Saturday, October 31, 2009

The Regulatory Mechanism in Respiration

Relationship between the rate of respiration and the oxygen and carbon dioxide contents

  • Muscles require more Oxygen and glucose during vigorous exersice in order to release energy during cellular respiration
  • this lead to an increase in the heart beat which
  • caused the increase in the rate of respiration
  • as the rate of respiration increases, the supply of glucose and oxygen for cellular respiration increases
  • thus more carbon dioxide can be removed from the cell.

Explain the response of human respiratory toward different situation:

1. During vigorous activity such as running, aerobic exercise

  • Breathing rate increases
  • Heartbeat rate increases
  • the increased in heart beat helps the blood to deliver more oxygen
  • and more glucose to the respiring cells.

2. In fear

  • breathing rate increases
  • adrenal gland secrete adrenalin
  • causing an increase in heart beat

3. At high altitude

??

SPM 2007- essay No.6

  • Explain cellular respiration (aerobic and anaerobic ) in muscle tissue and yeast cell.

  • Explain the difference in physiological process of two individuals: vigorous activity and at rest. (lung, heart, kidney)

  • Explain the differences in % of dissolved oxygen and carbon dioxide in the pond based on graph given.

The regulatory mechanism of oxygen and carbon dioxide contents in the body.

  • Breathing is an involuntary action controlled by respiratory centre.

  • The respiratory centre is located in the medula oblongata.

  • Chemoreceptor function to monitor the chemical content of the blood

  • Both aortic and carotid bodies are sensitive to the oxygen exchange in the blood.

  • and also sensitive to pH values of the blood and carbon dioxide content.

Take note:
1.The regulatory mechanism during vigorous exercise. (The Flow chart showing the sequence of event )

2. The regulatory mechanism of the oxygen content in human body


The importance of maintaining a healthy respiratory system
..Smoking...........................Experiment in the Lab..

Related QS:


1. Explain how smoking would change the structure of alvelous [2 marks]


Answer:

F1-Damage the alveoli wall
P1-Reduces total surface area
F2-Heat (release by burning cigarette)
P2-(increase body temperature) damage the tissue lining of alveoli
F3-Tar
P3-Deposits on the alveolus, reduce the efficiency for gases exchange
F4-Acidic condition
P4-Corrodes/damages the alveolus


2. How would carbon monoxide in the cigarette smoke affect the rate of cellular respiration ? [3 marks]
Answer:

P1: Carbon monoxide competes with oxygen to bind with
Haemoglobin to form carboxyhaemoglobin
P2: It reduced the supply oxygen to cell
P3: thus reduce aerobic respiration


3. Explain how smoking can decrease the efficiency of the function of R in respiration. [3 marks]


Answer:
-Smoke contains tar, nicotine, carbon dioxide and heat / high temperature.
-tar deposited at alveolus wall / R decrease the permeability towards the respiratory gases/ rate of diffusion of respiratory gases / gaseous exchange.
- Air inhaled contains more CO2, decrease the gradient of oxygen and carbon dioxide diffusion.
-Alveolus wall less moist / dry, decrease the rate of diffusion of respiratory gaseous.

and you should be able to explain at least THREE diseases caused by cigarrate contents:

Tobacco smoke contains over 4,000 different chemicals. At least 50 are known carcinogens (cause cancer in humans) and many are poisonous.

i. benzene & Formldehyde

ii.Nicotine

iii.tar

eg: Lung cancer...actually caused by carcinogenic substances such as BENZENE and FORMALDEHYDEs in Tobacco. TAR can also cause lung cancer

Nicotine is a drug in tobacco causing addiction BUT NOT Lung cancer.

  • When a person smokes a cigarette, the body responds immediately to the chemical nicotine in the smoke.
  • Nicotine causes a short-term increase in blood pressure, heart rate and the flow of blood from the heart.
  • It also causes the arteries to narrow.
  • The smoke includes carbon monoxide, which reduces the amount of oxygen the blood can carry.
  • This, combined with the nicotine effects, creates an imbalance between the demand for oxygen by the cells and the amount of oxygen the blood can supply.
  • How does nicotine in cigarettes increase the risk of heart attack?
  • Cigarette smoking may increase the risk of developing hardening of the arteries and heart attacks in several ways.
  • First, carbon monoxide may damage the inner walls of the arteries,
  • encouraging fatty buildups in them.
  • Over time, this causes the vessels to narrow and harden.
  • Nicotine may also contribute to this process.
  • Smoking also causes several changes in the blood that make clots — and heart attack — more likely.

TAR- Particulate matter drawn into lungs when you inhale on a lighted cigarette.

  • Once inhaled, smoke condenses and about 70 per cent of the tar in the smoke is deposited in the smoker's lungs.
    Tar is a major cause of lung cancer, emphysema and bronchitis.
  • It also kills the cilia in the lining of the lungs.
  • The more visible effects are discoloring of the teeth, fingernails, gum disease, mouth cancer and many more very dangerous effects.

***Cigarretes do not cause asthma please...For your SPM, just take note of the above diseases...

Thursday, October 29, 2009

The Respiratory process in Energy Production

Brief Account
  • Respiration is the metabolic process in which organic molecules are broken down into smaller products with the release of chemical energy for other living process.
  • External respiration or breathing in is an alternate process that involves the obtaining of oxygen and removing carbon dioxide between the respiratory surfaces of an organism and its environment.


Model of human lungs in the respiratory mechanism has been asked in Paper 2, 2005. It was about the equivalent structures between the model and human lungs...And the question also asked about the J-tube experiment!!..You can consider the J-Tube experiment for your Paper 3, Question 1...

..and the ribcage model..The involvement of intercostal muscles : Internal and external...AND diaphragm muscles

RESPIRATORY MUSCLE CONTRACTION
A. Inspiration (inhalation)
1. active process (requires skeletal muscle contraction)

B.Expiration (exhalation)
1. Quiet breathing
a. passive

  • Internal respiration or cellular respiration is the biochemical process in which energy is made available to all living cells.
  • Two types of internal respiration: Aerobic and anaerobic respiration
  • Aerobic respiration requires continues supply of oxygen which is obtained from the atmosphere during external respiration
  • Anaerobic respiration...absence of oxygen

What you should know about Aerobic respiration?

  • In the presence of OXYGEN it involves the complete breakdown of GLUCOSE and release CARBON DIOXIDE, ENERGY (ATP) AND WATER.

  • ATP is an instant energy and it is released within seconds for physiological rocess such as muscle contraction.

What you should know about Anaerobic respiration?

  • In human muscles a.k.a Lactic acid fermentation
  • In yeast a.k.a alcoholic fermentation.
    **For both cases, you should be able to explain: What? Why? When? Who? How? (4W+1H)

In 2007, There was a question on anaerobic respiration of yeast.

Paper 3 Question 2: (Pls check the full question from Koleksi Kertas Peperiksaan Sebenar SPM-Cerdik Pub-2009, page 150)

..design a lab experiment to investigate the effect of temperature on the rate of anaerobic respiration in yeast.

The planning of your experiment must include the following aspects:..

Aim:

(TIPS: Copy direct from the question....)

To investigate the effect of temperature on the rate of anaerobic respiration in yeast.

Problem Statement: HOW DOES temperature Affect The rate of anaerobic respiration (in yeast) ?

  • TIPS:
  • temperature: MV
  • The rate of anaerobic respiration : RV ..

  • OR you can also write The height of coloured liquid (If your apparatus is manometer!!)

  • The use of HOW DOES is better..You can use WHAT or DOES too
  • and dont ever forget the question mark ( ?)

Hypothesis:

...of course must include: MV, RV and Relationship.

Suggested Answer:

As the temperature increases, the rate of anerobis respiration increases.

OR

The higher the temperature, the higher the rate of anaerobic respiration.

Variables:

MV

RV

FV

Apparatus and materials:

Technique: Measure and Record the change in height of the coloured liquid by using ruler.

OR Calculating the rate of anaerobic respiration by using the formula : Change in height/ Time taken.

Procedure:

Result:

Conclusion:

........................................The rest i leave to you to complete...

Other possible experiments (Paper 3) for this chapter are :
1.Carry out an experiment to investigate anaerobic respiration in yeast.
2.The effect of temperature on the rate of anaerobic respiration in yeast.( 2007)

3.Conduct an experiment to investigate the differences between inhale and exhale air

4. Conduct an experiment to study the effect of a vigorous exersice on the rate of respiration and heart beat.
5. Conduct an experiment to show the effects of cigarette smoke on white cotton wool and draw an anology between the lung and the white cotton wool.

When doing activity, Energy is needed for contraction and relaxation of the skeletal muscle during this activity. Other than that, what is the necessity of energy to the living organism?

Cell division., Active transport
Synthesis of lipid

Maintaining of body temperature

During active activity, the skeletal muscle cramps . Why ?


· The excess oxygen is used more than the rate of oxygen supplied
· Anaerobic respiration occurs in muscle cell
· The accumulation of lactic acid to cause muscle tiredness.

Explain the mechanisme occur to recover this condition (anaerobic respiration)

  • Ventilation rate increase

  • The breathing rate increase

  • panting to get more oxygen and expel of carbon dioxide.

  • Heartbeat rate pumped oxygenated blood to the body cell

  • to oxidize the accumulated lactic acid to carbon dioxide and water.

The comparison between aerobic and anaerobic respiration:

...List down the similarities first:

Similarities between aerobic respiration and anaerobic respiration:

BOTH ARE:
1.Cellular respiration
2 the breakdown of glucose
3 production of energy
4.Catalysed by enzyme

...Then the TABLE of differences....

Sample Question
The diagram shows the structure of respiration surface in organisms.
Explain how does the large total surface area per volume ratio in the organisms respiratory structure achieved ?
a. Amoeba : microscopic size can increase the TSA/V ratio
b. Insect : Tracheal system which consist of small vessel called tracheal can increase the TSA/V ratio

c. Frog : A lot of blood capillaries under the skin. Lung with 2 air
sac with the thin membrane.
d. Human : Large number of alveolus.(7-9 million of alveoli)
e. Fish : Lamellae richly with blood capillaries

Generally, the respiratory surface of most organisms:






  • Has a large total of surface area or large TSA/V ratio

  • Moist surface area

  • One cell thick

  • Dense network of blood capillary
    ...You should know everything about alveolus ..the drawing and the labelling of its structure..It has already being asked in SPM and quite popular when adaptations are concerned...( Basically, most of the organs in our body have more or less the same characteristics /adaptations...I guess you know what...)
When you are asked about the adaptation of alveolus, always take note of the marks allocated...

Usually when you write the FACT (I mean the adaptation) you must follow with the EXPLANATION..(In this case...give reason, so what....if that is the adaptation???)

Examples:

FACT : The partial pressure of oxygen in the alveolus is higher then the partial pressure of oxygen in the blood capillaries

EXPLANATION:
Oxygen can diffuse from alveolus into blood capillaries

F2--The partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the blood capillaries is higher then the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the alveolus
E2--Carbon dioxide diffuses out of the blood capillaries into the alveolus to be expelled out during exhalation

F3--The alveolus wall is only one cell thick
E3--Enables oxygen and carbon dioxide to diffuse easily

F4--The alveolus surface is moist
E4--Oxygen and carbon dioxide can dissolve / diffuse easily in and out of the alveolus.

F5--The alveolus is small in size // there are millions of alveoli in each lungs
E5--Provide large surface area for gaseous exchange

F6--Large network of blood capillaries covering outer surface of each alveolus / the capillaries are also one cell thick
E6--To enable rapid diffusion of gases in the alveoli

**Any combinations of F and E to enable you to score 1+1 marks..
**and you may write as many combinations as possible, let the examiner chooses (maybe) 4 maximum marks..

Sample Question:
Descibe how the content of carbon dioxide is regulated in the body during strenuous exercise.

[8 marks]

  • When the concentration of carbon dioxide increases ( as the result of active cellular respiration during vigorous exercise),

  • the carbon dioxide reacts with water to form carbonic acid
  • This causes pH value in the blood to drop
  • The drop in pH is detected by Central chemoreceptors ( carotid and aortic bodies)

  • ( The central and peripheral chemoreceptors ) send nerve impulses to respiratory centre in the medulla oblongata

  • The respiratory centre then sends nerve impulses to the diaphragm and the intercostals muscles.

  • Causing the respiratory muscles to contract and relax faster

  • As a result, the breathing rate

  • and ventilation rates increase

  • As excess carbon dioxide is eliminated from the body,

  • the carbon dioxide concentration and pH of the blood return to normal

Lets Try these Qs:

1.The process which breakdown glucose in the presence of oxygen to release energy,carbon dioxide and water is known as ________

A External respiration
B Anaerobic respiration
C Aerobic respiration

2.Which of the following product is released during anaerobic respiration in human muscles?

A Ethanol
B Lactic acid
C Carbon dioxide
D Water
3.What is the main substrate for respiration process?

A lipid
B glucose
C amino acid
D glycogen

4.In human body, how is carbon dioxide being transported?

I In the form of oxyhaemoglobin
II In the form of bicarbonate ions
III In the form of carbaminohaemoglobin
IV In the form of dissolved carbon dioxide

A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D II, III and IV only
5.State four substances in cigarette which can affect the human respiratory system.

Ans: Tar / Benzene / nicotine /acetone /formaldehyde/carbon monoxide
**TIPS: Be careful when explaining the effects of these chemicals to human respiratory system..It really must match the effects..do not simp[ly write any effects...

6. Which of the following is the surface where gaseous exchange takes place in man
A alveolus
B. bronchus
C trachea
D bronchiole

7. Which of the following structure is used by the amoeba to carry out gaseous exchanges?
A Pseudopodium
B Plasma membrane
C Cytoplasm
D Vacuole

8. Which of the following processes occurs during gaseous exchange between the alveolus and the blood capillary.
A Osmosis
B Evaporation
C Diffusion
D Dialysis

9. In the absence of oxygen the skeletal muscles contract using energy from the breakdown of glucose and glycogen to
A ethanol and water
B energy and water
C ethanol and lactic acid
D lactic acid and energy

10. Which of the following is not involved in the transportation of carbon dioxide by the blood.
A Carbonic acid
B Carbaminohaemoglobin
C Hydrogen carbonate ion
D Carbon monoxide

11. Which of the following will result in an increase in the thoracic cavity volume
I Contraction of the external intercostal muscle
II Contraction of the diaphragm muscle
III Inward movement of the rib cage
IV Contraction of the trachea
A I and II B II and III
B I, II and III D II, III and IV

12. What are the end products of aerobic respiration in green plants?
I. Oxygen III Carbon dioxide
II Ethanol IV Water

A. I and II
B. I and III
C. II and III
D. III and IV

13.Air is inhaled when
I The internal intercostal muscles relax
II The rib cage move upwards and outward
III The Diaphragm muscles relax
IV The pressure in thoracic cavity decreases

A. I and II
B. I,II and III
C. II and IV
D. I, II and IV

14. What are the common characteristics shown by the respiratory surfaces of animals
I They are thin
II They are moist
III They have a large surface area
IV They are cover by a network of capillaries

A. I and II
B. I,II and III
C. III and IV
D. I, II, III and IV

15. Which statement about ATP is not true?

A. it has low energy
B. it is a fast source of energy
C. it is formed in the mitochondria
D. it is energy that is produced from the break-down of glucose

