CAIE A Level Biology 9700 · Energy and respiration

Energy and respiration: describe question

Describe4 marksChallenge

A student used a simple respirometer to measure the gas exchange of germinating mung bean seeds over a 24-hour period at 25°C. The results are shown in the table.

GasVolume change / cm³
Oxygen consumed12.0
Carbon dioxide produced12.0

Describe how the student can use these results to determine the respiratory quotient (RQ) of the seeds, and identify the most likely respiratory substrate being used. Also, explain why a supply of energy is necessary for the germinating seeds.

0 words · 4 marks

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How this question is marked

4 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 4 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.

Describe means: Say what happens or what something is like, in order and with detail. You are not being asked why. If there is data, quote it: name the trend, then give figures with units at the points where it changes.

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