Nutrition: Edexcel International GCSE Biology questions

Every Edexcel International GCSE Biology exam question on Nutrition (specification points 2.18–2.33), 2019–2025, with its mark scheme and examiner’s report.

All 242 questions on Nutrition, as a list

June 2025, Paper 1, Q2(b) (4 marks): An athlete wants to drink flavoured water to help them run a long‑distance race. Explain which flavoured water, A, B, C or D, would be most suitable for the ath
June 2025, Paper 1, Q2(c) (2 marks): Some flavoured waters do not contain glucose. Suggest why this may be an advantage for some people. (2)
June 2025, Paper 1, Q3(a) (2 marks): Give the energy conversion that occurs during photosynthesis. (2) from energy to energy
June 2025, Paper 1, Q3(b)(i) (2 marks): Firstly, the student needs to remove all the starch from the plant’s leaves. Explain how the student could do this. (2)
June 2025, Paper 1, Q3(b)(ii) (2 marks): After the starch has been removed from the leaves, the student uses the apparatus in diagram 1 to prevent carbon dioxide from reaching part of one of the leaves
June 2025, Paper 1, Q3(c) (4 marks): Plants need mineral ions as well as carbon dioxide and water. Give the functions of two named mineral ions that a plant needs. (4) 1 2
June 2025, Paper 1, Q3(d) (3 marks): The concentration of mineral ions in the soil is often lower than the concentration in the plant. Waterlogged soil does not contain air. Explain why plants in w
June 2025, Paper 1, Q6(a)(i) (2 marks): Calculate the percentage of the total days that the temperature in room B is between 10 °C and 30 °C. (2) percentage = %
June 2025, Paper 1, Q6(a)(ii) (2 marks): Explain why the scientists allow the temperature to vary within a range in each room. (2)
June 2025, Paper 1, Q6(a)(iii) (1 mark): Give the dependent variable in this investigation. (1)
June 2025, Paper 1, Q6(b)(i) (5 marks): Plot two line graphs to show the mean leaf area in each room at each time. Use a ruler to join your points for each room with straight lines. (5)
June 2025, Paper 1, Q6(b)(ii) (2 marks): For room B, calculate the increase in mean leaf area per day from day 20 to day 120. (2) increase = cm2 per day
June 2025, Paper 1, Q6(b)(iii) (2 marks): Explain the effect of temperature on the growth rate of the seedlings. (2)
June 2025, Paper 1, Q6(b)(iv) (2 marks): Describe how the scientists could measure the surface area of a leaf. (2)
June 2025, Paper 2, Q1(e)(i) (2 marks): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. Rivers – the arteries of the world Rivers
June 2025 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(i) (1 mark): Vitamins and minerals are not listed in the table. Name one other component of a balanced diet that is not listed in the table. (1)
June 2025 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(ii) (2 marks): Calculate the RDA of fibre for a 16 year old. Give your answer in grams and to the nearest whole number. (2) RDA of fibre = g
June 2025 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(iii) (1 mark): State the function of fibre in the human diet. (1)
June 2025 (R), Paper 1, Q4(b) (3 marks): Describe how starch is digested into glucose in the human alimentary canal. (3)
November 2024, Paper 1, Q3(a)(i) (1 mark): Which structure is the oesophagus? (1) A P B Q C R D U
November 2024, Paper 1, Q3(a)(ii) (1 mark): Which structure is part of the large intestine? (1) A P B Q C R D T
November 2024, Paper 1, Q3(a)(iii) (1 mark): Which structure contains villi? (1) A Q B R C S D V
November 2024, Paper 1, Q3(a)(iv) (1 mark): Which structure is the stomach? (1) A Q B S C T D V
November 2024, Paper 1, Q3(b) (2 marks): Describe how food is moved along the gut of the dog. (2)
November 2024, Paper 1, Q3(c)(i) (4 marks): Discuss the differences between the composition of the two foods. (4)
November 2024, Paper 1, Q3(c)(ii) (3 marks): The diet of wild dogs consists of prey animals and a small amount of plant material contained in the gut of their prey. Domesticated dogs are often given a diet
November 2024, Paper 2, Q2(a) (3 marks): Explain how the scientists could use these measurements to calculate the energy released by 1 g of the grain. (3)
November 2024, Paper 2, Q2(b) (1 mark): State how the scientists can make sure that their results are reliable. (1)
November 2024, Paper 2, Q2(c)(i) (2 marks): This calorimeter has a twisted waste gas pipe passing through the water. Explain how the twisted waste gas pipe improves the accuracy of the scientists’ results
November 2024, Paper 2, Q2(c)(ii) (1 mark): This calorimeter burns the grain in oxygen. Give a reason why this improves the accuracy of the scientists’ results. (1)
November 2024, Paper 2, Q2(d)(i) (2 marks): Calculate the mass of protein in 65 g of rice. (2) mass = g
