Pearson Edexcel A Level · Biology B (9BI0)

Structure and function of the mammalian nervous system: Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 4 written questions with worked solutions. All on Structure and function of the mammalian nervous system.

9 questions28 marksFree, no account

Question 1

1 mark

Which part of the mammalian brain is responsible for the initiation of voluntary movements and is the primary site for higher-order processing such as decision making?

Question 2

1 mark

The resting potential of a mammalian neurone is typically around \(-70\text{ mV}\). Which of the following factors is primarily responsible for maintaining this negative charge inside the axon relative to the outside?

Question 3

1 mark

A person stands up suddenly, causing a temporary drop in blood pressure. Which of the following sequences describes the homeostatic response to restore blood pressure?

Question 4

1 mark

A patient has suffered a stroke that has specifically affected their ability to maintain balance and coordinate fine motor movements. Which part of the brain has most likely been damaged?

Question 5

1 mark

Myelination increases the speed of nerve impulse conduction along an axon. Which of the following statements best explains the mechanism of saltatory conduction in myelinated neurones?

Question 6

6 marks

Describe the sequence of biochemical events in a rod cell following the absorption of a photon by rhodopsin, leading to the hyperpolarisation of the cell membrane.

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Question 7

5 marks

Analyze the mechanism of saltatory conduction in myelinated axons and explain why this process significantly increases the velocity of nerve impulse transmission compared to non-myelinated axons.

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Question 8

5 marks

Explain how the electrochemical gradient is maintained in a resting neuron, specifically referencing the roles of the sodium-potassium pump and membrane permeability to \( Na^{+} \) and \( K^{+} \) ions.

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Question 9

7 marks

The central nervous system coordinates complex reflex actions and voluntary movements. The diagram represents a cross-section of the spinal cord with labels X for the dorsal root, Y for the ventral root, and Z for the central gray matter.
(a) Trace the pathway of an impulse through a simple reflex arc using labels X, Y, and Z.
(b) Explain the distinct functions of the cerebellum and the medulla oblongata in the mammalian nervous system.

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