Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
The following questions are taken from past Leaving Certificate Examination Papers (2004 – 2013).
Questions on the same topic have been separated to provide random revision. If questions are
repeated it only highlights their greater significance or importance as they have been asked more often
over the years.
N.B. These questions do not cover the entire syllabus. Knowing the answers to these questions only is
not a guarantee of an excellent result.
E.& O.E.
No.
Question
Answer
1
State a function of the cell membrane
Control entry into and exit from cell of
substances
2
Explain how Rhizopus gets its food.
Secretes enzymes / digests / onto
bread / absorbs products
3
State one feature that would allow you to identify an eukaryotic cell
Has a membrane bound nucleus
4
Name a human cell that is haploid
Sperm, ovum
5
What term is used to describe a cellular reaction in which large molecules are
broken down to smaller ones?
Catabolic
6
By which type of cell division does the zygote divide?
Mitosis
7
What process results from the contraction of the muscles of the small
intestine?
Peristalsis
8
Give two examples of harmful members of the kingdom Fungi.
Any two correct
9
In carbohydrates, which two elements are in the ratio 2:1?
Hydrogen:Oxygen
10
What term is used to describe an individual’s genetic makeup?
Genotype
What form of heterotrophic nutrition does Rhizopus have?
Outline the importance of this type of nutrition in nature.
Further divisions result in the formation of a morula. What is the next
developmental stage after the morula?
Saprophytic. It breaks down dead
organisms or recycling of nutrients or
reusing
Name a scientist responsible for the Theory of Natural Selection
Darwin
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
Which of the following most accurately represents the pH of the contents of
the small intestine: Acidic. Neutral. Alkaline.
Name two tissues that are present in the walls of arteries and veins and give a
function of each of these tissues.
Name another form of nutrition employed by some fungi, other than
heterotrophic.
What is an hypothesis?
Blastocyst
Alkaline
Muscle – contractile tissue
Elastin – return to orig. shape
Parasitic
Educated guess
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 1 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
The placenta forms from tissues of the mother and the foetus. Give two roles
of the placenta.
What is the source of the heat that keeps the body at a fairly constant
temperature?
Makes progesterone / barrier or one
(barrier) example / material transfer
(or one example)
20
Cellulose is a polysaccharide. Explain the term polysaccharide.
Composed of many sugar units
21
Name two glands that pass their secretions into the small intestine.
Pancreas, Liver
22
To what kingdom does Rhizopus belong?
Fungi
23
To which group of molecules do enzymes belong?
Proteins
18
19
24
25
In humans, widening of the female hips is one example of physical changes
that distinguish the sexes but are not essential for reproduction. To what term
does the definition in italics refer?
Saprophytic nutrition is a form of heterotrophic nutrition. What does the term
heterotrophic mean?
Respiration of carbohydrates
Secondary sexual characteristics
Obtains food from other organisms or
does not make its own food
26
To which kingdom do yeasts belong?
Fungi
27
State a location in a flowering plant where a growth regulator is secreted
Meristem
28
1. What are symbiotic bacteria?
2. Give two functions of symbiotic bacteria in the human alimentary
canal.
29
Give one advantage of bioprocessing using an immobilised enzyme.
Efficiency not affected. Easily
recovered from the product. Reusable
this cuts costs
30
What term is used for the time in a young person’s life when such changes
take place?
Puberty
31
Give an example of the use of a synthetic growth regulator.
Weed-killers
32
Name one economically harmful fungus.
33
The nutrition of Rhizopus is described as being saprophytic.
1. What does the term saprophytic mean?
2. Explain the importance of saprophytic nutrition in the overall scheme of
nature.
34
State a role for cellulose in living organisms.
Support in plants. Roughage in human
diet
35
Where in the human alimentary canal is most water absorbed?
Colon or large intestine
36
Name the hormone that maintains such changes throughout the life of a
male.
Testosterone
37
Name a polysaccharide other than cellulose.
Starch
38
Describe a test for a named polysaccharide.
Starch + Iodine  Blue/black colour
1. Bacteria living on or in another organism involving
benefit
2. Vitamin production / compete with pathogens /
reference to digestion / inhibits cancer cells
Rhizopus or mildew or rusts or smuts or blight
or Dry rot (fungus) or athlete’s foot (fungus)
or any other correct
1.
2.
Feeding on dead matter
Breakdown of dead matter or
breakdown of organic matter or
recycling
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 2 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
39
What is meant by the term segregation as used in genetics?
Separation of a pair of allelic genes
during the process of meiosis and
gamete formation
40
In relation to protein synthesis what is transcription.
the making of RNA from a single
strand of DNA
41
State a function of the rhizoids of Rhizopus.
Digestion or secretion or absorption
or anchorage
42
Where in the human female reproductive system does 1. Meiosis, 2. Zygote
formation, 3. Implantations occur?
1. Ovary; 2. Fallopian tube; 3. Uterus
43
State two ways, other than colour, in which red blood cells differ from
white blood cells.
44
Mushrooms belong to the Fungi kingdom. A restaurant owner decides to
collect and cook wild mushrooms from a local forest.
Suggest one reason why this may not be a good idea.
45
Write a balanced equation to summarise the process of photosynthesis.
46
In which of the stages of photosynthesis does ATP form?
Light stage
47
Where precisely in a plant cell would you expect to find cellulose?
Cell wall
48
Veins contain valves whereas arteries do not. What is the function of the
valves?
Prevent back flow of blood
49
Name a group of white blood cells, other than lymphocytes.
Phagocytic (white cells) or monocytes
50
51
Distinguish between breathing and respiration.
53
What structures attach a muscle to a bone?
54
What is a ‘denatured’ enzyme?
55
Where do cilia occur in the breathing system? What is their function?
56
Lymphocytes may be divided into B cells and T cells. B cells
produce antibodies
1. What is the role of antibodies in the body?
2. Name any three types of T cell.
3. State a role of each of the T cell types that you named in part 2.
57
Name the reagents used to test for a reducing sugar.
59
Some could be poisonous
light energy
6CO2 + 6H2O  C6H12O6 + 6O2
chlorophyll
Name the two scientists mainly associated with the cohesion-tension model
Dixon & Joly
of transport.
Oestrogen: Endometrium repair / stimulates LH /
Describe the role of oestrogen and progesterone in the control of the
inhibits FSH; Progesterone: Endometrium
events of the menstrual cycle.
maintenance / inhibits LH / inhibits FSH
52
58
Smaller / more of them / biconcave / disc
(shape) / no nucleus (when mature) / no
mitochondria / transport oxygen / contain
haemoglobin / transport CO2
Breathing = the physical inhalation and exhalation
Respiration = the controlled release of energy from
food, within cells
Tendons
An enzyme (highly specific organic protein
catalysts) that has been destroyed by excessive
heat, pH, etc. It will not 'work' again.
Where: Trachea
Function: propulsion of mucus
1. To inactivate antigens
2. Helper / killer / suppressor / memory
3. Helper: recognise antigens or secrete interferon or
stimulate B-cell (or antibody production) or activate
killer cell; Killer: attack infected cells or secrete
perforin; Suppressor: stop immune responses;
Memory: long term protection or remember antigens
(to which they have been exposed) or explained
Give one change experienced by the mother that indicates to her that the
birth process is starting.
Plants have evolved certain adaptations that protect them from adverse
conditions. List two such adaptations.
Fehling’s 1 & 2 or Benedict’s
Mucus show or contractions or waters
break
Waxy layer or opening and closing of
stomata or Thorns or Stings
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 3 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
60
61
Water molecules stick together / due to H-bonding / continuous chain
Describe the principal features of the cohesion-tension
of water molecules / water tends to adhere to xylem walls /
model.
transpiration or water loss ‘pulls’ the column of water up
Name a test or give the chemicals used to demonstrate the presence of a
Fehling’s 1 & 2 or Benedict’s
reducing sugar.
Asthma: of pollen, house mites, dog and cat dander or vigorous exercise
Bronchitis: bacteria, viruses and long-term exposure to irritants such as
cigarette smoke and air pollutants
62
State one possible cause of asthma or bronchitis.
63
Which upper arm muscle contracts to raise the lower arm?
Biceps
64
Explain the term homeostasis.
Maintenance of a constant internal
environment
65
From what does a seed develop?
Ovule
66
Give a short account of the birth process.
Contractions or amniotic sac breaks or
cervix dilates / Baby delivered /
Afterbirth delivered
67
Give two examples of the use of plant growth regulators.
Ethene – fruit ripening
Gibberellin – speeds up germination
68
Name an enzyme and matching substrate
Amylase + starch
Maltase + maltose
69
70
The cohesion-tension model of transport attempts to explain water
movement in plants against a particular force. Name this force.
Where does fertilisation normally occur in the reproductive system of the
human female?
Gravity
Half way along the Fallopian Tube
(Oviduct)
A carbohydrate composed of two
monosaccharide units
71
What is a disaccharide?
72
Homeostasis often requires an organism to exchange
materials between different tissues or between itself and
the external environment by diffusion, osmosis, and active
transport. Explain each of the underlined terms.
73
When using Fehling’s or Benedict’s solution which of the following is correct?
1. No heat needed, 2. Heat but do not boil, 3. Boil.
2. Heat but do not boil
74
What is meant by the term antagonistic pair in reference to muscles?
(Two) muscles that work in opposition
to each other
75
What are growth regulators in plants?
Chemicals that control growth (in
plants)
76
What term is used for the type of asexual reproduction that produces a
daughter plant by runners?
Vegetative propagation
77
Where precisely does water enter a plant?
Through root hairs
78
Name the tissue in plant stems through which water rises to the leaves.
Xylem
79
Give an example of a treatment for asthma or bronchitis.
Asthma: steroid tablets or inhalers
Bronchitis: bronchodilators
80
State one way in which each of the following contributes to
homeostasis.
1. Liver.
2. Lungs.
3. Nephrons of kidneys.
Diffusion: movement of substances with (along) a concentration
gradient or explained
Osmosis: movement of water through a selectively permeable
membrane from a high water concentration to a low
concentration
Active transport: movement of molecules against a concentration
gradient or movement of molecules using energy
1. Absorption of glucose or release of glucose or heat
generation
2. Excretion of water or excretion of CO2 or release of heat
3. Excretion of water or reabsorption of water or excretion
of salts (or ions) or reabsorbtion of salts (or ions)
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 4 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
81
What might a hypothesis develop into?
A Theory
82
What do the letters ATP stand for?
Adenosine triphosphate
83
Explain the term transpiration.
Loss of water(vapour) through leaves
of plant
84
Would you expect a daughter plant produced by a runner to be haploid or
diploid? Explain your answer.
Diploid. Product of mitosis or
genetically identical (to parent) or
clone
85
State one way in which carbohydrates differ from fats.
C, H and O in different proportions
86
Name the type of joint at the elbow.
Hinge or synovial or moveable
87
Give one way in which xylem is adapted for the transport of water.
Narrow or lignified (or rigid) or
continuous lumen or wettable
88
Describe the role of the skin in controlling body temperature.
89
From which structure in the seed does the root develop?
The radicle of the embryo
90
Give one method, other than runners, and not involving seeds, that is used by
horticulturists to produce new plants.
Cuttings or layering or grafting or
micro-propagation or tissue culture
91
What process is responsible for the uptake of minerals in a plant?
Active transport
92
By what process does water enter a plant?
Osmosis
93
State one way in which yeast is beneficial to humans.
Baking and Brewing industries
94
State the products of segregation when an organism is heterozygous in
respect of the dominant allele A.
A
95
What is meant by the term immunity?
The ability of the body to resist
infection
96
Give a brief account of the role of each of the following in
flowering plant reproduction.
1. Petal.
2. Anther.
3. Stigma.
97
Give a precise location of xylem in the stem.
In vascular bundles or next to phloem
98
Apart from movement, give one other function of the skeleton.
Protection or body support or shape
or blood cell production or muscle
attachment
99
When investigating digestive activity during seed germination: 1. How did you
supply a substrate suitable for the digestive enzymes? 2. How did you ensure
that no digestive enzymes were available on the control plate?
1. Milk agar or starch agar; 2. Boiled
seeds
100
Through which microscopic structures does water enter a plant from the soil?
Root hairs
101
Name a monosaccharide and state a role for it in living organisms.
Glucose – energy
Ribose - RNA
Too hot: Sweat / dilation of blood vessels / hair flat
Too cold: Constriction of of blood vessels / hair stands up
Insulation by (subcutaneous) fat
1.
2.
3.
and
a
Attracts insects (or other pollinators)
(Site of) pollen manufacture or (site of) pollen
release
Pollen lands on it or pollen sticks to it or pollen
germination
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 5 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
102
Suggest a benefit to the plant of the phototrophic growth response.
Maximise the amount of light trapped
for photosynthesis
103
When may it be considered that the process of fertilisation is complete?
When the gamete nuclei fuse.
104
Name one structure through which the pollen tube grows in order to reach
the embryo sac.
Stigma or style or ovary or micropyle
105
State precisely the events that take place at the alveoli.
Gaseous exchange. O2 from alveolus
to blood and CO2 from blood to
alveolus
106
State another function of xylem tissue other than water transport.
Support or other transport function
107
A virus has been described as a piece of genetic material that has escaped
from a cell. Give one piece of evidence that supports this description.
Composed of nucleic acid (or DNA or
RNA)
108
Suggest a treatment for a named disorder of the breathing system.
Asthma: Avoid triggers /dust
109
How are the alveoli adapted for their function?
Have a large surface area
Walls of alveoli are elastic and only
one cell thick
110
Suggest one reason why the bones of birds are almost hollow.
To be light or to allow flight
111
Name the reagents used to test for a protein.
Copper sulphate & Sodium hydroxide
112
113
Within the pollen tube the generative nucleus divides to form two male
gametes.
1. What type of division takes place?
2. With what does each male gamete fuse in the embryo sac?
3. Name the product of each fusion.
Breathing rate in humans is controlled by the concentration of a gas dissolved
in blood. Which gas is this?
1. mitosis
2. egg [allow ovum or female gamete]
polar nuclei
3. Zygote
endosperm (nucleus)
Carbon dioxide
114
Name the nutrient medium on which you grew yeast.
Glucose solution
115
Viruses are examples of obligate parasites. Explain why this is the case.
Can only replicate (or reproduce)
inside a cell (or host)
116
Suggest a possible cause of a named disorder of the breathing system.
Asthma: Dog dander / Dust
117
What is the function of the semi=circular canals in the ear?
Posture or balance
118
Give an example of a regulator in plants that inhibits growth.
abscisic acid and ethene
119
Cellulose is a polysaccharide. What is it formed from?
C, H and O
120
As the seed forms following fertilisation, a food store develops in one of two
structures. Name any one of these structures.
Endosperm or cotyledon (or seed leaf
or embryonic leaf)
121
Through which microscopic structures does water enter a plant from the soil?
Root hairs
122
123
Energised electrons play a central role in ATP formation during
photosynthesis. What is an energised electron?
In relation to protein synthesis what is a triplet and state the role of a
triplet.
Electrons containing additional energy
which was picked up from the sun
Triplet = a sequence of three nitrogenous
bases of mRNA
Role = it codes for a specific amino acid
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 6 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
124
Give an example of how a virus might be beneficial to mankind.
Genetic engineering or vaccine
(production) or cancer treatment or
pest control or disease control
125
Name one disorder of the human breathing system.
Asthma
126
What is the function of the Eustachian tube in the ear?
Pressure equalisation
127
128
Name the organelle (component) of the cell in which photosynthesis takes
place.
1. Name the three germ layers in the early human embryo.
2. For each germ layer name a structure in the adult body that develops from
it.
Chloroplast
1. Ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm
2. ectoderm: e.g nervous system
mesoderm: e.g skeletal system
endoderm: e.g. digestive system
129
Why is a control important in an experiment?
For comparison purposes
130
Give two uses of plant growth regulators in horticulture.
Producing seedless fruit
Promote ripening
Selective Weed killer
131
By what process does water enter a plant?
Osmosis
132
What term is used for glands that secrete hormones?
Endocrine
133
Describe in detail how we inhale air.
134
Suggest one way in which a person might adapt his/her lifestyle to minimise
the effects of asthma or bronchitis.
Avoid smokey atmospheres
Avoid their symptom ‘trigger’
135
Name the part of the ear in which nerve impulses is generated.
Cochlea or semi-circular canals
136
From which tissues does the placenta develop?
Embryonic and Uterine or
endometrium
137
State the Law of Independent Assortment.
138
139
140
141
142
Intercostal muscles contract / to move Ribcage up and
out / Diaphragm contracts or moves downward / Lung
(Volume) increases / Pressure decreases / Air moves in
During gamete formation each member of a
pair of genes may combine randomly with
either of another pair
A type of reproduction in plants that
In relation to flowering plants explain what is meant by vegetative
does not involve the production of
propagation.
seed
Endospermic: a seed whose main food store is in the endosperm (nutritive
Distinguish between endospermic and nontissue found within the embryo sac of a seed plant)
endospermic seeds.
Non-endospermic: main food store for developing embryo is in cotyledons
How do these glands differ from those that do not secrete hormones?
Ductless
Layer of cells / in the blastula (embryo) / (potential to)
Explain what is meant by germ layers and name the germ layers
give rise to (specific) tissues (or organs)
that appear in early human development.
Three layers: ectoderm, mesoderm & endoderm
One large muscle and one set of muscles are involved in inhalation. Name
Diaphragm / Intercostal (rib) muscles
both.
143
Name the tissue that water travels through in a plant.
Xylem or Dermal or Ground or
Vascular or Phloem
144
1. What is the amnion?
2. Explain the importance of the amnion for the foetus.
1. A membrane (or sac) that surrounds
the embryo (or foetus)
2. It contains (or secretes) (amniotic)
fluid or protects embryo
145
In what part of the eye are nerve impulses generated?
Retina or named part of retina
146
Define predation.
The act of killing and eating another
animal (or organism) for food.
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 7 of 100
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Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
147
Give an example of the use of a synthetic growth regulator.
Selective weed killer
148
Name the process responsible for the entry of water into a plant.
Osmosis
149
In which tissue does water ascend through the plant?
Xylem
150
When we breathe we inhale air. What gas in the air is essential for
respiration?
Oxygen
151
Explain why the pancreas may be described as a dual-function gland.
152
Sexual reproduction in Rhizopus is normally triggered by an adverse
environmental stimulus. Suggest one such stimulus.
Dehydration or other named
153
How do phospholipids differ from other lipids?
Are lipids with one of its fatty acids
replaced with a phosphate group
154
Suggest one way by which the ear may be protected.
Skull (or bone) or wax or wear ear
protection or avoid noisy
environments
155
Name one process that causes water to move upwards in a plant.
Root pressure or cohesion or adhesion
or capillarity or transpiration
156
To which group of blood cells do lymphocytes belong?
White blood cells
157
Explain the term niche.
The functional role of an organism (in
an ecosystem)
158
Give two advantages to Rhizopus of zygospore formation.
Can survive drought (or named
adverse condition) / dispersal
159
Explain in detail how the eye works.
160
What is the chemical nature of many hormones?
Protein
161
Explain the part played by NADP- in photosynthesis.
It traps and transfers energised
electrons and hydrogen ions.
162
Comment on the difficulty of describing a virus as a living organism.
163
Explain how a corrective measure for a named defect of hearing or vision
works.
164
Distinguish between active and passive immunity.
165
166
Hormone (or insulin) secretion & non-hormone
(enzyme) secretions or has endocrine and
exocrine function (or described)
Light through Cornea / Pupil / Lens /
Accommodation / Focus / onto Retina /
Rods / cones / nerve impulse / Optic Nerve
non-cellular / one nucleic acid / can reproduce in
host cell only or obligate parasite / do not possess
organelles or named organelle
Named defect
Corrective measure or how this works
to correct named defect
Active = When the body produces its own antibodies – long term protection
Passive = The body receives ready-made antibodies to combat infection – short
term protection
Consider that night has fallen and the plant is in darkness.
Suggest what will happen to the amount of water moving through the plant
and give a reason for your answer.
In the case of each of two named hormones secreted in the human body
state: 1. The precise location of the gland that secretes it. 2. A function of
the hormone.
(The amount of water moving through
the plant) decreases (Because)
photosynthesis stops or stomata close
in darkness or night-time is cooler
e.g.1 thyroxine, 1. Thyroid gland in neck; 2.
Controls rate of metabolism; e.g.2 Insulin,
1. islets of Langerhans I pancreas; 2.
Controls sugar levels of blood
167
The eye is filled with fluid. What is the function of this fluid?
Give shape to eye or support lens or
transmits light
168
What term is used to describe the process of asexual reproduction in yeast?
Budding
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 8 of 100
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Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
169
The hammer (malleus) is a very small bone located in the …
Middle ear
170
Name an anabolic process carried out by plants.
Photosynthesis
171
In relation to protein synthesis describe the role of tRNA.
172
State the precise location of the cell membrane in plant cells.
Immediately inside the cell wall
173
Bile is secreted by the …
Liver
174
175
Carries specific amino acids from the cytoplasm to the ribosomes
where they are joined together, in an order determined by the
sequence of bases on the mRNA attached to the ribosomes.
In the case of one non sex hormone 1. Give a deficiency symptom. 2. Give a
symptom of excess secretion. 3. Give a corrective measure for either its
deficiency or its excess, clearly stating which you have chosen.
What happens to the new cells of Rhizopus formed during the process of
asexual reproduction?
e.g. 1. Deficiency of growth hormone
causes pituitary dwarfism; 2. Rate of
growth reduced; 3. Deficiency corrected
by injections of growth hormone
Forms a colony or break away (from
the mother cell)
176
Name and give a function of the coloured part of the eye.
Name: Iris Function - control
amount of light entering eye
177
Tiny holes called … allow gases to enter and leave the leaf.
Stomata
178
State two ways by which plants have adapted to protect themselves.
Thorns / stings / bad taste / poison /
mimicry / cuticle / heat shock proteins
179
Bones are joined to other bones by …
Ligaments
180
An animal that eats both plants and animals is called an …
Omnivore
181
With what type of cell do you associate membrane-bound organelles?
Eukaryotic
182
How does asexual reproduction in Rhizopus differ from that in yeast?
(Rhizopus) produces spores
183
What is a placenta? From what tissues does a placenta form?
A structure attached to the inner surface of the womb
(uterus) of pregnant mammals, which helps to nourish
the foetus, and discharges its waste.
184
List two methods of contraception.
Barrier (or named, e.g. condom) / contraceptive pill /
vasectomy / abstain
185
Explain why hormonal responses are slower than nervous responses.
Hormones travel in blood or are
chemical, electrical transmission in
nerves
186
Give an example of predation by naming a predator and its prey.
Predator = fox,
Prey = rabbit
187
Suggest one reason why enzymes are not found in body soap or shampoo.
May digest skin
188
What is meant by fertilisation?
Fusion of gametes or formation of
zygote
189
Describe how virus reproduction takes place in a host cell.
190
191
Attaches to host. Inserts nucleic acid into cell – takes over
cell’s DNA. Makes numerous copies of it – new viruses
assembled and cell bursts to release them.
Distinguish between the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous
system. Include a clear reference to each in your answer.
What term is used to describe bacterial cells, i.e. no membrane-bound
organelles?
CNS: brain and spinal cord
PNS: nerves leading to and from CNS
or nerves not in CNS
Prokaryotic
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 9 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
192
Distinguish clearly between antibodies and antibiotics by
writing a note about each.
193
What is meant by the term contraception?
194
195
Antibodies – proteins / produced by body / in response to
antigen (or to infection);
Antibiotics – produced by micro-organisms / kill (or destroy or
stop growth of) other micro-organisms / do not affect viruses
Prevention of pregnancy
Name a polysaccharide that has a different role to cellulose. What is the role
of the polysaccharide that you have named?
Give two examples of natural vegetative propagation that involve different
parts of a plant.
Starch
Role: storage carbohydrate
Rhizomes (Stem), Bulbs (Leaves),
Tubers (Root & Stem)
196
What term is used for the form of asexual reproduction in bacteria?
Binary fission
197
Describe two ways in which the skin helps to defend the body against
pathogenic micro-organisms.
Continuous unbroken layer
Sweat contains bactericidal agents
198
Give one way in which a nervous response differs from a hormonal response.
Faster or shorter-lived or electrical
199
200
Name the part of the flower in each case
1. Where fertilisation occurs
2. That becomes the fruit.
The cell membrane is described as being selectively permeable. What does
this mean?
1. Embryo sac or ovule or ovary or carpel
2. Carpel or ovary or receptacle
Only some substances are allowed
through
201
Where in the human male reproductive system does meiosis occur?
Testes
202
Explain the term edaphic.
Factors relating to the soil [which
affects the distribution of organisms in
a (terrestrial) ecosystem]
203
In relation to antibodies, distinguish between active and passive immunity.
Active - antibodies produced in body;
Passive – antibodies given
204
What is meant by the diploid number of a cell?
Chromosomes in pairs (two sets of
chromosomes).
205
In which stage of photosynthesis does carbon dioxide provide carbon for
carbohydrate formation?
Dark Stage
206
Give one function each of any two parts found only
in neurons.
207
Dendrites: which receives impulses and transmits them towards the cell body
Axon: conducts impulses away from the cell body
Myelin sheath: Speeds up impulse transmission
Schwann cells: secretes the myelin sheath
Monocotyledon: Parallel venation, scattered
State one difference between the seeds of monocotyledons and
vascular bundles, petals in multiples of 3
Dicotyledon: Network venation, vascular bundles
dicotyledons other than the number of seed leaves.
in a ring, petals in multiples of 4 or 5
208
Name the two main chemical components of a virus.
Protein coat and
DNA or RNA
209
Why is diffusion alternatively known as passive transport?
No (or little) energy (or ATP) required
210
211
212
213
Suggest a reason why the structure containing the testis must be kept below
Sperm production better if cooler
body temperature.
Made at one site & function at another /
State two ways in which growth regulators in plants are similar to
Transport slow / in vascular tissue or in blood
hormones in animals.
and phloem (or xylem) / chemical (nature)
Each seed is made up of an embryo, a food store and a seed coat (testa). One (Embryo): (part of seed that) becomes
the new plant
function of fruit is to aid dispersal.
(Dispersal): Spreading of seeds.
Explain each of the underlined terms.
What does the term pathogenic mean in relation to bacteria?
Disease causing organism
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 10 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Sensory neuron carry impulses to CNS (or to
named part of CNS)
Interneuron carry impulses within CNS or
carry impulses from sensory to motor neuron
214
Name and state the role of any two types of neuron, other than the
motor neuron.
215
Give an example of an edaphic factor
Available (soil) water, mineral
content, pH, humus
216
Name a plant growth regulator that promotes growth and give a precise
location for a site of its action.
e.g. IAA (auxin), Just behind shoot (or
root) tip or meristem or zone of
elongation
217
What is an enzyme?
Highly specific organic protein
catalysts
218
What is the function of the prostate gland?
Release liquid or nourish or support
sperm
219
What is meant by the germination of a seed?
Is the beginning of the growth after a
period of dormancy
220
Osmosis may be described as “a special case of diffusion”. Explain why.
Movement of water or (osmosis)
requires a membrane
221
Suggest a benefit of artificial propagation.
Varieties maintained
Pollination, Dispersal & Germination
eliminated
222
Through which part of a stem are growth promoters transported?
Vascular bundles or vascular tissue or
phloem or xylem
223
224
225
226
or reason or consciousness or senses
State one function for each of the following parts of the human brain. 1. language
or memory or intelligence or emotions or
other
1. Cerebrum;
2. homeostasis or example of homeostasis or
2. Hypothalamus;
endocrine function or other
3. movement or balance or coordination or
3. Cerebellum;
example
4. Medulla oblongata.
4. involuntary muscle control or example
By which method are the seeds of the fruits of blackberries and sycamore
(Blackberries): Animals
(Sycamore fruit): Wind
fruit dispersed?
Decrease = low body temperature / fitness / sedatives
State one factor that decreases heart rate and one factor that
Increase = high body temperature / dehydration / exercise
increases it.
/ fear / pain / caffeine / stress
Fat-soluble: Vitamin D
Name a fat-soluble vitamin, a good source of it and a deficiency disease
Source: Liver, Eggs, Sunlight
caused by it.
Deficiency: Rickets & Osteomalacia
227
Name one male sex hormone.
Testosterone or FSH or LH
228
Where are the discs in the human backbone?
Between the vertebrae
229
Name the structure by which Amoeba gets rid of excess water that has
entered by osmosis.
Contractile vacuole
230
Outline two uses of growth promoters in horticulture.
231
In relation to the nervous system, distinguish between grey matter and white
matter. Include a clear reference to each in your answer.
Grey: few axons or little myelin or
mostly cell bodies
White: many axons or much myelin or
few cell bodies
232
Name the artery that supplies the heart muscle with blood.
Coronary artery
233
What is meant by the term DNA profiling?
234
What term is given to the growth of an embryo into a plant?
Encourage rooting in cuttings / promote
ripening / weed killer / seedless fruit /
micro-propagation or tissue culture
Producing a picture of pieces of DNA when an organism’s DNA
is broken up using specific enzymes and then sorted by size on
a gel. The result is a bit like a bar code.
Germination
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 11 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
235
Some people receive vaccinations to protect them from disease. What is
meant by the term vaccination?
236
Name two types of lymphocyte and state a role of each.
237
To where does the pulmonary artery carry blood?
238
In the case of either paralysis or Parkinson’s disease state:
1. a possible cause, other than accident;
2. a method of treatment.
239
What is meant by the term metabolism?
All the chemical reactions in living
cells
240
Give an example of a growth regulator that inhibits growth.
IAA / auxin / ethene (ethylene) /
abscisic acid
241
What is meant by the term evolution?
The way organisms change genetically
from pre-existing forms to produce
new species over long periods of time.
242
What is the function of the discs in the human backbone?
Prevent vertebrae rubbing off each
other. To allow a little movement. To
act as shock absorbers
243
What is a tissue?
Group of similar cells.
244
245
246
247
248
249
250
Receiving a non disease causing dose
of a pathogen
T-cells: do not produce antibodies but are either
helper, killer, suppressor or memory cells
B-cells: produce antibodies
To the lungs
Parkinson’s
Cause:
Treatment:
Viruses cause disease in plants, humans, and other animals. Name any two
diseases caused by viruses.
In order for germination to be successful, certain environmental conditions
must be present. Name any two of these conditions.
From the following list, Write any term that describes the nutrition of a typical
plant: parasitic; heterotrophic; saprophytic; autotrophic.
Clones are genetically identical individuals. Are the products of vegetative
propagation clones? Explain your answer.
“Enzymes are essential for metabolism”.
Explain why this statement is true.
What do bacteria form when environmental conditions become
unfavourable?
In relation to body temperature, what term is used to describe animals such
as the dog?
Paralysis
Cause:
Treatment:
AIDS / Common cold / Flu
Suitable temperature / moisture / O2
Autotrophic
Yes. They only have one parent and
their genotype is that of their parent.
Enzymes are catalysts
Enzymes control rate of metabolic
reactions
Endospores
Endothermic
251
State three functions of a root.
Absorb water and minerals
Support the plant
Sometime to store food
252
What is a cotyledon?
A seed leaf, a food store.
253
Which type of immunity is the longest-lasting?
Active immunity
254
255
Suggest how a commercial grower might try to increase crop yield in his
glasshouses or tunnels.
Give a role for each of the following in the human body: (i) Yellow bone
marrow, (ii) Red bone marrow.
Use violet (or blue or orange or red)
light
Yellow: Contains fat-storage tissue
Red: Produces blood cells
Oxytocin increases / Progesterone decreases / Uterus
contracts / waters break / cervix dilates / baby out /
usually head first / cord cut / placenta out
256
Describe the process of birth.
257
Is the following process anabolic or catabolic? Protein synthesis.
Anabolic
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 12 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
258
What is the function of the bicuspid valve?
Prevents blood flowing from the left
ventricle to the left atrium when the
ventricle contracts
259
What is the average resting rate of the human heart in beats per minute?
72
260
What is the main source of a dog’s body heat?
Respiration or metabolism or
carbohydrate (or named
carbohydrate) or fat (or named fat)
261
262
Active - (body) produces antibodies;
Distinguish between active immunity and passive immunity by defining
Passive - antibodies given or administered
each.
(produced by another organism
What is the main source of carbon dioxide used by plants in the dark stage of
Air (or atmosphere) or respiration
photosynthesis?
263
Name two minerals required by the human body and give their functions
Iron – haemoglobin formation
Calcium – bone & teeth growth
264
State three environmental factors that are necessary for germination.
Water, Oxygen, Suitable temperature
265
What is the purpose of vaccination?
266
Is the following process anabolic or catabolic? Conversion of ADP to ATP.
267
Suggest a value to dogs of the relationship between their body temperature
and environmental temperature.
268
Give any one biological benefit of breastfeeding.
269
270
271
272
273
To introduce antigens causing the body to
produce corresponding antibodies to gain
immunity to that infection
Anabolic
(Temperature always suitable) for good
enzyme activity or metabolism or
activity independent of environment
Ideal nutrient or antibodies or
mother-baby bond or reduced
infection
State one role of NADP and one role of ATP in the dark stage of
photosynthesis.
The general defence system tries to prevent disease-causing organisms
entering the body. List two parts of the general defence system in the body.
NADP: to transport electrons / to
transport energy / H-carrier
ATP: Energy source or energy store
What is the function of mitosis in single-celled organisms?
Reproduction
Describe two techniques of artificial vegetative propagation that are used for
flowering plants.
Complete the following equation, which is a summary of aerobic respiration.
C6H12O6 + 6O2 
Skin or Cilia or Stomach acid or Tears
or WBC or Blood Clotting
Cuttings, Layering, Grafting,
Energy + 6CO2 + 6H2O
274
State two uses of DNA profiling.
Paternity disputes, Forensic Science,
Genetic Screening, Genetic
Archaeology
275
Is the following process anabolic or catabolic? Reactions in which product
molecules are larger than substrate molecules.
Anabolic
276
Write a brief note on in Glycolysis relation to respiration.
277
In relation to body temperature, what term is used to describe animals such
as the lizard?
Ectothermic
278
What term is used to describe organisms that cause disease?
Pathogen
279
Give an example of an herbivore and of a carnivore found in an ecosystem you
have studied (not domesticated or farm animals).
Herbivore: rabbit
Carnivore: fox
280
List two methods of contraception.
First stage of respiration / in cytoplasm (or in
cytosol) / anaerobic / starts with glucose (or
indicated) / produces pyruvate / low energy release
Condom / pill / IUD / cap / diaphragm / Spermicide / mucus
monitoring / sympto-thermal / vasectomy / tubectomy / Surgical /
chemical / mechanical / natural / rhythm / implants
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 13 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
281
Give one function of mitosis in multicellular organisms.
Growth of organism
282
Farmers add nitrates as fertilizers to the soil. They are advised not to spread
fertilizers if heavy rain is forecast. Why do you think they are given this
warning?
To prevent nitrates from entering
streams and rivers. To prevent
eutrophication.
283
What is the source of energy for the earth’s ecosystems?
Sun
284
Write a brief note on in Acetyl Co-enzyme A relation to respiration.
Aerobic / formed from pyruvate / 2carbon (group) / joins Krebs cycle / in
mitochondrion
285
State one way by which an enzyme may be denatured.
High temperature or high (or low) pH
or agitation (or described) or high
salinity or alcohol
286
What is the main source of a lizard’s body heat?
Environment or the sun or
metabolism
287
Suggest one cause and one treatment for a
named disorder of the human musculoskeletal
system.
288
Explain what is meant by pollution.
289
To what structure does the ureter link the kidney?
290
Give two functions of the placenta.
291
292
Name: Arthritis / osteoporosis; Cause: Arthritis – injury / hormonal imbalance /
genetic / immune response; Osteoporosis- hormonal imbalance / lack of exercise /
genetic / dietary /menopause; Treatment: Arthritis – anti-inflammatory drugs /
analgesics / rest / exercise / replacement of joint / steroids or named / immunosuppressants; Osteoporosis: HRT / exercise / diet / dietary supplements or named
The harmful addition to the
environment (by humans) that leaves
it less able to sustain life
Bladder
To allow nutrients / O2 / antibodies to pass to child / to allow CO2 out /
waste to pass to mother / to synthesise progesterone / prevent mixing of
blood / protect foetus from mother’s blood pressure
Name an organ in the human body, other than the kidney, in which excretion
Lungs, Skin
takes place.
High energy bonds (or high energy molecule) /
Write a brief note on in Adenosine triphosphate relation to
energy store / releases energy / forming ADP (or
respiration.
formed from ADP) / large ATP production in stage 2
293
Give one location where mitosis occurs in flowering plants.
Meristematic zones
294
Name the kingdom to which bacteria belong.
Monera
295
Name one disorder of the human musculoskeletal system.
Arthritis / Osteoporosis
296
Give two features of a denatured enzyme.
Changed structure
Loss of function
297
Give two industrial uses of the anaerobic respiration of yeast.
Baking & brewing industries
298
To which kingdom does Rhizopus belong?
Fungi
299
State a function of the sepal.
Protects the flower when it is a bud
300
Write a brief note on in Electron transport chain relation to
respiration.
301
From what tissues is the placenta formed?
Mother’s and child’s
302
To which kingdom does the organism used in industrial fermentation belong?
Fungi
Aerobic / in mitochondrion / carries high-energy electrons
/ from NADH or from Krebs cycle / to protons / formation
of water / ATP produced or high energy release
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 14 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
303
304
305
Where does filtration occur in the kidney?
In the glomerulus.
What general name is given to places in the body where two or more bones
meet?
Apart from carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, there is one other element always
present in the building blocks of enzymes. Name that element.
Joints
Nitrogen
306
Name the liquid part of blood.
Plasma
307
What is genetic engineering?
Manipulation or alteration of genes
308
Distinguish between a food chain and a food web. Include a
clear reference to each in your answer.
309
Give an example of pollution and describe how this form of pollution can be
controlled.
310
1. Under what circumstances does a bacterial cell form an endospore?
2. Describe briefly how an endospore forms.
311
Name the process that takes place in plants in which this energy is converted
to a usable form.
Photosynthesis
312
Describe the roles of the biceps and triceps in raising the forearm.
Biceps contracts / Triceps relaxes
313
Describe the process of natural selection.
314
In a classroom investigation into the factors affecting the rate of
photosynthesis the variable investigated was either light intensity or CO2
concentration. How was the rate of photosynthesis measured?
Counted bubbles (or measured
volume) / per unit time OR
datalogging / named sensor (or
mention of time)
315
From what part of the embryo plant within the seed does the root develop?
Radicle
316
What do ecologists mean by a pyramid of numbers?
Diagram that shows the number of
organisms at each trophic level
317
Name two vascular tissues found in flowering plants.
Xylem and Phloem
318
Name two types of heterotrophic nutrition used by bacteria.
Saprophytic and Parasitic
319
Name three processes involved in genetic engineering.
Isolation, Cutting, Ligation, Insertion,
Transformation, Expression
320
Name an important group of biomolecules that plants make from nitrates.
Proteins
321
Name the structures that attach muscles to bones.
Tendons
322
Name two male secondary sexual characteristics.
323
In a classroom investigation into the factors affecting the rate of
photosynthesis the variable investigated was either light intensity or CO2
concentration. Name a factor that must be kept constant during this
investigation.
