3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

DP Biology (last assessment 2024)

paper 3 - option [274 marks] 44

1. [Maximum mark: 7] 23M.3.HL.TZ1.20

The level of cholesterol in blood can be used as an indicator of the risk of

cardiovascular disease. The chart shows the incidence of coronary heart disease

(CHD) per 1000 people aged between 40 and 59 years according to their serum

cholesterol level.

[Source: Wong, N. and Levy, D., 2013. Legacy of the Framingham Heart Study: Rationale, Design, Initial Findings,
and
Implications. Global Heart, [e-journal] 8(1), pp. 3–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gheart.2012.12.001. Open access.]

(a) Compare and contrast the effect on men and women of an

increase in serum cholesterol. [2]

Markscheme

a. both have increased CHD with increasing cholesterol;

b. men always higher incidence CHD than women at each level (of
cholesterol);

Accept vice versa

(b) Suggest a reason for high total serum cholesterol not always being
an indicator of CHD risk. [1]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 1/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

a. depends on the type of cholesterol/ratio of HDL to LDL/some types of

cholesterol do not increase the chance of CHD;
b. may not indicate CHD if lack other risk factors for CHD;

(c) Describe the reactions that occur in the liver, leading to the
production of bile. [3]

Markscheme

a. (excess) cholesterol is converted to bile salts;

b. hemoglobin is broken down into heme and globin;
c. heme is broken down to produce bilirubin and iron;
d. bilirubin and bile salts combine to produce bile;

(d) State one long-term consequence of jaundice in newborn babies if

this condition is not treated. [1]

Markscheme

neurological/brain damage /deafness / cerebral palsy;

2. [Maximum mark: 7] 23M.3.HL.TZ1.22

The diagram indicates the condition of the heart chambers during a heart cycle of

duration 0.8 s, beginning with atrial systole.

[Source: Ivan Shun Ho, 2011. Visualizing the Cardiac Cycle: A Useful Tool to Promote Student Understanding.
Journal of Microbiology

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 2/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank
& Biology Education [e-journal], 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1128/jmbe.v12i1.261. Reproduced with permission from
American
Society for Microbiology.]

(a) Calculate how long all the heart chambers are in diastole at the
same time. [1]

Markscheme

0.4 s;

(b) State the letter on an ECG corresponding with the events from 0.0
to 0.1 s. [1]

Markscheme

P;

(c) Describe the state of the heart valves at 0.3 s. [2]

Markscheme

a. atrioventricular/AV valves closed;

b. semi-lunar valves open;

(d) Explain how cardiac muscle is adapted to its function. [3]

Markscheme

a. many mitochondria for aerobic respiration;

b. cells are branched allowing for faster transmission/allow impulse to
spread;
c. cardiac muscle is myogenic so does not require the CNS to initiate
contraction;
d. cells are not fused together/are connected by gap junctions/intercalated
discs (which) allows easier transmission between cells;

3. [Maximum mark: 6] 23M.3.HL.TZ1.23

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 3/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

The graph shows the oxygen dissociation curves for hemoglobin in a fetus, a

healthy adult and an adult with emphysema.

[Source: Reproduced with permission of the © ERS 2023: European Respiratory Journal 26 (2) 204–213;
DOI: 10.1183/09031936.05.00095204 Published 1 August 2005.]

(a) State where in the body the blood would be flowing at point X on
the graph. [1]

Markscheme

lungs/alveoli;

(b) Outline the reason that the curve for fetal hemoglobin is to the left
of normal adult hemoglobin. [1]

Markscheme

a. fetal hemoglobin has a higher affinity for oxygen then normal

hemoglobin;
b. oxygen will pass from normal/maternal/mother’s hemoglobin to fetal
hemoglobin (in the placenta);

(c) State where the curve for myoglobin would be drawn on the
diagram. [1]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 4/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

to left of the curve for fetal hemoglobin;

Do not accept above the curve.

(d) The micrographs show mammalian lung tissue in its healthy

condition and with emphysema.

Explain how emphysema is treated. [3]

Markscheme

1. help smokers to quit smoking as smoking worsens emphysema;

2. pulmonary rehabilitation/learning special breathing techniques to reduce
breathlessness;
3. use inhaler/bronchodilator/medications to open the air passages in the
lungs
OR
steroids can help relieve symptoms of emphysema associated with
asthma/bronchitis;
4. patients may require a device that gives them supplemental oxygen;
5. lung transplantation may be an option for some patients with
emphysema;
6. lung volume reduction surgery to remove damaged lung tissue may be
recommended;
7. AAT/alpha-1 antitrypsin to slow progression of lung damage (in patients
with AAT deficiency);

4. [Maximum mark: 2] 23M.3.HL.TZ2.24

Scientific evidence demonstrates that reducing total cardiovascular risk
results in the prevention of coronary heart disease. The chart shows
attributable deaths in global population (in thousands) due to six leading
cardiovascular risk factors.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 5/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Source: Mendis, Shanthi, Puska, Pekka, Norrving, B, World Health Organization, World Heart
Federation et al. (2011). Global
atlas on cardiovascular disease prevention and control / edited by: Shanthi Mendis ... [et al.]. World Health
Organization.
Graph of attributable deaths due to selected risk factors.]

Describe how two named risk factors shown in the graph can lead to
coronary heart disease.

1.

2.
[2]

Markscheme

a. raised blood pressure damages arteries/coronary/cerebral blood vessels

(manifesting as heart attacks and strokes);
b. smoking tobacco causes greater platelet aggregation (increases risk of
thrombosis/CHD due to atherosclerosis)
OR
smoking tobacco lowers oxygen supply / greater oxygen demand (so
heart works more)
OR
nicotine (in smoking tobacco) causes vasoconstriction/raises blood
pressure (that can damage arteries);
c. high glucose causes stronger contraction of blood vessels/raised
bloodpressure (causing damage to arteries/ coronary/cerebral blood
vessels);
d. physical inactivity prevents return of venous blood from the extremities;
e. overweight and obesity causes greater risk of clot/plaque formation
OR
overweight and obesity raises blood pressure/vasoconstriction;
f. high cholesterol promotes plaque formation/blockage of arteries (which
increases risk of thrombosis/CHD due to atherosclerosis);

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 6/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

If more than two factors written, mark only the first two descriptions.

Award only if descriptions are included.

5. [Maximum mark: 6] 20N.3.HL.TZ0.24

Explain how steroid and peptide hormones exert their effect. [6]

Markscheme

a. endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream;

Steroid hormones:
b. pass through the plasma membrane (of target cells);

c. bind to receptor proteins in the cytoplasm

OR
form a receptor–hormone complex;

d. (receptor–hormone complex) enters the nucleus;

e. promotes the transcription of specific genes;

Peptide hormones:
f. bind to receptors in the plasma membrane (of the target cell);

g. (binding of hormones to membrane receptors) activates a cascade of

reactions;

h. (cascade of reactions) mediated by a second messenger (inside the cell);

i. (cascade results in) activation of enzymes;

6. [Maximum mark: 9] 20N.3.HL.TZ0.23

The graph shows the Bohr shift.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 7/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Source: From The New England Journal of Medicine, Connie C.W. Hsia, Respiratory Function of
Hemoglobin, Volume 338(4):239–47. Copyright © 1998, Massachusetts Medical
Society. Reprinted with permission
from Massachusetts Medical Society.]
(a) Using the graph, explain the Bohr shift. [3]

Markscheme

a. respiring tissues produce CO2;

b. CO2 leads to an increase in H+/decrease in blood pH;

c. increased acidity/decreased pH shifts the oxygen dissociation curve to the

right;

d. affinity of the hemoglobin for oxygen is reduced;

e. greater release of oxygen from hemoglobin (at the same partial pressure of
oxygen) in tissues;

(b) State two modes of transport of carbon dioxide in blood.

1.

2. [2]

Markscheme

a. dissolved/carried in plasma;

b. forms carbonic acid/H2CO3 (in plasma)

OR

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 8/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

as hydrogencarbonate (HCO3-) ions (in plasma);

c. binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells;

(c) State the effect of carbon dioxide in blood on the rate of

ventilation. [1]

Markscheme

increased carbon dioxide in blood increases the rate of ventilation

OR
positive correlation/relationship;

(d) Describe what happens to the hemoglobin from old or damaged

red blood cells that are broken down. [3]

Markscheme

a. hemoglobin (from broken red blood cells) taken up by Kupffer cells (in the
liver);

b. hemoglobin broken down into heme and globin;

c. globin hydrolyzed/broken down to amino acids;

d. iron removed from heme group

OR
heme broken down to form bilirubin/bile pigment;

Do not accept red blood cells broken down into heme and globin.

7. [Maximum mark: 7] 20N.3.HL.TZ0.21

(a) Outline the function of the stomach in food digestion. [2]

Markscheme

a. produces acid to break down molecules;

b. churns food for mechanical digestion;

c. produces proteases to digest proteins/peptides;

Allow pepsin.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 9/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Do not allow “acid kills bacteria”.

The human stomach kills pathogenic bacteria while allowing some benefi cial

bacteria to survive. The diagram shows how mucus lining the stomach helps in this

process.

[Source: Kavanaugh, D., O’Callaghan, J., Kilcoyne, M., Kane, M., Joshi, L. and Hickey,
R.M., 2015. The intestinal glycome and
its modulation by diet and nutrition. Nutrition Reviews, 73(6), pp.359–375 by permission
of Oxford University Press on behalf
of the International Life Sciences Institute. Translated and reprinted by permission
of Oxford University Press on behalf of the
International Life Sciences Institute. Please visit:
https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/73/6/359/1845190.]

(b) State a mechanism by which the stomach destroys pathogens. [1]

Markscheme

production of hydrochloric acid/HCl

(c.i) There are times when pathogenic bacteria infect the stomach,
causing ulcers.

State a pathogenic bacterium that can cause stomach ulcers. [1]

Markscheme

Helicobacter pylori/H. pylori

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 10/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

(c.ii) There are times when pathogenic bacteria infect the stomach,
causing ulcers.

Explain how proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduce conditions that

favour ulcer formation. [3]

Markscheme

a. acidity is achieved by a proton pump/H+, K+-ATPase;

b. exchange of H+ from the cytoplasm for K+ ions in the lumen;

c. PPIs bind irreversibly to the (proton) pump;

d. lowering amount of acid produced/H+;

8. [Maximum mark: 5] 20N.3.HL.TZ0.22

Blood pressure changes in chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) fed a salt-supplemented diet

during a two-and-a-half-year treatment period were compared to the blood

pressure of those fed a normal diet. The graph shows the mean systolic and

diastolic blood pressure (± standard deviation) before, during and after the

treatment period.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 11/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Source: Republished with permission of American Society for Clinical

Investigation, from The Journal of Clinical Investigation, O’Shaughnessy, K.M. and Karet, F.E.,
113, 8, 2004;
permission conveyed through Copyright Clearance Center, Inc.]
(a) Evaluate the effect of salt on blood pressure using the data in the
graph. [2]

Markscheme

a. systolic pressure increases with salt in diet during treatment;

b. diastolic pressure is slightly higher/no change with salt during treatment

OR
diastolic pressure only changes towards the end of the period;

c. (blood) pressure goes back to normal after treatment

OR
salt causes increased (blood) pressure;

d. standard deviation values overlap therefore not statistically significant;

(b) State the instrument used by doctors to measure blood pressure. [1]

Markscheme

sphygmomanometer/blood pressure monitor;

(c) Describe the mechanism by which the heartbeat is initiated. [2]

Markscheme

a. sinoatrial node/SAN initiates contraction of atria;

b. SAN sends messages to the atrioventricular/AV node;

c. AV node initiates ventricular contraction;

d. through conducting fibres;

9. [Maximum mark: 6] 19N.3.HL.TZ0.23

Explain how ventilation rate is changed during vigorous physical exercise. [6]

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 12/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Markscheme

a. exercise increases the rate of cellular respiration ✔

b. increases production of CO2 ✔

c. increased CO2 causes increased acidity in blood

OR
decrease pH ✔

d. chemoreceptors in aorta/carotid artery/medulla oblongata detect change in

pH ✔

e. impulse/signal/message to breathing centre

OR
impulse/signal/message to medulla oblongata ✔

f. impulse/signal/message to to diaphragm for more frequent contraction

OR
impulse/signal/message to intercostal muscles for more frequent contraction
✔

g. increase ventilation rate for more gas exchange ✔

h. long term effects of increased lung surface area

OR
vital capacity ✔

i. training decreases ventilation rate over time ✔

10. [Maximum mark: 6] 19N.3.HL.TZ0.21

(a) The figure below shows the average death rates from coronary
heart disease in the UK.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 13/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[1]

[Source: Bhatnagar P, Wickramasinghe K, Wilkins E, et al, Trends in

the epidemiology
of cardiovascular disease in the UK, Heart 2016; 102: 1945–1952.]

Suggest one reason for the general decrease in the incidence of

coronary heart disease.

Markscheme

improvement in medical care Accept improvements in medication.

OR
healthier diet
OR
decrease in blood cholesterol/pressure
OR
decrease in cigarette smoking
OR
increase in exercise ✔

Accept other answers relating to greater awareness about health issues.

(b) Outline the use of a defibrillator. [2]

Markscheme

a. used in life-threatening cardiac conditions/arrythmia/ventricular fibrillation

✔

b. delivers therapeutic/small dose/shock of electrical energy ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 14/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

c. depolarizes the heart muscle

OR
allows normal rhythm to be re-established ✔

(c) Explain the heart sounds. [3]

Markscheme

a. «heart sounds» produced by the closing of the valves ✔

b. first sound «lub» is due to «closure of» the atrioventricular valves ✔ Accept
bicuspid/mitral and tricuspid.

c. second sound «dub» is due to «closure of» the semilunar valves ✔ Accept
pulmonary/aortic valves.

d. sequence of sounds from a healthy heart is lub dub «pause lub dub pause»
✔ OWTTE

11. [Maximum mark: 6] 19N.3.HL.TZ0.20

Liver transplantation is a viable treatment option for end-stage liver disease and

acute hepatic failure. The graph below shows the main diseases leading to liver

transplants, in three age groups.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 15/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Source: European Liver Transplant Registry. http://www.eltr.org/Overall-indication-

and-results.html]
(a) Describe the relationship between age and liver transplants due to
cancers. [1]

Markscheme

as age increases liver transplant due to cancer increases ✔

One of the functions of the liver is to break down hemoglobin.

(b.i) Describe the breakdown of hemoglobin in the liver. [3]

Markscheme

a. hemoglobin taken up by Kupffer cells ✔ Do not accept confusion between erythrocytes and
hemoglobin.

b. broken down into heme and globins ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 16/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

c. globin hydrolysed/broken down to amino acids ✔

d. iron removed from heme group

OR
heme broken down to form bilirubin/bile pigment ✔

(b.ii) Outline one other function of the liver. [1]

Markscheme

a. storage of nutrients ✔

b. regulation of blood glucose levels ✔ e.g. glucose to glycogen and vice versa.

c. production/secretion of bile ✔ Do not accept production of bile pigments from hemoglobin in

the liver.

d. detoxification ✔

e. synthesis of plasma proteins e.g. albumin ✔

f. synthesis and regulation of cholesterol ✔

Accept only the first answer if more than one are provided.

