CAPE Biology Unit 2

Module 2 – Biosystems Maintenance

Answer ALL questions

1. (a) Explain what is meant by ‘phloem loading’ and describe the mechanisms that
contributes to the transport of dissolved nutrients in the phloem vessels. [7 marks]

(b) Give THREE experimental evidence to support the mass flow theory of transport in the
phloem. [3 marks]

(c) (i) Describe THREE factors that contributes to transport of water along the xylem
vessels of plants. [3 marks]
(ii) Name TWO components in the structure of the xylem that contributes to its
rigidity and structural integrity. [2 marks]

Total 15 marks

2. (a) Describe the main phases that occur in the cardiac cycle. Include in your response the
time period of one cardiac cycle. [8 marks]

(b) The aorta of the mammalian heart transports blood at high blood pressures from the
heart to surrounding tissues of the body. Describe the structural features of this blood
vessel that contributes to its function. [4 marks]

(c) Comment on the relationship between dietary habits and the prevalence of obstructive
cardiovascular disease. [3 marks]

Total 15 marks

3. (a) (i) Explain the role of the hypothalamus and the pituitary in homeostatic control of
water levels in the human body. [4 marks]

(ii) The proximal convoluted tubular cells of the kidney nephron contains numerous
mitochondria and brush border cells.

Describe how this adaptation contributes to its function in selective absorption. In

your response , outline the substances reabsorbed at this location. [4 marks]

(b) Explain with reference to a named example, how hormonal dysfunction contributes to
disease. [4 marks]

(c) Comment on the importance of negative feedback mechanisms in hormonal control in

maintenance of homeostatic control. Include in your response an example of negative
feedback mechanism in humans. [3 marks]

Total 15 marks

Grand Total 45 marks