Chain: One species at each trophic (or feeding) level or
described or diagram
Web: Interconnected food chains or described or diagram or
more than one species at each trophic (or feeding) level
Example & Control measure
1. Harsh conditions or example;
2. DNA replicates / thick wall (or described) /
encloses / shrinkage (or water loss) / of
cytoplasm
The way nature selects organisms with advantageous
genes which allow them to adapt to the environment, and
pass them on to successive generations
Deep voice / enlarged testes / enlarged penis / facial hair / chest hair
/ underarm hair / pubic hair / extra sebum / distinctive musculature
/ Sexual aggression / Increase sex drive
Light (if CO2 addressed) or CO2 (if light
addressed) or temperature
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 15 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
324
325
326
Organisms that are introduced into new environments outside their natural
ranges are referred to as exotic species. In some cases these introductions
have been deliberate and in other cases accidental e.g. when a species kept in
captivity in a new country escapes and gives rise to a wild population.
Worldwide, the great majority of deliberate attempted introductions have
been unsuccessful.
Suggest a reason for attempting to establish an exotic species in a new
country.
Aerobic respiration is a two-stage process. The first stage takes place in the
cytoplasm. Where does the second stage take place?
Using your knowledge of antibiotics and bacteria, suggest why a person is
more likely to pick up an infection in hospital than at home.
Food source or biological control or
aesthetic or sporting or other
Mitochondria
Antibiotic resistance strains / more
pathogens / more people (or poor
hygiene) / patients weaker
327
Name an autotrophic organism
Grass
328
Give an example of a catabolic reaction
Respiration
329
If two muscles form an antagonistic pair. What does this mean?
The two Work Opposite to each other
330
The conversion of atmospheric nitrogen to nitrates by bacteria is called …
Nitrogen fixation
331
Give an example of an application of genetic engineering in each of
the following cases: 1. A micro-organism, 2. An animal, 3. A plant.
332
333
M/O: Production of human insulin
Animal: Sheep producing blood clotting factors
Plant: Production of Golden Rice – possible
solution to Vitamin A deficiency
Organisms that are introduced into new environments outside their natural
ranges are referred to as exotic species. In some cases these introductions
have been deliberate and in other cases accidental e.g. when a species kept in
captivity in a new country escapes and gives rise to a wild population.
Worldwide, the great majority of deliberate attempted introductions have
been unsuccessful.
Suggest two reasons why the great majority of attempted introductions have
been unsuccessful.
Give a source of evidence for evolution. Briefly outline the evidence from the
source referred to.
Failure to adapt / example of failure to
adapt / preyed upon / insufficient
numbers / dispersal / competition
Fossils or embryology or anatomy or
adaptation of plant or animal or
genetics
Inheritable change within a population (or species)
/ in response to change in the environment / by
natural selection / over time
334
What is meant by the term evolution?
335
Name the principal male sex hormone.
Testosterone
336
What is the ratio of hydrogen atoms to oxygen atoms in a carbohydrate?
H:O::2:1
337
A relationship between two organisms in which both benefit is called ...
Symbiotic
338
Suggest what might happen to lactic acid in the muscles after anaerobic
respiration.
Broken down or Diffuses away or
Turns to fat (Respired aerobically)
339
In which part of the flower is pollen produced?
Anther of the stamen
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Page 16 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
340
Organisms that are introduced into new environments outside their natural
ranges are referred to as exotic species. In some cases these introductions
have been deliberate and in other cases accidental e.g. when a species kept in
captivity in a new country escapes and gives rise to a wild population.
Worldwide, the great majority of deliberate attempted introductions have
been unsuccessful.
Use your knowledge of the life cycle of flowering plants to suggest how an
exotic plant may escape from captivity.
Seed dispersal or fruit
341
Give the role of the enzyme RNA polymerase.
Joins nucleotides together (to give
mRNA product) or to make RNA
342
An example of a protein that has a structural role is ...
Keratin, myosin
343
Name either of the scientists responsible for the Theory of Natural Selection.
Darwin or Wallace
344
What term is used by biologists to describe differences within a population
with respect to features such as height?
Variation
345
What is the function of the sperm duct (vas deferens)?
To carry sperm or semen
346
What is the name of the acid produced in the muscles as a result of anaerobic
respiration?
Lactic acid
347
Why is a dicotyledonous (dicot) plant so called?
Because it contains two seed leaves
348
349
Organisms that are introduced into new environments outside their natural
ranges are referred to as exotic species. In some cases these introductions
have been deliberate and in other cases accidental e.g. when a species kept in
captivity in a new country escapes and gives rise to a wild population.
Worldwide, the great majority of deliberate attempted introductions have
been unsuccessful.
Use the knowledge that you have gained in your studies of ecology to suggest
how the introduction of an exotic species may: 1. impact negatively on an
existing community. 2. impact positively on an existing community.
What is meant in genetics by the term sex linkage? Name two common sexlinked traits.
1. Increased competition or
(increased) predation or example
of increased competition or
example of increased predation
2. Control of nuisance species or food
or shelter or other
Gene(s) on sex or on X or on Y
chromosome. Haemophilia / colour
blindness
350
What is a mutation?
Change in the genetic make up
351
What is the function of the stomata?
To allow gaseous exchange
352
Distinguish between the members of each of the following pairs of terms, by
writing a sentence about each member of each pair: Gene and allele.
Gene: a section of DNA that codes for
one polypeptide (or protein or trait)
or unit of heredity
Allele: an alternative form of a gene
353
Name two substances that are dissolved in the liquid part of blood.
Glucose, minerals, vitamins,
hormones, etc.
354
Name a plant in which the leaves are modified for food storage
Tulip, daffodil, etc.
355
In anaerobic respiration, is a little or a lot of energy produced?
Little
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Page 17 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
356
357
358
359
Organisms that are introduced into new environments outside their natural
ranges are referred to as exotic species. In some cases these introductions
have been deliberate and in other cases accidental e.g. when a species kept in
captivity in a new country escapes and gives rise to a wild population.
Worldwide, the great majority of deliberate attempted introductions have
been unsuccessful.
It has been stated that an exotic species has a good chance of becoming
established in a new environment if there is a vacant niche.
1. Explain the term niche in this context.
2. Do you agree with the above statement?
3. Explain your answer.
Human males and females differ in one of their twenty three pairs of
chromosomes. What name is given to this pair of chromosomes?
From what part of the digestive system does the digested food enter the
blood?
Give an example of a human activity that results in the pollution of air or
water
1. Role of organism (in an ecosystem)
or explained e.g. ‘how it fits’
2. + 3. Yes, because it is adapted (or is
suited) or explained OR No, because it
is not adapted (or is not suited) or
explained
Heterosomes or sex chromosomes
Small intestine or duodenum or ileum
or jejunum
Air: Burning fossil fuel
Water: excessive use of fertiliser eutrophication
360
Name a dicotyledonous plant.
Broad bean, chestnut, peanut, etc.
361
Distinguish between the members of each of the following pairs of terms, by
writing a sentence about each member of each pair: Homozygous and
heterozygous.
Homozygous: identical alleles
Heterozygous: different alleles (of a
gene)
362
What is peristalsis?
363
Explain the terms 1. Flora, 2. Fauna.
364
Which type of respiration results in the production of acid in our muscles?
365
366
Method of moving substances (e.g. food) through
tubes (e.g. intestines) by waves of rhythmic
contractions and relaxations of muscles
1.
2.
In DNA, nitrogenous bases occur in complementary pairs. Explain the term
complementary as used here.
Yeast cells produce ethanol (alcohol) in a process called fermentation.
Is this process affected by temperature?
367
Where would you find a meristem in a root?
368
State
1.
2.
369
Explain the purpose of a control in a scientific experiment.
370
371
One role of the pancreas in digestion.
One role of the gall bladder in digestion.
Plants
Animals
Anaerobic
Each base has a (different)
corresponding (or matching) (base)
Yes
At the tip – immediately behind the
root cap.
1. (Pancreas) -Makes enzymes or makes neutralising
secretion or makes NaHCO3
2. (Gall bladder) - Stores bile or releases bile
For comparison
Distinguish between the members of each of the following pairs
Genotype: genetic makeup or genes (alleles) present
of terms, by writing a sentence about each member of each pair: Phenotype: the expression of the genotype (and
environment) or physical makeup (or appearance)
Genotype and phenotype.
Name one animal from your named ecosystem and describe how you carried
Named animal
Details of method
out a quantitative study of that animal.
372
Name the two types of respiration.
Aerobic / Anaerobic
373
Name the complementary base in RNA for: 1. Adenine, 2. Cytosine.
1. Uracil or U;
2. Guanine or G
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 18 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
374
Explain what is meant by conservation.
The wise management of the
environment or organisms
375
What is meant by germination?
It is the beginning of the growth of
seeds, spores or pollen grains after a
period of dormancy.
376
Name a part of a flower that may develop into a fruit.
Ovary
377
Cardiac muscle may be described as a contractile tissue. Explain the meaning
of the underlined term.
Capable of shortening or contracting
378
Name the blood vessel that carries the digested food to the liver.
(Hepatic) portal vein
379
Suggest one way in which marking an animal might endanger it.
More conspicuous (to predators) or
social outcast or toxic marker
380
What is meant by the term respiration?
Release of energy / from food
381
Name a carbohydrate that is a component of nucleotides.
Ribose or deoxyribose
382
383
Distinguish between the members of each of the following pairs of
Linkage: genes on the same chromosome
terms, by writing a sentence about each member of each pair: Linkage Sex-linkage: (located) on sex-chromosome or on
X- chromosome or on Y-chromosome
and sex linkage.
Biosphere: the part of the planet where life occurs
Explain the following terms that are used in ecology:
Habitat: The place where an organism lives.
biosphere, habitat and niche.
Niche: The functional role of an organism (in an ecosystem)
384
ATP is an abbreviation. What does it stand for?
Adenosine triphosphate
385
Name an enzyme that is involved in the digestion of fat
Lipase
386
What is an agar plate?
Petri dish containing a jelly (or solid
medium)
387
388
389
390
Ecosystems are subject to changes, both natural and artificial. Mention one of
each type of change as it applies to your named ecosystem.
Name a component of a nucleotide that is neither a carbohydrate nor a
nitrogenous base.
From your knowledge of photosynthesis, suggest two ways of improving the
rate of photosynthesis of plants in a greenhouse.
Suggest a treatment that may be used for a person whose kidneys are not
carrying out their normal functions.
Natural: relevant matching example
Artificial: relevant matching example
Phosphate (group) or P
More light (intensity or hours) / more
carbon dioxide / more heat
Dialysis
391
What is meant by the term excretion?
392
State two functions of the liver – other than the
processing of digested food.
393
State one cause of mutation.
Chemicals, Radiation
394
What is homeostasis?
Maintaining a constant internal
environment
395
Nucleic acids are composed of subunits called nucleotides. Each nucleotide is
formed from a sugar, a phosphate group and a nitrogenous base. Name the
two types of nitrogenous base found in DNA.
Purines
Pyrimidines
Eliminating waste / made in the body
Heat generation / vitamin storage / iron storage / makes cholesterol /
bile manufacture / deamination of amino acids / detoxification of poisons
/ plasma protein synthesis / Blood Cell breakdown
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 19 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
396
397
398
399
What does the ‘m’ stand for in mRNA?
Messenger
In photosynthesis, water is split into three products. Name these three
products.
What is the source of the heat that allows the body to maintain a constant
internal temperature?
What is the difference between a nucleus of an egg cell and that of a somatic
(body) cell of an animal?
Proton (hydrogen ion) / electron /
oxygen
Respiration
Egg cell – haploid
Somatic cell – diploid
400
Mention one method of excretion in flowering plants.
Diffusion or leaf fall or transpiration or
through lenticels (or through stomata)
401
Why is digestion necessary in a germinating seed?
To make (food) soluble or to make
(food) transportable
402
The colon contains many symbiotic bacteria – mostly ‘good’
bacteria. State two benefits we get from these bacteria.
403
Give both of the specific base pairs in DNA structure.
404
405
They synthesise vitamins / they out-compete pathogens
or complement immune system / break down fibre /
more vitamins / more minerals
A + T and G + C
Give one difference between RNA and DNA, other than the
RNA has ribose or RNA is single stranded or
DNA has deoxyribose or DNA is double stranded
nitrogenous bases.
lands as wild life parks ensures that: existing environments are
Give a brief account of a conservation practice with Preserving
maintained, endangered species are preserved for reproduction, the balance of
which you are familiar.
nature is maintained and pollution and its effects are reduced
406
Name the gas in the air needed for photosynthesis.
Carbon dioxide / Water vapour
407
What happens to the two polar nuclei in the carpel?
Both fertilised by male gamete
nucleus to form the triploid
endosperm nucleus
408
What is a germ layer?
Layer of cells / in the blastula
(embryo) / (potential to) give rise to
(specific) tissues (or organs)
409
Name the blood vessel that supplies blood to a kidney.
Renal artery
410
What is an auxin?
411
State the Law of Segregation and the Law of
Independent Assortment.
412
What name is applied to the period of the cell cycle in which division is not
taking place?
Interphase
413
State one function of the liquid part of blood.
Transport dissolved substances
414
Name the openings in the lower surface of the leaf that are used for gas
exchange.
Stoma(ta)
415
Explain the word digestion.
The breaking down of food
416
To which group of biomolecules do enzymes belong?