(c) State one material not produced by the human body that is
egested from the digestive system. [1]

Markscheme

cellulose/lignin/fibre
OR
bacteria ✔

12. [Maximum mark: 6] 19N.3.HL.TZ0.22

(a) Athletes taking growth hormones show an increase in their
sprinting capacity. This is not maintained after discontinuing the
drug. Suggest one reason for the disappearance of the effect. [1]

Markscheme

growth hormone/drug no longer present «in blood» OWTTE

OR

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 17/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

lack of hormones reduce «gained» muscle mass/strength ✔

(b) Distinguish between the mode of action of steroid hormones and

peptide hormones. [3]

Markscheme

Award [1 mark] for each complete row, up to [3 max].

Apply ECF the second time plasma is omitted and award the mark.

(c) Identify with reasons whether the pituitary gland is an exocrine or

endocrine gland. [2]

Markscheme

a. endocrine gland ✔

b. «ductless gland that» secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream ✔

13. [Maximum mark: 6] 19N.3.HL.TZ0.19

The table below summarizes the distribution of the amino acids lysine and

tryptophan in four food items.

The table below shows the average content of lysine and tryptophan in diets of the
UK and India. The Indian diet is mainly vegetarian.
https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 18/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Source: reprinted from Protein and amino acid requirements in human nutrition.
Copyright (2007).
https://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/nutrientrequirements/WHO_TRS_935/en/]
(a) Distinguish between essential and non-essential amino acids. [1]

Markscheme

Distinctive elements from the same line required to gain the mark.

(b) Using the data from the tables, suggest a reason for the differences
in lysine concentration in the diets from the UK and India. [1]

Markscheme

Indian diet based on rice and wheat which have low levels of lysine
OR
low levels of meat/milk in Indian diet
OR
high levels of meat/milk in UK diet ✔

(c) Explain the consequences of protein deficiency malnutrition. [2]

Markscheme

a. protein/muscle lost for energy ✔

b. lack of blood plasma proteins ✔

c. leading to tissue fluid retention/edema/swollen abdomen/kwashiorkor ✔

d. lethargic/little interest in surroundings ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 19/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

e. thin muscles/flaky appearance of skin/sparse hair with lack of pigmentation

✔

f. physical/mental development retarded ✔

g. lack of menstrual cycle ✔

(d) List two dietary sources of vitamin D. [1]

Markscheme

cod/fish liver oil

OR
oily fish «accept correctly named example» Check examples on the Internet if necessary.
OR
egg yolk
OR
«fortified/enriched» dairy product ✔ i.e. milk/cheese/yoghurt.

Allow any two sources for the mark. Mark only the first two.
Do not accept sunlight, as source has to be dietary, nor dietary supplements.
Reject fish alone.

(e) State one possible cause and one symptom of type II diabetes.

Cause:

Symptom: [1]

Markscheme

Both one cause from left column and one symptom from right column required for the mark.
For the cause, do not accept risk factors, e.g. high sugar intake/obesity, lack of exercise, genetic predisposition,
etc.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 20/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Other valid symptoms could be: slow-healing sores, dizziness, tiredness, red/swollen gums, kidney/back pain,
nerve damage, erectile dysfunction.

14. [Maximum mark: 6] 19N.3.HL.TZ0.20

Liver transplantation is a viable treatment option for end-stage liver disease and

acute hepatic failure. The graph below shows the main diseases leading to liver

transplants, in three age groups.

[Source: European Liver Transplant Registry. http://www.eltr.org/Overall-indication-

and-results.html]

(a) Describe the relationship between age and liver transplants due to
cancers. [1]

Markscheme

as age increases liver transplant due to cancer increases ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 21/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

One of the functions of the liver is to break down hemoglobin.

(b.i) Describe the breakdown of hemoglobin in the liver. [3]

Markscheme

a. hemoglobin taken up by Kupffer cells ✔ Do not accept confusion between erythrocytes and
hemoglobin.

b. broken down into heme and globins ✔

c. globin hydrolysed/broken down to amino acids ✔

d. iron removed from heme group

OR
heme broken down to form bilirubin/bile pigment ✔

(b.ii) Outline one other function of the liver. [1]

Markscheme

a. storage of nutrients ✔

b. regulation of blood glucose levels ✔ e.g. glucose to glycogen and vice versa.

c. production/secretion of bile ✔ Do not accept production of bile pigments from hemoglobin in

the liver.

d. detoxification ✔

e. synthesis of plasma proteins e.g. albumin ✔

f. synthesis and regulation of cholesterol ✔

Accept only the first answer if more than one are provided.

(c) State one material not produced by the human body that is
egested from the digestive system. [1]

Markscheme

cellulose/lignin/fibre
OR
bacteria ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 22/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

15. [Maximum mark: 6] 19N.3.HL.TZ0.19

The table below summarizes the distribution of the amino acids lysine and

tryptophan in four food items.

The table below shows the average content of lysine and tryptophan in diets of the
UK and India. The Indian diet is mainly vegetarian.

[Source: reprinted from Protein and amino acid requirements in human nutrition.
Copyright (2007).
https://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/nutrientrequirements/WHO_TRS_935/en/]

(a) Distinguish between essential and non-essential amino acids. [1]

Markscheme

Distinctive elements from the same line required to gain the mark.

(b) Using the data from the tables, suggest a reason for the differences
in lysine concentration in the diets from the UK and India. [1]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 23/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Indian diet based on rice and wheat which have low levels of lysine
OR
low levels of meat/milk in Indian diet
OR
high levels of meat/milk in UK diet ✔

(c) Explain the consequences of protein deficiency malnutrition. [2]

Markscheme

a. protein/muscle lost for energy ✔

b. lack of blood plasma proteins ✔

c. leading to tissue fluid retention/edema/swollen abdomen/kwashiorkor ✔

d. lethargic/little interest in surroundings ✔

e. thin muscles/flaky appearance of skin/sparse hair with lack of pigmentation

✔

f. physical/mental development retarded ✔

g. lack of menstrual cycle ✔

(d) List two dietary sources of vitamin D. [1]

Markscheme

cod/fish liver oil

OR
oily fish «accept correctly named example» Check examples on the Internet if necessary.
OR
egg yolk
OR
«fortified/enriched» dairy product ✔ i.e. milk/cheese/yoghurt.

Allow any two sources for the mark. Mark only the first two.
Do not accept sunlight, as source has to be dietary, nor dietary supplements.
Reject fish alone.

(e) State one possible cause and one symptom of type II diabetes.

Cause:

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 24/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Symptom: [1]

Markscheme

Both one cause from left column and one symptom from right column required for the mark.
For the cause, do not accept risk factors, e.g. high sugar intake/obesity, lack of exercise, genetic predisposition,
etc.

Other valid symptoms could be: slow-healing sores, dizziness, tiredness, red/swollen gums, kidney/back pain,
nerve damage, erectile dysfunction.

16. [Maximum mark: 8] 19M.3.HL.TZ1.24

(a) The electron micrograph shows a section through an alveolus
showing blood in a capillary.

[Source: © International Baccalaureate Organization 2019]

Identify the cells found at X and Y.

X:

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 25/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Y:

[2]

Markscheme

a. X: «type I» pneumocyte ✔

b. Y: endothelial cells ✔

Accept endothelium/capillary wall

(b) Explain how physical exercise affects the affinity of hemoglobin for
oxygen. You could supplement your explanation with a labeled
diagram. [6]

Markscheme

a. diagram showing normal oxygen dissociation curve ✔

b. diagram showing curve with increased CO2 to the right ✔

c. both axes correctly labelled ✔

d. where tissues are respiring there is a higher concentration of CO2 ✔

e. exercise increases the amount of CO2 in the blood ✔

f. an increase in CO2 lowers the pH of the blood ✔

g. a lower pH causes hemoglobin to release oxygen ✔

h. lower pH decreases hemoglobin affinity for O2/changes hemoglobin

conformation ✔

i. oxygen is released in tissue where it is required for respiration ✔

j. this is known as the Bohr effect/shift ✔

k. at the lungs the low concentration of CO2 means oxygen attaches to

hemoglobin ✔

l. «Bohr» effect particularly important during exercise ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 26/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Apply [4 max] if no diagram.