November 2024, Paper 2, Q2(d)(ii) (4 marks): A long-distance athlete wants to choose a grain to add to their diet. Comment on the suitability of each grain type for the diet of a long‑distance athlete. (4)
June 2024, Paper 1, Q1(b)(ii) (4 marks): The tick absorbs substances from the mammal’s blood it has taken in. Give the function of two named substances absorbed by the tick. (4) substance 1 substance 2
June 2024, Paper 1, Q6(a)(i) (1 mark): Which gas is released by the plant during photosynthesis? (1) A carbon dioxide B oxygen C methane D nitrogen
June 2024, Paper 1, Q6(a)(ii) (1 mark): Which of these is the site of photosynthesis in a plant cell? (1) A chloroplast B mitochondrion C nucleus D ribosome
June 2024, Paper 1, Q6(a)(iii) (1 mark): Give one abiotic variable the student should control in this investigation. (1)
June 2024, Paper 1, Q6(b)(i) (5 marks): Plot a line graph to show the relationship between the distance of the lamp from the beaker and the mean number of bubbles released. Use a ruler to join your po
June 2024, Paper 1, Q6(b)(ii) (3 marks): Explain the effect of increasing the distance of the lamp from the beaker on the mean number of bubbles released per minute. (3)
June 2024, Paper 1, Q8(c)(i) (3 marks): The mucus that is produced in the pancreas is much thicker and blocks the pancreatic duct. Explain the effects this would have on human digestion. (3)
June 2024, Paper 1, Q9(a)(i) (2 marks): State two variables the students kept constant in their experiment. (2) 1 . 2
June 2024, Paper 1, Q9(a)(ii) (2 marks): Explain why the students used complete mineral solution rather than distilled water to compare the effects of lacking a mineral ion. (2)
June 2024, Paper 1, Q9(a)(iii) (2 marks): Explain why the jars are kept in sunlight. (2)
June 2024, Paper 1, Q9(a)(iv) (1 mark): State the independent variable in this investigation. (1)
June 2024, Paper 1, Q9(b)(i) (1 mark): Some of the observations such as number of leaves are quantitative and some such as leaf size are qualitative. G
June 2024, Paper 1, Q9(b)(ii) (6 marks): Comment on the students’ results. In your answer you should use data from the table and your own knowledge. (6)
June 2024, Paper 2, Q6(a)(iii) (1 mark): Tilapia has high levels of protein. State one function of protein in the human body. (1)
June 2024 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(i) (1 mark): What is produced when starch is digested by amylase? (1) A amino acids B glycerol C maltose D sucrose
June 2024 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(ii) (1 mark): Which of these parts of the human alimentary canal produce amylase? (1) 1 colon 2 pancreas 3 salivary gland A 1 and 2 only B 1, 2 and 3 C 2 and 3 only D 3 only
June 2024 (R), Paper 1, Q8(a)(ii) (2 marks): People with lactose intolerance often get diarrhoea (production of faeces with high water content) if they drink milk. Suggest why people who cannot digest lact
June 2024 (R), Paper 1, Q9(b) (3 marks): The graph shows the effect of temperature on the rate of photosynthesis of tomato plants at two different light intensities. high light intensity Rate of photos
November 2023, Paper 1, Q10 (6 marks): Plants absorb light energy for photosynthesis. Some colours of light result in a higher rate of photosynthesis than other colours of light. Devise an investigat
November 2023, Paper 2, Q1(c) (2 marks): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. Plants to the rescue Since the early 20th
November 2023, Paper 2, Q1(e) (3 marks): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. Plants to the rescue Since the early 20th
November 2023, Paper 2, Q5(a)(i) (2 marks): Explain why plants need nitrate ions. (2)
June 2023, Paper 1, Q9(c)(i) (2 marks): Explain why the insulin is injected rather than taken by mouth. (2)
June 2023, Paper 2, Q1(e) (3 marks): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. When the Oceans Glow In some areas of the
June 2023, Paper 2, Q4(a)(ii) (3 marks): Explain how part Q is adapted for photosynthesis in the leaf. (3)
June 2023, Paper 2, Q4(b)(i) (1 mark): State the independent variable. (1)
June 2023, Paper 2, Q4(b)(ii) (2 marks): The species and size of leaf were the same in each tube. Give a reason for controlling one other named factor. (2) factor reason
June 2023, Paper 2, Q4(b)(iii) (1 mark): State the function of the tube with no leaf. (1)
June 2023, Paper 2, Q4(c)(i) (2 marks): Calculate the mean time taken for the indicator to change from orange to red at 25 °C. Give your answer to two significant figures. (2) mean time = minutes
June 2023, Paper 2, Q4(c)(ii) (3 marks): Explain the effect of increasing the temperature on the mean time taken for the indicator to change from orange to red. (3)
