New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8

Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

Chapter 8 Transport in humans

Multiple-choice questions

[1B08101]
Directions: The following three questions refer to the diagram below, which
shows a sample of blood smear under a light microscope.

* Which of the following is a correct label of R?

A red blood cell B white blood cell
C plasma D blood platelet

[1B08102]
* Which of the following is a correct match of the functions of P and S?
P S
A carries oxygen to the organs from carries carbon dioxide from the
the lungs organs to the lungs
B protects against diseases helps in blood clotting
C helps in blood clotting protects against diseases
D carries carbon dioxide from the carries oxygen to the organs from
organs to the lungs the lungs

[1B08103]

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

* Which of the following statements about Q is correct?

A Q has the longest life span among the blood cells.
B Q has irregular nucleus.
C Q is the smallest blood cell.
D The amount of Q is the greatest in blood.

[1B08104]
Directions: The following two questions refer to the diagram below, which
shows the vertical section of a heart.

Which of the following blood vessels contain(s) a high level of oxygen?

(1) P
(2) R
(3) S
A (1) only B (3) only
C (1) and (2) only D (2) and (3) only

[1B08105]
Which of the following blood vessels contains the highest level of urea?
A P B Q
C R D S

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

[1B08106]
* The hepatic portal vein transports
A glucose from the small intestine to the heart.
B lipids from the lacteal to the liver.
C amino acids from the small intestine to the liver.
D urea from the small intestine to the kidney.

[1B08107]
* Transport systems are required in large organisms but not in small ones because
A the surface area for diffusion in large organisms is too large.
B the distance for which substances in large organisms must travel is too long
for diffusion alone to be effective.
C oxygen must be transported to cells.
D blood must be transported to cells.

[1B08108]
Blood consists mostly of
A white blood cells.
B red blood cells.
C blood platelets.
D water.

[1B08109]
Blood without blood cells is known as
A plasma.
B water.
C serum.
D lymph.

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

[1B08110]
Which of the following help(s) reduce the entry of bacteria into the body?
A white blood cells
B red blood cells
C hormones
D haemoglobin

[1B08111]
* Which of the following is not a correct match?
Red blood cell White blood cell Blood platelet
A protects against diseases carries oxygen for blood clotting
B circular biconcave irregular shape pieces of broken
cells
C no nucleus with nucleus no nucleus
D red in colour no colour no colour

[1B08112]
* White blood cells
(1) engulf and digest bacteria intracellularly.
(2) produce antibodies against bacteria.
(3) are white in colour.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)

[1B08113]
Which of the following is a function of the valves in the human heart?
A To increase the blood pressure.
B To prevent the backflow of blood.
C To slow down the flow of blood.
D To decrease the blood pressure.

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

[1B08114]
Blood leaves the human heart via
A capillaries.
B veins.
C arteries.
D lymph vessels.

[1B08115]
* Which of the following about the three types of blood vessels is not correct?
Artery Vein Capillary
A carries blood away returns blood connects artery
from the heart to the heart and vein
B thick wall thin wall very thin wall
C no valves except the with valves no valves
pulmonary artery and
aorta
D very slow blood flow very rapid blood flow very rapid blood flow

[1B08116]
* Which side of the heart carries deoxygenated blood?
A left
B right
C upper
D lower

[1B08117]
The valves in veins
A prevent the backflow of blood.
B prevent the backflow of blood into the heart.
C push blood forwards.
D allow blood to flow faster.

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

[1B08118]

* Which of the following pathways of blood circulation in the human body is

correct?

A left ventricle --> body --> right atrium

B left ventricle --> lungs --> left atrium

C right atrium --> body --> left ventricle

D right atrium --> lungs --> right ventricle

[1B08119]

The exchange of materials between blood and body cells takes place in the

A heart.

B arteries.

C veins.

D capillaries.

[1B08120]

* Lymph is the returning

A tissue fluid in the lymph vessel.

B synovial fluid in the lymph vessel.

C tissue fluid in the blood vessel.

D synovial fluid in the blood vessel.

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

[1B08121]
* The diagram below shows a tube of centrifuged human blood.

What are X and Y?

X Y
A water blood cells
B water and white blood cells red blood cells
C plasma blood cells
D plasma and white blood cells red blood cells

[1B08122]
* Which of the following comparisons of the human red blood cells and the white
blood cells is correct?

Red blood cells White blood cells

A Shape irregular biconcave disc
B Quantity large small
C Nucleus present absent

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

D Function fight against diseases carry oxygen

B

[1B08123]
* Which feature of a human red blood cell gives it a large surface area to volume
ratio?
A flexible membrane
B biconcave shape of cell
C absence of nucleus
D presence of haemoglobin

[1B08124]
* The diagram below shows a human heart.

Which of the following blood vessels may lead to coronary heart disease if it is
hardened and narrowed?
A W
B X

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

C Y
D Z

[1B08125]
** Which of the following is a correct match of reaction and its site of occurrence?
Reaction Site of occurrence
A haemoglobin + oxygen --> oxyhaemoglobin heart
B haemoglobin + oxygen --> oxyhaemoglobin brain
C oxyhaemoglobin --> haemoglobin + oxygen lungs
D oxyhaemoglobin --> haemoglobin + oxygen heart

[1B08126]
* Which of the following blood vessels possess semi-lunar valves?
A coronary artery and aorta
B aorta and pulmonary artery
C pulmonary artery and pulmonary vein
D pulmonary vein and coronary artery

[1B08127]
* The bar chart below shows the concentration of oxygen in four blood samples, S,
T, U and V, which are taken from different blood vessels in the human
circulatory system.