17. [Maximum mark: 5] 19M.3.HL.TZ1.20

The use of human growth hormone (HGH) to enhance athletic performance is now

banned from most major sporting events including the Olympics. To investigate the

effect of HGH on athletic performance, doctors in the US looked at changes in body

composition and strength in a group of athletes taking the drug. This was

compared with a control group of similar athletes who had never taken the drug.

[Source: From Annals of Internal Medicine, H Liu and D M Bravata, Systematic Review: The
Effects of Growth Hormone on
Athletic Performance, 148., 10, 747–758. Copyright © 2008 American College of
Physicians. All Rights Reserved.
Reprinted with the permission of American College of Physicians, Inc.]

(a) Deduce from the results of the study whether HGH improves
strength. [1]

Markscheme

the drug does not appear to improve strength as less mass can be lifted «by
arms and legs» ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 27/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

(b) Suggest one reason that it is difficult to detect illegal use of HGH
to enhance athletic performance. [1]

Markscheme

a. occurs naturally so hard to tell whether it has been injected ✔

b. HGH has very short half life ✔

(c) HGH is a peptide hormone. Describe the mode of action of peptide

hormones on target cells. [3]

Markscheme

a. peptide hormones do not enter the cell ✔

b. they bind to receptors/proteins in the plasma membrane of the target cell ✔

c. a secondary messenger initiates the cell response ✔

d. causes a cascade of actions that changes the cell’s physiology ✔

e. cAMP is a common secondary messenger ✔

18. [Maximum mark: 6] 19M.3.HL.TZ1.21

The X-ray shows the thorax of a patient who has had an artificial pacemaker fitted.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 28/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Source: M S Silvetti and F Drago, Twenty years of paediatric cardiac pacing: 515
pacemakers and 480 leads implanted in 292
patients, Europace, 2006, 8, 7, 530–536, by permission of Oxford University Press]
(a.i) State one condition which would require the use of an artificial
pacemaker. [1]

Markscheme

a. heartbeat too slow/fast/irregular/tachycardia/fibrillations ✔

b. sinoatrial node is malfunctioning ✔

c. pathway that conducts electrical impulses generated by the sinoatrial node

is impaired ✔

Do not accept heart attack

(a.ii) Describe briefly how an artificial pacemaker works. [2]

Markscheme

a. a pacemaker contains a battery and pulse generator

OR
it is connected to the heart by wires/cables ✔

b. it detects that the heart’s natural rhythm is incorrect ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 29/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

c. it sends electrical impulses to correct the heartbeat/it replaces sinoatrial

node ✔

d. provide a regular impulse/constant rhythm ✔

The micrograph shows cardiac muscle.

[Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Musculocardiaco.jpg by
Goyitrina,
licensed Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0]

(b.i) The structure labelled X in the micrograph is a junction between

two cardiac muscle cells. Identify the structure labelled X. [1]

Markscheme

intercalated disc ✔

(b.ii) Explain how the structure of cardiac muscle cells allows

propagation of stimuli through the heart wall. [2]

Markscheme

a. branching provides larger surface area of contact between cells

OR
is branched to allow groups of cells to work together/synchronize ✔

b. intercalated disks hold cells together so they cannot separate

OR
intercalated discs allow easy transfer of electrical impulses between cells ✔

c. contain large numbers of mitochondria ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 30/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

d. gap junctions «in intercalated discs» form channels that allow continuous
flow of cytoplasm between cell ✔

For mpa, accept branching allows connection to multiple cells

19. [Maximum mark: 5] 19M.3.HL.TZ1.22

Water in a calorimeter is heated by burning food in oxygen. The temperature

change of the water is used to calculate the energy value of the food. An

experiment was set up to calculate the energy value of avocado.

[Source: © International Baccalaureate Organization 2019]

(a) Apart from the water temperature, state two other values to be
measured at the start of the experiment.

1.

2.

[2]

Markscheme

a. mass/volume of water ✔

b. mass of avocado ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 31/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

(b) The energy value calculated for avocado was 750 kJ 100 g–1. The
actual energy value of avocado is 840 kJ 100 g–1. Suggest a source
of error in the experiment.

[1]

Markscheme

a. heat loss to the air ✔

b. heat transferred to the apparatus ✔

c. avocado may not be fully dried/incomplete combustion of avocado ✔

(c.i) Avocados are known to be a good source of dietary fibre and

contain all the essential amino acids. State one health benefit of a
diet high in fibre. [1]

Markscheme

helps in movement of food along alimentary canal/peristalsis/decreases

transit time
OR
regulates bowel action
OR
prevents cancer/constipation/heart attack ✔

(c.ii) Avocados are known to be a good source of dietary fibre and

contain all the essential amino acids. Distinguish between
essential and non-essential amino acids. [1]

Markscheme

essential amino acids must be included in the diet and the body cannot make
them «whereas the body can synthesize non-essential amino acids» ✔

20. [Maximum mark: 6] 19M.3.HL.TZ1.23

The diagram shows the bacterium Helicobacter pylori attacking the gastric mucosa of the

stomach.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 32/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Source: Reproduced from Gut, B A Hills, 34, 588–593, 1993 with permission from
BMJ Publishing Group Ltd.]

(a) Outline the possible consequences of a Helicobacter pylori infection of

the stomach wall. [2]

Markscheme

a. causes inflammation ✔

b. digestion of stomach lining by pepsin and HCl/gastric juice ✔

c. called «gastric» ulcer ✔

(b) The bacterium secretes an enzyme that breaks down urea,

resulting in an increase in pH. Outline how this would help the
bacterium survive in the stomach. [1]

Markscheme

neutralizes the acid the stomach secretes that kills bacteria ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 33/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

(c) Explain hormonal control of gastric secretion. [3]

Markscheme

a. release of gastric juices stimulated by gastrin ✔

b. gastrin stimulates secretion of gastric hydrochloric acid ✔

c. from the parietal cells «of the stomach» ✔

d. gastrin release stimulated by presence of polypeptides/amino acids in

stomach ✔

e. gastrin stimulates release of pepsinogen by chief cells «of the stomach» ✔

f. drop in pH/excess acid/secretion of secretin/somatostatin inhibits gastrin

secretion ✔

21. [Maximum mark: 6] 19M.3.HL.TZ2.23

Discuss the significance of the oxygen dissociation curves for adult
hemoglobin and fetal hemoglobin. [6]

Markscheme

a. oxyhemoglobin forms when partial pressure of oxygen is high

OR
oxyhemoglobin dissociates/breaks apart when partial pressure of oxygen is
low ✔

b. respiring tissues have low partial pressure of oxygen ✔

c. sketch/statement of S-shaped «oxygen dissociation» curve ✔

d. axes of graph labelled correctly as percentage oxygen saturation of

hemoglobin on y-axis AND partial pressure of oxygen on x-axis ✔ Both needed. Do not
accept reverse axes.

e. «small» decrease in oxygen partial pressure over steep part of curve results
in dissociation of oxyhemoglobin/oxygen release to tissues ✔

f. fetal hemoglobin is structurally different from adult/maternal hemoglobin ✔

g. fetal dissociation curve to left of adult dissociation curve ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 34/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

h. fetal hemoglobin has greater affinity for oxygen than adult/maternal blood
✔

i. fetus obtains its oxygen from mother’s blood «at placenta» ✔

j. at any given partial pressure of oxygen fetus will take up oxygen from
mother
OR
fetal hemoglobin always more saturated with oxygen than maternal blood ✔

Some of these points may be present in annotated diagrams.

