Why could the blockage in Figure 9 cause cells in the heart to die?
[2 marks] - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 5
Why could the blockage in Figure 9 cause cells in the heart to die?
[2 marks]
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Why could the blockage in Figure 9 cause cells in the heart to die?
[2 marks] - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Why could the blockage in Figure 9 cause cells in the heart to die?
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Answer
The blockage in the blood vessel may restrict or completely stop the flow of blood to the heart muscle. When blood flow decreases, oxygen delivery to the heart cells is also reduced. Heart cells depend on oxygen for cellular respiration to generate energy. Without adequate oxygen, heart cells cannot produce enough energy, leading to cell death due to hypoxia. Additionally, the lack of blood flow can cause a buildup of waste products, further leading to cellular damage and death.