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

Which blood sample is most likely to be taken from the pulmonary vein?
A S B T
C U D V

[1B08128]
* Which of the following statements about the capillaries are correct?
(1) Dissolved food and oxygen can diffuse through their walls.
(2) The blood carried by them is at the lowest pressure.
(3) Their walls are only one-cell thick.
A (1) and (2) only B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only D (1), (2) and (3)

[1B08129]
Which of the following is the function of the lymph vessels in our body?
A They transport blood.
B They return tissue fluid to the blood.
C They produce antibodies.
D They help in blood clotting.

[1B08130]
* Which of the following correctly states and explains the difference in the
thickness of the walls of the right and left ventricles of our hearts?
Wall of right Wall of left Reason for the difference
ventricle (RV) ventricle (LV)
A thicker thinner RV pumps blood to all parts of the body
except the lungs.
B thinner thicker RV pumps blood to the lungs only.
C thicker thinner LV pumps blood to the lungs only.
D thinner thicker LV pumps blood to all parts of the body
except the lungs.

[1B08131]
Blood is made up of
A red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, plasma and bone marrow.

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

B red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and plasma.

C red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.
D red blood cells and white blood cells.

[1B08132]
The following diagram shows the cross-sections of two types of blood vessels.
Which of the following comparisons is not correct?

P Q
A carries deoxygenated blood carries oxygenated blood
B carries blood away from the heart carries blood towards the heart
C has thicker muscular wall has thinner muscular wall
D withstands a higher blood pressure withstands a lower blood pressure

[1B08133]
The following diagram shows the vertical section of a heart. What are structures
S, T, U and V?

S T U V
A bicuspid semi-lunar tricuspid semi-lunar
valves valves valves valves
B tricuspid semi-lunar bicuspid semi-lunar
valves valves valves valves

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

C semi-lunar bicuspid semi-lunar tricuspid

valves valves valves valves
D semi-lunar tricuspid semi-lunar bicuspid
valves valves valves valves

[1B08134]

* The composition of tissue fluid is

A the same as that of blood.

B similar to that of blood, except without plasma proteins.

C the same as that of plasma.

D similar to that of plasma, except without plasma proteins.

[1B08135]

* The function(s) of the lymphatic system include(s)

(1) body defence.

(2) the transportation of proteins.

(3) the return of tissue fluid to the blood.

A (1) only

B (2) only

C (1) and (3) only

D (1), (2) and (3)

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

Short questions

[1B08201]
The diagram shows the human cardiovascular system.

a Explain why it is called a double circulation system. (2 marks)

b Describe the path taken by a red blood cell as it leaves the right ventricle
and eventually returns to the right atrium. (4 marks)
WJEC GCSE Additional Applied Science Unit 2 Higher Tier May 2008 Q6

-- ans --
a The blood flow forms a loop to the lungs. 1m
The blood flows forms another loop to the rest of the body. 1m
b The blood first flows to the lungs, 1m
and then the left atrium, 1m
the left ventricle, 1m
and finally to the rest of body. 1m
-- ans end --

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

[1B08202]
The diagram below shows a section through the heart.

Describe the passage of the blood through the heart and organs starting at the
pulmonary artery and ending at the aorta. (5 marks)
WJEC GCSE Biology 3 Higher Tier May 2008 Q5

-- ans --

To lungs / air sacs 1m

Pulmonary vein 1m

Left atrium 1m

Left ventricle 1m

Valve is present to prevent the backflow of blood. 1m

-- ans end --

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

[1B08203]
The diagram shows the human cardiovascular system.

a Name the organ labelled A. (1 mark)

b Blood leaves the right ventricle.
It travels through different parts of the body until it returns to the right
atrium.
Put the words in the box into the correct spaces in the sentence below.
left ventricle lungs left atrium rest of the body (3 marks)
The blood flows from the right ventricle to the to the to
the to the and then to the right atrium.
c Underline the word in the brackets that correctly completes each of the
following sentences.
i During exercise the heart rate (increases / decreases / stays the same).
(1 mark)
ii During exercise the breathing rate (increases / decreases / stays the
same). (1 mark)
iii During exercise the body temperature (increases / decreases / stays the
same). (1 mark)
WJEC GCSE Additional Applied Science Unit 2 Foundation Tier May 2008 Q5

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
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-- ans --
a Heart 1m
b lungs, left atrium, left ventricle, rest of the body 3m
c i increases 1m
ii increases 1m
iii stays the same 1m
-- ans end --

[1B08204]
The diagram below shows a plan of the circulatory system in a human. The blood
vessels are labelled with letters.

a Complete the table below using letters from the diagram. You may use a
letter more than once. (4 marks)
Blood vessel Letter
Aorta

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

Carrying most oxygen

Pulmonary artery
At highest pressure
b Blood vessels are of three types, arteries, veins and capillaries.
Which type of blood vessel is shown by letter
i A? (1 mark)
ii F? (1 mark)
WJEC GCSE Biology Higher Tier Jun 2007 Q9
-- ans --
a C 1m
B 1m
E 1m
C 1m
b i Artery 1m
ii Vein 1m
-- ans end --

[1B08205]
Below is a diagram of the heart.

Use the letters in the diagram to identify the following parts:

a A vessel carrying oxygenated blood (1 mark)
b A vessel carrying blood to the lungs (1 mark)
c An atrium (1 mark)

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

d A ventricle (1 mark)
e A heart valve (1 mark)
f The left side of the heart (1 mark)
WJEC GCSE Biology Foundation Tier (Double Award) Jun 2007 Q6
-- ans --
a E or F 1m
b D 1m
c B 1m
d H 1m
e G 1m
f I 1m
-- ans end --

[1B08206]
The photograph below is of a human blood smear.

a Identify cells A, B and C by giving the correct terms below. (3 marks)

b Explain how two features of cell C enable it to carry out its function.
(2 marks)
WJEC GCE (A/AS) Biology Module BI2 Jun 2007 Q7
-- ans --
a A: lymphocyte 1m
B: phagocyte 1m
C: red blood cell 1m
b The biconcave disc shape increases the surface area to volume ratio for oxygen

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

uptake. /
The absence of nucleus leaves more space for holding haemoglobin. /
Cell C contains haemoglobin that combines with oxygen. (any 2) 1m x 2
-- ans end --
[1B08207]
* The diagram shows the diameter of individual blood vessels, the total diameter of
each type of vessel and the total volume of blood in each type of vessel.

http://www.newmanveterinary.com/circulat.html

a Using only information from the diagram, give two ways in which
capillaries are adapted to the function of exchange. (2 marks)
b Suggest why there is no exchange between the blood in the arteries,
arterioles, venules and veins with the tissues. (1 mark)
c In which type of blood vessels is the maximum amount of blood found?
(1 mark)

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

d There are well developed circular muscles in the walls of the arteries. Give
two functions of these circular muscles. (2 marks)
WJEC GCE (A/AS) Biology Module BI2 Jan 2006 Q6

-- ans --
a Capillaries have a large surface area so that the total cross-sectional area is large. /
Capillaries have small diameters (increased resistance slows down blood, reduces the
pressure). /
Capillaries are of a large number. (any 2) 1m x 2
b Thickness of walls / impermeable 1m
c Veins / venous branches 1m
d The muscles contract to prevent the dilation at ventricular systole. 1m
The contraction of the muscles increases blood pressure to pump the blood to all
parts of the body. 1m
-- ans end --

[1B08208]
Some student nurses were studying the blood circulation and were shown the
diagram below.

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

The diagram shows there are two separate circulations of the blood, one to the
lungs and the other to the rest of the body.
Complete the following table on blood circulation by filling in the spaces.
(4 marks)

Name of the chamber Name of the chamber

Body organs supplied
where blood leaves the where blood comes
by circulation
heart back to the heart

Right ventricle Left

All other body organs

WJEC GCSE Applied Science Unit 2 Foundation Tier Jun 2005 Q5

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Question Bank Short questions

-- ans --

Name of the chamber Name of the chamber

Body organs supplied
where blood leaves the where blood comes
by circulation
heart back to the heart

Right ventricle Lungs Left atrium

Left ventricle All other body organs Right atrium

1m x 4

-- ans end --

[1B08209]
* The diagram shows some structures in a piece of human tissue. The graph shows
the blood pressure along the capillary.

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

a What is the fluid in vessel X? (1 mark)

b Draw an arrow on the capillary to show the direction of the blood flow.
Explain your answer. (2 marks)
c Describe and explain how water is exchanged between blood and tissue
fluid as blood flows along the capillary. (4 marks)
-- ans --
a Lymph 1m
b Arrow from right to left 1m
The blood entering the capillary has a higher blood pressure. 1m
c The blood pressure in the capillary is higher than the pressure of fluid surrounding the
body cells. 1m
This forces components including water out of the capillary wall to form tissue fluid.

1m
Due to the retention of plasma proteins, red blood cells and blood platelets in the
blood, the water potential of the tissue fluid becomes higher than that of the blood in
the capillary.
1m
Water returns by osmosis into the venule end of the capillaries. 1m
-- ans end --
[1B08210]

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

* The graph below shows the changes in the speed and pressure of blood along
different blood vessels.

a What are the changes in the speed of flow of the blood shown? Explain your
answer. (3 marks)
b How do the arteries adapt to maintain the blood flow? (2 marks)
c Explain how the structure of capillaries is related to their functions. (2 marks)

-- ans --
a There are little changes in speed from aorta to arterioles. 1m
When the blood reaches capillaries, the speed of flow decreases rapidly. 1m
The very narrow diameter of the capillaries results in a high resistance to blood flow.

1m
b Arteries have elastic tissue around their wall. 1m
This allows recoiling when the heart relaxes. 1m
c The branched network of capillaries provides a large surface area for rapid exchange
of materials. /
The large cross-sectional area slows down the blood flow to allow longer period of
time for exchange of blood. /
The one-cell thick capillary wall provides a short distance for rapid exchange of
materials. (any 1) 2m
-- ans end --

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

[1B08211]
** The diagram below shows the structure of the heart of an unborn baby.