16. Which of the following statement about respiration is true?

A. Respiration occurs only in the day time
B. Only plants carry out respiration
C. Internal respiration involves the oxidation of food
D. Respiration occurs only at night

17. The final products of anaerobic respiration in yeast are…
A. ethanol and carbon dioxide
B. lactic acid and carbon dioxide
C. ethanol, carbon dioxide and energy
D. lactic acid, carbon dioxide and energy

18. Muscle fatigue which results from vigorous activity will decrease after….

A. the oxidation of lactic acid
B. the transport of lactic acid to the lungs
C. the conversion of lactic acid to glucose
D. the neutralization of lactic acid by the salts in the body

19. The rings of cartilage of the human trachea function to……

A. decrease the loss of water vapour from the lung
B. ease the swallowing of food through it
C. protect the trachea from injury
D. prevent the trachea from collapsing

20. Which of the following statement about insect is true?

A. The breathing system is made up of trachea
B. Blood in pumped into the tracheal system
C. Oxygenated blood and deoxygenated blood mix in the haemocoele
D. Blood flows in the blood vessels

21. Which of the following shows correctly the passage of gas during exhalation?

A. Alveolus → bronchiole → bronchus → larynx → trachea
B. Alveolus → bronchus → bronchiole → trachea → larynx
C. Alveolus → bronchiole → bronchus → trachea → larynx
D. Trachea → larynx →bronchus → bronchiole → alveolus

22. Exchange of gases across the surface of human alveolus occurs through…

A. osmosis
B. diffusion
C. metabolism
D. active transport

HAPPY REVISING..

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Cell Division

Brief Account

The necessity for the production of new cells in organisms

Explain the need for producing new cells in life (significance of mitosis)
1. produces new cells for growth
2. repair and replaces cells that are dead or damage.
3. to increase the number of unicellular organisms
4. ensure that the offspring/new cells are genetically identical to the parent
5. mitosis preserves the diploid number of chromosomes

The necessity for the production of new cells identical to parent cells

Explain the necessity for the production of new cell identical to parent cells
1. Species survival
2. preserve the diploid number of chromosomes
3. preserve the genetic information
4. to preserve the parent characteristics

Definition of Mitosis
-A type of cell division which involves the division of the nucleus to produce two daughter cells, --which are genetically identical to each other and to their parent cell // each contain same number and same kind of chromosomes as the parent cells.
Places where the mitosis occur during the division of cell
- all somatic cells (in animal): which are all body cells except gametes
- meristem cells ( in plant) : at the apical meristems: end of the shoots, the end of roots and lateral meristem: vascular cambium and cork cambium

The cell cycle

The cell cycle is the period that extends from the time a new cell is produced until the time the cell completes a cell division.
The cell cycle can be divided into two major phases :
-interphase and
-mitotic cell division or the M phase. Mitotic cell division consists of mitosis (nucleus division) and cytokinensis (cytoplasmic division)




Parts of the cell cycle:
G1 phase:
Sometimes called Interphase.
The formation of two daughter cells from a parent cell in cytokinesis is an energy-consuming process. The time needed by the new cells to replenish their energy causes this "gap".
After cell energy reserves are restored, the daughter cells begin to grow.
This is the longest phase of the cell cycle.
S phase:
Synthesis means to make.
After a period of growth, each cell's original DNA is duplicated in the process of replication.
G2 phase:
The replication of DNA is another energy-consuming process for the cell. The time taken by a cell to build up its energy reserves produces this second "gap".

Cytokinesis:
Cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm of a parent cell. The cell pinches together roughly in the center.
You may either consider it the end of Mitosis or the beginning of Interphase.
While each daughter cells gets identical sets of DNA, the cytoplasm and organelles are only roughly divided equally between the two cells.
Take note: In any growing tissue, cells will be found in all phases of the cell cycle.
…Please be alert about the Cell Cycle..You must be able to produce at least two sentences to describe what is happening during each phases…

Stages of cell division of mitosis process.


Interphase is a resting stage…
The chromosomes are not visible but appear as thread-like structures called chromatin
Nucleus is large and prominent
Involves synthesis of protein and organelles, replication of DNA,

Prophase
Chromosomes in the nucleus condense and become more tightly coiled.
The chromosomes appear shorter and thicker and are visible.
Each chromosome now consists of a pair of sister chromatids joined together at the centromere.
The spindle fibres begin to form and extend between the centrioles.
The chromatids are attached to the spindle fibres by their centrioles
At the end of the prophase, the nucleolus disappears and the nuclear membrane disintegrate.

Metaphase
All chromosomes are lined up on the metaphase plate/ equatorial plane..(This is the best acceptable answer!!)

Anaphase

The sister chromatids of each chromosome separate at the centromere.
and are pulled apart to the opposite poles
by the shortening of the spindle fibres
Once separated, the chromatids are referred to as daughter chromosomes
By the end of anaphase, the two poles of the cell have complete and equivalent sets of chromosomes


Telophase

The final phase of mitosis is telophase.
A nuclear membrane forms around each set of chromosomes and the nucleoli reappear.
The nuclear membrane is ready to divide.
It's now time to split the cytoplasm in a process known as cytokinesis.
The cell splits along what is called a cleavage furrow.


Cytokinesis in animal cell and plant cell:
In animal cell, actin filaments in the cytoplasm contracts to pull a ring of plasma membrane inwards
Forming a groove called a cleavage furrow


Whereas:

In plant cell, membrane-enclosed vesicles gather at a plant cell’s equator between the two nuclei
The vesicles fuse to form a cell plate.
The cell plate grows outwards until its edges with the plasma membrane of the parent cell


Application of Knowledge on Mitosis
**When application is concerned, most FAQ are :
1. Cloning
2. Culture tissue
3. Uncontrolled mitosis/ cancer

Sample Essay Question :

1. (a) Explain the principles used in the cloning technique. [3marks]
(b) Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the cloning technique of tissue cullture. [7marks]
(c) List the importance of mitosis [ 3 marks ]
(d) In horticulture, bananas are commercially produced and exported. Discuss how
you can produce a cloned banana plant. [ 7 marks ]
Suggested Answer:
1. (a) - Cloning is a technique used to produce organisms or clones that are similar to the parent cell in all aspects. 1m
- Cloning is a form of asexual reproduction because it is based on mitotic cell division. 1 m
- The clones that are produced will have the same genetic content and chromosomal number with one another and with the parent cell. 1m
(b) The advantages:
Cloned plants are uniform in size and shape
Plants can be produced all the year around
Plants maintain the same desired characteristics of the mother plant
Tissue culture techniques are cost effective
The disadvantages:
1. Clones can be produced in vast numbers in a short time
2. Clones are susceptible to new diseases
3. Clones are easily destroyed if there is a change in the environment

(c)Able to state the important of mitosis
in growth process // to increase the number of cells ( during the growth process)
Cell replacement // To replace dead and damaged
Regeneration // Production of new cells
Asexual reproduction // the production of new individuals ( from parent organism )

(d) Able to discuss how to produce a cloned banana plant
Remove an explant, from a parent banana plant and cut it into small pieces
Sterilise the pieces of tissues with dilute sodium hypochlorite solution
Place each sterile tissue onto a growth medium
The tissue cells are left to divide by mitosis to produce a mass of loosely arranged and undifferentiated cells called callus
The callus is then stimulated with shoot stimulating hormones to form multiple shoots
Separate the shoots in nutrient medium with root stimulating hormones to encourage rooting
Once the roots grow, the plantlets ( little plants ) are planted in sterile compost to grow.
Happy Revising

Quick revision-Photosynthesis

THE REQUIREMENTS OF PHOTOSYNTHESIS AND ITS PRODUCTS

1. Photosynthesis is

  • a process that converts light energy into chemical energy

  • initial substrates are carbon dioxide and water

  • sunlight is required as energy source

  • produces carbohydrates such as glucose or starch

  • and releases oxygen to the surrounding
2. Take note of its overall equation . ..

