Oxford AQA International A-level · Biology (9610)

Cholera: Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 5 written questions with worked solutions. All on Cholera.

10 questions25 marksFree, no account

Question 1

1 mark

Cholera bacteria produce a toxin that affects the epithelial cells of the small intestine. Which of the following describes the immediate effect of this toxin that leads to severe diarrhoea?

Question 2

1 mark

In the treatment of cholera, Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) are used. These solutions contain glucose and sodium ions. Why is the presence of glucose vital for the reabsorption of water in a patient with cholera?

Question 3

1 mark

Cholera toxin affects the movement of ions across the intestinal epithelium. Which statement correctly describes the mechanism that leads to the characteristic diarrhoea associated with cholera?

Question 4

1 mark

Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) can be improved by replacing some glucose with rice starch. What is the scientific justification for this modification in treating a cholera patient?

Question 5

1 mark

When testing a newly developed ORS in a region with a cholera outbreak, which ethical principle must be followed to ensure the trial is conducted fairly?

Question 6

3 marks

Explain how the cholera toxin causes a change in the water potential of the intestinal lumen, leading to severe diarrhoea.

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Question 7

5 marks

Discuss the physiological mechanism by which the secretion of chloride ions (\(Cl^-\)) into the intestinal lumen results in the characteristic symptom of cholera.

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Question 8

3 marks

State the physiological role of carrier proteins located in the membrane of the intestinal epithelial cells during the administration of an oral rehydration solution.

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Question 9

4 marks

Explain how the toxin produced by the cholera bacterium, Vibrio cholerae, leads to the development of severe diarrhea and dehydration in an infected individual.

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Question 10

5 marks

Researchers are developing an improved oral rehydration solution that includes starch instead of glucose.
(a) Suggest and explain one scientific advantage of using starch rather than glucose in an ORS. (3 points)
(b) Discuss two ethical implications that scientists must consider when trialling new oral rehydration solutions on human subjects in developing countries. (2 points)

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