June 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q2(a) (2 marks): Describe how lentils are transported from the mouth to the stomach after being eaten. (2)
June 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q2(b)(i) (1 mark): Give one component of a balanced diet that is not shown in the table. (1)
June 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q2(b)(ii) (2 marks): Lentils do not contain large amounts of vitamin C and calcium. State the long-term effect of a dietary shortage of vitamin C and of calcium. (2) vitamin C calci
June 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q2(b)(iii) (2 marks): Calculate the mass, in grams, of lentils that a 16-year-old needs to eat, each day, to provide their RDA of protein. Give your answer to two significant figures
June 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q2(b)(iv) (3 marks): Describe how protein is digested in the human alimentary canal. (3)
June 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q6(a) (2 marks): Complete the balanced chemical symbol equation for photosynthesis. (2) + 6 H2O → +
June 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q6(b)(i) (1 mark): State why the plant was placed in the dark for 24 hours. (1)
June 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q6(b)(ii) (2 marks): Diagram 1 shows the position of the black paper on the leaf. white area green areas black paper Diagram 1 Complete diagram 2 to show where the variegated leaf w
June 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q6(c) (6 marks): The student observes that the leaves on different ivy plants seem to be different sizes depending on the amount of sunlight the plants receive. Design an invest
June 2023 (R), Paper 2, Q3(b) (4 marks): A doctor has advised a person to lose weight. Comment on which biscuit, A or B, would be most suitable for the person to maintain a healthy diet and to lose wei
June 2023 (R), Paper 2, Q3(c)(i) (4 marks): Describe a suitable method the students could use for their experiment. (4)
June 2023 (R), Paper 2, Q3(c)(ii) (2 marks): The energy values the students determined for the biscuits were much lower than the energy values supplied by the manufacturers. Give two reasons why this is th
January 2023, Paper 1, Q3(a)(i) (5 marks): A person is told by their doctor that they need to lose weight. Use the information from the milk contents and your own knowledge to discuss which milk would be
January 2023, Paper 1, Q3(a)(ii) (1 mark): Suggest why a person might drink a non‑dairy milk such as oat or almond milk rather than cow’s milk. (1)
January 2023, Paper 1, Q9(a) (2 marks): Give the balanced chemical symbol equation for photosynthesis. (2) + +
January 2023, Paper 1, Q9(b)(i) (2 marks): Using information from the graph, calculate the distance of the lamp from the plant when the rate of photosynthesis is 78 bubbles per minute. (2) distance = cm
January 2023, Paper 1, Q9(b)(ii) (3 marks): Describe the relationship between the number of bubbles per minute and light intensity. (3)
January 2023, Paper 1, Q9(b)(iii) (2 marks): Explain the rate of photosynthesis between a light intensity of 0.4 arbitrary units and a light intensity of 0.8 arbitrary units. (2)
January 2023, Paper 1, Q10(a) (4 marks): The table gives some information about enzymes in the human digestive system. Complete the table by giving the missing information. (4) Substrate Enzyme Product
January 2023, Paper 1, Q10(b) (6 marks): Some scientists have investigated the effect of vinegar (a weak acid) on the digestion of starch. Design an investigation to discover the effect of vinegar on t
January 2023, Paper 2, Q4(b)(i) (4 marks): Describe how the student could use the equipment to make a valid comparison of the energy content of the two types of soya bean. (4)
January 2023, Paper 2, Q4(b)(ii) (1 mark): Give one safety precaution that the student should take when using the apparatus. (1)
January 2023, Paper 2, Q4(b)(iii) (4 marks): The diagram shows a different type of apparatus that can be used for the investigation. thermometer stirrer oxygen gas insulated inlet outer container water ste
January 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q2(b) (3 marks): The photograph shows the leaves of a plant infected by tobacco mosaic virus. (Source: © PAL) Plants cells infected with the virus stop making chloroplasts. Expl
January 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q4(b)(i) (2 marks): The recommended daily amount of calcium for a child is 1400 mg. Calculate the mass of cow’s milk that would contain 1400 mg of calcium. (2) mass = g