22. [Maximum mark: 4] 19M.3.HL.TZ2.22

(a) State one function of the atrioventricular node. [1]

Markscheme

a. relays signal from SAN to ventricles ✔

b. causes ventricular systole ✔

c. delays signal enabling both ventricles to contract simultaneously

OR
delays signal so the atria empty before ventricular systole ✔

(b) Describe how the structure of cardiac muscle cells allows them to
carry out their function. [3]

Markscheme

Not necessary to present answer in a table.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 35/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Award [1] for each set of corresponding structure and function.

23. [Maximum mark: 6] 19M.3.HL.TZ2.21

Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere so December to February are summer

months and June to August are winter months. Data on vitamin D deficiency levels

were collected throughout the year for the Australian National Health Measures

Survey. This was then used to analyse the seasonal effects of vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D deficiency levels for those who had their blood samples taken in summer

were compared with those who had them taken in winter. The maps show the

vitamin D deficiency by state between 2011 and 2012.

[Source:
www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/Lookup/4364.0.55.006Chapter2002011-12]

(a.i) Identify which state had the smallest seasonal change in vitamin D
levels. [1]

Markscheme

Northern Territory ✔

(a.ii) Suggest one reason why people in Victoria show such a large
seasonal change in vitamin D levels. [1]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 36/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

less sun in winter than in summer

OR
colder in winter so cover up/indoors more
OR
skin has more exposure to sun in summer ✔

Accept other valid suggestions.

Accept vice versa.

(b) Outline one effect of lack of vitamin D. [2]

Markscheme

a. «lack of vitamin D results in» calcium «ions» not absorbed from gut in
sufficient quantities ✔

b. calcium salts not deposited or reabsorbed

OR
affects bone mineralization ✔

c. bones become softened/weakened ✔

d. can cause rickets «in children»/osteomalacia «in adults» ✔

(c) Vitamins and minerals are both essential nutrients. Compare and
contrast vitamins and dietary minerals. [2]

Markscheme

Not necessary to present answer in a table.

Accept other valid similarities and/or differences.

Award marks for complete lines only.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 37/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

24. [Maximum mark: 9] 19M.3.HL.TZ2.20

Most stomach ulcers are caused by a bacterium that lives under the mucus lining of

the stomach wall.

(a) State the name of the bacterium that can cause stomach ulcers. [1]

Markscheme

Helicobacter pylori ✔

To award [1] full scientific name is required.

This organism causes the production of reactive compounds which result in

oxidation. This makes the ulcer progress and, consequently, healing is more difficult.

A study was carried out to compare the effect of the drug nizatidine (N) alone or

combined with the antioxidants vitamin E and thioctic acid.

[Source: Effect of Helicobacter Pylori Eradication Therapy and some Antioxidants on

Ulcer Healing Rates
in Patients with Helicobacter pylori-associated Duodenal Ulcer, Ahmed M Ali, 2013,
http://www.rroij.com/
open-access/effect-of-helicobacter-pylori-eradication-therapy-and-some-
antioxidants-on-ulcer-healingrates-
in-patients-with-helicobacter-pylor-.php?aid=34774, licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License]

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 38/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

(b) Compare and contrast the effect of adding antioxidants to

nizatidine on the ulcer healing rate. [2]

Markscheme

a. vitamin E and thioctic acid both improve healing rate «compared with
nizatidine alone»
OR
all trials with antioxidant/three trials improve healing rate «compared to N
alone» ✔

b. adding vitamin E increases healing rate more than adding thioctic acid
OR
adding both vitamin E and thioctic acid increases healing rate to highest level
«but still less than 100 %» ✔

Giving values alone is not enough.

[Source: Effect of Helicobacter Pylori

Eradication Therapy and some Antioxidants
on Ulcer Healing Rates in Patients with
Helicobacter pylori-associated Duodenal
Ulcer, Ahmed M Ali, 2013, http://
www.rroij.com/open-access/effect-ofhelicobacter-
pylori-eradication-therapy-andsome-
antioxidants-on-ulcer-healing-rates-inpatients-
with-helicobacter-pylor-.php?
aid=34774, licensed under a Creative
Commons Attribution 4.0 International
License]

(c) Components of gastric juice have been thought to aggravate the

development of ulcers. Outline the role of nerves in the secretion
of gastric juices. [3]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 39/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

a. sight/smell of food stimulates brain ✔

b. food entering stomach stimulates chemoreceptors/stretch receptors to send

impulses/signals to brain ✔

c. impulse/signal from brain causes cells in stomach lining/parietal cells to

secrete acid/HCl/gastric juice ✔

d. brain sends impulses/signals «via vagus nerve» to endocrine cells in wall of

stomach to release gastrin ✔

e. gastrin stimulates «more» production of acid/HCl/gastric juice ✔

(d) Gastric juice production can be inhibited by the hormone secretin

which is a polypeptide. Outline the mechanism by which a peptide
hormone carries out its function. [3]

Markscheme

a. bind to plasma membrane receptors of «target» cell ✔

b. results in activation/release/synthesis of a secondary messenger ✔

c. triggers a cascade of reactions ✔

d. leads to promotion/inhibition of enzymes

OR
causes activation of protein kinase «resulting in hormonal effect» ✔

25. [Maximum mark: 6] 18N.3.HL.TZ0.21

Explain how the pH of blood is kept constant during exercise. [6]

Markscheme

a. pH of blood is regulated to stay within a narrow range/7.35 to 7.45 ✔

If values provided, both required

b. increase in CO2 produced during aerobic respiration «during exercise» ✔

c. CO2 reacts with water to form carbonic acid ✔

d. chemoreceptors detect drop in blood pH «when CO2 concentration rises»

OR
«increase in» CO2 lowers blood pH ✔
https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 40/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

e. carbonic acid dissociates to form hydrogen carbonate ions and hydrogen

ions ✔
Allow formula

f. hydrogencarbonate is alkaline/increases pH/neutralizes H+ ions ✔

OWTTE

g. hydrogen ions bind to plasma proteins/hemoglobin ✔

h. stimulation of breathing centre/medulla oblongata

OR
ventilation rate increased ✔

i. faster diffusion/removal of CO2 «in alveoli/lungs» ✔

26. [Maximum mark: 10] 18N.3.HL.TZ0.18

The diagram shows the emulsion and absorption of a fat globule in the gut.

(a) State the organ in the digestive system where this process is taking
place. [1]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 41/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

small intestine ✔

(b) Explain how components of bile are produced by the liver. [3]

Markscheme

a. hemoglobin «from red blood cells» broken down into heme and globin ✔

b. iron removed from heme ✔

c. «remainder of» heme group transformed to bilirubin ✔

d. «surplus» cholesterol is converted to bile salts ✔

e. bilirubin and bile salts form bile ✔

The diagram shows the emulsion and absorption of a fat globule in the gut.

(c) Outline a function of fats in the body. [1]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 42/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

a. use as energy source «for cellular respiration»

OR
«long term» energy storage ✔

b. fat tissue for «heat» insulation ✔

c. protects axons by myelin sheath

OR
other function of fats ✔

Accept first function written only

(d) Explain how epithelial cells in the gut are adapted for absorption. [2]

Markscheme

a. microvilli/brush border to increase surface area ✔

b. numerous mitochondria for energy for active transport ✔

c. have transport proteins for specific nutrients ✔

eg: glucose, amino acids

d. single layer of cells/short distance allowing for diffusion ✔

Explanation must be included for each characteristic

(e) In order to compare the absorption of fat and of glucose in the

digestive system, state in the table, using yes or no, whether the
processes occur.

