Two students investigated reflex action times - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 6 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 6
Two students investigated reflex action times.
This is the method used.
1. Student A sits with her elbow resting on the edge of a table.
2. Student B holds a ruler... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Two students investigated reflex action times - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 6 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Suggest two ways the students could improve the method to make sure the test would give valid results.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Drop the ruler from the same height each time to maintain consistency in the test conditions.
Use the same hand to catch the ruler to reduce variability in reaction time due to hand differences.
Step 2
What is the median result?
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
117
Step 3
Calculate the mean reaction time.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Using the calculation: reaction time = \frac{116}{490}. The mean reaction time is approximately 0.236 s, which is 0.236 to three significant figures.
Step 4
Give two reasons why using a computer program to measure reaction times is likely to be more valid than the method using a dropped ruler.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The computer program provides an indication of when the reaction should occur, eliminating potential biases in timing.
Measurement of time via a computer timer can be more precise than human reaction, reducing error margins.
Step 5
Suggest which part of her brain has been damaged.
97%
117 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Cerebral cortex.
Step 6
Suggest which part of his brain has been damaged.
97%
121 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!