BIOLOGY MADE EASY - Copy-1
BIOLOGY MADE EASY - Copy-1
BIOLOGY MADE EASY - Copy-1
PAMPHLET
PREPARED BY:
@ 2018 PRODUCTION
Which of the labelled parts stores salts? C – (Vacuole stores cell sap (solution of dissolved salts and sugars)
2010 BIOLOGY P1
7. The diagram below shows four different animal cells as seen through a microscope.
2011 BIOLOGY P1
8. The diagram below shows three specialized cells found in a human being.
1.A plant cell has a cell wall whilst an animal cell has no cell wall.
2.A plant cell has chloroplast whilst an animal cell has no chloroplast.
3. A plant cell has a large permanent vacuole whilst an animal cell has no large permanent vacuole.
2011 BIOLOGY P2
10.The figure below shows a plant cell that has been put in a concentrated salt solution.
(a) (I) Using the letters of the cells identify animal cells.
Identify Name
1. B Red blood cell
2. C Nerve cell
(ii) for each named animal cell in (a) (i) state one of its characteristics.
Feature in Animal cell 1: Hemoglobin. Feature in Animal cell 2: Axons and Dendrites.
(b) Name the substance found in the cells A and D which enables them to perform their specialized functions.
Cell Substance Function
A Companion cell Provides energy in the form of ATP.
D Chloroplast Traps sunlight energy which is needed for photosynthesis
2009 BIOLOGY P2
12. The figure below shows some cells taken from a vascular tissue of a plant.
(c) What structure in the human body performs the same function as y? Blood
(d) What two conditions are needed for osmosis to take place?
1. Water molecules
2. A selectively permeable membrane
(i) From which solution in the figure above will there be flow of water molecules by osmosis?
Water molecules will flow from solution E to solution F.
(ii) When will the flow of water molecules across the membrane stop by osmosis?
It will stop when there is dynamic equilibrium is reached that is the number of water molecules in
both solutions are the same.
(iii) Suggest one reason why only water molecules can move across the cell membrane?
This is because water molecules are small enough to pass through the cell membrane while other
molecules are big such that they can’t pass.
(b) Using letter X, label on the figure above, one part where magnification takes place? [1]
(c) Outline the correct procedure to follow in order to use a microscope to view a specimen. [3]
(b) State three parts of a plant cell which can be easily seen under a light microscope.
1. Cell wall
2. Chloroplast
3. Nucleus
Ans is A
2010 BIOLOGY P1
1 0 0 3
2.What is the total number of teeth in a rabbit whose dental formula is I , C , PM , M ?
1 0 0 3
A. 14
B. 16
C. 8
D. 28
Ans: B [ (1+1+0+0+3+3) × 2 = 16 =]
2007 BIOLOGY P1
The answer is B
4.Which of the following is the end product of digestion down the alimentary canal?
A. Cellulose
B. Amino acids
C. Fats
D. Proteins
The answer is B
2009 BIOLOGY P1
Substance Y Enzyme Z
A. Maltose Amylase
B. Peptides Pepsin
C. Maltose Maltase
D. Peptides Pepsinogen
Ans is B (pepsin works well in an acidic environment of PH below 7 converting proteins to peptides)
6.The diagram below shows the chemical digestion of a nutrient in the human body.
Ans is B
Which two labelled structures do not secrete enzymes into the alimentary canal?
A. J and K
B. K and L
C. L and M
D. M and J
Ans is A
2003 BIOLOGY P2
8.Explain how the human body digests the following food substances contained in a boiled egg.
Fats found in boiled egg first undergo physical digestion in the mouth facilitated by the action of teeth through
chewing. Chewing increases, the surface area for enzyme action. However, no chemical digestion occurs in both the
mouth and stomach. Once fats reach the part of the small intestine called duodenum, bile is secreted by the liver to
the duodenum. Bile has no enzymes but physically acts on fats to increase their surface area by a process called
emulsification. Additionally, an enzyme called Lipase which is secreted from the pancreas in the form of pancreatic
juice acts on fats. Lipase acts on fats converting them to Fatty acids and glycerol.
Protein digestion begins in the stomach where pepsin from the lining of the stomach digests proteins into soluble
peptides. Pepsin works well in an acidic medium which have a PH below 7. When food reaches the duodenum trypsin
also acts on proteins. Trypsin works well in an alkaline medium which have a PH above 7. In addition, several
peptidases found in the duodenum break down the peptides to amino acids.
9. (a) Explain how enzyme activity is affected by the pH and concentration of the substrate. [4]
The PH value at which a given enzyme works best is called the optimum PH. Values lower or higher than the
optimum PH lower enzyme activity. The optimum PH varies from enzyme to enzyme, depending on the
enzyme’s natural occurrence. For instance, the digestive enzymes of the stomach work best at acidic PH
values while those of the duodenum work best at alkaline PH values. The more the substrate concentration
the slower the enzyme activity and vice versa.
2010 BIOLOGY P2
(b) The stomach produces hydrochloric Acid. State 2 functions of this hydrochloric Acid.
1.To kill bacteria that is taken in with food.
2.To provide an optimum Ph for enzyme action of pepsin.
3.To help convert inactive pepsinogen to active pepsin.
11. The figure below shows the alimentary canal and its associated organs.
(a) (i) In which labelled structure above are bile salts produced.
C (NB: Bile salts are produce in the liver (C) and stored in the gall bladder (D) )
(b) In which of the labelled structures above are Proteins first digested? E
(c) Explain how protein digestion takes places in the structure identified in b (i) above.
Protein digestion begins in the stomach where pepsin from the lining of the stomach digests proteins converting
proteins into soluble peptides. Pepsin works well in an acidic medium which have a PH above 7.
2008 Biology p1
1. In what form is the first product of photosynthesis transported to other parts of a plant.
A. Sucrose
B. Glucose
C. Cellulose
D. Starch
Ans is A
2008 Biology p1
2008 Biology p1
3. The table below shows varying temperature and carbon dioxide concentrations to which a plant was
subjected.
If the light intensity is constant, under which conditions A , B , C or D would there be less photosynthesis
occurring?
Ans is A
2008 Biology p1
A. Glucose
B. Starch
C. Sucrose
D. Proteins
Ans is C
2011 Biology p1
Ans is A
Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants combine carbon dioxide and water in the presence of sunlight
and chlorophyll to make glucose.
(b) How are the products of photosynthesis distributed to the rest of the plant? [2]
The products of photosynthesis (glucose) are distributed to the rest of the plant through the phloem by
Translocation. The product is first converted into sucrose and move through the phloem. The mass flow of materials
in the phloem occurs because of hydrostatic which develops as a result of osmosis.