January 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q4(b)(ii) (5 marks): Discuss whether soy milk or rice milk is a suitable replacement for cow’s milk in the diet of children. (5)
January 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q10(a) (2 marks): Complete the balanced chemical symbol equation for photosynthesis. (2) + + 6O2
January 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q10(b)(i) (2 marks): Describe how the student could control one other relevant, named abiotic factor. (2)
January 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q10(b)(ii) (4 marks): Explain the effect of changing the distance of the lamp on the rate of photosynthesis of pond weed in both concentrations of carbon dioxide. (4)
January 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q10(b)(iii) (2 marks): Describe one way the student could modify this method to obtain more accurate data. (2)
January 2023 (R), Paper 1, Q10(b)(iv) (2 marks): Describe how the student could ensure that the results of the investigation are reliable. (2)
January 2023 (R), Paper 2, Q1(e) (2 marks): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. Antitranspirants Antitranspirants are sub
June 2022, Paper 1, Q7(b) (3 marks): Humans need a balanced diet for healthy growth and development. Give the function of three different components of a balanced diet. (3) 1 2 3
June 2022, Paper 2, Q3(b) (2 marks): Complete the balanced chemical symbol equation for photosynthesis. (2) + + 6O2
June 2022, Paper 2, Q3(c)(i) (2 marks): Explain why Chlorella takes in oxygen at light intensities below 10 arbitrary units. (2)
June 2022, Paper 2, Q3(c)(ii) (3 marks): Explain the changes in the volume of oxygen released as the light intensity increases from 10 arbitrary units. (3)
June 2022, Paper 2, Q3(c)(iii) (2 marks): The volume of oxygen released by Chlorella is the difference between the oxygen produced by photosynthesis and the oxygen taken in. Use the graph to calculate t
June 2022, Paper 2, Q3(d) (3 marks): Describe how hydrogen-carbonate indicator could be used to investigate the effect of light intensity on carbon dioxide exchange by Chlorella. (3)
June 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q6(a)(i) (1 mark): Which of these structures produce amylase? (1) A X only B X and Y C X and Z D Y and Z
June 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q6(a)(ii) (3 marks): Table 1 gives the names of some enzymes, the molecules they digest, and the products formed. Complete Table 1 by giving the missing information. (3) Enzyme Mole
June 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q6(b)(i) (2 marks): One 100 g serving of lentils provides 25 g of protein. Calculate the mass of lentils that contains 46 g of protein. (2) mass of lentils = g
June 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q6(b)(ii) (5 marks): Discuss the possible long‑term effects of this person eating the same diet every day. (5)
June 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q6(b)(iii) (2 marks): Suggest two reasons why the RDA for energy may not be the actual amount required by this person. (2) 1 2
June 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q8(b)(ii) (4 marks): The fertiliser contains magnesium ions and nitrate ions. Explain the effect of these two ions on the growth of the seedlings. (4)
June 2022 (R), Paper 2, Q1(a) (1 mark): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. Human kidney disease Human kidney disease
June 2022 (R), Paper 2, Q2(a)(i) (1 mark): Calculate the increase in water temperature for the third sample of bread. (1) temperature increase = °C
June 2022 (R), Paper 2, Q2(a)(ii) (1 mark): Calculate the energy released in joules by the third sample of bread. [1 cm3 of water has a mass of 1 g] (1) energy released = J
June 2022 (R), Paper 2, Q2(a)(iii) (1 mark): Calculate the energy released in joules by 1g of bread for the third sample of bread. (1) energy released by 1 g = J
June 2022 (R), Paper 2, Q2(b) (5 marks): The energy value given on the packaging of the bread is 10 400 J for 1 g of bread. Comment on why the student’s method gives a different value. (5)
June 2022 (R), Paper 2, Q2(c) (2 marks): Give two ways that the student could modify this apparatus to achieve an answer nearer to the energy value given on the packaging of the bread. (2) 1 2
June 2022 (R), Paper 2, Q3(a)(i) (1 mark): Which of the labelled structures is a microvillus? (1) A B C D
June 2022 (R), Paper 2, Q3(b) (4 marks): These cells form the lining of the small intestine. Explain how the structure of the small intestine is adapted for absorption. (4)
January 2022, Paper 1, Q6(a) (4 marks): Name the parts labelled A, B, C and D. (4) A B C D
