Question 18N.3.SL.TZ0.5
| Date | November 2018 | Marks available | [Maximum mark: 5] | Reference code | 18N.3.SL.TZ0.5 |
| Level | SL | Paper | 3 | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | Describe, Outline, Suggest | Question number | 5 | Adapted from | N/A |
The drawings show the development of an immature neuron in a rat.
Describe the process taking place.
[2]
a. «the process shows» the growth of an axon/dendrites/extensions ✔
b. differentiation/forming a specialized neuron ✔
c. responding to a chemical stimulus ✔
Outline the possible changes to this neuron that could happen during the subsequent development of the nervous system.
[2]
a. the neuron forms synapses/multiple connections «with other neurons»
OR
a neural network forms
OR
more dendrites ✔
b. some synapses/connections in excess of what is required
OR
some synapses/connections not used ✔
c. it could be removed by neural pruning/apoptosis ✔
d. it could migrate to another place ✔
Suggest how the plasticity of the brain can benefit humans.
[1]
a. allows brain to change/adjust/make new synapses throughout lifetime/with experience/learning ✔
b. allows regeneration of neurons after brain trauma
OR
allows other area «of the brain» to take over a function after brain trauma ✔
c. selective advantage/increases chance of survival ✔
OWTTE