A caterpillar feeds on plant matter and is provided with carbohydrates which is manufactured by plants through
the process of photosynthesis.
A bird of prey feeds on animal organism which feeds on plant materials. Hence, the energy flows in the form of
carbohydrates passes to the bird of prey via the prey which feeds on plants and is eaten by the bird.
2004 BIOLOGY P 2
8. (a) Describe the ways in which a farmer would increase the rate of photosynthesis in a green house. [8]
The rate of photosynthesis can be limited by light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration and temperature. These
are referred to as limiting factors of photosynthesis. Insufficient light will limit photosynthesis despite having
plenty of water and sunlight. In the presence of sufficient light and favorable temperature, the rate of
photosynthesis will be low if the carbon dioxide concentration is low. Also in cold temperatures, the rate of
photosynthesis will be low despite having other factors in in good amount. A farmer needs to balance the light
intensity, concentration of carbon dioxide and temperature in order to increase the rate of photosynthesis in a
green house. In the case of insufficient light or too much light, a farmer can use artificial light so that
photosynthesis can continue beyond daylight hours. Paraffin lamps can be used inside green houses to increase
the rate of photosynthesis. The use of paraffin lamps inside a greenhouse maximizes photosynthesis because
burning produces carbon dioxide and heat is also produced.
(b) Explain why a bean plant will not produce seeds unless its rate of photosynthesis is greater than the rate of
respiration. [4]
Oxygen and glucose produced by photosynthesis are required for aerobic respiration. When the rate of respiration
is low or equal to the rate of photosynthesis all the sugar produced by photosynthesis will be used by respiration.
Thus, there is no sugar left for seed production. To have enough sugar which is a requirement for seed production, the
rate of photosynthesis needs to greater than of respiration
(a) Cells labelled X, Y and Z are capable of making glucose when a leaf is exposed to sunlight.
(i) Place the cells X, Y and Z in the order of increasing glucose in each cell, after the leaf is exposed to 2
hours of sunlight starting with the least amount of glucose. Y, Z, X
11. (a) Explain how the leaves of a plant are adapted to carry out photosynthesis? [ 4]
The leaf has a large surface area to capture as much light as possible. In addition, it has a thin lamina
for easy penetration of light. The leaf has a large number of stomata on the lower side allowing
maximum diffusion inward diffusion of carbon dioxide and outside diffusion of oxygen. The leaf has
the highest concentration of chloroplast on the palisade cells to trap as much sunlight as possible.
(b) How does a plant get and use the following elements:
(i) Nitrogen [2]
This is absorbed from the soil in the form of nitrate ions (NO-3) or ammonium ions (NH+4). It is
important for synthesis of proteins.
1. Which of the following graphs represents the effect of humidity on the rate of transpiration.
2008 Biology p1
2008 Biology p1
Ans is B
2008 Biology p1
4. Which of the following pair of words correctly describes the process by which water and nitrates are
absorbed by plants from the soil.
Water Nitrates
A Diffusion Osmosis
B Osmosis Diffusion
C Diffusion Active transport
D Osmosis Active transport
Ans is B
Ans is D
6. The diagram below shows how a seedling changes appearance a few hours after planting.
Ans is C
(a) (i) Identify and State the functions of part labelled A and B.
Part A: stomata
Function of A: allow gases in and out of the leaf
In windy conditions Part A (stomata) remains open as the diffusion shells get wiped away by the wind
Diffusion
2008 Q8 Biology p2
8.(a) State the processes involved in the movement of water molecules from the soil to the leaves. [3]
(ii) Translocation.
Translocation is the movement of soluble food material within a plant.
(ii) Guttation.
Guttation is the process by which a plant losses liquid or water from the tips and margins of a leaf.
2011 Biology p2 Q2
10.The figures below shows an experiment to investigate the movement of coloured solution in a plant.
(c) The figure below show a cross section of the stem obtained from the figure above at the end of the stem.
(i) Using the letter x, label the part on the figure which was stained from the dye.
Transpiration is the evaporation of water from the surface of the plant, mainly from leaves. Transpiration mainly
occurs in the stomata openings of the leaves
Factors affecting transpiration include humidity, temperature and light. If the relative humidity is high the rate of
transpiration will be low and vice-versa. Higher temperature ensures higher evaporation of water at the surface of
plant resulting in increased transpiration and vice-versa. Light affects the opening and closing of the stomata which
determine the amount of water loss. In bright lights the stomata are open leading to more water loss and
consequently increased transpiration.
(c) Relate the significance of transpiration to both plants and the environment.
Transpiration is significant as it allows movement of water of water in the plant and hence transportation of
substances dissolved in water. Transpiration ensures the air in the atmosphere is not dry and this helps cool the
environment making it suitable for habitation.
1. Which of the following shows the organism and its product of anaerobic respiration?
Ans is A
2010 Biology p1 Q3
2. The process that can reduce the rate of Photosynthesis is.
A. Respiration
B. Pollution
C. Germination
D. Transpiration
Ans is A
2010 Biology p1
3. The diagram below shows processes taking place in an organism.
A. 2 only
B. 1 and 2
C. 1 and 3
D. 2 and 3
Ans is A
4. Which of the following reactions of tissue respiration occurring in a human being would yield the largest amount of
possible energy.
2012 Biology p1
5. What are the products of aerobic and anaerobic respiration in muscle tissue.
Ans is C
2012 Biology p1
7. The figure below is a graph showing changes in volume of air during breathing in the lungs of a person.
(a) (i) What letter shows the process of inspiration taking place. Letter S
P – Resting/walking/Eating
Q – Running/Climbing a hill
R - Resting/walking/Eating
1.The bar graph below shows the concentration of four substances in the blood before and after passing through an
organ.
A. Heart
B. Kidney
C. Liver
D. Lung
Ans is B
2009 Biology p1 Q 20
2.The diagram below shows a cross section of a kidney identify the labelled structure.
J K L
Ans is D
3.The diagram below shows the urinary system and its blood supply.
Explain what happens in the kidney to bring about the changes in the relative quantities of
(i) Glucose – small quantities of glucose are diffused into the kidney cells for the process of respiration
hence the change.
(ii) Oxygen – A good amount of oxygen is used up by the renal cells in the process of respiration
(iii) Sodium salts – Excess sodium salts are removed by the kidney and are excreted
(iv) Urea – Urea is a waste product not needed by the body and is removed by the kidney and excreted.
2009 Biology p2
Excretion is the removal of metabolic waste products from the body. The role of the kidney is to remove urea, excess
salts and excess water. Other unwanted materials including water are also excreted. These materials are removed in
the form of urine.