Proteins
417
List three types of tropism.
418
From which blood vessel does the renal artery arise?
A chemical that is a plant growth regulator or a plant growth hormone (e.g.
IAA), produced in the meristematic tissue of shoots, roots, young leaves and
developing seeds. It stimulates cell elongation and cell division in plants.
Segregation: Traits are governed by pairs of factors (or alleles or genes) /
that separate at gamete formation (each gamete receiving one factor)
Assortment: Either member of a pair of alleles (or factors or genes or
chromosomes) can combine (or transmit) with either member of another
pair (in gamete formation)
Phototropism, Thigmotropism,
Chemotropism, Geotropism, Hydrotropism
Aorta
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 20 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
419
420
421
Manipulation of genes or alteration of
genes or alteration of genotypes
What is meant by the term genetic engineering?
Replication or growth or protein
Give a cellular process that occurs during the period in the cell cycle in which
synthesis or respiration or
the nucleus is not dividing.
photosynthesis
No
chlorophyll,
no stamens, no flowers. Has
State one feature that indicates that Rhizopus belongs to the kingdom
stolon, rhizoids, mycelium, hyphae,
Fungi.
sporangium, spores
422
The hepatic portal vein carries blood from the alimentary canal to the …
Liver
423
Name the cell structures, present in large numbers in the upper part of the
leaf, that are needed for photosynthesis.
Chloroplast
424
A tendon joins … to bone.
Muscle
425
Give one role for each of the following types of teeth:
1.
Incisors
2.
Molars.
1. Cutting (food)
2. Chewing/grinding (food)
426
Hormones are secreted by … glands.
Endocrine
427
Briefly explain the term Isolation in the context of genetic engineering.
Locating or identifying or removal of a
gene (or a piece of DNA or a plasmid)
428
What term is used for the group of disorders in which control has been lost
over the rate of mitosis?
Cancer
429
In which cavity of the body are the kidneys located?
Abdominal (cavity) or Abdomen
430
State Mendel’s Law of Segregation.
431
Give an account of the evidence for
evolution from a named source.
432
Name the green pigment present in leaves that is essential for photosynthesis.
Chlorophyll
433
In which part of a flower does a seed form?
Ovule
434
Gas exchange between a leaf and the atmosphere takes place through the …
Stomata
435
436
437
States that characters (traits) are controlled by pairs of genes
(e.g. Tt) that separate (segregate) at gamete formation. Each
gamete carries only one gene for the trait.
Comparative embryology: comparing the developing embryos of vertebrates shows a similarity
between certain structures, e.g. the position of the brain, eyes, gill slits and tail of the fish, tortoise,
rabbit, bird, chick and human. This suggests that organisms descended from common ancestors.
Briefly explain the term Cutting (restriction) in the context of genetic
engineering.
In relation to structures such as the cell membrane, explain the term selective
permeability.
Peristalsis begins when food enters the oesophagus.
What is meant by peristalsis?
Cutting the DNA (or plasmid) with an
(restriction) enzyme
Only certain substances (or named)
allowed through
(muscular) contractions /in the walls
of the alimentary canal/to move food
438
Name one substance, other than water, excreted in the urine.
Urea or salt or uric acid
439
True or false. Mitosis is the division of a nucleus into two identical nuclei
True
440
What is the main source of energy for photosynthesis?
Light or Sunlight
441
Name a substance that yeast can use to make ethanol.
Glucose, Sucrose, Starch
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 21 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
442
443
444
Temperature, pH, substrate and
product concentration
Name a factor that influences the activity of an enzyme.
Briefly explain the term Transformation (ligation) in the context of
genetic engineering.
Suggest an advantage to the cell of having a selectively permeable
membrane.
Transformation: uptake of DNA (or plasmid or gene)
Ligation: the joining of DNA (or plasmid or gene)
Substances can be kept in (or out) or substances can
be let in (or out)
445
What is fertilisation?
The fusion (union) of a male gamete
and female gamete [or two haploid
gametes] to form a diploid zygote
446
Filtration ensures that cells and valuable substances are not lost from the
body when urine is being formed. Name two of these substances or cells.
Glucose, Amino acids, Red and White
blood cells
447
Give a feature of the kidney which indicates that it is an exocrine gland.
Has ducts or does not produce
hormones
Describe the following changes that happen to food in the stomach:
1.
Mechanical changes
2.
Chemical changes.
State whether the following is an example of catabolism or anabolism:
Respiration.
1. Churned
2. pH changes or broken down by acid
or broken down by enzymes or
proteins → peptides
450
Name the type of joint at your elbow.
Hinge
451
Briefly explain the term Introduction of base sequence changes in the
context of genetic engineering.
the order of bases in the host DNA is
now different
452
Name two substances that enter a human muscle cell by diffusion.
Oxygen / glucose / water / amino
acids / phosphate (or P) / iron
453
Fats are composed of fatty acids and …
Glycerol
454
Explain conservation in relation to wild plants and animals.
455
Name two cell organelles, other than the nucleus, that contain DNA.
448
449
456
457
Catabolism
Ensures that existing environments are maintained, endangered
species are preserved for reproduction, the balance of nature is
maintained and pollution and its effects are reduced
Name the hormone associated with changing the permeability of the
collecting duct.
State whether the following is an example of catabolism or anabolism:
Photosynthesis.
Chloroplast, Mitochondria
Anti-diuretic hormone or ADH or
vasopressin
Anabolism
458
State the role of the kidneys in homeostasis.
To help maintain a constant internal
environment by controlling the
concentration of water and salt
459
Briefly explain the term Expression in the context of genetic engineering.
the activation of the inserted gene (in
its new position) or production of
product
460
Explain the term turgor.
Pressure / of cell contents (or
described) / on cell wall
461
What is the pH of the stomach contents?
0-3
462
State two ways in which the body is insulated against loss of heat.
Subcutaneous fat = a layer of thermal
insulation
Hair = Traps air
463
Name a factor that influences the diameter of the stomata.
CO2 and light
Low CO2 conc and light causes them to
open
464
Which chamber of the heart has the greatest amount of muscle in its wall?
Left ventricle
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 22 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
465
A sample of urine was found to contain protein.
1. Would you consider this to be normal?
2. Explain your answer.
466
How are hormones carried around the body?
In the Blood on in the Lymph
467
Give one application of genetic engineering in any two of the following.
1. An animal.
2. A plant.
3. A micro-organism.
1. Animal example
2. Plant example
3. Micro-organism example
468
Give a feature of a plant cell that allows it to remain turgid for long periods.
Vacuole or cell wall or cell sap
469
Some flowers have nectaries. How are these flowers pollinated? Explain your
answer.
By insects. They are drawn to the
flower for the sugary nectar.
470
Explain the terms alleles and dominant.
Allele: An alternative form of a gene
Dominant: One allele masks the
expression of the other
471
Where does the partially digested food go when it leaves the stomach?
Duodenum or small intestine
472
Where precisely does fertilisation normally occur in the human female?
About half way along the Fallopian
tube or oviduct
473
List the three germ layers. Relate each of the germ layers that you have listed
to an organ or system in the adult body.
Ectoderm: skin, hair, nails
Mesoderm: muscles, skeleton
Endoderm: linings of the alimentary
canal, trachea
474
Where in the human body is the pancreas located?
Abdomen or under the stomach or
near duodenum
475
Answer the following in relation to enzymes.
(i) What is their chemical nature?
(ii) Comment upon their molecular shape.
476
Suggest a way in which turgor is of value to plants.
477
A sample of urine was found to contain glucose.
1. Would you consider this to be normal?
2. Explain your answer.
478
Define tropism
The growth response of part of a plant
to an external unidirectional stimulus
479
True or false. A sperm contains the haploid number of chromosomes
True
480
Blood contains red cells and white cells. State one function for each of these.
Red: Carry oxygen
White: Protect against disease
481
What is meant by a ‘balanced’ diet?
(One which contains) all the food
types / in correct or suitable or
optimum proportions
482
Name an enzyme and its substrate.
Name of enzyme & Matching
substrate, e.g. amylase & starch
483
What is meant by the term endocrine?
Ductless or Not having tube(s)
484
When demonstrating osmosis: 1. For what purpose did you use Visking tubing,
potato tissue or some similar material? 2. At the end of the demonstration,
how did you conclude that osmosis had occurred?
1. As a selectively permeable
membrane;
2. Change (increase or decrease) in
mass (volume) or described
1.
2.
No
Protein molecules too big (to
pass into the filtrate)
(i)
(ii)
Protein
Folded
Support (or described)
1.
2.
No
Glucose (in the filtrate should
have been) reabsorbed
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 23 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
485
What term is used to describe alleles that lie on the same chromosome?
Linked
486
What do you understand by the term adverse external environment?
Surroundings that are harmful to
organism(s)
487
State one reason why a low pH is important in the stomach
To facilitate the action of pepsin and
rennin
488
Name a type of modified stem that functions in food storage.
Stem tuber: potato
489
What name is given to fats that are liquid at room temperature?
Lipids
490
Are fungi prokaryotic or eukaryotic?
Eukaryotic
491
Suggest a means of treating a named disorder of the human nervous system.
Parkinson's: Treatment - drugs
492
Write notes (a minimum of three points) on: Krebs Cycle.
493
In ecological studies it is found that the distribution of organisms is influenced
by abiotic and biotic factors. Distinguish between the underlined terms.
494
Distinguish between autotrophic nutrition and
heterotrophic nutrition.
495
Give two ways in which plants protect themselves from
environments.
496
An example of a fat-soluble vitamin is … A source is … A lack causes …
D, Dairy products, Rickets
497
Explain the term species.
Organisms capable of interbreeding
and producing fertile offspring.
498
Name one structure in plant cells not found in fungi.
Chloroplast
499
Explain the term fermentation.
Anaerobic respiration
500
Give one cause of a named disorder of the human nervous system.
Parkinson's: Cause - lack of dopamine
501
What are the products of fat digestion?
Glycerol and fatty acids
502
If the magnification of a microscope eyepiece is X 10 and the magnification of
the objective lens is X 40, what magnification results when a slide is viewed
using both of these lenses?
400
503
State a site of auxin secretion.
Tip of shoot or buds or meristem /
developing leaves or seeds or
other correct location
504
505
506
Occurs in second stage of respiration / in mitochondria / when O2
present (or aerobic) / starts with Acetyl Co-enzyme A / ATP produced /
hydrogen (pairs) produced or energised electrons / CO2 produced
Abiotic = non-living
Biotic = living features
Autotrophic nutrition: Food synthesised from simple molecules or
produces own food
Heterotrophic nutrition: already synthesised food consumed from
other organisms or food from other sources
Thick cuticle / changed transpiration
adverse external
(rate) / leaf fall / toxic parts / thorns /
stings / dormancy / perennating
organs / heat shock proteins
Name the group of substances in plants which control responses to external
stimuli.
What is the relationship between the rate of photosynthesis and either the
light intensity or the carbon dioxide concentration.
What is the purpose of using agar when growing fungi or bacteria in the
laboratory?
Plant growth regulators or auxins (or
other named group)
As either light intensity or CO2 conc.
increases, the rate of photosynthesis
increases.
Source of nutrients or substrate for
growth or medium or visibility
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 24 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
507
Name an organism that is used in industrial fermentation.
Yeast
508
Name one disorder of the human nervous system.
Parkinson's
509
Name the chemical elements present in carbohydrates.
Carbon, Hydrogen and Oxygen
510
What are secondary sexual characteristics?
511
What is meant by variation? State two causes of variation.
Difference between members of
species or population
512
Suggest two reasons for conserving wild species.
endangered species are preserved for
reproduction, the balance of nature is
maintained
513
What name is given to the regions in plants in which growth regulators are
produced?
Meristems
514
Suggest one reason why leaf yeasts are more plentiful in July than in March
More leaves or more suitable
temperature or more reproduction
515
Name a compound which is used as a carbon source in industrial
fermentation.
Any named carbohydrate
516
True or false. Chromosomes are made of DNA and lipid
False
517
What substances carry nerve impulses across the synapses?
Neurotransmitter(s)
518
Most Irish tomatoes are grown in greenhouses. State two ways a commercial
producer could increase her/his crop yield of tomatoes.
Extra CO2 / increase temperature /
growth promoters / increase light /
add fertilizer
519
Where are sperm produced?
Seminiferous tubules in the testes
520
What is the function of a semilunar valve?
They prevent the backflow (reflux) of
blood into the heart
521
From what structures does the placenta develop?
uterine tissue and embryonic tissue
522
How did you recognise the leaf yeasts when they appeared on the agar?
Pink (colonies)
523
When investigating the effect of either carbon dioxide concentration or light
intensity on the rate of photosynthesis: How did you vary your chosen factor?
CO2 – vary NaHCO3 conc. OR Light –
vary lamp (or plant) distance or vary
lamp wattage;
524
Give locations for two meristematic regions (meristems) in plants.
525
Tiny gaps are found where one neuron ends and the next one begins. What
are these gaps called?
Synaptic cleft / Synapse
526
What is the significance of inherited variation in the evolution of species?
Produces new genotypes or allows
natural selection
527
Phototropism is the growth response of a plant to …
Light
528
The process of respiration occurs in two stages, Stage 1 and Stage 2, that take
place in different parts of the cell. Say where in the cell Stage 1 occurs and
where in the cell Stage 2 occurs.