3. Leaf structure and its adaptation for photosynthesis.
- Take note of the Diagram-LEAF ....make sure you know how to label the structures well..and the drawing...


1. Leaf Lamina:
Thin and wide // (high TSA/V ratio) to enable
(i) Leaf absorb sunlight
(ii) Carbon dioxide diffuse into cells easily

Mosaic arrangement of leaves to enable
(i)leaves absorb light maximum.

2) Leaf veins
* Situated at the centre of the leaf and branched out to the side of the leaf
* Xylem and phloem are found in the veins.
*Xilem transports water and minerals f
rom root to the leaf
*Phloem transports glucose (synthesized in the leaf ) to all part of the plant

3) Epidermis

· Consists of upper epidermis and lower epidermis . It serves a transparent single layer
· Epidermal cell has no chlorophyll and therefore permits light to penetrate into mesophyll tissues.
· Outer surface of epidermis is covered by cuticle which waterproof.It protects leaf from microb and excessive water loss


4) Stomata.(Relate its role when you discuss about TRANSPIRATION...)
Found abundantly at the lower surface of leaf.

  • Its opening is controlled by guard cells .
  • Exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide gas during photosynthesis and respiration takes place through the opening

5) Palisade mesophyll
Elongated cells with many chloroplast inside ,
near to leaf surface for more and efficient light absorbed.

6) Spongy mesophyll

  • Irregular shape,
  • loosely arranged beneath the palisade mesophyll
  • with many air sac It contains many chloroplast for photosynthesis.

Plant adaptation in favour of photosynthesis at different habitats.
1. Desert plants like cacti
2.Aquatic plant which could be Floating plants like water lilies OR submerged plants like Hydrilla sp.. (There was one question asked in SPM2005. Its about Eichhornia sp in its habitat...(It is pokok keladi bunting.)..

Question asked you to:

Explain the adaptations of the plant which enable it to float on the water surface. [4 marks]

3. Tropical land plants.


..Take note of their stomata and chloroplast distribution..There is one simple experiment to investigate the distribution of stomata and chloroplast on the epidermis of few sample of leaves....may be gotten from dofferent habitat...Just watch out..

..Next is...The mechanism of photosynthesis which consist of Lite and Dark reaction...It has been asked detail in Paper 2 SPM 2006..So I dont think it comes out again for 2009.

LIGHT REACTION:
  • Chlorophyll molecules absorb light energy,
  • becomes excited and release high energy electrons (this occurs in grana ) which is later on converted to ATP.
    · At the same time, water molecules in chlorophyll dissociates forming hydrogen ions and hydroxyl ions
    · Hydrogen ions combine with electrons to form hydrogen atoms
    · Hydrogen atoms thus formed later enters the dark reaction in stroma.
    · Hydroxyl ions releases its electron to form hydroxyl molecule
    · The electrons is accepted by chlorophyll molecules that had lost their electrons earlier.
    · Hydroxyl groups finally form water and releases oxygen.

  • DARK REACTION
  • The reaction takes place in stroma.
  • Hydrogen atoms produced during light reaction reduces carbon dioxide to form glucose.
  • The reduction of carbon dioxide in stroma is catalysed by enzymes
  • and requires energy from ATP ( produced during light reaction )
  • Units of (CH2O) combine to form glucose.
  • Glucose units are then condensed together to form starch which is stored in the leaves

The Factors affecting The rate of Photosynthesis...which I always consider have a greater chance to be asked...be it in Paper 2 or Paper 3..So you should be well versed about it.

In 2007 paper 3 Factor asked was Light intensity...And five years back, concentration of carbon dioxide has also being asked...But I wont eliminate the concentration of Carbon dioxide factor for this year...

The important factors are :
i. Carbon dioxide concentration
ii. Light intensity
iii. Temperature
...As for all graphs for the factors: You should be able to interpret each part of the graph with the meaningful sentences....It could be asked for Essay.


..As for paper 3, it could possibly be asked as Question 1 or Question 2: designing an experiment , which should be a bonus to you because it is quite straight forward as long as you know how to identify the THREE VARIABLES...and know how to operate them.....

  • Take note for all these experiments, we must use Hydrilla sp or any suitable aquatic plant..

  • and of course by counting bubbles in a fixed time ,are the best method...

  • take note also the set up of apparatus...basically it is all the same for all factors..


1. To investigate the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis

  • MV: Distance between the light source / bulb and Hydrilla sp // Light intensity

  • RV: Number of bubbles released in 5 minutes //The rate of photosynthesis

  • FV: Volume of sodium hydrogen carbonate solution

2. To investigate the effect of carbon dioxide concentration on the rate of photosynthesis.

  • MV: Different concentration of sodium hydrogen bicarbonate.

  • RV: Number of bubbles released in 5 minuted // the rate of photosynthesis

  • FV: Light intensity/ distance between lite source and Hydrilla sp.

3. To investigate the effect of temperature on the rate of photosynthesis

  • MV: Different temperature of water

  • RV: Number of bubbles released in 5 minutes //the rate of photosynthesis

  • FV:Concentration of carbon dioxide/sodium hydrogen bicarbonate....

If the question ask you:

Explain the differences in the rate of photosynthesis in plants throughout the day, could you write an essay???..

  • Tips:
    Look at marks allocated
  • Study the graph given (if any)
  • Explain part by part: morning, afternoon, evening, night
  • Relate the story....

Another Question:

What is the importance of photosynthesis?...[ 5 marks ]

Another question: Green houses related to photosynthesis..


Explain why provision of ‘ green houses ‘ are significant in four seasonal countries like those in Europe and northern America compared to tropical countries?

Suggested Answer:

  • Greenhouse effect are significant in four seasonal countries which have different amount of light intensities throughout the year.

  • During winter where light intensities is the least,

  • so a greenhouse is designed to trap the sun’s energy.

  • Sunlight can penetrate the glass roof of a greenhouse to warm the soil.

  • However, the heat given off by the soil cannot pass through the glass, so it remains inside to warm the air.

  • This means that the heat from the sun is trapped inside the greenhouse

  • and this keeps the plants warm throughout the year.

...and its good for the plants...Mind you ..it is not the other effect of Greenhouse effect....

Lastly: Technology used in Food Production.

Just take note and be able to write a few reasons why is it necessary to improve the quality and quantity of foods..

..Read a bit about Hydroponic, aeroponics... WHAT, HOW, ADVANTAGE and one EXAMPLE...

  • ..and methods involve in food processing such as:
    pasteurisation
  • canning
  • drying
  • freezing
  • prickling

...Usually only 2-4 marks to explain that...

  • The basic guidelines are:
    What is the method
  • How it is done
  • Advantages/Disadvantages.

Happy Revising..

Quick Revision-Nutrition

..Well..I have to make it fast for all of you...So I wont post the Brief Account and Diagrams anymore because it is time consuming...
..Starting from this chapter onwards, I'm going to publish the FAQ and the possibilities oof the subtopics to be asked....

...and I'm focussing on Paper 2 and Paper 3 since for Paper1 there will be 3-4 questions are definitely asked from each chapters in Biology.....