Homeostasis is the maintenance of a constant internal body environment. The role of the kidneys in homeostasis is
threefold regulating acid-base balance, osmoregulation and regulation of blood pressure.
Kidney transplantation is a major surgical procedure that has risks both during and after surgery. The risks of the
surgery include infection, bleeding and damage to the surrounding organs. After kidney transplantation you will be
required to take medications and have frequent monitoring to minimize the chance of organ rejection and often this
must continue for one’s lifetime.
(b) Name the two functions of the liver which contribute to homeostasis?
1.Storage of glucose in the form of glycogen when the level of glucose is high
2003 Biology p2
(b) What role is played by the following structures of the skin in controlling body temperature during overcooling
Detects the cool temperatures and sends information to the brain for responses.
Erector muscles contract, pulling hair upright which traps a layer of insulating air. This prevents heat loss by
Blood vessels constrict to reduce the amount of blood reaching the skin surface hence reducing heat loss by
Sweat gland become less active, this minimises loss of heat which occurs during sweating.
The lungs play a role in balancing the level of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Homeostasis is important because it keeps the temperature of the body under control with the right conditions for
the cells to live and function well. The cells which depend on enzymes for chemical reactions to take place have to be
at the right temperature for them to carry out these processes.
(d) After playing football in the sun, a person may feel warm, but his skin is cool, explain how this is possible.
During the time of playing football, the tissue respiration in the body as well as the heat from the sun warms the
body. However, evaporation of sweat on the surface of skin keeps the body cool.
(e) After fasting (not eating) for 12 hours, a healthy adult and a diabetic adult were fed with glucose, How would
the glucose level of the healthy and diabetic adult compare.
After the healthy person is fed with glucose the body cells will utilize the glucose in the process of respiration to
provide the body with energy. Excess glucose will be converted to glycogen by insulin and be stored in the Liver. This
ensures the correct blood sugar level is maintained. However, with the diabetic person there is an insufficiency of
insulin in the body or the body fails to respond to insulin. This will cause the glucose not used in respiration to
accumulate in the blood. Therefore, there will be more glucose in the blood of a diabetic than in the blood of a
healthy person.
2007 Biology p2
5.(a) How does the body respond to changes in the concentration of the following in blood.
When there is a high concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood, breathing rate increases. This increases breathing
activity ensures more carbon dioxide is expired and more oxygen is inspired. Thus the level of carbon dioxide is
reduced through expiration.
(ii) Glucose
When there is a high concentration of glucose in blood, insulin is secreted from islets of Langerhans of the pancreas
and converts excess glucose to glycogen in the liver and muscles where it is stored and released back in blood when
the level of glucose in blood reduces.
2010 Biology p2
2.(a) Explain the meaning of the following terms
1. A tropic response occurs in plants while a taxic response occurs in animals (Invertebrates).
2. A tropic response is slower whilst a taxic response is faster.
3. In a Tropic response only part of a plant responds whilst a taxic response involves the response of an entire
organism.
4. A tropic response involves growing towards or away from the stimuli while a taxic response involves
moving towards or away from the stimuli.
2011 Biology p2
3.(a) What is meant by the term hormone? [2]
2012 Biology p2
4.(a) Using the auxin theory explain the effects of light coming from one direction on the growth of shoots. [ 6]
(b) Explain the term taxic response with named examples. [6]
An Incisor A Molar
Cow Rat
Note that the dental formulae only show the number of teeth present in one half of the mouth. To get the total
number of teeth, the numbers in the dental formula must be multiplied by two.
4. Describe causes, signs and symptoms of gum disease and tooth decay
Tooth Decay
Also called dental decay or dental caries, this is a condition where the enamel of teeth is dissolved (corroded) by
organic acids produced by fermentation of sugars by bacteria in the mouth forming cavities in the teeth. When
cavity reaches the dentine, the tooth starts getting painful. The pain increases further when the cavity reaches the
pulp cavity. At this stage, the tooth pains each time the patient takes very hot or very cold foods, becomes infected
and may even start having a bad smell due to accumulation of abscess (pus). The condition may be treated by
filling the tooth in with cement or having a tooth extraction.
Prevention of Tooth Decay
• Brushing teeth with fluoride toothpaste after every meal
• Avoiding intake of sugary foods
• Regular visits to the dentist i.e. at least twice every year (once every six months)
• Taking foods that are rich in calcium, phosphorus and vitamins C and D
• Using dental floss to remove food particles from teeth
• Using teeth properly by avoiding using them for opening bottle tops and the like as this may crack the
enamel.
6. Identify the main regions of the alimentary canal and associated organs.
Behind the bolus, circular muscles contract while longitudinal muscles relax. Ahead of the bolus, circular muscles
relax while longitudinal muscles contract.
Digestion in the Stomach
The stomach is an elastic bag with a muscular wall and a glandular lining. The entrance of the stomach is guarded
by the cardiac sphincter. The exit is guarded by the pyloric sphincter. The following events take place in the
stomach;
Secretion of gastric juice: Gastric juice is a mixture of pepsin, rennin, hydrochloric acid and mucus. Pepsin
breaks down proteins to form peptides. Rennin coagulates milk by converting the soluble protein caesinogen into
an insoluble form called casein. This delays the passage of milk to the duodenum giving chance for pepsin to
digest milk protein. Both pepsin and rennin are secreted in inactive forms called pepsinogen and prorennin,
respectively. Hydrochloric acid activates them into active enzymes and sets an acidic pH which is optimum. It
also kills some bacteria and hydrolyses sucrose to glucose and fructose. Mucus protects the lining of the stomach
against the acid and pepsin.
Churning: This is the mixing of food by rhythmic contraction of the muscles in the wall of the stomach to form a
paste called chyme.
Temporal Storage of Food: Liquids can stay in the stomach for up to 30 minutes; carbohydrates are kept for about
one hour; proteins and lipids stay up to 2 hours.
35 | P a g e BIOLOGY MADE EASY BY ANDREW SAKALA 0965804907
Digestion in the Duodenum
The duodenum receives digestive juices from the liver and the pancreas. The liver secretes bile which is
temporarily stored in the gall bladder and carried to the duodenum by the bile duct. Bile contains sodium hydrogen
carbonate, bile salts and bile pigments. Sodium hydrogen carbonate neutralizes the acidic chyme and then sets
an optimum alkaline pH for the enzymes of the duodenum. The bile salts emulsify fats thereby increasing the
surface area for the action of lipase. Emulsification is the break down of large drops of fats into small droplets.
Bile pigments have no digestive function but add colour to the faeces.