Does the whole process release a large amount or a small amount of energy?
The physical characteristics that distinguish male
from female apart from the sex organs
themselves [that develop during puberty].
Root tip / shoot (or stem) tip / bud / embryo (or
named part) / fruit / seed / between xylem and
phloem (or vascular bundle)
Stage 1. Cytoplasm
Stage 2. Mitochondria
Large
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 25 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
529
State one cause of infertility in the female and one cause of infertility in the
male.
In Female: hormonal, blockage or
failure to ovulate
In Male: low sperm count (or reason
for) or hormonal
530
How did you safely dispose of the agar plates at the end of an investigation?
Immerse in disinfectant or autoclave
531
Give the name of the first stage of photosynthesis.
Light (dependent stage)
532
Name the apertures in stems that are equivalent to the stomata.
Lenticels
533
Most plant shoots are positively phototropic. Explain the underlined term.
Growth towards light
534
535
536
537
538
539
540
Nerve impulses are carried around the body by neurons. Name any two types
of neuron.
True or false. Organisms of the same species can usually produce fertile
offspring.
Describe the ways in which the body responds when its internal temperature
rises above the normal level.
State two types of evidence used to support the theory of evolution.
Sensory or Motor or Inter/Relay
True
Vasodilation (or explained) /
(secretion of) sweat /
hairs lie flat or less air trapped
Fossils or embryos or anatomy or
genetics
In relation to the scientific method, explain each of the following:
(i) Observations or results or other
(ii) Repeats (or copies) of
(i) Data.
experiment
(ii) Replicates
1. Electrons picked up by acceptor / passed through
In the first stage of photosynthesis, pathways I and II relate to the
carriers / back to chlorophyll / electrons lose energy;
2. H2O split / protons to pool / NADP- formed / NADPH
passage of energised electrons. 1. Explain what happens to these
formed / (electrons) picked up by acceptor / passed
electrons in pathway I. 2. Describe the events of pathway II.
through carriers / O2 released / ATP produced
Write a word equation to show what happens when yeast breaks down
(Glucose →) Ethanol (allow alcohol) +
CO2 + energy
glucose in the absence of oxygen.
541
What substance, other than ethanol, is produced during fermentation?
Carbon dioxide
542
Give one example of a plant response to a stimulus.
Growth towards / away from stimulus,
e.g. Phototropism
543
How does the plant benefit from a positive phototrophic response?
Increased photosynthesis
544
Give an example of a condition, found in the human population that results
from a mutation.
Down’s syndrome, cancer or stripe in
eye colour
545
What is the function of the prostate gland?
Production of (seminal) fluid or
nutrition (of sperm)
546
How did you expose the semi-lunar valves when dissecting the sheep’s or ox’s
heart?
Cut (open) the aorta or cut (open) the
pulmonary artery
547
Give the name of the second stage of photosynthesis.
Dark (stage) (or light-independent
stage)
548
How may the action of an auxin be considered similar to the action of a
hormone in the human body?
Made in one place / transported to
other part / causes response /
slow acting /long lasting
549
State two functions of fats in the human body
Source of energy and thermal
insulation
550
Give one industrial application of yeast breaking down glucose in the absence
of oxygen.
e.g. Brewing or bread making
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 26 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
551
552
Plants and animals respond to some outside stimuli. Name two stimuli to
Light or Water or Gravity or Touch or
Chemicals or Temperature
which plants respond.
Named stimulus / diffusion of growth regulator /
Explain the mechanism of response by a plant to a named external
unequal distribution (of growth regulator) / one side
stimulus.
grows faster / results in bending
553
What does an ecologist mean by the term conservation?
The wise management of the
environment or organisms
554
How did you show that alcohol was present when investigating the
production of alcohol by yeast?
Named chemicals or named test
555
Explain why the second stage of photosynthesis is given its name.
Light not needed
556
Name two common blood-grouping systems
A, B, O
Rhesus
557
Explain the following terms that are used in genetics;
dominance, genotype, phenotype.
558
Name the gas used in photosynthesis.
559
560
561
562
563
564
565
566
dominance – one allele masking the expression of its partner
genotype – all the genes of an individual or genetic makeup or genome
phenotype – the expression of a genotype (the appearance or the
characteristic(s) of an organism)
Carbon dioxide
Describe how you carried out a quantitative survey on a species of plant in its
habitat.
Name a carbohydrate that you would expect to find in the modified leaves of
a bulb.
Give one reason why the second stage of photosynthesis cannot happen
without the first stage.
Quadrat / random or how achieved /
count / number of times
Starch
Product (or named product) (of 1st
stage) required.
A chemical messenger or product of
endocrine (or ductless) gland
What is a hormone?
What type of agar plates did you use when investigating the digestive activity Milk or starch
of seeds?
Does not give a positive result where
How did you demonstrate that digestive activity had taken place in this
digestive activity occurred or
described
investigation?
When muscles break down glucose in the absence of oxygen, one main
Lactic acid
product is produced. Name this product.
Petal - Attracts insects to effect pollination
State a function of each of the following parts of a
Sepal – Protects the flower when it is a bud
flower: petal; sepal; anther.
Anther – (part of the stamen) produces and stores pollen until it is ripe
Fisheries: Net size.
Give an outline of one conservation practice used in agriculture
Conservation benefit: Smaller fish allowed to mature and
or fisheries or forestry.
breed ensuring continuation of species and stock
567
What is the role of bile in fat digestion?
Emulsifies fats
568
A quantitative survey was carried out to show the effect of poor waste
management on the plants in an ecosystem. What is meant by the term
quantitative?
Counting / Numbers / How many
569
Explain what is meant by pollination.
The transfer of pollen from the anther
of the stamen of one flower, to the
stigma of the carpel of another flower
570
Outline the major events of the second stage of photosynthesis.
Sugar formed from CO2 / ATP provides
energy or NADPH provides hydrogen
(or H)
571
How did you demonstrate the requirement for oxygen when investigating the
factors necessary for seed germination?
Anaerobic jar (or described) or boiled
water + oil or one with O2 and one
without O2 (and compare)
572
State two ways in which hormones are similar to plant growth regulators.
Produced in one location / acts in
different location / prolonged effect
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 27 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
573
574
From an ecosystem that you have investigated give an example of an abiotic
factor that influences the distribution of a named plant in the ecosystem.
Which biological process is represented by the following word equation:
glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water + energy?
What is meant by DNA profiling?
576
Mention two ways of minimising the amount of waste produced.
578
Aerobic respiration
Producing a picture of pieces of DNA when an organism’s DNA
is broken up using specific enzymes and then sorted by size on
a gel. The result is a bit like a bar code.
575
577
Abiotic factor: Light intensity
Plant: Moss
Reduce or Reuse or Recycle
Name a substance produced during aerobic respiration that is not produced
during fermentation.
What did you use as the selectively permeable membrane in your
investigation of osmosis?
Water
Visking tubing or named plant tissue
579
Write notes (a minimum of three points) on: ADP.
Adenosine Di-phosphate / a low
energy (molecule) / + phosphate (P) /
+ energy / ATP formed
580
What is meant by the term omnivore?
An animal that eats both animals and
plants.
581
What is meant by feedback in relation to hormone action?
When the level of a hormone (in the
blood) controls (the production) of
another (or itself)
582
Name a part of a flower from which a fruit develops.
Ovary
583
True or false. Aerobic respiration is the release of energy in the absence of
oxygen
False
584
What is meant by metabolism?
(The sum of all) the chemical reactions
(in an organism) or catabolism +
anabolism
585
Give two problems associated with waste disposal.
Smell, Unsightly, Vermin, Disease,
Pollution, illegal dumping
586
What growth regulator did you use when investigating plant growth?
IAA
587
Distinguish between Enzymes and Hormones
Enzyme – a catalyst (or explained);
Hormone – a (chemical) messenger
(or explained)
588
What is meant by germination?
Is the beginning of the growth after a
period of dormancy
589
Give an example of a carbohydrate that has a structural role. Where would
you expect to find this carbohydrate in a living organism?
Cellulose
Cell wall
590
Give a brief account of the feedback mechanism for a named hormone.
Named hormone
inhibits (or causes production of) a
named hormone
591
State one way in which a sperm differs from an ovum (egg).
592
In relation to ecological surveys, explain the meaning of the terms:
1. Qualitative, 2. Quantitative.
1. The types of organisms present
2. Numbers of individuals or number
of species
593
Explain the term predator.
Kills / prey or Kill / to eat or Kills/ for
food
594
595
It is motile or has a tail or correct comment on shape or
size or very little cytoplasm or may contain ‘Y’
chromosome or has more mitochondria
A microscope has an eyepiece lens marked ×10 and an objective lens marked
×20. What is the total magnification of the image?
What term is used for the substance(s) that result(s) from the action of an
enzyme on its substrate?
200
Product(s)
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 28 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Fisheries: Net size
Conservation benefit: Smaller fish allowed to mature and
breed ensuring continuation of species and stock
596
State one conservation practice from agriculture or fisheries or
forestry
597
Give two reasons why living things need energy.
e.g. For movement / for heat / for
making products / for internal
transport
598
What is metabolism?
All the chemical reactions taking place
in living organisms
599
Describe one deficiency symptom of a named hormone.
One deficiency symptom of a named
hormone
600
What stain did you use for viewing plant cells on the slide?
Iodine
601
In relation to ecology, explain the term Habitat.
Where an organism lives
602
In genetics, what is meant by the term variation?
Differences within a population or
within a species or between
individuals
603
In relation to an enzyme, explain the term optimum activity.
Working at maximum rate
604
Where in your dissection did you find the origin of the coronary artery?
aorta or near semi lunar valve
605
Describe briefly the hormonal and nervous responses
that occur when internal body temperature drops.
606
Suggest a role for NAD / NADP+ in cell activities.
607
608
receptor (or detection) / receptor in skin / receptor in medulla or brain /
shiver / generates heat / hairs stand up or goose bumps / air trapped /
vasoconstriction (or explained) / increased metabolic rate or increased
respiration / any relevant comment on named hormone e.g. thyroxine
increases metabolic rate or increases respiration
Protein synthesis involves both transcription and translation.
Where in a cell does transcription occur?
Distinguish between contest competition and scramble
competition by writing a sentence about each.
Capturing or transferring electrons or
protons or hydrogen (ions)
Nucleus
Contest: (Results in) winner takes all (of a limited resource)
Scramble:(Results in) each gets some (of a limited resource)
609
In relation to ecology, explain the term Edaphic.
610
Variation can result from mutation. Name one other cause of variation.
611
612
613
Relating to Soil
Sexual reproduction or meiosis or
independent assortment or
environmental
(i) Named enzyme and matching substrate
Answer the following in relation to an activity that you carried out to
(ii) Temperature ≥ 60 ⁰C for ≥ 5 min or boil
investigate the effect of heat denaturation on the activity of an enzyme. (i) / water bath or described / untreated
enzyme / as control / no activity in
Name the enzyme and the substrate that you used. (ii) Describe how you
denatured enzyme / (matching method of)
observe activity / control result / named
carried out the investigation. In your description outline how you
factor (kept constant) / how kept constant.
measured the activity of the enzyme.
Quantity of foam or other.
Male: broadening of the shoulders, growth and enlargement of
Give an example of a human secondary sexual
penis, deepening of the voice, body and facial hair, etc.
Female: enlargement and growth of the breasts, growth of body
characteristic.
hair under arms and pubic regions
produces hormones (or named) / allows passage of
food (or named) / and oxygen / antibodies / waste (or
State three functions of the placenta.
named) / acts as a barrier
614
What is meant by pollution?
615
What is meant by in vitro fertilisation?
What is done with the products of in vitro fertilisation?
616
In each of the following cases give one example of a plant that uses the stated
method of seed dispersal: 1. Wind, 2. Animal.
The harmful addition to the
environment (by humans) that leaves
it less able to sustain life
Fusion of the male and female gamete
outside the body.
Implanted in a womb or stored for
future use or destroyed
Wind: dandelion, sycamore
Animal: blackberry, burdock
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 29 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
617
Name two types of mutation.
Gene, chromosome
618
In relation to ecology, explain the term Abiotic.
Non-living factors
619
Explain the terms bioprocessing and immobilised.
620
Name a factor, other than competition, that controls wild populations.
disease or parasitism or predation or
hunting or reference to other named
environmental condition
621
What type of RNA is involved in transcription?
Messenger /m (RNA)
622
What name is given to the first stage of respiration?
Glycolysis
623
What is the difference between self-pollination
and cross-pollination?
624
True or false. RNA is not found in ribosomes
True
625
Name two agents responsible for increased rates of mutation.
Example 1, Example 2
626
What is meant by genetic screening?
Checking or testing (DNA) / for a gene
627
Give an advantage of using immobilised cells in industrial fermentation.
Can be re-used (or recovered) or pure
product (or described)
628
List three factors that are essential for germination.
Suitable temperature, Oxygen, Water
629
What deduction can be made from the following observation? In a particular
area the population of a predator did not decline following a big reduction in
the population of its main prey.
Different prey
630
What is connected to the ear by the Eustachian tube?
Throat
631
In what organelle does translation occur?
Ribosome
632
633
634
Bioprocessing - using micro-organisms (or enzymes) / to form product(s);
Immobilised - fixed to inert material (or named material) or fixed to each
other or trapped in gel (or named material)
Self: the transfer of pollen from the anther of the stamen of one flower to the stigma
of the carpel of the same flower or another flower on the same plant.