1. Types of nutrition:

AUTOTROPHS
  • Organisms that can synthesis complex organic compound from raw simple inorganic substances
  • using light or chemical energy.
  • Photosynthesis and Chemosynthesis
PHOTOSYNTHESIS:
  • A process through which green plants produce organic molecules from carbon dioxide and water
  • using light as a source of energy
CHEMOSYNTHESIS
  • A process which include certain type of bacteria ,synthesise organic compound without the help of light.
  • These organisms obtain energy by oxiding inorganic substances such as hydrogen sulphide and ammonia
HETEROTROPHS
  • Organisms that cannot synthesis their own nutrients
  • Holozoic, saprophyte, parasite

HOLOZOIC

The organisms feed by ingesting solid organic matter which is subsequently digested and absorbed into their bodies..One example..

PARASITE

The organism that obtains nutrient by living on or in the body of another living organism , the host...One example..

SAPROPHYTE

The organisms that feed on dead and decaying organic matter. They digest the food externally before the nutrient are absorbed...One example..

WHAT IS ENERGY?

  • Energy is needed to perform physical activities and to sustain vital functions such as heartbeat, breathing and for maintaining body temperature at 37° C
  • The energy is generated by the oxidation of molecules obtained from food during cellular respiration.The unit of energy value is joule per gram (Jgˉ' )
  • Energy value = the amount of heat generated from the combustion of one gram of food
  • 4.2 joules of energy are needed to raise the temperature of 1g of water by 1°C
  • Three main energy providing organic molecules are lipids, carbohydrates and proteins
  • The energy value of:
    Carbohydrates = 22.2 kJ/g
    Proteins =17.2 kJ/g
    Lipid =37.6 kJ/g

1. What is meant by Balanced Diet:

  • defined as a diet which is made up of seven classses of food // list down all the seven
  • in the right proportion for the need of the body

2. Please remember the ONE major function for each classes of food such as:

Carbohydrate - provide a source of energy

Proteins- provide a source of materials for growth and repair

Fats- Provide a source of energy

Vitamins- To keep/maintain good health

Mineral salts- For healthy teeths, bones and muscles..//any suitable answer

Fibers- To help intestines to function correctly

...and of course WATER...

Factors affecting the daily energy requirement


Daily requirement of energy depends on age, occupation,weight, health and activities.
  1. You should be able to explain by giving FACTS, then EXPLAIN why, with one or two reasons depending on the MArks allocated for the question...
  2. Should Explain:
  • Need more...................because...........................
  • Need less what...............because...............

3. Target Groups you should know are as follows:

1. Pregnant woman:

2. Infants and children:

3.Teenagers: Male? Female?

4. Athletes:
Depending on the type of sport they are engaged in..(Response to the question...BUT the FACT must always come with EXPLANATION )

  • For example : a foot ball player needs high protein food.. to build new tissues and strong muscle.
  • A badminton player needs athlete rich in proteins vitamins minerals, and carbohydrates... to provides constant energy during training and competition
  • They also needs calcium, sodium and potassium.. to prevent muscle cramps.

5.Osteoporosis

6. The elderly

7.Vegetarians

8. Children and teenagers:

  • They needs carbohydrates
  • to provide extra energy.
  • They also need a lot of proteins
  • to build body tissues.
  • They should take plenty of fruits and vegetables
  • to provide dietary fibres, minerals and vitamins.

Definition of Malnutrition :
Result from taking an unbalanced diet in which certain nutrient are lacking, in
excess, or in the wrong proportions.

**Has been asked in Essay 2008 ..[8 marks]

...Nutritional effects such as :Kwashiorkor, scurvy, rikets, osteoporosis, diabetis melitus, obesity...Points/Facts to elaborate:

  • Lacking / excess..will cause...
  • Symptoms..(at least ONE major symptom)
  • Treatments/Prevention (At least ONE)

In 2006, Essay Qs related:

6(b) Constipation, night blindness and anaemia are three health problems. State the cause and suggest the ways to overcome these health problems from nutritional aspects. [ 6 marks]

Tips:

  • take note there are three health problems to discuss.
  • Each will carry only TWO marks.
  • Marks given for: stating the cause and suggest the ways to overcome.[1+1 mark]
  • But you can suggest more than one ways, let the markers choose one best..

..Next...Human Digestive syatem...Must know the Diagram well...how to draw and label...especially Villus: the most asked diagram (may be not 2009)

..and should be able to explain what happen/the event.. at all sites like: Mouth, stomach,duodenum,small intestine (Ileum)...not forgetting colon too..

..all events involve enzymes..should know the names of enzymes and their substract and the produts......

Application Questions:

1 (a) An operation has been conducted on a patient to remove part of his stomach
as it has become cancerous. As a doctor, explain consequences of his situation to his digestion process. [4 marks]

Suggested answer:

F: Production of gastric juice/pepsin/rennin decrease.
P1:Digestion of protein become slow/decrease
P2:Coagulation of protein by rennin decrease.
P3:Unable to provide acidic medium for enzyme reaction//bacteria can not be destroyed.

(F= fact, P=Explanation )

.........As for Digestive System In Ruminants And Rodents...I dont think it will be a question this year because its already being asked for an essay in 2006...

Qs:Explain one similarity and four differences between the alimentary canal of Q and R..[10 marks]

**Q is rabbit, R is cow...

1. Take note on ONE and FOUR...Follow the requirement of the question...Dont give more ....

2.Differences can be written in a form of TABLE.

3.Must know the meaning of alimentary canal...

4. Plan the essay properly..before start answering..

5. You really can score full marks for This type of question if you manage to produce correct facts...

ABSORPTION AND ASSIMILATION OF DIGESTION FOOD

* The parts of the digestive system involved in the absorption of digested food is small intestine
*The adaptive characteristic of the digestive system related to absorption are:

-The epithelial lining is only one cells thick so..............................
-The epithelial cells of projection called microvilli, so this will increase the surface area available for absorption
-Each villus also has a network of blood capillaries and a lymphatic vessel called a lacteal so.......

...Remember!! for every Facts you produce You must tag along the explanation!!!!!

Next prosess is ....

  • The Assimilation Of Digested Food

    Assimilation:
    A process of incorporating digested food into our body cells and tissues
  • so that they can become part of body tissue.
  • An example is the building of cytoplasm by using amino acids from the digestion of proteins.

Explain how the assimilation process happens in the liver.

-The liver acts as a checkpoint which controls the amount of nutrients released into the blood circulatory system.
-Most of the glucose is converted into glycogen and stored in the liver.

-When the blood sugar level falls and the body needs energy , the stored glycogen is converted back to glucose.

-Glucose is distributed throughout the body by the circulatory system.

-When the glucose molecules reach the cells, they are oxidized to release energy during cellular respiration.

-When the glycogen store in the liver is full, excess glucose is converted into lipids by the liver.

-Like glucose ; amino acids have to pass through the liver before they reach the blood circulatory system.

-The liver synthesizes plasma proteins from amino acids.

-When there is a short supply of glucose and glycogen, the liver converts amino acids to glucose. -Amino acids which enter the cells are used for the synthesis of new protoplasm

-and the repair of damaged tissues.

FORMATION OF FAECES AND DEFAECATION...has been asked in 2008 Essay [4 marks]

EVALUATING EATING HABITS.
Health Problems Related To Eating Habits...

  • health problem
  • cause
  • symptom.

Macronutrient/micronutrient never being asked in Paper 2..and Paper 3 yet...Why not you have a look at the experiment involved...

...This chapter is quite a long one...so I will continue for the next subtopic : Photosynthesis in my coming posting VERY SOON...

note: there'll be errors in spelling everywhere, i will correct later...

Monday, October 19, 2009

All about Enzymes

Enzymes

..Are The FAQ (Frequently Asked Question ) in SPM...for all papers: paper 1, 2 and even 3.

You dont ever think of leaving this subtopic behind...You have to be well versed or should I say, master it well...