X will close soon after the baby is born.

a i Name the two chambers connected by X. (2 marks)
ii In rare cases, X does not close properly after the baby is born. The
composition of blood is greatly affected. Explain why. (2 marks)
b The unborn baby obtains oxygen and removes carbon dioxide through his/her
mother. His/Her lungs are not used for gas exchange. The blood, however, is
still pumped to the lungs. State the importance of it. (1 mark)

-- ans --

a i Left atrium 1m

Right atrium 1m

ii The deoxygenated blood mixes with the oxygenated blood 1m

so less oxygen is transported to body tissues. 1m

b Cells in the lungs require oxygen / glucose for growth. 1m

-- ans end --

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

[1B08212]
* The table below shows information of a red blood cell and a capillary.
Average diameter (mm)
Red blood cell 0.008
Capillary 0.01
a Explain why only one red blood cell can pass through a capillary at one
time. (1 mark)
b What is the advantage of having red blood cells passing through a capillary
one at a time? (3 marks)
c State one structural feature of capillaries that helps with the exchange of
materials between the blood and the tissue fluid. (1 mark)
-- ans --
a The size of a red blood cell is approximately the same size as a capillary. 1m
b This slows down the blood flow so that more time for exchange is allowed. 1m
This shortens the distance for exchange. 1m
To allow the release of more oxygen to the tissues. 1m
c Thin wall / small diameter / large cross-sectional area (any 1) 1m
-- ans end --

[1B08213]
* The graph below shows the differences in the blood vessels connecting organ X
and organ Y.

a What is the direction of blood flow between organ X and organ Y? Explain your
answer. (2 marks)

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

b Describe and explain the difference in the size of lumen in different blood
vessels. (3 marks)
c Explain the difference in oxygen content of blood in the different blood
vessels. (2 marks)

-- ans --
a The direction of blood flow is from organ X to organ Y 1m
because blood flows from a region of high pressure to low pressure. 1m
b Organ X is the heart and as blood flows from the aorta and arterioles, their lumen sizes
decrease. 1m
Blood then flows to the capillaries which have the smallest lumen. 1m
The capillaries are joined to venules and then larger veins and the lumen size
increases. 1m
c Organ Y is the lungs in which blood is oxygenated, 1m
so blood leaving it contains more oxygen. 1m
-- ans end --

[1B08214]
The electron micrograph below shows different types of blood cells.

(Photo credit: Bruce Wetzel & Harry Schaefer)

a Identify blood cells P, Q and R and state their main functions. (3 marks)

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
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b What is the fluid in which the blood cells bathe? (1 mark)

c Which type of blood cells is the most abundant in blood? (1 mark)
-- ans --
a P: red blood cell 0.5m
It is for carrying oxygen. 0.5m
Q: white blood cell 0.5m
It is for body defence. . 0.5m
R: blood platelet 0.5m
It is for blood clotting. 0.5m
b Plasma 1m
c Red blood cells 1m

-- ans end --

[1B08215]
The diagrams below show three types of blood vessels. (The diagrams are not
drawn to the same scale.)

Type X Type Y Type Z

a Identify the types of blood vessels shown above, and explain. (3 marks)
b What are the functions of each type of blood vessels? (3 marks)
c What is the function of the valve found in blood vessel Y? (1 mark)

-- ans --
a X: artery (has a very thick wall / more muscle and elastic tissue) 0.5m x 2
Y: vein (has a thinner wall / less muscle and elastic tissue) 0.5m x 2
Z: capillary (has the thinnest wall / the wall is only one-cell thick) 0.5m x 2
b X: carries blood away from heart 1m
Y: carries blood back to the heart 1m

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

Z: for exchange of materials 1m

c To prevent the backflow of blood. 1m

-- ans end --
[1B08216]
* The diagram below shows the longitudinal section of a part of a blood vessel.

a What type of blood vessel is shown? Explain your answer. (2 marks)

b Copy the diagram and draw an arrow to show the direction of blood flow.
(1 mark)
c Tom said that all the blood carried in this type of blood vessel was
deoxygenated. Is Tom right? Explain your answer. (2 marks)
d i What is the function of X? (1 mark)
ii Where can X be found in the body apart from blood vessels? (1 mark)

-- ans --

a Vein 1m

Valves are present in the blood vessel. 1m

b Correct drawing 1m

c Tom is incorrect. 1m

Blood in the pulmonary vein and umbilical vein is oxygenated. 1m

d i To prevent the backflow of blood. 1m

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Short questions

ii Lymph vessels 1m

-- ans end --

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Structured questions

Structured questions

[1B08301]
* The table shows the maximum and minimum blood pressures (in kPa) at various
points in the human circulatory system.

Blood pressure (kPa)

Location Maximum Minimum

Left ventricle 16.0 0

Right ventricle 3.32 0

Aorta 16.0 10.65

Pulmonary artery 3.32 1.06

Lung capillary 1.06 0.66

Muscle capillary in leg 2.00 2.00

Pulmonary vein 0.66 0.26

Vein in leg 0.66 0.66

a Explain the reasons for the difference between the maximum pressure in the
left and right ventricles and explain why this difference is necessary. (2 marks)
b Give one possible reason for the difference between the minimum aorta
pressure and the minimum pressure in the ventricles. (1 mark)
c With reference to the functions of arteries and capillaries, explain why it is
necessary to have a difference between their pressures. (2 marks)
d i Compare the values between muscle capillaries and lung capillaries.
(2 marks)
ii Suggest an explanation for these differences. (1 mark)
e Explain how it is possible for blood to return to the heart when the vein
pressures are so low. (1 mark)
WJEC GCE (A/AS) Biology Module BI2 Jan 2008 Q4

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Structured questions

-- ans --
a The left ventricle has a thicker, more muscular wall than the right ventricle. 1m
Pressure in the left ventricle is pushing blood all around the body, while pressure
in the right ventricle is pushing blood only to the lungs. 1m
b The closure of the semilunar valves prevents the backflow of blood. /
The elasticity / recoil of the muscular arterial wall maintains the blood pressure in
the aorta. (any 1) 1m
c The function of arteries is to transport the blood to different parts of the body so
they have to let the blood move at a high speed / pressure. 1m
The function of capillaries is to exchange substances between tissues so they
have to let the blood moves at a slow speed / lower pressure for diffusion.
1m
d i Muscle capillary has a higher blood pressure, while the lung capillary has a
lower blood pressure. 1m
The muscle capillary pressure is constant, while the lung capillary pressure
is fluctuating. 1m
ii Fluctuations in the lung capillary are due to the close proximity to the heart.
1m
e The blood flow in veins are maintained by the contraction of muscles. / The
backflow of blood in veins is prevented by valves. (any 1) 1m
-- ans end --

[1B08302]
* a The diagrams show transverse sections of a vein and an artery (not drawn to
the same scale).