Cross: the transfer of pollen from the anther of the stamen of one flower to the
stigma of the carpel of another flower on a different plant of the same species.
Ecosystem: Woodland / Hedgerow
In the case of a named ecosystem give an example of a biotic factor that
Biotic factor: Predator (fox)
influences the distribution of a named animal.
Named Animal: Rabbit
New
phenotypes
or
new types or new features / Better
Briefly explain the significance of mutation in relation to natural
adapted or survival of the fittest (or advantageous) or
selection.
less well adapted (or disadvantageous)
Name the compound from which the immobilising beads are formed in the
Alginate
laboratory.
635
Which genetic structure changes when a mutation occurs?
Gene or chromosome or DNA
636
The first stage ends with the formation of pyruvate (pyruvic acid). In
anaerobic conditions, what is produced from this pyruvate: 1. In muscle cells,
2. In yeast cells?
1. Lactic acid
2. Ethanol + CO2
637
What is a hormone?
638
Chemical produced by an endocrine gland which
travels in the bloodstream to target organ(s) to
exert a specific response(s)
(Host) immunity develops or comment
What deduction can be made from the following observation? Mortality levels on natural selection (or described) or
most virulent strains die off or
resulting from infection by a particular virus tend to decline over the years.
vaccination
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 30 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Production of vitamins or inhibition of
pathogens or (aids) digestion
639
State a role of beneficial bacteria in the alimentary canal.
640
What is meant by infertility?
State one cause of infertility in the human male.
641
What is meant by the term monocotyledonous?
One seed leaf or one embryonic leaf
642
Give the general name for the vessel used for such reactions.
Bioreactor
643
Name a single-celled organism.
Amoeba
644
Name the small biomolecules that are joined together to make a protein.
Amino acids
645
What is meant by a pyramid of numbers?
The numbers of organisms at each
trophic level
646
Name the gas produced during photosynthesis.
Oxygen
647
648
The inability [to produce (sufficient) gametes and] to
conceive or produce offspring.
Low sperm count or low sperm motility or hormonal
What deduction can be made from the following observation? Where some
members of a species remain in the same general area throughout life and
some members are migratory, mortality levels tend to be higher in the
migratory part of the population.
If conditions are aerobic, pyruvate next passes to an organelle in which the
second stage of respiration takes place. Name this organelle.
Hazards encountered on migration (or
particular example of a hazard)
Mitochondrion
649
Give an example of a monocotyledonous plant.
e. g. Grass, barley
650
In the microscopic examination of a plant cell: 1. Name the stain that you used
and the colour it imparted to the cell wall. 2. How did you apply the stain to
the cells on the slide?
1. e.g. Iodine → yellow (or orange or
brown); 2. Dropper or use of filter
paper
651
State a role of carbohydrates other than a structural one.
Release of energy
Energy store (starch, glycogen)
652
What is the purpose of mitosis in single-celled organisms?
Reproduction
653
Which is present in the middle ear, gas or liquid?
Gas
654
What must happen to the newly formed protein before it can begin to work?
It must fold (into its functional shape)
655
State two good sources of protein in the human diet.
Lean meat, fish, eggs
656
What deduction can be made from the following observation? There is a
greater variety of herbaceous (non woody) plants in areas where grazing
species, such as rabbits, are more plentiful than in areas where grazing
species are less plentiful.
(Grazing results in) reduced
competition (or described)
657
How are the veins arranged in the leaves of monocots?
Parallel
658
How were you able to identify the animals that you found in the ecosystem?
Key or (guide) book or illustrations
659
Name three methods of contraception and, in each
case, explain how the method prevents conception.
mechanical – prevents contact between sperm and egg
surgical – prevents contact between sperm and egg
chemical – prevents ovulation or hormone levels changed
natural - (safe period) – intercourse takes place avoiding ovulation
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 31 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
660
Mitosis is one type of cell division. Name the other type of cell division.
Meiosis
661
Give two uses of DNA profiling.
Paternity disputes, Forensic Science,
Genetic Screening, Genetic
Archaeology
662
Pyruvate is broken down to CO2 and a two-carbon compound. Name this twocarbon compound.
Acetyl Co-Enzyme A
663
Name a hormone associated with the maintenance of the placenta.
Progesterone
664
Give one function of proteins in living organisms.
665
666
667
e.g. enzymes or muscle component or skin
component or hair component or structural or
metabolic (allow ‘energy’), growth, repair
How does the vein arrangement in the leaves of dicot plants differ from that
in monocots?
When conducting a quantitative survey of plants, how did you ensure that
your sample was random
What deduction can be made from the following observation? In some
species of migratory ducks in the northern hemisphere it is found that the
wintering grounds of the males lie further south than those of the females.
Reticulate or net or branched or
described
Method described must demonstrate
randomness
Accept any biological knowledgebased statement that would provide a
plausible rationale for a differential
migratory pattern
668
Why is it important for plants to disperse their seeds?
To avoid overcrowding, minimise
competition and encourage
colonisation
669
How many cells are formed when a cell divides by mitosis?
Two
670
Name the energy source for photosynthesis.
The sun
671
In the case of one hormone state: 1. The gland that produces it, 2. A function
of this hormone, 3. A deficiency symptom of this hormone.
Hormone: Thyroxine Gland: Thyroid
Function: controls rate of respiration
Deficiency: myxoedema (adult)
cretinism (child)
672
State two features visible under a light microscope that indicate that cells are
typical plant cells.
Cell wall & vacuole
673
What does an ecologist mean by the term conservation?
Management of environment or
management of species
674
675
676
As part of your study of your selected ecosystem you constructed a pyramid
of numbers. Name the species that occupied the top of your pyramid. What is
the main prey of the species referred to?
The human circulatory system has two circuits. Give the name of each of
these circuits.
In relation to a study of an ecosystem distinguish clearly between qualitative
and quantitative surveys by writing a sentence about each.
Named (species) of carnivore or of
omnivore or of parasite
Pulmonary & Systemic
Qualitative: What is present
Quantitative: How many present
677
On which structures are the genes located?
Chromosome
678
When a pure-breeding black cat was mated with a pure-breeding white cat, all
the kittens were black. Which fur colour, black or white, is recessive in these
cats?
White
679
What is meant by a vascular tissue?
680
True or false. Immobilised enzymes can act as catalysts
True
681
Suggest a reason why nature reserves are important for conservation.
To allow species to develop or
maintaining biodiversity or prevent
extinction or protection
Refers to a group of cells with a similar function
involved in the transport of substances, i.e. xylem and
phloem in plants, and blood in animals.
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 32 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
682
683
684
685
686
Distinguish between contest competition and scramble competition by writing
a sentence about each.
Name a chemical element found in proteins that is not found in
carbohydrates.
Contest: one gets all (of the resource);
Scramble: all get some (of the
resource)
Suggest two possible fates for oxygen, following its production in a plant.
1. Given off to the atmosphere
2. Used in respiration
How were you able to identify the different plants in the ecosystem that you
investigated?
In cats, black coat colour (B) is dominant to white coat colour (b). If a white
cat is crossed with a cat heterozygous for coat colour, state: The genotypes
and the matching phenotypes of the kittens produced by the cross.
Nitrogen
Key(s) or illustrations
Bb and bb
Black and White
687
State a function of sieve tubes.
Conduct food throughout the plant
688
What are alleles?
Different forms of the same gene or
B,b
689
Explain the term pollution.
Harmful addition to the environment
690
Suggest a role for parasites in the overall scheme of nature.
Population control
691
Write a short note on each of the following: 1. Pulse, 2. Blood
pressure.
692
State the function of the cochlea.
To convert sound to nerve impulses
693
Cellulose is an example of a structural …
Carbohydrate
694
695
696
697
698
1. Contraction of (wall of) artery or expansion of
artery or due to pumping of heart (or of left
ventricle) or rate at which heart beats
2. Force exerted by blood (or by heart)
In cats, black coat colour (B) is dominant to white coat colour (b). If a white
b and B , b
cat is crossed with a cat heterozygous for coat colour, state: The genotype(s)
of the gametes produced by each parent.
Quadrat / random / how random / count (or estimate) / many
Describe how you carried out a quantitative survey of the
times / calculate (or record) OR Transect / stations / intervals /
major plant species.
count (or estimate) / how (counted) / result described
Vitamins are either water-soluble or …-soluble
Pollution may result from domestic, agricultural or industrial sources. Select
one of these areas and state an effect that may be produced by a named
pollutant. How may the pollution referred to be controlled?
1. Name two predators. 2. Give one adaptive technique in the case of each
predator.
Fat
Pollutant: Any relevant pollutant
Effect: Must match pollutant
e.g. Name - Fox, Adaptive technique Speed and sharp canine teeth
699
What term is used to describe the nutrition of plants?
Autotrophic (photosynthesis)
700
Give one example of an inherited human characteristic.
e.g. eye colour
701
Fats are composed of oxygen, hydrogen and …
Carbon
702
The human circulatory system has two circuits. Which of these circuits
involves the pumping of blood by the left ventricle?
Systemic
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 33 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
703
704
705
In cats, black coat colour (B) is dominant to white coat colour (b). If a white
bb and Bb
cat is crossed with a cat heterozygous for coat colour, state: The genotype of
each parent cat.
Misidentification / non-random (quadrat
Give two possible sources of error that may have arisen in the course
distribution) / not enough times / unsuitable
of your ecological survey.
quadrat size / miscount (or miscalculation)
(i) Amount of waste greatly reduced or
In relation to the incineration of domestic waste, suggest:
useable heat or reduced landfill
(i) an advantage of the process.
(ii) Harmful products
(ii) a disadvantage of the process.
706
Suggest why continual monitoring of the environment is valuable.
To be able to detect change(s) or to
remedy effect of change or to detect
levels of pollutants (or example)
707
When an iodine solution is added to a food sample and remains red-brown in
colour … is absent.
Starch
708
What is meant by the dormancy of seeds?
A period of rest, inactivity or nonvegetative state before growth or
germination.
709
What term is used by ecologists to describe the organisms that form the base
of a pyramid of numbers?
Primary producers
710
Give one example of a non-inherited human characteristic.
e.g. ability to roller skate
711
Explain the following term as used in genetics: Diploid.
Two sets of chromosomes or
chromosomes in pairs
712
When two monosaccharides unite they form a …
Disaccharide
713
State one role of cartilage.
Prevents bone damage or friction free
movement or shock absorption
714
Explain the term ectoparasite.
Organism living on host (or explained)
/ causing damage
715
How are the two strands of a DNA molecule joined together?
Hydrogen bonds
716
Removal from the body of the waste products of metabolism is called …
Excretion
717
Comment on the effect of each of the following on the circulatory system: 1.
Diet, 2. Exercise.
718
Explain each of the following terms in relation to the
scientific method: hypothesis, control, data, replicate,
theory.
719
Proteins are digested to simpler substances. What are these simpler
substances called?
Amino acids
720
Explain the following term as used in genetics: Sex chromosome.
Controls sex of organism
721
What is a tissue?
A group of cells with the same
function
722
723
724
Diet: Low fat – cholesterol
Exercise: Strengthen heart muscle –
improve circulation
Hypothesis: Educated guess based on observation
Control: Standard for comparison
Data: Measurements or observations or information gathered
from an experiment
Replicate: Make a duplicate(s) of an experiment or procedure
Theory: A proven hypothesis
Outline two biological similarities between the nitrogen cycle and the
carbon cycle.
Which structures in sperm and egg nuclei are responsible for biological
inheritance?
What is ‘junk’ DNA?
Fixation (or explained) / bacteria (or microorganisms) involved / death and decay
/nutrition (or described) / excretion
Chromosomes or genes or DNA
Non-coding (or described)
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 34 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
725
Plants obtain carbon dioxide from the air. Name two processes that release
this gas into the air.
Respiration, Combustion,
Decomposition,
726
True or false. Urea is formed in the kidneys.
False
727
Where in a cell does photosynthesis take place?
Chloroplast
728
Explain the following term as used in genetics: Heterozygous.
Alleles are different
729
730
731
1. Give an example of an animal tissue.
1. Animal tissue e.g. muscle, connective,
epithelial, nervous
2. State a role of the animal tissue referred to.
2. Matching structural or physiological role
3. Give one way in which the tissue referred to is adapted to carry out 3. Matching structural or physiological
adaptation
its function(s).
Habitat - Where an organism (or plant and
Distinguish between habitat and ecosystem by writing a sentence
animal) lives; Ecosystem - Organisms
about each.
(interacting) with their environment
haemoglobin / no nucleus (or
Give two ways, other than colour, in which a red blood cell differs in structure Contain
other named organelle) / biconcave
or composition from a typical body cell such as one in the cheek lining.
shape
732
State a function of mitosis in a single-celled organism.
Reproduction
733
Referring to the procedures that you used to isolate DNA from a plant tissue.
1. What was the first procedure that you followed?
2. What was the reason for that procedure?
1.
2.
734
State the effect of any one named pollutant.
Named pollutant
Effect must match named pollutant
735
State the function of the semi-circular canals.
Detects movement of the head and
controls the balance of the body
736
737
Explain the term tissue culture.
Give two examples of the use of tissue culture.