January 2022, Paper 1, Q6(b) (3 marks): The gut of a rabbit has a large caecum and appendix. These contain bacteria that are able to produce the enzyme cellulase. Explain how these bacteria help the r
January 2022, Paper 1, Q6(c)(i) (1 mark): Suggest why the human gut only has a small caecum and appendix. (1)
January 2022, Paper 1, Q6(c)(ii) (2 marks): In humans the appendix also acts as a store of useful bacteria. Scientists have discovered that patients who have had their appendix removed are more likely to
January 2022, Paper 1, Q8(a) (2 marks): The percentage of oxygen in the air is 21%. This is equivalent to a concentration of 210 000 parts per million. The percentage of carbon dioxide in the air is 0
January 2022, Paper 1, Q8(b)(i) (2 marks): Describe the effect of increasing the concentration of carbon dioxide on the relative rate of photosynthesis at 5 °C. (2)
January 2022, Paper 1, Q8(b)(ii) (2 marks): Describe how the effect of increasing the concentration of carbon dioxide on the relative rate of photosynthesis changes when the temperature is increased. (2)
January 2022, Paper 1, Q8(b)(iii) (3 marks): Explain the effect of increasing the temperature from 5 °C to 35 °C on the relative rate of photosynthesis. (3)
January 2022, Paper 1, Q8(c)(i) (2 marks): Explain how lacking a named mineral might affect plant growth. (2)
January 2022, Paper 1, Q8(c)(ii) (2 marks): Explain how a named factor can affect the rate of photosynthesis, other than carbon dioxide concentration, temperature and minerals absorbed. (2)
January 2022, Paper 1, Q9(d) (2 marks): Other scientists have suggested that eating fewer proteins that contain tyrosine and phenylalanine would reduce the symptoms of alkaptonuria. Suggest why eating
January 2022, Paper 2, Q3(a)(i) (1 mark): Which layer contains palisade mesophyll cells? (1) A B C D
January 2022, Paper 2, Q3(b)(i) (1 mark): State the independent variable in this investigation. (1)
January 2022, Paper 2, Q3(b)(ii) (2 marks): Give two abiotic variables that the scientists could control. (2) 1 2
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(i) (2 marks): Explain how food passes down the oesophagus. (2)
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(ii) (1 mark): Which labelled structure produces bile? (1) A B C D
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(iii) (3 marks): Describe the role of bile in digestion. (3)
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q4(b)(i) (2 marks): Calculate the mean rate of pH change per minute of the solution without lipase inhibitor. (2) mean rate of pH change = per minute
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q4(b)(ii) (2 marks): Explain the difference in the changes of pH of the solutions in the two test tubes during the 20‑minute period. (2)
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q4(b)(iii) (5 marks): Doctors use this method to investigate the use of lipase inhibitor as a treatment for obesity. • give three volunteers a tablet containing the lipase inhibitor
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q5(b)(iii) (5 marks): The table shows the nutritional composition of mycoprotein and the nutritional composition of lamb. Mass of nutritional component in 100 grams of food Nutrition
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q8(a) (2 marks): Give the balanced chemical symbol equation for photosynthesis. (2)
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q8(b)(i) (1 mark): State how the student could improve the reliability of their results. (1)
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q8(b)(ii) (1 mark): Give the dependent variable in the investigation. (1)
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q8(c) (4 marks): The graph shows the results of the investigation. Time taken for disc to rise to top of syringe Distance of lamp from syringe Explain the effect of increasing t
January 2022 (R), Paper 1, Q8(d) (3 marks): Describe how the student could test the leaf discs for the presence of starch. (3)
November 2021, Paper 1, Q1(b)(ii) (1 mark): Which enzyme is released by the organism to digest starch? (1) A amylase B ligase C lipase D protease
November 2021, Paper 1, Q3(a) (2 marks): Name the parts labelled P and Q. (2) P Q
November 2021, Paper 1, Q3(b) (2 marks): The cow’s stomach contains microorganisms that digest plant cell walls. Suggest why these microorganisms are useful to a cow. (2)
November 2021, Paper 1, Q4(a) (2 marks): The table lists the functions of some vitamins. Complete the table by stating the correct vitamins. The first one has been done for you. (2) Function of vitamin
November 2021, Paper 1, Q4(b)(i) (2 marks): The student calculates that the mean rate of yeast growth with vitamin C is 0.22 g per hour. Calculate the mean rate of yeast growth without vitamin C. (2) mean