Brief Account
1. Biochemical reactions occur in cells are called metabolism
2. Metabolism includes anabolism and catabolism.
3. Anabolism is the metabolic reactions that build complex molecules, example photosynthesis.
4. Catabolism is the metabolic reactions that break down complex molecules, example respiration and digestion
5. Enzymes are biological catalyst which guide almost all cellular reactions.
6. The general characteristics of enzymes: (FACTS)
· Enzymes are protein
· Enzymes speed up biochemical reactions
· Enzymes are needed in small amount.
· Enzymes are highly specific
· Enzymes reactions are reversible.
· Many enzymes require helper molecules such as cofactor to function.
· Enzymes activities can be slowed down or completely stopped by inhibitors.

For each of the above FACTS, you can elaborate with EXPLANATION…..in your ESSAY

7. Take note of the differences between the intracellular enzyme and extracellular enzyme
8. Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis, hence it is the site of enzymes synthesis.
9. The production of extracellular enzymes can be represented using this Diagram:

Sequence of event:

a. Protein that are synthesize in the ribosomes are transported through RER.
b. Protein depart from RER, wrapped in vesicle
c. Transport vesicle fuse with the membrane of Golgi apparatus .
d. Golgi apparatus modified the protein to form enzyme
e. Vesicle bind off from golgi apparatus membrane and travel to plasma membrane
f. Vesicle will fuse with plasma membrane before releasing the enzyme.


10. Factors affecting the rate of enzyme activities:
a. pH
b. temperature
c. substrate concentration
d. enzyme concentration

11.When explaining about the effects of temperature on the activity of enzymes, do not forget to include sentences :
· At low temperature, an enzyme-catalysed reaction takes place slowly because the substrate molecules are moving at a relatively slow rate.
· As the temperature increases, the substrate molecules move faster.
· Collisions between the substrate and enzyme molecules occur more frequently.
· This increase the chances of the substrate molecules coming into contact with the active sites of the enzyme.
· Thus at higher temperature, the rate of reaction between substrate and enzyme increases.
· For every 10 C rise in temperature, the rate of enzyme reaction is doubled.
· This is only true until the optimum temperature is reached.
· The optimum temperature is the temperature at which an enzyme catalyse a reaction at its maximum rate. (37 C)
· Beyond the optimum temperature, any increase in temperature causes the rate of reaction to decrease sharply until it completely stops at 60 C.
· At a very high temperature, the chemical bonds holding the enzymes in their precise shape begin to break.
· This alter the 3-dimensional shape of the enzyme molecules and eventually destroy their active sites.
· So substrate can no longer fit into the active site of the enzyme.
· The enzyme is said to be denatured. (above 40 C)
12.As for the effect of pH:
· A change in pH value can alter the charges on the active sites of an enzyme and the surface of the substrate.
· This can reduce the ability of both molecules to bind with each other.
· In extreme pH condition , the configuration of the enzyme is altered, enzyme structure is altered, destroying its normal function.

13. The effects of substrate concentration on enzyme activity:
· The rate of enzyme-catalysed reaction increases in direct proportion to the substrate concentration until the reaction reaches maximum rate.
· Beyond the maximum rate, the active sites of the enzymes molecules are fully occupied by the substrate molecules,
· So increasing the substrate concentration further has no effect on the rate of reaction.

14. The effects of enzyme concentration on enzyme activity..Explain!

15.As for Paper 3, the possibilities of designing an experiment are as follows:

a. To study the effects of temperature on the activity of salivary amylase

-Manipulated Variable: Temperature of the medium : 0 C, 28 C, 37 C, 45 C, 60 C
-Responding Variable: Time taken for hydrolysis of starch to be completed // Rate of enzymatic reaction.
-Fixed Variable: Volume of saliva (enzyme)

b. To study the effects of pH on the activity of pepsin

-Manipulated Variable: pHof the medium : 3 ,7,8
-Responding Variable: The condition of the mixture after 20 minutes // Rate of enzymatic reaction.
-Fixed Variable: Volume of albumen suspension.

c. To study the effects of substrate concentration on the activity of salivary amylase

-Manipulated Variable: Concentration of starch suspension: 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6% -Responding Variable: Time taken for hydrolysis of starch to be completed // Rate of enzymatic reaction.
-Fixed Variable: Concentration of saliva (enzyme)

d. To study the effects of enzyme concentration on the activity of salivary amylase

-Manipulated Variable: Concentration of amylase: 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%
-Responding Variable: Time taken for hydrolysis of starch to be completed // Rate of enzymatic reaction.
-Fixed Variable: Substrate concentration

Sample Questions:
1.Figure shows the reaction of an enzyme based on ‘lock and key’ hyphothesis

Based on the figure above, determine the properties of enzyme .

I Enzyme is specific
II Remain unchanged at the end of the reaction
III Enzyme catalysed reactions are reversible
IV Speed up the rates of chemical reaction

A I and II
B I, II and III
C II and IV
D II, III and IV

2. The figure shows the organelles involved in the production of extracellular enzymes.


(a)(i) Using a named example, explain the term extracellular enzyme.
[2 marks]
(ii) Based on the organelles shown, explain how extracellular enzymes are produced.
[8 marks]

(b)The figure shows a reaction of an enzyme and its substrate

Explain the mechanism of the enzymatic reaction [10 marks]

Sample Answer:

1 ( a) (i) - Extracellular enzyme is produced in a cell, then packed and secreted from the cell.
It catalyses its reaction outside the cell. An example is amylase.

- (ii) The instruction for making the extracellular enzyme is transcribed from the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) to ribonucleic acid (RNA) in the nucleus.
o The RNA then leaves the nucleus through the nuclear pore
o and attaches itself to the ribosome located on the endoplasmic reticulum.
o When the synthesis of the enzymes is completed
o it is encapsulated in a transport vesicle which fuses with the Golgi body.
o In the Golgi body, the enzyme is further modified before being packed in a secretory vesicle.
o The secretory vesicle transports the enzyme to the plasma membrane, where it fuses with it
o and the enzyme is released outside the cell.

(b) The explanation of enzyme action is known as the ‘lock and key hypothesis’.
· The substrate molecule fits into the active site of the enzyme molecule.
· The substrate is the ‘key’ that fits into the enzyme ‘lock’.
· Various types of bonds such as hydrogen and ionic bonds hold the substrate
· in the active site forming the enzyme-substrate complex.
· Once the complex is formed, the enzyme changes the substrate to its product.
· The product leaves the active site.
· The enzyme is not altered by the reaction and it can be reused.


Sample Question:

1. Discuss the uses of enzymes in the household & industries. Why are enzyme used in these industries.

Suggested Answer :

Enzymes are used as biological detergents.
· Protease degrades coagulated proteins into soluble short-chain peptides.
· Lipase degrades fat or oil stains into soluble fatty acid and glycerol.
· Amylase degrades starch into soluble shorter-chain polysaccharides and sugars.

Enzymes are used in the baking industry.
· Protease is used in the breakdown of proteins in flour for the production of biscuits.
· Amylase is used in the breakdown of some starch to glucose in flour for making white bread, buns and rolls.

Enzymes are used in the medical field.
· Trypsin is used to remove blood clots and to clean wounds.
· Various other enzymes are used in biosensors.

Enzymes are used in industries because:
· They are effective.
· They are cheap and easy to use.
· They can be re-used, thus only small amounts are needed.
· They don't require high temperature to work, thus this reduces fuel costs.