State three differences between the artery and the vein that can be seen in the

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Structured questions

diagrams. (3 marks)
b Veins also possess valves to prevent the backflow of blood.
i Explain how a valve in a vein stops the backflow of blood. (2 marks)
ii Veins carry blood back to the heart. Explain how blood is forced
towards the heart in veins found in the legs. (3 marks)
c One of the functions of red blood cells is to transport oxygen from the lungs
to respiring tissues.
i Explain how red blood cells are adapted to carry out this function.
(3 marks)
ii State one other function of red blood cells. (1 mark)
WJEC GCE (A/AS) Biology Module BI2 Jun 2008 Q2

-- ans --

a The artery has a smaller lumen. /

The artery has a thicker muscle layer. /

The artery has a thicker elastic tissue. /

The artery has a regular shape. (any 3) 1m x 3

b i When the blood tries to flow back, 1m

valves are forced to close. 1m

ii Veins lie next to the skeletal muscle. 1m

Veins are squeezed when muscle contracts. 1m

The contraction pushes / forces blood towards the heart. 1m

c i Red blood cells possess haemoglobin / no nucleus so more haemoglobin is

carried. 1m

Oxyhaemoglobin is formed when oxygen combines with hemoglobin. 1m

Red blood cells have a biconcave shape and therefore their surface area is
increased. 1m

ii Red blood cells carry carbon dioxide. 1m

-- ans end --

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Structured questions

[1B08303]
a The diagram below shows the human heart.
i Label the structures A–D using some of the terms given in the list.
aorta, valve, vena cava, atrium, ventricle. (4 marks)

ii Arrow Z shows blood entering the heart.

Continue the arrow to show the path of blood leaving the heart. (1 mark)
iii Name structure X and state its function. (2 marks)
b Complete the sentences below by choosing words from the list.
circulate, veins, organs, muscle, arteries, pump. (4 marks)
The heart is made from and acts as (a) to circulate
blood around the human body. Blood leaves the heart in and
returns to the heart in .
WJEC GCSE Biology 3 Foundation Tier May 2008 Q1

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-- ans --

a i A: vena cava 1m

B: atrium 1m

C: ventricle 1m

D: aorta 1m

ii Arrow line continued on the left side of the heart into aorta. 1m

iii Valve 1m

To prevent the backflow of blood. 1m

b muscle 1m

pump 1m

arteries 1m

veins 1m

-- ans end --

[1B08304]
A nurse is learning how to monitor the heart of a patient.

The nurse will be able to tell if all the chambers of the heart are working properly.

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a The nurse learns that the heart consists of four chambers, two on the right side
and two on the left side.
Name the two chambers on the right side of the heart. (2 marks)
b Look at the diagram of the circulation system below and answer the questions
that follow.

i Which chamber, A, B, C or D pumps blood to the lungs? (1 mark)

ii Into which chamber, A, B, C or D does blood return from the body?
(1 mark)
iii The nurse learns that symptoms of tiredness, shortness of breath and
irregular heart rate may mean there is left ventricular failure.
Which chamber A, B, C or D is the left ventricle? (1 mark)
iv Add an arrow labelled V to the diagram to show a vein. (1 mark)
c The nurse takes a blood sample from the patient.
This is sent to the laboratory for testing.
i It is found that the number of red blood cells in the blood is too low.
Give one reason why this will cause the patient to get tired easily.
(1 mark)
ii The number of white blood cells present is normal. Why does your

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body need white blood cells? (1 mark)

iii The number of platelets in the blood is low. Give one reason why this
may be a problem if the patient cuts himself. (1 mark)
WJEC GCSE Applied Science (Double Award) Unit 2 Higher Tier Jan 2007 Q1
-- ans --
a Right atrium and right ventricle 1m x 2
b i C 1m
ii D 1m
iii B 1m
iv The blood vessel connecting to chamber D or A 1m
c i The lack of red blood cells results in a low supply of oxygen to the body.
1m
ii For body defence / disease prevention 1m
iii The blood cannot clot. 1m

-- ans end --

[1B08305]
* a The diagrams A and B show vertical sections through the heart in two stages of
beating.

Complete the table by using the letters A or B. (5 marks)

Actions happening during the heart beat Shown in diagram A or B
Contraction of the ventricles

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Blood entering the atria

Blood entering the ventricles
Blood leaving the ventricles
Contraction of the atria
b The table shows the composition of blood from three patients in hospital.

