the laboratory rather than in
the ocean. [1]
e Comment on whether the experimental data supports the observed data from the ocean. [1]
Higher Level Paper 2, Time Zone 0, November 16, Q1a–e
4
September
3
0
1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020
year
a State which year has the lowest September sea ice extent recorded. [1]
b State the overall trend in sea ice extent for both September and March. [1]
c Suggest reasons for the reduction in the Arctic ice sheets from 1979 to 2009. [2]
3 Explain how carbon sequestration can be used to mitigate climate change. [7]
4 Describe how climate change can lead to habitat loss and the implications of this
for biodiversity. [7]
5 Outline the role of positive feedback cycles in global warming. [6]
6 a Explain the effects of climate change as atmospheric carbon dioxide
concentration increases. [3]
b Explain two ways in which climate change damages coral reefs. [2]
7 The levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide have been increasing during the past years.
Outline reasons for this increase. [4]
8 The loss of species from ecosystems as a result of anthropogenic (man-made) climate
change is likely to affect food webs.
a Outline how climate change can lead to the loss of species. [3]
b Suggest two reasons why it might be difficult to establish how the removal of one
species from a food web might affect others. [4]
9 Describe the impacts of climate change at each level of biological organization. [7]
(Questions 10–12 HL only)
10 Discuss how phenological events can be used to indicate climate change. [5]
11 Outline, using an example, how evolution can occur as a consequence of climate change. [5]
12 Describe how climate change can affect the life cycle of insects and the impact of this
on ecosystems. [5]
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Library; p.59 © Alila Medical Media/stock.adobe.com; p.63 © Anne Gibson, The Micro Gardener,
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L. Carson, Ph.D./Science Photo Library; p.77 l © Natros/stock.adobe.com; r © George E. Palade
Electron Microscopy Slide Collection Image from the Medical Historical Library, Harvey Cushing/
John Hay Whitney Medical Library, Yale University; p.78 © Bhaskar/stock.adobe.com; p.81
© Ivan/stock.adobe.com; p.83 © Image from Epigenetic differences arise during the lifetime of
monozygotic twins. © Copyright (2005) National Academy of Sciences, U.S.A. (http://www.pnas.
org/content/102/30/10604); p.97 © Zombiu26/Shutterstock.com
b = bottom, c = centre, l = left, r = right, t = top