PAPER 3 QUESTION 2- This Qs came out for Paper 3 SPM 2009

A group of students did a study on the function of enzymes as an organic catalyst that can regulate and increase the rate biochemical reactions in the cell. Enzymes are very sensitive to a change in temperature and functions efficiently at an optimum temperature. Design an experiment to study the effect of different temperatures on the activity of salivary amylase on starch.
The planning of your experiment must include the following aspects:

· Statement of identified problem
· Objective of study
· Variables
· Statement of variables
· List of materials and apparatus
· Technique used
· Experimental procedure
· Presentation of data
· Conclusion

Sample answer:

Problem Statement
How does different temperatures Affect the activity of salivary amylase?
Aim: To study the effect of different temperatures on the activity of salivary amylase .

Variables:
Manipulated variables: Temperature.
Responding variables: Time taken for hydrolysis of starch to be completed// Rate of reaction.
Controlled variable: enzyme concentration

Hypothesis:
The rate of reaction of salivary amylase on starch increases with an increase in temperature until it reaches the optimum temperature.

Apparatus & Materials:
Test tube, a dropper, a stopwatch, beakers, a thermometer, a white tile, a Bunsen burner, a tripod stand, test-tube rack, a wire gauze.
1 % starch solution, salivary amylase solution, ice cubes, distilled water, iodine test solution.
Technique
Measure and record the time taken for hydrolysis of starch to be completed using stopwatch
Procedure:
1. Collect 5 ml of saliva and dilute it with 5 ml of distilled water and labelled test tube X.
2. Put 1 ml saliva in each test tube labelled A, B, C, D and E.
3. Pour 5 ml of 1 % starch solution into each test tube labelled A, B, C, D and E.
4. Immerse test tube A and X, in water bath where the temperature is fixed at 5C and leave it for 10 minutes.
5. Prepare a piece of white tile and drop iodine solution on it.
6. After 5 minutes pour 2ml of saliva from test tube X to the starch solution in test tube A. Start the stop watch.
7. Repeat the iodine test for the mixture from test tube A at intervals of 1 minute.
8. Record the time taken for the mixture from A to change in colour of iodine solution until it does not change.
9. Repeat steps 4 to 8 for test tubes B, C, D and E with water temperatures fixed at 28C, 37C, 45C and 60C respectively.
10. The results are recorded in a table.

Result:

Conclusion:
The rate of increase of enzyme action increases with an increase in temperature until it reaches the optimum temperature. Hypothesis accepted

...Happy Revising..

Saturday, October 17, 2009

The Importance of Organic compounds in the cell

Brief Account
1. Organic compounds:
-molecules contain carbon
-synthesised by the cell itself
-large molecules.
-carbohydrates (sugars and starch), proteins, lipids (fats) and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA)

2. Inorganic Compounds:
-Do not contain carbon
-simpler than organic compound
-can be found in cell, water, acids, alkalis and mineral salts

3. Should know at least two importance of :
Carbohydrates.
Proteins
Lipids(Fats)

4...And the Importance of water!

-as universal solvent, facilitate in cell reactions.
-as transport medium- blood plasma is almost 90% water
--as coolant-water absorbs excess heat from cells, evaporates and cools the cells.
-as an insulator- helps to maintain a narrow range of temperature change for biochemical reaction.
-as reactant- a substance used in a chemical reaction, in condensation and hydrolytic raction
-Gives structure and support- Forms hydrostatic skeleton in animals, gives mechanical support in plants.
-Medium for biochemical reactions- most of biochemical reactions occur when there is water. Enzymic reaction also require water.
-as lubrication- mucus and synovial fluid mainly consist of water, ease movement at joints..

5. You must know about carbohydrates and its classification

6.Starch, Glycogen and Cellulose are ALL polymer of GLUCOSE...Watch out for their differences in STRUCTURE and FUNCTION too....It could be asked in Paper 2...

7. Watch out for the difference between the process of CONDENSATION and HYDROLYSIS....
It involves WATER.

8. You must know about proteins and its structures,the formation and breakdown of dipeptides and polypeptides and its functions..

9. The differences between essential amino acid and non-essential amino acid..

10. You must know about Lipids, its types and functions
11. Oils refer to fats that are liquids at normal room temperature but Fats refer to fats that are solid at normal room temperature
11. The similarities and difference between saturated and unsaturated fats.

...And DNA - made up of nucleotides....The structure!!!!

Sample Questions for you to try:

1.Which of the following is not a function of water?
A. Provides a moist surface for diffusion of gases
B. Facilitates the movement of joints
C. An insulator of heat in the body
D. Facilitates the hydrolysis of food by enzymes

2. Haemoglobin is an example of a
A. primary structure of protein
B. secondary structure of protein
C. tertiary structure of protein
D. quarternary structure of protein

3. A dipeptide can be broken down into amino acids by the process of
A. condensation
B. heating
C. acid addition
D. hydrolysis
4. Plants usually store their excess carbohydrates in the form of
A. starch
B. glycogen
C. glucose
D. cellulose

5. What is the importance of nucleic acids?
A. Build cells during growth
B. Main source of energy
C. Required for the synthesis of antibodies
D. Carry genetic material

6. What is the composition of the basic unit of fats?
A. One molecule of fatty acid and three molecules of glycerol
B. One molecule of fatty acid and one molecule of glycerol
C. Three molecules of fatty acids and one molecule of glycerol
D. Three molecules of fatty acids

7. Which of these enzymes are synthesised in the human body?

I Trypsin
II Lipase
III Zymase
IV Cellulase

A I and II only C I, II and IV only
B II and III only D I, II, III and IV

8. Carbon is one of the essential elements in a cell. Its mainly found in
I water
II lipid
III amino acid
IV nucleic acid

A I and 11 only
B II and III only
C I, III and IV only
D II, III and IV only

Essay Question:
There are two important groups of compounds in cells, the organic compounds and the inorganic compounds. The organic compounds are protein, nucleic acids, carbohydrates and lipids. Describe the presence and importance of organic compounds, such as carbohydrates and proteins in a cells. (10 marks)

Suggested Answer:

Carbohydrate:
- It is a compound synthesized by plants through photosynthesis.
- It is involved in the building of plant cell wall.
- It is present in various forms including monosaccharide, disaccharide and polysaccharide.
- Polysaccharide is storage carbohydrate
- Example: glycogen is stored in animal cell and starch is stored in plant cell.
- Monosaccharide include glucose, galactose and fructose.
- They released energy when oxidized during respiration.
- Glucose is the main energy source for the cell.
- Lignin is dead cells of plants functions to give mechanical strength.


Protein:
- It is the main component of the cytoplasm and plasma membrane.
- Protein is present as keratin in hair and nail.
- Carrier protein in the plasma membrane function in the transport of substances across the plasma membrane.
- Enzymes, antibody and many hormones are proteins.
- Hormone function to regulate chemical process and cell metabolism, such as digestion.
- Enzyme act to catalyse metabolic reaction of the cell.
- Antobody defends the body from pathogenic attack.Protein also act as a source of energy during starvation.

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Isotonic, hypotonic and hypertonic


Red blood Cells/ erythrocytes

Plant cells


Brief Account

Explain what hypotonic, hypertonic and isotonic solutions are

1. Hypotonic solution refers to a solution that contains less solute compared to the cytoplasm of the cell.
2. If the
solution surrounding the cell is hypotonic, osmosis causes water to have a net flow into the cell,
3. Hypertonic solution refers to a
solution, has a higher concentration of solutes than another solution, so that water is drawn out of the cells and into the solution by osmosis.
4. A hypertonic solution is the
opposite of a hypotonic solution.
5. isotonic solution - is a solution where the solute concentration of the solution that the cell is in is the same as the solute concentration of the cell's cytoplasm.


Explain the effect of hypotonic, hypertonic and isotonic solutions on plant cell and animal cell.

Animal and plant cells in an isotonic solution

When a cell is placed in a solution where the solute concentration is the same on both sides of the cell membrane, they neither gain nor lose water by osmosis.

Such a solution is said to be isotonic.