November 2021, Paper 1, Q4(b)(ii) (2 marks): Suggest how to find the dry mass of yeast in each flask. (2)
November 2021, Paper 1, Q4(b)(iii) (1 mark): State the dependent variable in this investigation. (1)
November 2021, Paper 1, Q4(b)(iv) (4 marks): The method gives some variables that the student controlled. Justify two other variables the student should control. (4) 1 2
November 2021, Paper 1, Q5(b)(i) (1 mark): Name the mineral ion used to make chlorophyll. (1)
November 2021, Paper 1, Q10(a)(i) (2 marks): Describe how the student could remove all the starch from the leaf. (2)
November 2021, Paper 1, Q10(a)(ii) (1 mark): State why the student removes all the starch from the leaf before starting the experiment. (1)
November 2021, Paper 1, Q10(b) (1 mark): Before testing a leaf for starch, chlorophyll needs to be removed. Give a safety precaution the student needs to take when removing chlorophyll. (1)
November 2021, Paper 1, Q10(c) (1 mark): Give a suitable control the student should use in this experiment. (1)
November 2021, Paper 1, Q10(d) (5 marks): Describe how the structure of the leaf is adapted for photosynthesis. (5)
November 2021, Paper 2, Q1(g) (1 mark): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. Heart transplant A heart transplant is an
November 2021, Paper 2, Q5 (6 marks): Obesity is caused when energy input is greater than energy output. A student likes to eat potato crisps but is concerned about obesity. The student has a choice
June 2021, Paper 1, Q3(a) (4 marks): In his first experiment, the student uses this method to investigate the effect of light on photosynthesis. • place a plant in the dark for 24 hours • cover par
June 2021, Paper 1, Q3(b)(i) (4 marks): Explain the student’s results. (4)
June 2021, Paper 1, Q3(b)(ii) (1 mark): Describe how the student could change the light intensity in this investigation. (1)
June 2021, Paper 1, Q3(b)(iii) (1 mark): Give the dependent variable in this investigation. (1)
June 2021, Paper 1, Q3(b)(iv) (1 mark): Give one way in which the student could control the biotic variable in this investigation. (1)
June 2021, Paper 1, Q8(a) (6 marks): Discuss whether cow’s milk is a suitable alternative to breast milk for young babies. Use data from the table and your own knowledge to support your answer. (6)
June 2021, Paper 1, Q8(b) (2 marks): Human breast milk may contain insufficient vitamin D for a growing child. Give two ways that additional vitamin D could be provided for the child. (2) 1 2
June 2021, Paper 1, Q11(b) (6 marks): Some scientists have suggested that adding hydrogencarbonate solution to soil, instead of adding water, can increase plant growth. Design an investigation to di
June 2021, Paper 2, Q7(c) (2 marks): Explain how a shortage of one named mineral could affect the size of plants in the fields. (2)
January 2021, Paper 1, Q2(b)(i) (3 marks): Describe the process that converts light energy into chemical energy. (3)
January 2021, Paper 1, Q2(c) (2 marks): The birds do not have teeth. The fish they eat is initially crushed in part of their digestive system called a gizzard. Suggest why crushing the fish in the giz
January 2021, Paper 2, Q4(a) (2 marks): Explain how layer A is adapted for its role. (2)
January 2021, Paper 2, Q4(b) (4 marks): Explain how layers B and C are adapted for photosynthesis and gas exchange. (4)
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q1(a)(i) (1 mark): Which part of this cell contains chlorophyll? (1) A P B Q C R D S
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q1(a)(ii) (1 mark): Which of these is found in chlorophyll? (1) A calcium B iron C magnesium D water
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q1(a)(iii) (2 marks): Describe the role of chlorophyll. (2)
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q1(c) (3 marks): The table lists the roles of some substances found in living organisms. Complete the table by naming each substance. The first one has been done for you. (3) Ro
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q3(a)(i) (1 mark): In which of these parts is hydrochloric acid produced? (1) A B C D
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q3(a)(ii) (1 mark): In which of these parts are faeces stored? (1) A B C D
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q3(b) (3 marks): The liver produces bile. Explain the role of bile in digestion. (3)
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q3(c)(i) (4 marks): Explain how the undamaged villi are adapted for their function. (4)
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q3(c)(ii) (4 marks): Explain why children with untreated coeliac disease may grow more slowly and become tired more easily than children without coeliac disease. Use the information