Red blood cells White blood cells Platelets (per

Patient
(per mm3) (per mm3) mm ) 3

Rhian 6 500 000 56 000 250 000

Lucy 5 100 000 8 100 260 000

Anita 2 200 000 5 000 5 000

Use the information in the table and your knowledge to answer the following.
Suggest which patient:
i had difficulty in transporting oxygen in her blood; (2 marks)
ii had blood which took a long time to clot; (2 marks)
iii had an infection. (2 marks)
WJEC GCSE Biology Higher Tier Jun 2006 Q13

-- ans --

a A 1m

A 1m

B 1m

A 1m

B 1m

b i Anita 1m

She has a low red blood cell count. 1m

ii Anita 1m

She has a low platelet count. 1m

iii Rhian 1m

She has a high white blood cell count. 1m

-- ans end --

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[1B08306]
a Name the cells labelled A and B in the diagram below using some of the
following: (2 marks)
red blood cell, blood platelet, white blood cell.

b Complete the statements below by using some of the following: (6 marks)

red blood cells, oxygen, nitrogen, plasma, carbon dioxide, from, to, white
blood cells, blood platelets.
i The __________ carry oxygen __________ the lungs to the body.
ii The __________ help to clot the blood.
iii The __________ carries carbon dioxide __________ the lungs from
the body.
iv The __________ defends the body against disease.
WJEC GCSE Biology Foundation Tier (Single Award) 2006 Q3

-- ans --

a A: red blood cell 1m

B: white blood cell 1m

b i red blood cells 1m

from 1m

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ii blood platelets 1m

iii plasma 1m

to 1m

iv white blood cells 1m

-- ans end --
[1B08307]
* a Give three structural differences between arteries and veins. (3 marks)
b The diagram below shows the pressure in a blood vessel at various points along
its length.

i Name the type of blood vessel in which the measurements would have
been made. (1 mark)
ii What is the difference in blood pressure between W and X? (1 mark)
iii Explain the fall in blood pressure between X and Y. (1 mark)
iv Suggest why there is a decrease in the overall maximum pressure between
X and Z. (2 marks)
c i State what is meant by the term double circulatory system. (2 marks)

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ii State what is meant by the term closed circulatory system. (1 mark)

WJEC GCE (A/AS) Biology Module BI2 Jun 2005 Q5

-- ans --
a Arteries have thicker walls / more muscle in walls. /
Arteries have more elastic tissue around walls. /
Veins have valves. /
Arteries have a smaller lumen. (any 3) 1m x 3
b i Artery 1m
ii 5 ± 0.5 kPa 1m
iii Ventricle relaxes. 1m
iv Point Z is further away from the heart. 1m
A larger resistance to blood flow results. 1m
c i Blood passes through the heart twice in one complete loop via pulmonary
circulation 1m
and systemic circulation. 1m
ii Blood is contained in vessels. 1m
-- ans end --

[1B08308]
** The diagram shows pressure changes recorded as blood flows through the heart
and the arteries.

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Question Bank Structured questions

a What is the value of the systolic pressure in the left ventricle? (1 mark)

b Fluids flow from regions of high pressure to regions of low pressure. The
minimum pressure in the ventricle is lower than the minimum pressure in the
aorta. Explain why blood does not flow back into the ventricle from the aorta.
(2 marks)

c Explain what causes the left ventricle pressure to fall to a very low value.
(2 marks)

d If the diagram had been extended to include the flow through the capillaries in
the body, give two ways in which the trace would differ from the diagram
given. (2
marks)

e i Give one reason why the pressure in veins is lower than in capillaries.
(1 mark)

ii How is flow maintained at this low venous pressure? (1 mark)

WJEC GCE (A/AS) Biology Module BI2 Jan 2005 Q2

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-- ans --

a 118 mm mercury 1m

b Semilunar valves 1m

close under aortic pressure to prevent the backflow of blood. 1m

c The ventricle relaxes and increases its volume. 1m

The volume increases more rapidly than it is being refilled. 1m

d The pressure is much lower. 1m

There are no or less rhythmical fluctuations in pressure. 1m

e i Veins have a much larger diameter than capillaries. 1m

ii The blood flow is maintained by the contraction of skeletal muscles / valves. 1m

-- ans end --

[1B08309]
* The diagram below shows some blood vessels in the muscle tissue.

a i Which type of blood vessel is R? (1 mark)

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ii The compositions of blood in vessels P and Q are different. State two

substances in vessel P which are more concentrated than in Q. (2 marks)

b The table below shows the mean diameter of the lumen and the rate of
blood flow in three types of blood vessels.

Mean diameter of Rate of blood flow

Type of blood vessel
lumen (μm) (cm s-1)

Artery 400 10 – 40

Arteriole 30 0.1 –10

Capillary 8 <0.1

According to the information above, explain why the rate of blood flow in the
capillaries is the slowest among other vessels. (2 marks)

c i Which type of blood vessel has the thickest layer of elastic tissues in its
wall? (1 mark)

ii How does the elastic tissue help maintain the blood flow? (2 marks)

-- ans --

a i Capillary 1m

ii Oxygen / glucose / amino acids / fatty acids / glycerol / minerals (any 2)

1m x 2

b The capillary has the smallest diameter of lumen. This increases the total cross-
sectional area.
1m

The blood in the capillary has to overcome greater resistance. 1m

c i Artery 1m

ii The elastic tissue expands when the blood pressure increases. 1m

It recoils when the blood pressure decreases. 1m

-- ans end --

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[1B08310]

* The diagram below shows a human heart and the associated blood vessels.

a i What are the names of R and S? (2 marks)

ii Explain why valves are needed at P and Q. (3 marks)

b Considering the destination of the pumping of blood, deduce with reasons

the relative thickness of the wall in chambers X, Y and Z. (6 marks)

-- ans --

a i R: vena cava 1m

S: biscuspid valve 1m

ii When the ventricles relax, 1m

the blood pressure in the ventricles becomes lower. 1m

The presence of valves prevents the backflow of blood into the ventricles. 1m

b Y is the thickest. 1m

Y pumps the blood to all parts of the body except the lungs. 1m

X is the thinnest. 1m

X only pumps the blood to the ventricle below it. 1m

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Z is thicker than X but thinner than Y. 1m