Cell in an isotonic environment is in a state of equilibrium with its surroundings.

When the amount of impermeable solute is the same on the inside and outside of the cell, osmotic pressure becomes equal; the force of water trying to exit and enter the cell balances out.
When red blood cells are placed in a 0.9% salt solution, the cell will neither shrink nor swell. So 0.9% sodium chloride (salt) solution is isotonic to blood cells.

When onion cell is placed in an isotonic solution such as 5% sucrose solution, there is no change in its shape because there is no net movement of water by osmosis.

Plant cells in an isotonic environment are flaccid, and they will wither.

The equilibrium of water movement is unable to provide plant cells with internal pressure for structural support, and therefore plants prefer to live in a hypotonic environment.

In this situation, the concentration of solutes inside plant cells is higher than outside, and the plants use active transport to transport solutes in. This also ensures the concentration of water will be higher outside plant cells than inside.

Explain plasmolysis, deplasmolysis, heamolysis and crenation.

Animal and plant cells in a hypotonic solution

1. When an animal cell is set to a hypotonic environment the cell will eventually lyse (rupture) due to the osmotic pressure.
2. A red blood cell placed in a hypotonic solution (e.g., pure water/distilled water) water will enter by osmosis. The red blood cell would take in a lot of water and might lyse ("hemolysis")due to pressure inside. This is a possible because animal cells have no tolerance under hypotonic situations.
3. In a
plant, the cell will not lyse but become turgid because of its strong cell wall that prevents it from bursting. These allow the buildup of turgor within the cell. When the turgor pressure equals the osmotic pressure, osmosis ceases.In fact, it is the osmotic pressure (or turgor pressure) that helps keep the plant from wilting and losing its shape.
4. Turgidity is important in young plants where its help in support.

Animal and plant cells in a hypertonic solution

1. In animal cells, being in a hypertonic environment results in crenation, where the shape of the cell becomes distorted and wrinkled as water leaves the cell by osmosis.
2. Examples of hypertonic solution is sea water, 5% sodium chloride solution, 30% sucrose solution
3. In
plant cells, the cell membrane pulls away from the cell wall, but the cell remains joined to the adjacent cells at points called plasmodesmata. This condition is known as plasmolysis.
4. Plasmolysis is the seperation of plant cell cytoplasm from the cell wall as a result of water loss. The plant cell becomes flaccid (soft and weak)
5. If the plasmolysed cell is placed in a hypotonic solution, it will absorb water causing the cytoplasm to expand and comes into contact with the cell wall again. This is called
deplasmolysis.

The effects and applications of osmosis in everyday life

1. Osmosis has a number of life-preserving functions: it assists plants in receiving water, it helps in the preservation of fruit and meat, and is even used in kidney dialysis.
2. In addition, osmosis can be reversed to remove salt and other impurities from water.
3. The excessive use of chemical fertilizers will cause the plant cells to lose water. Plant cells plasmolysed and later on the whole plant wilt.
4. Dissolved ions from chemical fertilisers such as phosphates, nitrates, calcium, and magnesium, in the soil around the roots and root hairs, will cause the increase in solute concentration, but decrease in water molecules concentration, hence, water diffuse from the cell sap into soil water by osmosis.
5. When water is drawn out of the plant cell, the cytoplasm shrink away from the cellulose cell wall and cause plasmolysis.
6.Plasmolyzed cells lose turgidity and support, causing the whole plant to wilt.
7. Osmosis helps us in preserving food. So that it last longer. By using a concentrated salt or sugar solution, all the water molecules within the food cells are drawn out by osmosis.
8. The food without water will hinder the bacteria and fungus from growing.
9. Animals living in an aquatic environment which are not isotonic to their body tissue may face problem due to the process of osmosis.
10. For example, unicellular organism such Paramecium sp. Living in fresh water, Paramecium has a higher concentration of materials inside the cell than are present in the outside environment. Thus, water is constantly flowing into the cell through the process of osmosis. Paramecium has two contractile vacuoles that eliminate water entering the cell by through osmosis and help maintain osmotic equilibrium.
11. Paramecium must constantly be expelling water to prevent the cell from becoming bloated with water and potentially bursting.
12.The plasma membrane, being semi permeable to certain substances will act as a gate keeper, regulating what goes in and out of the cell.
13. If there is any defect in the plasma membrane, many essential processes in the cells cannot be carried out. Thus the proper functioning of the plasma membrane is important to our health.
14. In order to maintain the proper function of the plasma membrane and the cell as a whole, it is important for us to take care of our food and water intake.

Questions for you to try out:

1. Cucumber slices are immersed in 0.1% sucrose solution. After 3 hours, the slices are found to be turgid and hard.Which of the following statements explains this phenomenon?
A The cucumber cell wall prevents it from shrinking
B The cell sap is hypotonic towards the sucrose solution
C The high concentration of the cell sap in the vacuole causes water to diffuse in
D The cucumber cell wall allows the sucrose molecules to diffuse into the cell

2. A plant cell immersed in distilled water. Which of the following is true about the movement of water molecules in the early stage?
A The rate of water molecules exiting the cell is higher than entering the cell
B The rate of water molecules entering the cell is higher than exiting the cell
C No water molecules are entering or exiting the cell
D The rate of water molecules entering and exiting the cell is the same

3. Siti is going to prepare some mango pickle. First, she cuts and washed the mangoes. Then she adds vinegar and sugar to the mangoes. After one month, the mango pickle remains in good edible condition because
I The pH of the solution is low
II The bacteria that cause food spoilage loses water to the surroundings
III The dehydrated condition of the fruit inhibits the grouth of bacteria
IV The high concentration of vinegar in the pickles is not conducive to the growth of bacteria
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV

4. A plasmolysed cell can revert to its normal condition by being
A Immersed in pure water
B Immersed in a concentrated salt solution
C Immersed in 10% sugar solution
D Taken out quickly from the solution

5. Which of the following processes is affected by the presence of a metabolic poison?
A Absorption of water by root hairs
B Uptake of iodine by algae living in the sea
C Absorption of digested food in the small intestine
D The movement of amino acids across the plasma membrane

6. Preservation of the food by eliminating water from the food involves
A osmosis
B simple diffusion
C active transport
D facilitated diffusion

ESSAY QUESTION:


1(a) A student made the following observation.

The effects of distilled water on red blood cells differ from those on onion cells when
both are placed in equal volumes of
distilled water.

Explain the student’s observation. [5 marks]

(b) Some housewives believe soaking vegetables in salt solution
before cooking can help eliminate the harmful effects of
insecticides that are sprayed on the vegetables.
(i) Explain why vegetables become soft if they are soaked too long
in salt solution.
(ii) Suggest how the housewives can restore the vegetables which
Have become floppy to their normal condition.
[5 marks]

Suggested Answer:


1(a)- Distilled water is hypotonic to the cytoplasm of red blood cells and the cell sap
of the onion cells.(1m)
- Osmosis occurs, resulting in a net flow of water from the surrounding into the
cell.(1m)
- The red blood cells will swell and eventually burst (1m)
- The vacuoles in the onion cells expand, and the plant cells become turgid (1m)
- However, the cell wall prevents the onion cells from bursting because it is tough
and rigid (1m)
-----
5m
-----
(b)(i) -Vegetables which are soaked too long in a salt solution will become soft because
the salt solution is more hypertonic than the cytoplasm of the vegetable cells
(1m)
-Water flow out of the cells, causing the cytoplasm and the vacuoles to shrink
(1m).
-The plasma membranes pull away from the cell walls (1m)
-In this condition, the cells are said to be plasmolysed (1m)
(ii) To make the vegetables crisp again, housewives can soak the vegetables in
water (1m)
------
5m
------

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