[3]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 43/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Award [1] for each correct row

Award the mark only for rows containing two correct answers, ie: no blanks accepted

27. [Maximum mark: 7] 18N.3.HL.TZ0.20

The diagram shows part of the control of the pituitary gland by the hypothalamus

and, at the same time, the control of secretion in the breasts and the ovary by the

pituitary gland.

(a.i) Using the diagram, identify an organ containing an exocrine gland. [1]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 44/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

breast ✔

(a.ii) Using the diagram, identify a hormone involved in the

development of a follicle. [1]

Markscheme

FSH ✔

(a.iii) Using the diagram, identify a steroid hormone. [1]

Markscheme

estrogen
OR
progesterone ✔

(b) State two effects of prolactin. [2]

Markscheme

a. growth and development of the breast/mammary gland ✔

b. lactation/synthesis of milk ✔

c. maintenance of milk secretion ✔

(c) List two hormones produced by the posterior pituitary gland. [2]

Markscheme

a. oxytocin ✔

b. antidiuretic hormone/ADH/vasopressin ✔

28. [Maximum mark: 7] 18N.3.HL.TZ0.19

The mean systolic blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) of many individuals

were measured. The results are displayed in the box plot.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 45/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Reprinted from Obesity Research & Clinical Practice, 9(2), Noritaka Kawada, Kaori Nakanishi,
Tohru Ohama, Makoto Nishida, Keiko Yamauchi-Takihara and Toshiki Moriyama,
'Gender differences in the relationship between blood pressure and body mass
index during adolescence', pp. 141–151, Copyright (2015), with permission from
Elsevier. https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/obesity-research-and-clinical-
practice]
(a) Compare and contrast the relationship between BMI and systolic
blood pressure in males and females. [2]

Markscheme

a. both males and females have higher «mean/range» SBP as weight increases
OR
both males and females have highest SBP for overweight BMI ✔

b. «SPB» males «slightly» greater than females in all BMIs ✔

c. similar values/no/little difference between underweight and normal weight

in females but «visible/obvious» difference in males ✔

d. range of SBP narrower in «overweight» females than males ✔

(b.i) Outline the relationship between systolic blood pressure and

hypertension. [1]

Markscheme

«at rest/chronic/constant» higher than normal «120 mmHg» systolic blood

pressure is an indicator of hypertension ✔
OWTTE

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 46/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

(b.ii) State two effects hypertension can have on the circulatory system. [2]

Markscheme

stroke ✔

thrombosis ✔

blood clot ✔

heart attack ✔

heart failure ✔

aortic aneurysms ✔

coronary heart disease/CHD ✔

peripheral arterial disease ✔

atherosclerosis ✔

Award up to [2 max] for the first two answers given

(c) State how blood pressure and heart rate can be measured.

[2]

Markscheme

blood pressure:

sphygmomanometer/blood pressure monitor

OR
description how this is used ✔

heart rate:

taking pulse manually/using a blood rate monitor/stethoscope «to count the

beats» ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 47/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

OWTTE

29. [Maximum mark: 6] 18M.3.HL.TZ1.22

Explain how an increase in cell respiration in a tissue causes increased
release of oxygen by hemoglobin in the tissue. [6]

Markscheme

a. cell respiration consumes O2 / lowers O2 partial pressure in tissues

b. (actively) respiring tissues release CO2 / partial pressure of CO2 increases

c. CO2 increases acidity / lowers pH of the blood

d. decreases hemoglobin’s affinity for O2

e. promotes the release of oxygen to respiring cells/tissues

f. binding of hydrogen ions/ allosteric effect / conformational change in

hemoglobin releases O2 more readily

g. more oxygen released at the same partial pressure

h. this shifts the oxygen dissociation curve to the right/Bohr shift

These points can be presented in a graph.

diagram with correct labels:

i. partial pressure O2 on x-axis and (percentage) saturation hemoglobin with

O2 on y-axis

j. exponential shape curve at lower partial pressure/concentration of O2

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 48/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

k. curve shifted to right (and lower) for higher partial pressure /concentration
of CO2 /lower pH

30. [Maximum mark: 10] 18M.3.HL.TZ1.19

The image shows an example of a label showing nutritional information.

(a.i) State the importance of including vitamins in our diet. [1]

Markscheme

are essential for health / cannot be synthesized by humans

Vitamin D is altered from a precursor.

(a.ii) Suggest one limitation of the information about vitamins shown

on this label.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 49/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[1]

Markscheme

does not mention whether the information is based on adults/children/age

OR

only two vitamins are shown/no quantities given for vitamins

OR

it does not take into consideration sex / pregnancy / activity levels

Accept other valid correct limitation.

(b) Distinguish between gastric juice and pancreatic juice using the
table.

[3]

Markscheme

Each row must be a distinction

(c) Describe the mode of action of steroid hormones. [3]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 50/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

a. steroid hormones enter cell / steroid hormones can pass through cell
membranes

b. steroid hormones bind to receptor in the cytoplasm

c. the receptor-hormone complex interacts directly with genes/regulates gene

expression

d. example (e.g. oestrogen, testosterone, progesterone)

(d) Many animals, including humans, maintain strongly acidic

conditions in part of their digestive systems. Explain two benefits
of this to the animal. [2]

Markscheme

a. provides ideal pH for stomach enzyme activity

b. (acidic conditions) denature proteins /start breakdown of other organic

substances

c. (acidic conditions) convert pepsinogen (inactive) into pepsin

d. (acidic conditions) destroy pathogens in ingested food

31. [Maximum mark: 7] 18M.3.HL.TZ1.21

(a) Outline the role of the sinoatrial node in the contraction of the
heart. [2]

Markscheme

a. initiates action potentials / electrical impulses (at start of cardiac cycle)

b. acts as pacemaker/ continuous beating without external stimuli

c. signal spreads over atria / causes contraction of atria (systole)

d. impulses transmitted to AV (atrioventricular) node / cannot pass directly to

ventricles

(b.i) The graph shows the results of a study of the incidence of coronary
heart disease (CHD) in different age groups of men participating in
a study carried out by the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 51/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Comment on the claim that the bar chart proves that old age
causes CHD. [1]

Markscheme

a. data show correlation (increased chance of CHD with age) not causation

OWTTE.

(b.ii) Suggest one factor other than age and hypertension that is
correlated with the incidence of CHD. [1]

Markscheme

sex / ethnic group / genetics / obesity / diet / life style / medical history / high
cholesterol levels

Smoking / stress go under lifestyle.

(c) Hypertension has been suggested as a possible cause of CHD.

Explain the possible causes of hypertension. [3]

Markscheme

a. deposition of fat in arteries thus losing elasticity/forming fibrous tissues

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 52/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

b. deposition of fat/formation of plaque in arteries thus narrowing of

lumen/causing a blockage

c. high salt levels in diets thus retaining more fluids

d. smoking because nicotine is a vasoconstrictor molecule

e. prolonged high levels of stress thus causing vasoconstriction / exposure to

stress hormones

f. genetic predisposition makes it more likely that other factors will lead to
hypertension

Do not accept a list.

32. [Maximum mark: 7] 18M.3.HL.TZ1.20

(a.i) The diagram shows the liver and its main blood vessels.

[Source: VectorStock]

Label the hepatic portal vein bringing blood to the liver. [1]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 53/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Source: VectorStock]

Accept the vessel labeled (hepatic portal vein) as it ends in the liver and does not continue. A label anywhere
on the vessel or pointing to the arrow underneath it is acceptable.

