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Table 4 shows information about four jellyfish - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 6 - 2010 - Paper 1
Question 6
Table 4 shows information about four jellyfish. The jellyfish are listed in order of increasing size. Table 4 | Jellyfish | Size of jellyfish | Surface area in mm²... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Table 4 shows information about four jellyfish - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 6 - 2010 - Paper 1
Step 1
Calculate value X in Table 4.
Answer
To find the value of X, we need to calculate the surface area to volume ratio for jellyfish A. The surface area is 3,600 mm² and the volume is 1,200 mm³. The surface area to volume ratio (SA:V) can be calculated using the formula:
Substituting the values, we get:
Thus, X = 3.
Step 2
Describe the relationship between the size of a jellyfish and its surface area to volume ratio.
Answer
As the size of a jellyfish increases, the surface area to volume ratio decreases. This means that while the jellyfish gets larger, the amount of surface area available relative to its volume becomes smaller. In simple terms, larger jellyfish have less surface area available per unit volume compared to smaller jellyfish.
Step 3
Step 4
Suggest two factors that affect the rate of diffusion of oxygen into a jellyfish.
Answer
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Concentration gradient: The difference in concentration of oxygen inside and outside the jellyfish affects the rate of diffusion; a greater difference results in faster diffusion.
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Surface area: A larger surface area allows more oxygen to diffuse into the jellyfish at a given time.
Step 5
Step 6
Explain how the human breathing system is adapted to maximise the rate of gas exchange.
Answer
The human breathing system is highly adapted to maximize gas exchange.
Alveoli Structure
The presence of numerous alveoli increases the surface area available for gas exchange. This large surface area significantly enhances the ability to absorb oxygen and expel carbon dioxide.
Blood Supply
Each alveolus is surrounded by a network of blood vessels (capillaries), allowing for efficient transport of gases. This close proximity facilitates rapid diffusion of oxygen into the blood and carbon dioxide out of the blood, minimizing the distance gases must travel.
Ventilation
The lungs continually ventilate, bringing in fresh air with oxygen and removing air rich in carbon dioxide. This action maintains a concentration gradient, allowing for continuous and efficient gas exchange.
Capillary Walls
Capillary walls are very thin (one cell thick), which further reduces the diffusion distance for gases, allowing for faster exchange rates.
In summary, these adaptations create an effective system for gas exchange, maximizing oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal.