DP Biology (last assessment 2024)

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Question 21M.2.HL.TZ2.c

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Date May 2021 Marks available [Maximum mark: 2] Reference code 21M.2.HL.TZ2.c
Level HL Paper 2 Time zone TZ2
Command term Explain Question number c Adapted from N/A
c.
[Maximum mark: 2]
21M.2.HL.TZ2.c

Cholinergic synapses use acetylcholine as their neurotransmitter. They are widespread in the body, passing on signals to muscle cells. These synapses are affected by neonicotinoid pesticides.

The diagrams, which are not drawn to scale, show the synapse between two neurons and a detail of the synaptic cleft.

Explain how acetylcholine initiates an action potential in a postsynaptic membrane.

[2]

Markscheme

a. acetylcholine binds to the receptor protein ✔

b. (causing a) change in tertiary structure / conformation of protein ✔

c. diffusion/entry of ions / Na+ through the receptor/channel protein allowed ✔

Syllabus sections