(a.ii) Outline the circulation of blood through liver tissue. [3]

Markscheme

a. hepatic artery carries oxygenated blood (from the aorta)

b. hepatic portal vein carries (deoxygenated) blood from digestive tract

c. blood from hepatic portal vein and hepatic artery mixes

d. flows through sinusoids

e. hepatic vein carries blood away from liver/to heart

(b) Explain the breakdown of hemoglobin in the liver. [3]

Markscheme

a. hemoglobin absorbed by phagocytes/Kupffer cells

b. split into heme and globin

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 54/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

c. globin hydrolysed/broken down to amino acids

d. iron removed from heme group / heme broken down to form bilirubin/bile
pigment

33. [Maximum mark: 6] 18M.3.HL.TZ2.23

Compare and contrast steroid and peptide hormone action. [6]

Markscheme

a. both «peptide and steroid hormones» act on target organs/cells

b. both «peptide and steroid hormones» travel through blood

c. the effect of both «peptide and steroid hormones» lasts for a longer time
«than neurotransmitters»
OR
both are effective at very low concentrations

d. example of each type of hormone

e. steroid hormones enter cell/cross plasma membrane while peptide

hormones do not

f. steroid hormones join receptor in cytoplasm while peptide hormones join

receptor on membrane

g. steroid hormone-receptor complex travels to nucleus whereas peptide

hormone-receptor triggers a cascade reaction/second messenger

h. steroid hormones activate genes while peptide hormones activate enzymes

i. peptide hormone requires ATP, steroid hormone does not

Award [5 max] if no similarities are presented.

34. [Maximum mark: 5] 18M.3.HL.TZ2.20

(a) State the disease caused by Helicobacter pylori. [1]

Markscheme

stomach ulcer
OR

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 55/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

stomach cancer

(b) Outline how gastric acid is produced in the stomach. [2]

Markscheme

a. sight/smell/«presence of» food in stomach stimulates nervous system

b. nervous system/vagus nerve stimulates gastric glands «to produce gastric

acid»

c. gastrin controls release of gastric acid

d. parietal cells «are stimulated to» release gastric/hydrochloric acid/HCl

e. acidity maintained by the proton pump/H+/K+ ATPase

(c) Explain why proton pump inhibitors alleviate the symptoms of H.

pylori infections. [2]

Markscheme

a. as proton pumps are inhibited less protons/H+ into stomach «lumen»

b. «less protons/H+ in stomach» less hydrochloric acid produced

OR
stomach «contents» become less acidic
OWTTE.

c. stomach heals with higher pH

35. [Maximum mark: 3] 18M.3.HL.TZ2.19

A long term study followed nearly 40 000 apparently healthy young men for

coronary heart disease (CHD) from adolescence through adulthood. The results

show how the body mass index (BMI) at adolescence and adulthood affect the risk

of CHD. The BMIs are divided into five groups (quintiles), Q1 being the lowest BMI

and Q5 the highest. A risk factor of 2 or less is desirable.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 56/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

(a) Using the graph, discuss the hypothesis that a high BMI in
adolescence is more dangerous than a high BMI in adulthood. [2]

Markscheme

Hypothesis supported as:

a. all subjects with a high BMI «in Q5» in adolescence had a high risk of CHD
«>6», even when BMI in adulthood was low «in Q2»
OWTTE.

b. subjects with a high BMI in adulthood «Q4 and Q5» had a much higher risk
of CHD if they also had a high BMI in adolescence
OWTTE.

c. high BMI in both adolescence and adulthood increases risk

Accept any other valid answer based on the graph.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 57/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Source: From The New England Journal of Medicine, A Tirosh et al, Adolescent BMI
Trajectory and Risk of
Diabetes versus Coronary Disease, 364, 1315. Copyright © (2011)
Massachusetts Medical Society.
Reprinted with permission from Massachusetts Medical Society]

(b) State one factor, other than BMI, that increases the risk of CHD. [1]

Markscheme

increased triglycerides/cholesterol in the blood

OR
presence of plaque/atherosclerosis «in arteries»
OR
high blood pressure/hypertension
OR
sedentary lifestyle/lack of exercise
OR
genetic/hereditary factor
OR
smoking
OR
age
OR
diet

36. [Maximum mark: 7] 18M.3.HL.TZ2.22

The graph shows the relationship between the maximum heart rate during exercise

and a person’s age.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 58/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

(a) Outline one method that the researchers could have used to
measure heart rate in this study. [2]

Markscheme

a. state the method/equipment

eg take the pulse.

b. how method/equipment works

eg count beats per minute.

c. during exercise on treadmill/bicycle

OWTTE.

(b) Suggest reasons for the change in maximum heart rate with
increasing age. [2]

Markscheme

a. muscles become less elastic

OR
less muscle tone

b. cells/mitochondria less efficient

c. more fat deposits

OR
blood/oxygen supply to heart tissue reduced

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 59/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

Accept other valid documented answers.

(c) Outline the use of defibrillation to treat life-threatening cardiac

conditions. [3]

Markscheme

a. defibrillator is electrodes/a metal paddle/pad that is placed on the patient’s

chest

b. the device determines whether fibrillation is happening

c. a series of electrical shocks are delivered through the electrodes

d. electrical impulse is used to depolarize the heart muscle

e. to re-establish the function of the SA node/natural pacemaker/natural

rhythm «of the heart»

37. [Maximum mark: 9] 18M.3.HL.TZ2.21

The hematocrit is the volume percentage fraction of erythrocytes in blood.

(a) From the diagram, deduce the effect of the disease polycythemia
on the proportion of erythrocytes in total blood volume. [1]

Markscheme

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 60/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

the proportion/percentage increases «from 45 % to 70%»

(b) Suggest how high altitude could lead to polycythemia. [2]

Markscheme

a. more erythrocytes/hemoglobin produced to compensate

b. low oxygen «partial» pressure «at high altitude»

c. lower oxygen saturation «of hemoglobin at high altitude»

d. less oxygen carried to tissues/hypoxia

(c) Suggest how changes in hemoglobin could help humans become

better adapted to living at high altitude. [3]

Markscheme

a. induced conformational change in the structure of the hemoglobin

molecule occurs

b. «this» hemoglobin has higher affinity for oxygen

c. saturation curve shifted to the left «because of low O2 levels»

d. «this» hemoglobin becomes more saturated at lower partial pressures of

oxygen

e. increased hematocrit/concentration of hemoglobin/red blood cells to carry

more O2

Allow answers in an annotated diagram.

(d) Outline the stages involved in the recycling of erythrocytes by the

liver. [3]

Markscheme

a. phagocytosis of erythrocytes by Kupffer cells

b. hemoglobin is split into globin and heme group

c. globin is re-used in protein synthesis

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 61/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

d. heme group broken down into iron and bilirubin

e. iron is carried back to the bone marrow «to produce new

hemoglobin/erythrocytes»

38. [Maximum mark: 3] 18M.3.HL.TZ2.19

A long term study followed nearly 40 000 apparently healthy young men for

coronary heart disease (CHD) from adolescence through adulthood. The results

show how the body mass index (BMI) at adolescence and adulthood affect the risk

of CHD. The BMIs are divided into five groups (quintiles), Q1 being the lowest BMI

and Q5 the highest. A risk factor of 2 or less is desirable.

(a) Using the graph, discuss the hypothesis that a high BMI in
adolescence is more dangerous than a high BMI in adulthood. [2]

Markscheme

Hypothesis supported as:

a. all subjects with a high BMI «in Q5» in adolescence had a high risk of CHD

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 62/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

«>6», even when BMI in adulthood was low «in Q2»

OWTTE.

b. subjects with a high BMI in adulthood «Q4 and Q5» had a much higher risk
of CHD if they also had a high BMI in adolescence
OWTTE.

c. high BMI in both adolescence and adulthood increases risk

Accept any other valid answer based on the graph.