The pancreas secretes pancreatic juice which contains sodium hydrogen carbonate, trypsin, lipase and pancreatic
amylase. Sodium hydrogen carbonate neutralizes the acidic chyme and then sets an optimum alkaline pH for the
enzymes of the duodenum. Trypsin breaks down proteins to form peptides. Lipase breaks down fat molecules to
fatty acid and glycerol. Pancreatic amylase breaks down starch to form maltose.
Diagram of a Villus
Diarrhoea: The passage of watery stool, resulting in dehydration and loss of mineral ions from the body. It is
caused by intake of food or drinks that are contaminated with pathogens. The pathogens cause inflammation of
the intestinal lining leading to diarrhoea.
The liver is the largest internalorgan in the human body and performs a wide range of functions including the
following:
• Destruction of old red blood cells resulting in formation of bile which is important in emulsification of
fats.
• Deamination of excess amino acids resulting in formation of urea.
• Detoxification of poisons and alcohol by converting them to less toxic substances e.g. hydrogen peroxide
is broken down to water and oxygen by the enzyme catalase in the liver. Excess intake of alcohol
frequently can lead to a condition called cirrhosis (hardening liver tissue, leading to loss of function)
• Conversion of excess glucose to glycogen and storage of glycogen, thereby regulating the levels of blood
sugar.
• Manufacture of red blood cells in babies
• Transamination (the conversion some amino acids to others)
• Synthesis of plasma proteins such as prothrombin, fibrinogen, globulins and albumin.
• Storage of some vitamins (e.g. vitamin A) and some mineral ions (e.g. iron)
• Production of heat through a wide range of exothermic/exergonic reactions.
• Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver which may result from infection hepatitis viruses.
• Hepatomegaly: Enlargement of the liver.
• Cirrhosis: Hardening of liver tissue resulting from poisoning or excessive intake of alcohol.
RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
The following diagram illustrates the breathing system (respiratory system) of a human being.
Inspiration Expiration
1 Floor of mouth Lowered Raised
2 Mouth Open Closed
3 Operculum Closed Open
4 Volume of mouth and gill chamber Increases Decreases
5 Pressure in mouth and gill chamber Decreases Increases
6 Water movement Enters the gill chamber Leaves the gill chamber
Cigarette smoke contains three major toxic substances, namely nicotine, tar and carbon monoxide. Tar is
responsible for causing respiratory diseases such as bronchitis, emphysema and lung cancer.
Bronchitis: This is the inflammation of the air passages. Tar immobilizes (stops movement of) the cilia, causing
mucus to accumulate in the air passages. This gives chance to the germs in the mucus to infect the lining of the
air passages, causing coughing. The overall effect of bronchitis is that it reduces the amount of oxygen reaching
the lungs.
Emphysema: This is the weakening and bursting of the alveoli. When tar reaches the alveoli it weakens them
and irritates them. The irritation causes coughing which makes the alveoli burst. Emphysema reduces the
surface area available for gaseous exchange.
Lung Cancer: This is the uncontrolled or abnormal division of cells in the lungs. Smoking increases the risk of
lung cancer because tar which is present in cigarette smoke is a carcinogen (a cancer-causing agent)
Pneumonia:It is an inflammation of the lungs and alveoli. It is caused by smoking bacteria which results in
accumulation of bacteria in the lungs.The accumulatedbacteria cause lung infection which leads to
inflammation.
Gaseous exchange in plants occurs in the spongy layer of the leaf. When photosynthesis is actively taking place
e.g. during day time), a plant leaf takes in carbon dioxide and releases oxygen. Note that during such periods,
respiration also takes place. When respiration is the only process taking place (e.g. at night), the plant leaf takes
in oxygen and releases carbon dioxide. The changes in amounts of oxygen and carbon dioxide used by the plant
at different times of the day may be illustrated as follows:
Respiration is defined as the processs by which is broken down to release energy in the living cells. This definition
strictly applies to tissue respiration which is also called cellular respiration or internal respiration. However the
term respiration is sometimes loosely applied to other processes that help make oxygen available to living cells.
These are breathing (ventilation) and gaseous exchange. In this case, the term external respiration is used.
Internal respiration occurs inside living cells in organelles called mitochondria (singular: mitochondrion). The
main substrate for internal respiration in most organisms is glucose. There are two types of internal respiration,
namely aerobic and anaerobic respiration.
Aerobic Respiration
This is the release of energy from food in living cells in the presence of oxygen. This process releases a relatively
high amount of energy (about 2880 KJ from one mole of glucose) and the by products produced are carbon
dioxide and water. This type of respiration occurs in tissue cells of animals and plants when there is a sufficient
supply of oxygen. The word and chemical equations for aerobic respiration are given below:
Word Equation
Chemical Equation
Anaerobic Respiration
This is the release of energy from food substances in living cells in the absence of oxygen. Types of anaerobic
respiration include alcoholic fermentation and lactic fermentation.
Alcoholic Fermentation
This is the release of energy from food substances in living cells in the absence of oxygen, producing alcohol
(ethanol) and carbon dioxide as by products. This process releases a relatively low amount of energy (about 210
KJ from one mole of glucose). The reaction is catalysed by an enzyme called zymase which is naturally found in
yeast. The word and chemical equations for alcoholic fermentation are given below:
Energy from respiration is not used directly by organisms but is used to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate)
by combining adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and inorganic phosphate (Pi). Energy from ATP is then used by
living organisms. When the energy is needed, ATP breaks down to ADP and inorganic phosphate, releasing
energy in the process. The formation and breakdown of ATP can be illustrated as follows:
Materials: two thermal flasks, two thermometers, cotton wool, two sets of bean seeds.
Method
• Soak one set of seeds until they start germinating and boil the other set of seeds
• Soak both sets of seeds in disinfectant to kill micro organisms and place each set in a separate thermal flask.
• Set the experiment as shown in the following diagram.
Observations
Conclusion
Energy is produced during respiration. Germinating seeds carry out respiration while boiled seeds do not.
Materials
Two large bottles, wire gauze, sodium hydroxide solution, two capillary tubes, two glass tubes, two petri dishes,
two samples of soil, two screw valves.
Method
• Heat one of the soil samples and leave the other one without heating.
• Set up the experiment as shown in the following diagram
• Leave the setup for five hours and observe what happens to the position of the drop in the capillary tube.
Observations
• The oil drop in the container having heated soil remains at the same position while the one in the container
having unheated soil moves inwards
Conclusion
Soil contains living organisms that carry out respiration and use up oxygen in the process.
Materials
A large bottle, sodium hydroxide solution, capillary tube, glass tube, Petri dish, potted plant, and screw valve.
45 | P a g e BIOLOGY MADE EASY BY ANDREW SAKALA 0965804907
Method
• Set up the experiment as shown in the following diagram and place the setup in a dark place.
• Leave the setup for five hours and observe what happens to the position of the drop in the capillary tube.
Observations
The plant carries out respiration and uses up oxygen in the process.
Materials
Three large bottles, lime water, glass tubes and a small mammal e.g. a rat.
Method
• Observe and record what happens to the lime water in containers A and C.
Observation
The lime water in the container C turns milky earlier than the one in A.
46 | P a g e BIOLOGY MADE EASY BY ANDREW SAKALA 0965804907
Conclusion
Exhaled air contains more carbon dioxide than inhaled air. That is why the lime water in C turns milky earlier
than in A.
The energy released during respiration is used in the following processes: maintenance of a constant body
temperature, reproduction, cell division, active transport and growth /synthesis of macromolecules (memory
aid: MR. CAG).
In brewing, germinating seeds are used. This is because they contain the sugar maltose. The seeds are dried and
ground to form a powder. This powder is then boiled in water to form a paste. The paste is cooled and yeast is
added. Yeast contains an enzyme called zymase which converts glucose to carbon dioxide and alcohol, releasing
energy in the process. The glucose is formed from the action of maltase on maltose. The alcohol is removed from
the mixture by simple distillation.
When baking, flour is mixed with water, salt, sugar and yeast to form a paste called dough. When there is
insufficient oxygen, zymase from yeasts acts on sugars to form carbon dioxide and alcohol. But if oxygen is
sufficient, yeast carries out aerobic respiration. The carbon dioxide begins to form bubbles in the dough causing
it to rise. The dough is often placed in a warm place to provide an optimum temperature for enzyme activity.
After this the dough can be baked.
HEALTH
• A disease is any physical or mental disorder that interferes with normal functioning of the body and has
a characteristic set of signs and symptoms.
3. Describe various types of diseases
• There are two main categories of diseases which are infectious diseases (transmissible diseases) and non-
infectious diseases (non-transmissible diseases).
• Infectious Diseases
• Infectious diseases are those diseases that can be transmitted from person to person. They are also called
pathogenic diseases because they are all caused by pathogens. Pathogens are disease-causing organisms,
mainly microorganisms. Pathogens include viruses, bacteria, protozoa, fungi and worms
47 | P a g e BIOLOGY MADE EASY BY ANDREW SAKALA 0965804907
4. Describe causative agents, signs and symptoms, methods of transmission and control.
The following table summarizes the causative agents, signs, symptoms, methods of transmission and methods of
control for selected pathogenic diseases.
Non-transmissible Diseases
These are diseases that cannot be passed from one individual to another. They are divided into the following
categories:
(i) Nutritional Deficiency Diseases: Diseases caused poor diets lacking one of or more of essential nutrients.
Examples of such diseases are marasmus, kwashiorkor and rickets.
(ii) Genetic (inherited) Diseases: Diseases that are passed through genes from parents to their offspring e.g. sickle
cell anaemia, haemophilia and down’s syndrome.
(iii) Degenerative Diseases: Diseases characterized by a gradual decline in the function of an organ as a result
of ageing or too much stress on the organ e.g. arthritis and coronary heart disease.
(iv) Environmental Diseases: Diseases resulting from the presence of pollutants in the environment e.g. bronchitis,
emphysema and lung cancer resulting from the presence of tar in the air.
(v) Mental Disorders: Disorders of the mind caused by chemical or physical factors e.g. schizophrenia.
(vi) Self-inflicted and Social Diseases: These include conditions like drug addiction
• HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sexual intercause.it can also be transmitted through mother
to child during birth that’s if the mother is infected. Through blood transfusion that’s if the donors
blood is contaminated with HIV virus. HIV can also be transmitted using unsterilized hospital utensils
such as needles and razor blades and by sharing contaminated body fluids
6. Explain the dangers of having multiple sexual partners.
9. Describe ways of reducing discrimination to people living with HIV and AIDS.
• Immunity is important for prevention of diseases. Factors that reduce immunity include poor diet,
development of resistant strains of pathogens, repeated invasions by pathogens, intake of immuno-
depressant drugs and infection by HIV that destroys the lymphocytes.
The female housefly lays eggs in rotting material after mating. The eggs normally hatch into larvae (commonly
called maggots) 8-24 hours after being laid. The larvae feed on rotting material by sucking the nutrients and
move using pads on the lower side of their bodies. After 4-5 days, the larvae develop into pupae which are
immobile and do not feed. Although the pupae are immobile, a lot of metabolism occurs inside of them and the
imago takes shape within the pupa case known as the puparium. 3 to 4 days later, the imago breaks out of the
puparium. It takes an imago 14 days to reach sexual maturity and the cycle starts all over again.
• Eggs are laid in water by female mosquitoes after mating and they hatch into larvae (singular: larva).
Larvae can swim and they feed on phytoplankton and zooplankton. They eventually develop into pupae
(singular: pupa) which are a less active stage that continually undergoing internal changes. After some
time, the adult insect emerges out of the pupa case (puparium). The adult flies and feeds mainly on plant
juices. However, when female mosquitoes are carrying fertilized eggs, they develop a desire for animal
blood which they need for egg development.
51 | P a g e BIOLOGY MADE EASY BY ANDREW SAKALA 0965804907
• Because of blood sucking, the female Anopheles mosquito is a vector for malaria in humans. A vector is
any organism that transmits parasites from one host to another. Mosquitoes are said to be biological
vectors. A biological vector is one that carries parasites inside its body systems and the parasite undergoes
part of its life cycle inside the vector.
13. Relate the control of malaria to the life cycle of the mosquito
• Control of mosquitoes (in order to control malaria) can be targeted against the different stages of the life
cycle in the following ways:
• Draining all stagnant pools of water to eliminate eggs, larvae and pupae
• Spraying stagnant water with insecticides and/or oil. Insecticides such as DDT kill the eggs, larvae and
pupae directly. Oil blocks the oxygen supply from the eggs, larvae and pupae, thereby killing them.
• Biological control (the use of one type of organism called the control agent to get rid of another – called
the target organism – which is a nuisance). The control agent must be a natural enemy (predator or parasite)
of the target organism. Biological control may also involve interfering with reproduction by use of
radiation or chemicals and the artificial synthesis of chemical substances normally produced by the target
organism to be used in traps. Examples of biological control against mosquitoes include:
• Use of a bacterium called Bacillus thuringiensis which infects and kills mosquito larvae.
• Use of insectivorous fish from the Genus Gambusia that feeds on mosquito pupae and larvae.
• Use of insecticide – treated mosquito nets to trap and kill adult mosquitoes
• Clearance of bushes and tall grass where adults normally live before entering houses
• Physical killing of adult mosquitoes
GRADE 11 SECTION
When using the potometer it is assumed that water uptake is equal to water loss through transpiration.
TRANSPORT IN MAN
7. Explain the importance of determining the blood groups and Rhesus factors.
Safe blood transfusion is only important if blood groups and Rhesus factor are determined. This reduces the
chances of agglutination in the event of blood transfusion. Transplant of tissues and organs require determination
of blood groups and Rhesus factor. Some tissues may be rejected by the recipient because they would act like
antigen causing antibody- antigen reaction. Determination of Rhesus factor prevents disorders, such as haemolytic
disease of the foetus.
8. Explain the donor-recipient compatibility of blood groups.
An antigen reacts with a corresponding antibody making the blood cells to clump together. The antibody- antigen
reaction is called agglutination. Antigen A and antibody a will cause agglutination. Antigen B and antibody b will
also cause agglutination. A person with blood group AB does not have antibodies in the blood plasma. Therefore
blood group AB is a universal recipient. A person with blood group O lacks antigens and he is a universal donor.
Blood group A can only receive blood from blood groups A and O. Blood group B can only receive blood from
blood groups B and O. Blood group A can only donate blood to blood groups A and AB. Blood group B can only
donate blood to blood groups B and AB. Blood group AB can only donate blood to blood group AB. Blood group
O can only receive blood from blood group O.
9. Explain the importance of screening the blood for the purpose of transfusion.
Screening is important to ensure blood is safe and no disease causing micro- organisms are present that could
cause disease in the recipient. Screening would minimize transmission of diseases such as HIV and AIDS, syphilis
and hepatitis B.
10. Investigate common blood disorders.
Sickle cell anaemia: this is an inherited disease where a person has abnormal haemoglobin. As a result red blood
cells become sickle- shaped, especially when oxygen levels are low in the body.
57 | P a g e BIOLOGY MADE EASY BY ANDREW SAKALA 0965804907
Haemophilia: this is an inherited disease where a person bleeds for longer periods than normal due to poor
clotting of blood due to absence of blood clotting proteins.
Leukemia: it is the cancer of white blood cells. The patient makes an abnormally high number of immature white
blood cells.
Anaemia: an inability to transport enough oxygen can be detected by noting a lower normal number of red blood
cells. Describe the structure of the human heart.
to head
and body
to lungs
pulmonary aorta
artery
from head
and body semi-lunar
valve
pulmonary
vein
vena cava from lungs
right left
atrium atrium
muscle
24. Compare the structure and functions of arteries, veins and capillaries.
EXCRETION
3. Identify the hormones produced by the pancreas, adrenal, thyroid and pituitary glands.
• Pancreas: Insulin and glucagon:
• Adrenal: adrenaline ,
• Thyroid: Thyroxine ,
• Pituitary: Anti diuretic hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, growth
hormone
Thyroxine •
controls the basal metabolic rate
•
controls normal development of the
skeleton
• Controls normal growth of the
brain.
Insulin • converts glucose to glycogen to
glucose
• Promotes convection of
carbohydrates to fats.
• Slows down the conversion of
protein to carbohydrates.
Glucagon • converts glycogen to glucose
4. Describe what the spinal, cranial and the conditioned reflex actions are
• Spinal reflex action
Simple spinal reflex actions are inherited or inborn responses which produce the same response for a given
stmulus e.g. knee, jerking.
Sense organs
• To bring the image of the near objet to focus, the lens should be made thicker or more convex. This is
achieved through the contraction of ciliary muscles and relaxation of suspensory ligaments.
Accommodation of distant objects
• To bring the image of distant object to focus, the lens should be made thinner or less convex. This is
brought about by the cilliary muscles relaxing while the suspensory ligaments becoming tight (contract)
thereby pulling the edge of the elastic lens.
4. Describe the causes of short and long sightedness.
Causes of long- sightedness:
This is an eye defect caused either due to the eyeball being too short or the lens being too thin. The shortness of
the eyeball leads to focusing the rays behind the retina. The thinness of the lens makes it not able to converge the
light rays on the retina. Instead the image is formed behind the retina.
This is an eye defect in which either the eyeball is longer than normal such that the parallel rays from distant
objects are brought to focus in front of the retina or the lens is too thick that it bends the parallel rays of light from
an object converging them to focus in front of the retina. This leads to formation of blurred image.
Long a sightedness can be corrected by wearing spectacles with convex lens which bends the light rays inward
the process called convergence. The rays are now focused on the retina hence the image is clear.
This is done by wearing spectacles with concave lenses, also referred to as diverging lens. Concave lenses diverge
the light rays ensuring that they are focused on the retina hence the image becomes clear.
• The adult filarial worm migrates through the subconjunctival tissues in the eyes of humans and find there
way to the retina affecting the rods.
• Diabetes mellitus due to excess levels of sugar in the blood and high blood pressure damages the blood
vessels in the eye.
Prevention of blindness
• Eating foods rich in Vitamin A, surgery can be conducted to remove adult worms and taking antbiotics to
treat filarial worms.
7. Describe the structure of the human ears.
• The skin contains sensory cells which can be stimulated by changes in temperature and pressure. Some
are sensitive to touch and pain. When stimulated the sensory cells send nerve impulses to the brain. The
brain then gives the response either in the form of the reflex action or record an impression by which an
animal is aware of the stimulus.
Endoskeleton
Exoskeleton
Hydrostatic skeletons.
The skeleton support the body by providing a rigid frame work against such forces as compression, tension and
gravitational force. It gives shape to the body and provides points of attachment to for muscles.
The skeleton protects delicate internal organs against physical injury. eg the heart and lungs protected by the rib
cage, the brain protected by the skull, spinal cord by the vertebral column etc.
skull
sternum
vertebral column
pelvic girdle
The iris consists of circular and radial involuntary muscles that are antagonistic. When light intensity is high the
circular muscles of the iris contract while the radial muscles relaxes. The pupil constricts (becomes smaller) and
less light enters the eye. When light intensity is low, the circular muscles of the iris relax while the radial muscles
contract. The pupil dilates (becomes wider) and more light enters the eye to enable you to see in less light.
5. Compare the ball and socket joint and the hinge joint.
A ball and socket joint is one which allows movement in all planes (directions) including rotational movement.
The rounded head of one bone fits into a cavity in which the head of the other bone moves freely while a hinge
joint is a joint which permits movement in oneplane only. The depression in one bone allows the smooth condyles
of another bone to fit and articulate.