Z pumps the blood to the lungs. 1m

-- ans end --

[1B08311]

** The diagram below shows a capillary and the body cells nearby.

a i The concentration of proteins in the tissue fluid at Q is different from

that in the plasma at P. How does it differ? Why is it so? (2 marks)

ii The concentration of proteins in the plasma at R is different from that

in the plasma at P. How does it differ? Why is it so? (2 marks)

b What is the part played by proteins in the plasma in returning tissue fluid to
the capillary? (3 marks)

c The tissues of starving people often swell due to the accumulation of tissue
fluid. What are the reasons of the accumulation of tissue fluid? (2 marks)

-- ans --

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a i There are no proteins in the tissue fluid at Q. 1m

The size of protein molecules is too large to pass through the capillary wall.
1m

ii The concentration of proteins at R is more concentrated than that at P. 1m

It is because at R, some of the water enters the tissue fluid. 1m

b The proteins in the plasma lower the water potential in the capillary. 1m

There is a net movement of water molecules from the tissue fluid into the capillary
1m

by osmosis. 1m

c Starvation leads to a low protein concentration in the plasma. 1m

Water potential of the plasma is too high to drive water back to the capillary. 1m

-- ans end --

[1B08312]
* The diagram below shows the heart of a human adult.

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Question Bank Structured questions

a Name parts P, Q, R and S. (2 marks)

b State the function of part Q. (1 mark)
c Why is the blood that enters the right side of the heart deoxygenated? (1 mark)
d Why is the blood that enters the left side of the heart oxygenated? (1 mark)
e The foetal heart has a hole between parts P and T. What will be the problem
if this hole does not close after birth? (2 marks)
f Explain why the wall of part R is much thicker than that of part T. (2 marks)

-- ans --
a P: right atrium 0.5m
Q: tricuspid valve 0.5m
R: right ventricle 0.5m
S: aorta 0.5m
b To prevent blood from flowing back into the right atrium when the right ventricle
contracts.
1m
c The right side of the heart receives deoxygenated blood which circulates around the
body to supply oxygen to body tissues.
1m
d The left side of the heart receives oxygenated blood that has been supplied with
oxygen through the gas exchange in lungs.
1m
e Mixing of the oxygenated blood with the deoxygenated blood 1m
The blood supplied to the body will contain insufficient amount of oxygen for use. 1m
f R needs a thicker wall to generate the force for pumping the blood out to the lungs.
1m
T only needs to pump blood down to the left ventricle. 1m

-- ans end --
[1B08313]
* The following diagram shows the direction of blood flow in blood vessels P, Q and
R.

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Question Bank Structured questions

a Identify blood vessels P, Q and R. (3 marks)

b What is the name of fluid S bathing the body cells? Where does it come from?
(2 marks)
c Why is there fluid coming out from blood vessel Q? (3 marks)
d How does the fluid return to the blood stream? (2 marks)

-- ans --
a P: artery 1m
Q: capillary 1m
R: vein 1m
b Tissue fluid 1m
It is from the plasma from the capillary. 1m
c The capillary at the arterial end has a higher blood pressure than the fluid surrounding
the body cells. 1m
The capillary wall is differentially permeable and thin. 1m
Thus, water is forced out from the capillary. 1m
d The blood in the capillary at the venule end is of lower water potential. Thus, water is
drawn into the capillary by osmosis.
1m
Some returns via the lymph vessel to the blood stream. 1m

-- ans end --

[1B08314]

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Question Bank Structured questions

* The diagram below shows the capillary bed found in a human organ.

a i Name X. (1 mark)
ii With reference to the diagram, state two features that help you identify
X. (2 marks)
b What is the functional significance of the shape of U? (2 marks)
c Name one substance that diffuses from V to Z. (1 mark)
d State one difference between the composition of V and W. Account for the
difference. (2 marks)
e Some W is drained into the lymph vessels. Give one function of the lymphatic
system, other than returning W to the blood. (1 mark)

-- ans --
a i Capillary 1m
ii The wall is one-cell thick. 1m
There are red blood cells inside. 1m
b Its biconcave disc shape provides a large surface area to volume ratio 1m
which facilitates the diffusion of oxygen. 1m
c Glucose / amino acids / minerals / vitamins / hormones (any 1) 1m
d W (tissue fluid) does not contain plasma proteins while V (plasma) does. 1m
It is because the plasma proteins are too large to be forced out through the capillary
wall. 1m
e It transports absorbed lipids from lacteals of the small intestine to the blood. /
The lymph nodes filter out the germs. (any 1) 1m
-- ans end --

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[1B08315]
* The diagram below shows a section of the human heart.

a Using the letters in the diagram, write the path of blood flow starting from B.
(2 marks)
b Name the part where the highest blood pressure can be measured. (1 mark)
c If K is damaged, how will the function of the heart be affected? (3 marks)
d Give one symptom that a person will have if a hole is present in F. Explain
your answer. (3 marks)

-- ans --
a B -> C -> D -> E -> A -> H -> J -> K -> M -> I -> G 2m
b G / aorta 1m
c K can no longer prevent the backflow of blood into the left atrium when the left
ventricle contracts.
1m
The unidirectional flow of blood inside the heart will be interrupted. 1m
Therefore less blood can be pumped out from the heart. 1m
d Shortness of breath / tiredness / irregular heart beat (any 1) 1m
The body tissues cannot get enough oxygen supply from the blood 1m
due to the mixing of oxygenated blood with deoxygenated blood in the heart. 1m

