CAIE A Level Biology 9700 · The mitotic cell cycle

The mitotic cell cycle: describe question

Describe5 marksStandard

The ends of chromosomes are protected by telomeres. Describe the structure of telomeres and explain their role in preventing the loss of genes during DNA replication. Also describe why stem cells, which undergo many divisions, are able to avoid this problem.

How this question is marked

5 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 5 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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