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(i) (2 marks): Explain why the potted plant is placed in the dark for 24 hours. (2)
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(ii) (2 marks): Explain one role of leaf Y in the investigation. (2)
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a)(iii) (4 marks): Describe how to test the leaves for starch safely. (4)
January 2021 (R), Paper 1, Q4(b) (3 marks): Explain how the results of this investigation would show that light is required for photosynthesis. (3)
January 2021 (R), Paper 2, Q4(b)(i) (2 marks): Explain why the control solution contains all the mineral ions the plant requires but the test solution contains all the mineral ions the plant requires except
January 2021 (R), Paper 2, Q4(b)(ii) (1 mark): State the purpose of Step 5. (1)
January 2021 (R), Paper 2, Q4(b)(iii) (2 marks): Explain the purpose of Step 7. (2)
January 2021 (R), Paper 2, Q4(b)(iv) (2 marks): Explain the measurements that the student could make to determine if nitrate ions are required for plant growth. (2)
November 2020, Paper 1, Q7(c) (2 marks): Give two ways that lipid in milk is used by babies. (2) 1 2
November 2020, Paper 2, Q4(a) (2 marks): Write the balanced symbol equation for photosynthesis. (2)
November 2020, Paper 2, Q4(b)(i) (2 marks): Anomalous results are not included in the calculation of the mean. Calculate the mean number of bubbles per minute for the lamp with no filter. (2) number = bub
November 2020, Paper 2, Q4(b)(ii) (4 marks): Explain the student’s results. (4)
November 2020, Paper 2, Q4(b)(iii) (2 marks): Give two abiotic variables that the student should control in her experiment. (2) 1 2
November 2020, Paper 2, Q4(c)(i) (2 marks): Explain why measuring the rate of photosynthesis by counting bubbles may not be an accurate method to use. (2)
November 2020, Paper 2, Q4(c)(ii) (2 marks): Suggest an alternative method that the student could use to measure the rate of photosynthesis in her experiment. (2)
November 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q1(b)(ii) (2 marks): Explain two ways that the structure of this palisade mesophyll cell is adapted for its function. (2) 1 2
November 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q5(c)(i) (4 marks): Explain why a woman who is pregnant requires more of each of the dietary components listed in the table. (4)
November 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q5(c)(ii) (3 marks): The actual mass of additional iron needed by the pregnant woman was 9.0 mg per day. Calculate the actual total mass of iron needed by the pregnant woman. (3) ma
January 2020, Paper 1, Q3(b)(i) (2 marks): Explain the role of fibre in the squirrel’s diet. (2)
January 2020, Paper 1, Q3(b)(ii) (2 marks): Explain which nut is better at helping the squirrel make red blood cells. (2)
January 2020, Paper 1, Q3(b)(iii) (2 marks): Nut A has a mass of 28.0 grams. Calculate the total mass of carbohydrate in this nut. (2) total mass of carbohydrate = grams
January 2020, Paper 1, Q6(a) (4 marks): Explain the role of bile in digestion. (4)
January 2020, Paper 1, Q8(a)(ii) (1 mark): Which part absorbs the most sunlight? (1) A P B Q C R D S
January 2020, Paper 1, Q8(a)(iv) (1 mark): Which part reduces the amount of water escaping? (1) A P B Q C R D S
January 2020, Paper 1, Q8(b) (4 marks): Explain how the structure and position of cells in parts R and T help the leaf to photosynthesise. (4)
January 2020, Paper 1, Q8(c) (2 marks): The diagram of the leaf section is magnified 100 times. Determine the actual thickness of the leaf. (2) thickness = mm
January 2020, Paper 1, Q8(d) (2 marks): The photograph shows water lilies, plants that float on the surface of ponds. Suggest why the leaves of the water lily only have stomata on their upper surface.
January 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q1(a) (1 mark): Name the organ that produces bile. (1)
January 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q1(d) (3 marks): The stomach is an organ found in the alimentary canal. Describe the role of the stomach. (3)
January 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q7(a) (2 marks): Give the balanced chemical equation for photosynthesis. (2)
January 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q7(b)(i) (4 marks): Explain how the student could use this apparatus to show that carbon dioxide is needed for photosynthesis. (4)
January 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q7(b)(ii) (2 marks): The student is told that, after keeping the leaf in the flask for a day, he should cut the leaf into small shapes for testing. Suggest why this is a good idea.