Gout is the form arthritis with the following symptoms: sudden inflammation, swelling, tenderness and severe
pain in one or more joints. Gout is caused by the built of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is made when the body
breaks down certain foods e.g mushroom, meat, alcohol and converts some of the amino acids into uric acid. Gout
In exoskeletons joints allow movement in one direction only. Antagonistic muscles are attached to special parts
on the inside of the cuticle of the exoskeleton. Small insects with exoskeleton can move fast on land, in water and
in the air. Large animals with exoskeletons will move slowly because a bigger exoskeleton is heavy.
Tropic responses
(a) Phototropism
This is the growth movement or bending of a plant in response to light coming from one direction. The
direction or orientation of a curvature is dependent on the direction from which light originates. If the plant bends
towards the direction of light, it is referred to as positive phototropism while if the curvature is away from the
light it is referred to as negative phototropism.
(b) Geotropism
This is a growth response towards the force of gravity. Roots are positively geotropic while stems are negatively
geotropic.
(c) Hydrotropism
This is the growth of the plant in response to water. Roots are positively hydrotropic because they grow into the
soil, which provide the constant water and mineral ions.
(d) Chemotropism refers to growth movement in response to chemical substances. If the substances are not
distributed uniformly in a given medium, growth curvature occurs in the direction of the concentration gradient.
If the curvature is towards the higher concentration the growth response is said to be positively chemotropic while
if it is towards the lower concentration, the growth response is said to be negatively chemotropic
3. Explain the effects of light energy and gravity on the growth of plants.
If a plant is exposed to light from one source the auxins migrate to the darker areas away from light. The bending
of the shoot tip is caused by differential growth rates of the shoot on the different sides. There is reduced growth
on the illuminated side and an increased growth on the shaded side. This is because the shaded side has higher
In a horizontally oriented root, there is lateral displacement of auxin due to force of gravity leading to the
accumulation on the lower half of the root. The high concentration of auxin inhibits cell division and cell
elongation so the upper has a higher rate of cell division and elongation leading to a growth curvature of the root
downwards.
Taxic Responses
Growth in Plants
Differentiation: cell walls are unevenly thickened with cellulose and cells are tightly packed together
Function in the plant: provides strength and flexibility for stems and leaves
Parenchyma
Function in the plant: used for storage of sugar, water and starches; some contain chloroplast for photosynthesis
Cambium
Differentiation: vascular cambium is found between the xylem and phloem in vascular bundles and contains
meristematic cells.
Function in the plant: responsible for the growth of xylem secondary growth and can be seen as annual rings in
older stems.
Sclerenchyma
83 | P a g e BIOLOGY MADE EASY BY ANDREW SAKALA 0965804907
Differentiation: cells are usually dead and hollow the cells walls contain lignin to make the cells strong
Function in the plant: provides the stems of plants with strength and support
Phloem
Differentiation: consist of long columns of sieve tube cells (with no nuclei) and companion cells (other living
cells)
Xylem vessels
Differentiation: Develop into long hollow tubes (dead cells with no nuclei or cytoplasm) and strengthened with
lignin
Epigeal germination refers to the elongation of epicotyls in dicots. In seed, such as the bean seed, the cotyledons
grow above the ground during germination, and they become the first photosynthetic leaves
GRADE 12 SECTION
Asexual Reproduction
1. Pseudopodia withdrawn
spores
sporangium
developing
sporangium
hyphae of the
mycelium
Disease causing effects e.g. Ringworm and Bacillary dysentery. Production of a food and alcohol, source of food
(mushroom)
Vegetative Reproduction
2. Adventitious roots formed & absorbed water and mineral salts for young plant
4. Food stored in a specialized underground storage organ (not transport to parent plant)
Cutting: a process by which a piece of branch, stem, root or leaf when planted grows into a new individual Other
methods: Grafting & Layering
Advantages Disadvantages
can retain desirable characters as offspring are no genetic variation occurs which decreases the
genetically identical to parent ability to adapt to changes in the surroundings
large food reserves are provided for daughter plants diseases of the parent plant are rapidly transmitted
to the offspring
anther
stigma
filament
style
ovary
ovule
recepticle
sepal
Ans : Self-pollination this is the transfer of pollen grains from the anthers to the stigma of the same flower or different
flower of the same plant species while cross pollination is the transfer of pollen grains from the anthers to the stigma of
another plant of the same species.
• by animal
possess spines & hooks which cling to animals’ fur
protected by hard seed coat which resists the action of animals’ digestive juice after eaten
• by wind
some fruits are light & have large surface area to catch wind
• others: by explosion, by water
Ans:
bladder
seminal vesicle
sperm duct
testis
penis
scrotum
2. Explain the functions of the different organs of the human reproductive system
Ans:
FALLOPIAN TUBES(OVIDUCT) The fallopian tubes are about 12 cm long and have ends that are funnel shaped. These
ends collect the egg after ovulation. Cilia and peristalsis move the egg along the tube. The egg will die in the tube if it is
not fertilised.
UTERUS: The uterus, also known as the womb, is made of involuntary muscle. It is lines with the endometrium. This
lining thickens with cells and blood every month. This happens in order to nourish the embryo (if present).
CERVIX: The opening of the uterus is called the cervix. The cervix separates the vagina from the uterus
VAGINA: The vagina is a muscular tube which allows the sperm to enter the female as well as the baby to exit. It is lined
with mucous secreting cells.
URETHRA The urethra opens near the vagina. The vagina is protected by folds of skin called the vulva. The hymen
partially blocks the entrance of the vagina. It is broken by sexual intercourse or with the use of tampons
92 | P a g e BIOLOGY MADE EASY BY ANDREW SAKALA 0965804907
3. Describe the biological changes associated with sexual development in human beings
At puberty, oestrogen causes the primary female sexual characteristics of the growth of the sex organs.
At puberty both oestrogen and progesterone cause the secondary female characteristics. They include:
3. wider shoulders
Ans: The menstrual cycle occurs every 28 days from puberty to menopause (the end of the female’s reproductive life). It
occurs only if fertilisation of the egg has not taken place.
Day 1 to day 5-
a. The endometrium breaks down and is shed from the body. This is called menstruation.
b. Meiosis occus in the ovary to produce a new egg surrounded by the Graafian follicle.
a. Oestrogen is produced by the Graafian follicle. Oestrogen also stimulates the endometrium to thicken again. One
Graafian follicle with one egg develops.
b. Oestrogen stimulates the production of LH (leuteinising hormone)
Day 14-
b. The corpus luteum (yellow body) develops from the remains of the Graafian follicle. This produced progesterone
and some oestrogen. The progesterone causes the endometrium to continue to thicken. It also prevents new eggs
from forming.
c. The egg that was released at day 14 will die if it is not fertilised.
d. If fertilisation did not take place the corpus luteum begins to degenerate.
