Cambridge International A Level · Marine Science (9693)

The tropical coral reef: Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 5 written questions with worked solutions. All on The tropical coral reef.

10 questions31 marksFree, no account

Question 1

1 mark

In the anatomy of a typical hard coral polyp, which structure is specifically responsible for the secretion of the calcium carbonate cup in which the polyp sits?

Question 2

1 mark

According to the Darwin-Dana-Daly theory, what is the primary geological requirement for the transition from a barrier reef to an atoll?

Question 3

1 mark

In the context of tropical coral reefs, how do hard corals differ from soft corals regarding their skeletal structure and symbiosis?

Question 4

1 mark

Tropical corals require specific abiotic conditions to maintain a positive net calcification rate. Which combination of factors would most likely lead to the erosion of a reef framework?

Question 5

1 mark

Which statement correctly compares the four types of tropical coral reef according to the Darwin-Dana-Daly theory of atoll formation?

Question 6

3 marks

Describe the two primary methods by which reef-building corals obtain their required nutrients and energy.

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Question 7

5 marks

According to the Darwin-Dana-Daly theory, explain the critical geological transition that occurs when a barrier reef evolves into an atoll, specifically regarding the central volcanic island.

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Question 8

3 marks

Describe the specific functions of the theca and the basal plate in providing structural support to a typical hard coral polyp.

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Question 9

8 marks

(a) Compare the structural features of a fringing reef and an atoll, specifically referring to their proximity to the coastline and the presence of a lagoon.

(b) Reef-building corals exist in a mutualistic relationship with zooxanthellae. Explain how both the coral polyp and the zooxanthellae benefit from this relationship in terms of nutrient exchange.

(c) Discuss the impact of ocean acidification on the structural integrity of a tropical coral reef. In your answer, explain the chemical process by which increased atmospheric \(CO_{2}\) reduces the availability of carbonate ions \((CO_{3}^{2-})\) for reef growth.

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Question 10

7 marks

(a) Describe the structure of a typical hard coral polyp, specifically explaining the functions of the theca and the basal plate.
(b) Discuss the causes of coral reef erosion, distinguishing between biological factors and physical damage caused by human activities.
(c) Explain how artificial reefs can be used as a strategy for the rehabilitation of a degraded marine ecosystem.

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