DP Biology (first assessment 2025)

Test builder »

Question 21N.2.SL.TZ0.a

Select a Test
Date November 2021 Marks available [Maximum mark: 3] Reference code 21N.2.SL.TZ0.a
Level SL Paper 2 Time zone TZ0
Command term Explain Question number a Adapted from N/A
a.
[Maximum mark: 3]
21N.2.SL.TZ0.a

This micrograph shows a transverse section of an artery.

[Source: OpenStax College, 2013. Comparison of artery and vein. [image online] Available at:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:2102_Comparison_of_Artery_and_Vein.jpg Attribution 3.0 Unported
(CC BY 3.0) https:/creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en [Accessed 11 March 2020].]

 

Explain how the specialized structures of arteries help them to achieve their functions.

[3]

Markscheme

a. arteries carry blood at high pressure;
b. rupture of arteries is prevented by thick muscular/elastic walls;
c. narrow lumen to maintain a high blood pressure;
d. elastic tissue allows artery to stretch and recoil (to even out pressures);
e. arteries have muscle layers which contract to increase/control the blood flow;
f. folding in the endothelium allows stretching
OR
smooth endothelium reduces friction;

Examiners report

Most could state that the arteries carry blood at high pressure, but had difficulty getting the other two marks.

Syllabus sections