January 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q7(c) (3 marks): The results of this investigation show whether carbon dioxide is needed for photosynthesis. Explain how the student could modify his investigation to show that
January 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q10(a)(i) (2 marks): Person X has a mass of 60 kg and a height of 165 cm. Calculate the BMI of person X. (2) BMI =
January 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q10(a)(ii) (1 mark): BMI values can be divided into categories. The table shows these categories. BMI value Category less than 18.5 thin 18.6 to 24.9 healthy 25 to 29.9 overweight m
January 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q10(b) (1 mark): One problem with the interpretation of BMI measurements is that people have different proportions of muscle compared with fat. Muscle has a higher density than
January 2020 (R), Paper 1, Q10(c)(i) (3 marks): Explain how these diets can result in a reduction in body mass. (3)
June 2019, Paper 1, Q2(a) (1 mark): Which statement describes what happens to salmon protein in the human stomach? (1) A it is digested into amino acids B its surface area is increased by bile C i
June 2019, Paper 1, Q2(b) (3 marks): The table lists other components of a balanced diet and their functions. Complete the table by giving a function of each component. The first one has been done
June 2019, Paper 1, Q2(c)(i) (2 marks): It is recommended that a 15-year-old person needs 50 g of protein per day for a balanced diet. A normal salmon contains 20% protein. Calculate how many 15-year-
June 2019, Paper 1, Q7(b)(i) (2 marks): Suggest why high concentrations of sugar may increase tooth decay. (2)
June 2019, Paper 1, Q7(b)(ii) (2 marks): Explain another health risk to children who drink fruit juices with high concentrations of sugars. (2)
June 2019, Paper 2, Q1(b) (2 marks): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. Global warming and the Great Barrier Reef
June 2019, Paper 2, Q1(c)(i) (2 marks): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. Global warming and the Great Barrier Reef
June 2019, Paper 2, Q2(b) (4 marks): The diagram shows the structure of part of a leaf. cell in palisade mesophyll cell in spongy mesophyll Explain the differences between the palisade mesophyll an
June 2019, Paper 2, Q3(a)(ii) (1 mark): The soil fungi release an enzyme called amylase that digests the bag. What is the product of this digestion? (1) A amino acids B fatty acids C glycerol D maltos
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q1(e) (2 marks): The snake does not chew the mice it eats. It swallows each mouse whole. Explain how this method of feeding affects the time taken for the snake to digest a mous
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q4(a) (2 marks): Explain the role of the mineral ion nitrate in the growth of crops. (2)
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q4(b) (1 mark): These crops can be used to feed farm animals. Mineral ions are absorbed by the animal’s gut. This is because mineral ions are (1) A small and soluble B small an
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q9(a) (2 marks): Write the balanced chemical symbol equation for photosynthesis. (2)
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q9(b)(i) (2 marks): Explain why the student keeps all three plants in the dark for 24 hours at the beginning of the investigation. (2)
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q9(b)(ii) (1 mark): State the function of the potassium hydroxide. (1)
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q9(c)(i) (1 mark): What is the colour of the leaves from plant X after the test? (1) A white B orange C blue-black D brick red
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q9(c)(ii) (1 mark): What is the colour of the leaves from plant Y after the test? (1) A white B orange C blue-black D brick red
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q9(d) (2 marks): The student sets up another plant in the same conditions as plant X, but replaces the potassium hydroxide with water. Explain why this improves the student’s in
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q10(a) (5 marks): Two of these components are vitamins and minerals. Describe the functions of the other components of a balanced diet. (5)
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q10(b) (4 marks): Explain why a pregnant woman may need to take extra minerals and vitamins. (4)
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q10(c)(i) (1 mark): Person A has a mass of 70 kg and is categorised as ideal weight. Calculate the recommended daily energy requirement for person A. (1) energy requirement = kJ
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q10(c)(ii) (2 marks): Person B has a mass of 80 kg but, because he is tall, he is categorised as underweight. Person C also has a mass of 80 kg but, because he is short, he is catego
June 2019 (R), Paper 1, Q10(c)(iii) (2 marks): Explain why a person’s body mass decreases if they do not have their recommended daily energy requirement. (2)
June 2019 (R), Paper 2, Q1(b) (1 mark): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. The FACE Programme towers that contain pi
June 2019 (R), Paper 2, Q1(c) (3 marks): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. The FACE Programme towers that contain pi
June 2019 (R), Paper 2, Q1(d) (2 marks): Read the passage below. Use the information in the passage and your own knowledge to answer the questions that follow. The FACE Programme towers that contain pi
June 2019 (R), Paper 2, Q4(c) (4 marks): The diagram shows a calorimeter, which is used to measure the energy content of a food sample. stirrer ignition wires thermometer oxygen gas inlet insulated out

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