IB Diploma Programme (DP) - SL & HL · Biology

B3.1 Gas exchange (Organisms): Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 5 written questions with worked solutions. All on B3.1 Gas exchange (Organisms).

10 questions26 marksFree, no account

Question 1

1 mark

Which of the following structures in the human respiratory system is held open by C-shaped rings of cartilage to prevent collapse during the pressure changes of ventilation?

Question 2

1 mark

Which of the following statements correctly describes a structural adaptation in gills that increases the efficiency of gas exchange in fish?

Question 3

1 mark

During intense exercise, the muscles produce large amounts of carbon dioxide and lactic acid, leading to a decrease in blood pH. How does this change affect oxygen delivery to the muscle cells?

Question 4

1 mark

During the process of inspiration, what is the correct state of the external intercostal muscles and the diaphragm?

Question 5

1 mark

How do the volume and pressure within the thoracic cavity change to facilitate expiration?

Question 6

2 marks

Identify the primary site of gas exchange in the human respiratory system and state the two main gases exchanged there.

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Question 7

4 marks

Describe two structural characteristics of the alveoli that are essential for maximizing the rate of gas diffusion between the air and the blood.

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Question 8

6 marks

Beyond the simple diffusion gradient, explain the role of carbonic anhydrase and the chloride shift in facilitating the efficient transport of carbon dioxide from respiring tissues to the lungs.

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Question 9

4 marks

The human respiratory system is highly adapted for efficient gas exchange. The alveoli play a crucial role in this process.

Describe two structural adaptations of the alveoli that facilitate the rapid diffusion of oxygen into the blood and carbon dioxide out of the blood.

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Question 10

5 marks

Ventilation, the process of breathing, involves coordinated actions of various muscles to create pressure changes within the thoracic cavity.

Explain the muscular contractions and pressure changes that occur during normal inspiration and normal expiration in humans. Refer to the roles of the diaphragm, intercostal muscles, and lung volume.

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