[Source: From The New England Journal of Medicine, A Tirosh et al, Adolescent BMI
Trajectory and Risk of
Diabetes versus Coronary Disease, 364, 1315. Copyright © (2011)
Massachusetts Medical Society.
Reprinted with permission from Massachusetts Medical Society]

(b) State one factor, other than BMI, that increases the risk of CHD. [1]

Markscheme

increased triglycerides/cholesterol in the blood

OR
presence of plaque/atherosclerosis «in arteries»
OR
high blood pressure/hypertension
OR
sedentary lifestyle/lack of exercise
OR
genetic/hereditary factor
OR
smoking
OR
age

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 63/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

OR
diet

39. [Maximum mark: 5] 18M.3.HL.TZ2.20

(a) State the disease caused by Helicobacter pylori. [1]

Markscheme

stomach ulcer
OR
stomach cancer

(b) Outline how gastric acid is produced in the stomach. [2]

Markscheme

a. sight/smell/«presence of» food in stomach stimulates nervous system

b. nervous system/vagus nerve stimulates gastric glands «to produce gastric

acid»

c. gastrin controls release of gastric acid

d. parietal cells «are stimulated to» release gastric/hydrochloric acid/HCl

e. acidity maintained by the proton pump/H+/K+ ATPase

(c) Explain why proton pump inhibitors alleviate the symptoms of H.

pylori infections. [2]

Markscheme

a. as proton pumps are inhibited less protons/H+ into stomach «lumen»

b. «less protons/H+ in stomach» less hydrochloric acid produced

OR
stomach «contents» become less acidic
OWTTE.

c. stomach heals with higher pH

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 64/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

40. [Maximum mark: 6] 17N.3.HL.TZ0.23

Discuss high altitude training for athletes. [6]

Markscheme

benefits:

a. improved performance/endurance at lower oxygen levels

OR

improved performance/endurance when returning at low altitude

b. due to higher concentration erythrocytes/red blood cells/hemoglobin

c. more oxygen transported/circulating «due to increase in hemoglobin/RBC

number»

d. improved metabolic/lung efficiency/gas exchange

e. increase in myoglobin/number of capillaries/mitochondria

risks:

f. altitude sickness/stroke/lower immunity

g. increased muscle tissue breakdown

h. effects are not immediate/not permanent/extended training at high altitude

required

i. may be unfair to competitors who cannot train at high altitude

[Max 6 Marks]

41. [Maximum mark: 7] 17N.3.HL.TZ0.21

(a.i) Jaundice causes a yellow discolouration of the skin, mucous
membranes and sclera of the eyes. State the bile pigment causing
this discolouration. [1]

Markscheme

bilirubin

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 65/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

(a.ii) Explain how the normal production of bile pigments changes with
the development of jaundice. [4]

Markscheme

normal production: [2 max]

a. red blood cells/erythrocytes/hemoglobin broken down «in the liver»

b. hemoglobin/heme «from red blood cells» is converted to bilirubin/bile

pigment

c. bilirubin/bile pigment transferred to bile and «normally» eliminated in the

feces

change with jaundice:

d. «in jaundice» liver does not excrete/eliminate bilirubin/bile pigments

e. caused by immaturity/dysfunction/disease «of the liver»

OR

blockage of bile ducts

OR

increase in red blood cells breakdown

f. therefore bilirubin/bile pigment accumulates in the blood

[Max 4 Marks]

(b) Distinguish between the structure of liver sinusoids and capillaries. [2]

Markscheme

a. sinusoids have open pores/fenestrations/discontinuous endothelium and

capillary endothelium is continuous/does not contain fenestrations

b. Kupffer cells are located inside sinusoids but not in capillaries

c. sinusoids larger in diameter/wider than capillaries

[Max 2 Marks]

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 66/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

42. [Maximum mark: 6] 17N.3.HL.TZ0.20

(a.i) Thyroxin is a hormone produced in the thyroid gland. State one
function of thyroxin. [1]

Markscheme

a. regulates the «basal» metabolic rate/BMR

b. controls body temperature

[Max 1 Mark]

(a.ii) The action of thyroxin is similar to steroid hormones. Describe the

action of steroid hormones. [3]

Markscheme

a. steroid hormone passes through cell/plasma membrane

b. binds to receptor «proteins» in cytoplasm

c. receptor–hormone complex travels to nucleus

d. binds to DNA/chromatin

e. promotes/inhibits the transcription of specific genes

f. codes for/produces specific proteins

[Max 3 Marks]

(b) The World Health Organization recommends that the iodine intake
should be supplemented in pregnant women due to their
increased requirements. Outline the need for iodine
supplementation. [2]

Markscheme

a. iodine is an essential nutrient/cannot be synthesized by the body

b. iodine is required for thyroid hormones/thyroxin production

c. some areas in the world have iodine deficient soil/low iodine in their diet

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 67/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

d. supplementation will reduce stunted growth and mental

development/cretinism in babies born to mothers associated with thyroid
deficiency

e. thyroid deficiency will lead to health problems

[Max 2 Marks]

43. [Maximum mark: 6] 17N.3.HL.TZ0.22

The micrograph shows a section of cardiac muscle.

[Source: Musculocardiaco by Goyitrina

(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Musculocardiaco.jpg)]

(a) Identify the structure labelled X. [1]

Markscheme

intercalated disc

(b) Describe the unique properties of cardiac muscle cells. [4]

Markscheme

a. cells are myogenic/self-excitatory

b. cells are joined end to end

OR

cells are joined by intercalated disc

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 68/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

c. «intercalated discs» allow for faster propagation «of signal»

d. cells contract together for coordinated contraction

e. contain many mitochondria

f. cells are branching/Y-shaped

g. controlled by pacemaker/sinoatrial/SA and atrioventricular/AV nodes

[Max 4 Marks]

(c) State an early invention that led to improved knowledge of the

heart. [1]

Markscheme

stethoscope

OR

electrocardiograph/ECG

Allow other valid example.

44. [Maximum mark: 5] 19M.3.HL.TZ1.22

Water in a calorimeter is heated by burning food in oxygen. The temperature

change of the water is used to calculate the energy value of the food. An

experiment was set up to calculate the energy value of avocado.

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 69/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

[Source: © International Baccalaureate Organization 2019]

(a) Apart from the water temperature, state two other values to be
measured at the start of the experiment.

1.

2.

[2]

Markscheme

a. mass/volume of water ✔

b. mass of avocado ✔

(b) The energy value calculated for avocado was 750 kJ 100 g–1. The
actual energy value of avocado is 840 kJ 100 g–1. Suggest a source
of error in the experiment.

[1]

Markscheme

a. heat loss to the air ✔

b. heat transferred to the apparatus ✔

c. avocado may not be fully dried/incomplete combustion of avocado ✔

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 70/71
3/20/24, 11:45 AM IB Questionbank

(c.i) Avocados are known to be a good source of dietary fibre and

contain all the essential amino acids. State one health benefit of a
diet high in fibre. [1]

Markscheme

helps in movement of food along alimentary canal/peristalsis/decreases

transit time
OR
regulates bowel action
OR
prevents cancer/constipation/heart attack ✔

(c.ii) Avocados are known to be a good source of dietary fibre and

contain all the essential amino acids. Distinguish between
essential and non-essential amino acids. [1]

Markscheme

essential amino acids must be included in the diet and the body cannot make
them «whereas the body can synthesize non-essential amino acids» ✔

Copyright | Language Policy | Terms and conditions | IB

Privacy policy

© International Baccalaureate Organization, 2024

Printed for SWANS INTL SEC SCH

https://questionbank.ibo.org/en/teachers/121613/questionbanks/43-dp-biology-last-assessment-2024/teacher_tests/2217759 71/71