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-- ans end --

[1B08316]
* The diagram below shows a microscopic examination of a blood sample. The
blood sample was collected from a healthy person.

a i Name the parts labelled S, T, U and V. (4 marks)

ii Mary cuts her finger on a piece of glass. What will happen to S and U
in the cut area? (2 marks)
b The blood sample is found to contain a high concentration of carbon dioxide.
Using the letters in the diagram, state the structure that contains the highest
concentration of carbon dioxide. (1 mark)
c What will be different in the observation if a blood sample is drawn from a
patient with
i anaemia? (1 mark)
ii leukaemia? (1 mark)

-- ans --
a i S: blood platelet 1m
T: red blood cell 1m
U: white blood cell 1m
V: plasma 1m
ii S (blood platelet) will help form a blood clot over the wound to prevent further
bleeding and entry of pathogens.
1m
U (white blood cell) will fight against the invading pathogens. 1m

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b V 1m
c i The red blood cell count will be lower. 1m
ii The count of abnormal white blood cells will be higher. 1m
-- ans end --
[1B08317]
The diagram below shows the vertical section of a human heart.

a Using the letters in the diagram, give the chambers that can contract.
(2 marks)
b Compare the compositions of blood in chambers Q and S. Explain your answer.
(4 marks)
c State the letter and the name of the blood vessel which has blood at the highest
pressure. Explain why the blood of the named vessel has such a high pressure.
(2 marks)
d Explain the importance of the permeability of capillaries. (2 marks)

-- ans --
a P, Q, R, S 2m
b The oxygen content of blood in Q is lower than that in S. 1m
The carbon dioxide content of blood in Q is higher than that in S. 1m
The blood in Q comes from all body parts except the lungs. Much oxygen is used by
body cells and the body cells release carbon dioxide produced in respiration to
the blood.
1m
Blood in S has just passed the lungs where oxygen diffuses into the blood while
carbon dioxide diffuses out of the blood.
1m
c C: aorta 1m

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Question Bank Structured questions

The left ventricle of the heart has the thickest wall and produces the greatest blood
pressure to pump blood to various body parts.
1m
d Oxygen and nutrients have to pass from blood in capillaries to body cells. 1m
Waste and carbon dioxide produced in body cells need to pass through capillaries so
that they can be transported away by the blood.
1m
-- ans end --
[1B08318]
* The diagram below shows the human blood circulation.

a Using the letters in the diagram, state which blood vessel has
i the highest blood pressure.
ii the largest amount of oxygen.

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Question Bank Structured questions

iii the largest amount of carbon dioxide.

iv the lowest temperature when the body is at rest.
v the largest amount of sugar after a meal.
vi the least amount of urea. (3 marks)
b Use a table to compare four structural or functional differences between an
artery and a vein. (4 marks)
c Explain why the exchange of materials between blood and body cells takes
place at capillaries. Give three reasons. (3 marks)
-- ans --

a i H 0.5m

ii I 0.5m

iii B 0.5m

iv G 0.5m

v E 0.5m

vi F 0.5m

b Artery Vein

Direction of blood flow Away from heart Towards heart

Blood pressure High Low

Force for blood flow Provided by the pumping Provided by the muscle
action of the heart contraction

Oxygen content of blood Oxygenated blood (except Deoxygenated blood

pulmonary artery) (except pulmonary vein)

Wall Thick Thin

Lumen Small Large

Valve Absent (except at the base Present

of the pulmonary artery
and the aorta)

Location Deep inside the body Close to the body surface

(any 4) 1m x 4

c The capillary wall is one-cell thick / very thin / permeable. 1m

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There is a pressure difference between the blood inside the capillary and the tissue
fluid, thus tissue fluid is formed.
1m

Body cells are surrounded by tissue fluid which allows exchange of materials by
diffusion.
1m

-- ans end --

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology Chapter 8
Question Bank Essays

Essays

[1B08401]

* Explain how tissue fluid is formed and how it may be returned to the circulatory
system. (10 marks)

-- ans --

Any seven from: 1m x 7

The pressure of blood in the capillary is higher than the pressure of the fluid surrounding
the body cells.

This forces some components of the plasma out of the capillary wall to form tissue fluid.
Proteins and red blood cells are of large size so they cannot pass through the capillary
wall.

The composition of the tissue fluid is similar to that of blood, except for the absence of
red blood cells, blood platelets and plasma proteins.

Due to the retention of plasma proteins and blood cells in the blood, the water potential of
the tissue fluid becomes higher than that at the venule end of the capillary.

There is a net movement of water molecules from the tissue fluid to the capillary by
osmosis.

The excess tissue fluid drains into the lymph capillaries.

The lymphatic system helps return the tissue fluid to the blood circulation.

Effective communication 3m

-- ans end --

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Question Bank Essays

[1B08402]

* Describe the structure of arteries and veins. Explain how the features described help
these blood vessels carry out their functions. (9 marks)

-- ans --

Any six from: 1m x 6

Arteries have thick walls.

The wall allows the arteries to withstand the high blood pressure.

Arteries have elastic fibres in their walls.

The elastic fibres recoil when the heart relaxes to maintain a continuous blood flow.

Veins have a larger lumen.

The large lumen reduces the resistance to blood flow.

Veins have valves.

The valves prevent the backflow of the blood.

Effective communication 3m

-- ans end --

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