Ans: Copulation is also called coitus or sexual intercourse. During this process the penis moves into the vagina in order
to deposit semen which contains sperm cells. The depositing of the semen is called insemination.
About 6-9 days after fertilisation the fertilised egg becomes embedded into the lining of the uterus. The zygote has now
become an embryo. A membrane called the amnion develops around the ebbryo. This membrane will secrete amnion
fluid which surrounds and protects the embryo
MALE INFERTILITY
The most common cause of male infertility is the low production of sperm. There are many causes of low sperm
production. Stress, alcohol and drug abuse, high temperature of the testes, and low testosterone production are all
causes
FEMALE INFERTILITY
Female infertility is the inability to conceive either by fertilisation failure or implantation failure. Egg cell formation or
ovulation may not occur due to a hormone imbalance. The egg cell may not be able pass to the uterus due to blockage
of the Fallopian tubes. Treatment with hormones may be successful. In-vitro fertilisation and implantation is often
used to treat female infertility.
1. The zygote divides many times by cleavage (increase in the number of cells by division but no overall increase in
size) to double its cell number. A solid clump of about 100 cells called the morula is formed.
2. About 5 days after fertilisation the morula develops into a hollow ball called a blastocyst. The outer cells of the
blastocyst form the trophoplast. This will become the membranes around the embryo. The inner cells, called the inner
mass will become the embryo.
3. The blastocyst is pushed down the fallopian tube and into the uterus for implantation.
The mesoderm cells further develop into the muscles and blood, the endoderm develops into the digestive tract and
lungs, and the ectoderm develops into the skin, nerves and brain.
The Gestation period is the length of time from fertilisation to birth. In humans it is generally 266 days (38
weeks/9months)
Birth Control
• Benefits and Risks of Contraceptives: Benefits: Planned families, Risks: side effects (Disturbed menstrual cycle, weight
gain, and hormonal imbalance
UNIT 4: GENETICS
Genetics: the study of how characters are transferred or inherited from one generation to the next
Gene: A gene is a short length of DNA on a chromosome which is a unit determining an inherited character
Alleles: Alternative forms of genes on the same position of the homologous chromosomes which control the
same character but have different expressions
Chromosome: Genetic materials found inside the nucleus of a cell
Genotype - the genetic composition
Phenotype - the external appearance
Homozygous (pure-breeding)with the same alleles in the same character
Heterozygous (hybrid) with different alleles
Dominant gene (or character)
which expresses its effect even in heterozygous condition
Recessive gene (or character)
which expresses its effect only in homozygous condition
• Pedigree
• it shows the inheritance of one or more characters in different generations
Test cross
cross the organism with dominant character to an organism with homozygous recessive character
to test whether the organism with the dominant character is homozygous or heterozygous
• Back cross
– cross an organism with one of its parent
2. Describe the variations in human beings.
Variation in human being: Eye colour, skin colour, finger print, tongue rolling, height
96 | P a g e BIOLOGY MADE EASY BY ANDREW SAKALA 0965804907
Observe variations in flowering plants
• Variations in flowering plant: Fruit structure and scent, height (tall, dwarf. Include leaf size, shape, and weight).
4. Describe the factors that cause variations among plant and animals of the same species.
Meiosis
homologous chromosomes separate independently from each other and pass into a different gamete (
INDEPENDENT ASSORTMENT). As a result, a great variety of gametes are produced
• Random Fertilization
• since fertilization is a random process, there are many possible different combinations of genes in a
zygote
Mutation
genetic make-up may suddenly change
sometimes occur naturally
rate may greatly increased if the organism is exposed to radiation, certain chemicals or neutron
bombardment
most mutation are harmful
• Environmental Factors
cause variation in characters with continuous variation Factors that cause variations include climatic factors, nutrition
and soils.
Number of division 1 2
Produce haploid gametes which, after fertilization, can restore normal diploid conditions
Produce genetic variations
Inheritance
Classification:
Classification is the grouping of living organisms according to similar structures and functions.
Ans: Types of plants: Chlorophytes (Algae), Bryophytes (mosses, ferns), coniferous plants and flowering plants
1. Demonstrate soil composition. Ans: Soil composition: Air, micro-organism, soil particles, humus
Ans: Factors that make soil fertile: Air, micro organisms, moisture, mineral elements, organic matter, pH
4. Investigate causes of loss of fertility in soil.
Ans:Causes of loss of fertility in soil: Deforestation, poor farming methods, late burning, overgrazing, leaching,
harvesting
Ans:Methods of improving and retaining soil fertility: Suitable pH, weeding, application of fertiliser, crop rotation,
conservation farming
Habitat: the place where an organism lives An organism in any habitat is never an independent unit.
Ecological niche: the function of an organism or the role it plays in the habitat.
Population: a group of individuals of the same species occupying a given area at a given time.
Community: when different populations of plants and animals live together and interact within the same
environment
Ecosystem: an ecological system formed by the interaction of living organisms and their non-living environment
(both biotic and abiotic factors)
A functioning ecosystem uses both energy and materials (inorganic nutrients)
Feeding Relationships and Energy Flow
Energy from the sun is converted into chemical energy that other organisms can eat as food. This means that it is
transferred through the entire food chain until it reaches the top most consumers.
Ans: In the process of being transferred from trophic level to another, energy is also lost. How does this take place?
other uses After an herbivore eats some food, it produces faeces. So the energy in the undigested food is not passed on
to the primary carnivores which are at the next trophic level. The remaining chemical energy /food is used by the
herbivore for a number of functions such as cellular respiration, tissue repair, body movement and cell division/ growth.
• The ratio of energy at one level compared to the next higher level is called the conversion efficiency.
• 10% as the average conversion efficiency from one trophic level to the next.
Ans: Pyramids are graphic representations of the relative amounts of energy or matter at each trophic level. May be:
Energy Pyramid, Biomass Pyramid OR Pyramid of Numbers
Pyramid of Numbers: These allow you to compare the number of organisms present in each trophic level at a particular
time. They are usually upright but may be upside down.
Energy Pyramid
Pyramid of energy allows us to compare the amount of energy passing through each trophic level. They are always
upright.
Population
20. Describe how carbon and nitrogen are cycled within an ecosystem.
Ans:
sun
rain
transpiration
evaporation
impervious
rock layer
Pollution
Conservation
BIO-DIVERSITY