Name the valves found at the base of both the aorta and the pulmonary
artery.
Chop
To disrupt structure (or
described) or to increase
surface area
Cells grown on (or in) medium or cells
grown outside organism
Semi-lunar valves
738
Distinguish between edaphic and aquatic by writing a sentence about each.
Edaphic: to do with soil;
Aquatic: to do with water
739
Name two ways in which cross-pollination happens.
Wind, Insect
740
State two ways in which villi are adapted for the absorption of soluble foods.
Large surface area / rich blood supply
/ microvilli / thin-walled / lacteal
741
State one way in which hormone action differs from nerve action.
Slower response, more widespread,
usually slower response
742
Give a reason for the use of washing-up liquid when used to isolate DNA from
a plant tissue.
To disrupt membranes
743
What is the role of the SA (sinoatrial) and AV (atrioventricular)
nodes in the heart?
744
Name a monosaccharide.
Give the formula of the monosaccharide referred to.
Name a polysaccharide that can be formed from the monosaccharide referred
to
Example
Glucose
C6H12O6
Starch
745
Describe how you carried out the heart dissection.
Cut / left side / right side
SA: controls the heartbeat. Sends out wave of impulses to
muscles of both atria causing atria to contract
AV: picks up the wave of impulses that cause the atria to
contract and transmits them to the ventricles, causing them
to contract in turn
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 35 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
746
Distinguish between climate and weather by writing a sentence about each.
Climate: Long-term (prevailing)
conditions; Weather: Short-term
(atmospheric) conditions
747
Outline one conservation measure carried out by one of the following
industries: agriculture or forestry or fisheries.
Outline of one conservation measure
748
What is a bioreactor?
A container in which a living thing is
used in the production of something
useful
749
Yeasts are eukaryotic organisms. What does this mean?
Cells which have a nucleus and other
membrane bound organelles
750
What is meant by genetic engineering?
Manipulation or alteration of genes
751
752
Give a reason for the use of salt (sodium chloride) when used to isolate DNA
from a plant tissue.
Give one way in which an amino acid differs from a monosaccharide, in terms
of chemical composition.
To clump the DNA (or described) or to
protect DNA from other positive ions
Contains N or contains –NH2 or
contains –COOH (group)
753
Where in a food chain are primary producers found?
First (level)
754
What was the main instrument that you used for the actual dissection of a
heart?
Scalpel
755
Suggest an advantage of dormancy of seeds to a plant.
Ensures springtime germination
756
Where in a leaf would you expect to find cells with most chlorophyll?
near upper surface or palisade layer
757
Name one problem associated with waste disposal.
One problem associated with waste
disposal
758
Give the precise locations of both the SA and the AV nodes in the heart.
759
760
SA: (in the wall of) Right Atrium
AV: In (or near) septum or near tricuspid
valve or between atrium and ventricle
Define the following terms as used in genetics;
Linkage: Genes located on the same chromosome[ are said to be linked]
Sex linkage: Gene located on X- chromosome or on Y-chromosome
linkage, sex linkage.
What do carbohydrates and fats have in common, in terms of chemical
Mostly composed of C, H and O
composition?
761
What term is used to describe organisms that feed on primary producers?
Primary consumer(s) or herbivore(s)
762
How did you distinguish between the left side and the right side of the heart
when doing the dissection?
Left side firmer or thicker
763
What is a protease?
An enzyme that digests protein
764
Distinguish between aerobic and anaerobic respiration.
765
State a function of companion cells.
Controls the activities of the phloem
sieve tube
766
Where in the cell does the first stage of respiration occur?
Cytosol (= cytoplasm minus
organelles)
767
State one role of microorganisms in waste management
To consume waste
768
How may one fat differ from another, in terms of chemical composition?
Different fatty acids or some are
phosphorylated (or have phosphate)
Aerobic: The release of energy from carbohydrate using oxygen
Anaerobic: The release of energy from carbohydrate without using
oxygen
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 36 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
(Large) energy loss (from one level to
next) or small energy transfer
769
Why are most food chains short (i.e. only consist of a few trophic levels)?
770
State one function of protein in the human body.
771
What structure separates the right side of the heart from the left side?
Septum
772
Why is a protease enzyme necessary when isolating DNA?
Because DNA is combined with
protein
773
Name a disorder of the breathing system and say how it may be: 1. Caused, 2.
Prevented, 3. Treated.
Name: Chronic Bronchitis
Caused: irritants such as cigarette
smoke and air pollutants
Prevented: Don’t smoke
Treated: Bronchodilator
774
True or false. Motor neurons conduct impulses towards the central nervous
system.
False
775
Give two sources of the carbon dioxide that is found in the atmosphere.
Respiration, Combustion,
Decomposition
776
777
The skin is one of the excretory organs in humans. Name one substance
excreted by the skin.
What deduction may be made if the organisms at the start of the chain are
less numerous than those that feed upon them?
Describe the amnion and state its role.
779
Explain the terms pollution and conservation.
780
What is the purpose of the valves in the heart?
782
e.g. Sweat
Producers are large or primary
consumers are parasites
Amnion: sac or membrane
Role: holds or produces fluid or
protects embryo (or foetus)
778
781
structural (growth, repair, muscle, hair, nails)
metabolic (enzymes) or immunity (antibodies)
The final stage of the isolation of DNA involves the use of freezer-cold
ethanol.
1. Describe how it is used.
2. For what purpose is it used?
Give an account of a chemical test to demonstrate that alcohol
(ethanol) has been produced. Include the initial colour and final
colour of the test.
Pollution: Harmful addition to an ecosystem
Conservation: Management of ecosystems
Prevent backflow (of blood)
1.
2.
Added down the side of the test
tube or added slowly
To bring the DNA out of
solution
(Potassium) dichromate / add acid or warm / orange /
to green OR
Iodoform test or potassium iodide / add sodium
hypochlorite or warm / colourless / to yellow
783
What does an ecologist mean by competition?
When two or more organisms fight for
a resource that is in short supply
784
List two functions of the skin.
Sweating, Protection , Melanin
production
785
Can a parasite be the first member of a food chain? Explain your answer.
No. (Parasites) are not producers or
(parasites) are consumers (or
explained)
786
Which gas, dissolved in the blood, can trigger deeper or faster breathing?
Carbon dioxide
787
Where is testosterone secreted in the body of the human male?
Testes
788
In the experiment to investigate digestive activity in germinating seeds the
seeds were divided into two batches. Give the results of your investigation for
the treated seeds.
The agar turned blue-black or purple
OR Treated (boiled) seeds left agar
unchanged (blue-black / purple)
789
Explain each of the terms: alleles, recessive.
Alleles: An alternative form of a gene
Recessive: Allele whose expression is
masked by dominant allele
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 37 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
790
791
792
793
State a use for Buffer solution in the biology laboratory.
To keep pH constant
If all the secondary consumers were removed from an ecosystem (e.g. by
disease) suggest what would happen to the primary consumers?
Name an organ of excretion other than the skin and state one substance it
excretes.
Energy enters food chains in the form of light. In which form do you think
most energy is lost from food chains?
(Their number would) increase
e.g. Kidney; Urine
Heat
794
Where does the second stage of respiration take place?
Mitochondria
795
Name a process by which soluble foods are absorbed into the blood from the
small intestine.
Diffusion (passive transport)
796
To which kingdom do yeasts belong?
Fungus
797
798
In the experiment to investigate digestive activity in germinating seeds the
The plate turns blue-black or purple
seeds were divided into two batches. Give the results of your investigation for except where the seeds were lying or
It was clear under the seeds
the untreated seeds.
1. Meiosis: In the ovary
On a diagram of the female reproductive system indicate where the
2. Fertilisation: ½ way along the Fallopian tube
following occur: 1. Meiosis, 2. Fertilisation, 3. Implantation.
3. Implantation: In the endometrium
799
State a use for the Biuret test in the biology laboratory.
To detect presence of protein
800
What is meant by the term homeostasis?
Maintaining constant internal
conditions
801
Distinguish between Starch and Glucose
802
State a function of mitosis in a multicellular organism.
Growth
803
What is meant by a trophic level?
feeding (level)
804
Suggest why cross-pollination is preferable to self-pollination.
Cross pollination increases variation or
reduces chance of genetic problems
805
806
Starch – polysaccharide (or explained) or polymer
or correct test; Glucose – monosaccharide (or
explained) or monomer or correct test
In the experiment to investigate digestive activity in germinating seeds
describe how you carried out the investigation and indicate clearly how you
showed whether or not digestion had occurred.
Suggest one way in which the rate of photosynthesis of plants in a greenhouse
could be increased.
Sterilised (seeds) / face down on agar
Add iodine or biuret solution to plate
Increased (artificial) lighting/
increased carbon dioxide / heating
807
True or false. Endocrine glands secrete hormones
True
808
The human being is an endotherm. What does this mean?
Produces heat (internally) or warm
blooded
809
Distinguish between Amino acids and Proteins
810
In the course of your practical studies you used a solution of iodine in
different investigations. State two different uses of the iodine solution.
Starch detection (or use of)
Examining cells (or described)
811
Explain each of the following terms in relation to DNA: 1. replication, 2.
transcription.
1. The process of duplication of the
DNA during mitosis and meiosis.
2. The process of producing mRNA
using DNA as a template.
Amino Acid – building block of protein or monomer
or unit of protein; Protein – polymer (of amino
acids) or chain of (or many) amino acids
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 38 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
812
813
814
Oestrogen: repairs endometrium / inhibits FSH / stimulates LH
Give an account of the role of either oestrogen or
Progesterone: thickening (or maintenance of) endometrium /
progesterone in the menstrual cycle.
inhibits FSH / inhibits LH production
Name of ecosystem
Name an ecosystem you have studied and construct a simple food
Food chain: Must have at least three members and
chain from that ecosystem.
must match named ecosystem.
In the experiment to investigate digestive activity in germinating seeds the
To Kill the seeds or destroy Enzymes
seeds were divided into two batches. Each batch was treated differently. Why or act as Control
was such treatment necessary?
815
State one advantage of using an immobilised enzyme in a bioreactor.
(Enzyme) - can be recovered
816
What name is given to a plant’s response to light?
Phototropism
817
Distinguish between Biuret test and Benedict's (Fehling's) test
Biuret – (test for) protein; Benedict’s
/ Fehling’s – (test for) reducing sugar
(or glucose or maltose)
818
Give an example of a surgical method of male
contraception. Suggest an advantage and a
disadvantage of the method that you have named.
819
State two different uses of a water bath in biological investigations.
820
Explain how water enters the plant at the root hair.
821
How is xylem adapted for its role in water transport?
822
In the experiment to investigate digestive activity in germinating seeds the
seeds were divided into two batches. One batch was used untreated. How did
you treat the other batch of seeds before using them in the investigation?
Boiled
823
What is an auxin?
a (growth) regulator in plants
824
Name one growth regulator produced in plants.
e.g. Auxin
825
Distinguish between Fats and Oils
Fats – (lipids) solid at room temp;
Oils – (lipids) liquid at room temp
826
Explain what is meant by an ecosystem.
Organisms / interacting / in their
environment
827
Name a human female menstrual disorder. In the case of this
disorder give: 1. A possible cause, 2. A method of treatment.
828
829
Vasectomy:
Advantage: Permanently effective, No need for other contraception,
Does not interfere with desire, spontaneity or enjoyment, Simple
operation, Avoids side effects of hormonal contraception
Disadvantage: cannot be undone, Does not give protection against STDs
or HIV, Medical complications
Keep temperature constant (or example) / to
vary temperature (or example) / denaturing
enzyme / heating
Osmosis
Tubular or continuous lumen / reinforced (lignified)
walls / end to end / pits / lateral movement of water /
wetable lining / narrow (bore)
Fibroids Cause: associated with the levels of oestrogen
Treatment: Surgery
Endometriosis Cause: hormone imbalance or a weakness in
the immune system
Treatment: Contraceptive pill, Surgery
In the course of your practical studies you found that heart rate and breathing More energy (required) / more oxygen
(required) / more CO2 (produced)
rate increase with exercise. Explain why this is the case.
Exocrine: A gland which has a duct [to deliver its secretions]
The pancreas is both an exocrine gland and an endocrine
Endocrine: A ductless gland [which relies on the bloodstream to
gland. Explain the underlined terms.
deliver its secretions]
830
Write a balanced equation to summarise aerobic respiration.
C6H12O6 + 6O2  E + 6CO2 + 6H2O
831
What type of agar did you use in the investigation of the digestive activity in
germinating seeds?
Starch (agar) or Milk (agar)
832
Where in a plant are growth regulators produced?
Growing tip or apical meristem
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 39 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
833
Write notes (a minimum of three points) on: Metabolism.
834
Why does fermentation eventually cease?
835
State two applications of genetic engineering, one involving a microorganism and one involving a plant.
836
Explain what is meant by a habitat.
837
838
All reactions in cell (or organism) / controlled by
enzymes / catabolism explained or catabolism +
example / anabolism explained or anabolism + example
Excess alcohol kills yeast.
Yeast run out of food
M/O: Production of human insulin
Plant: Production of Golden Rice – possible
solution to Vitamin A deficiency
The place where an organism lives
In the course of your practical work you prepared a transverse section
(T.S.) of a dicot stem for microscopic examination. How did you
prepare the T.S.?
Comment briefly on the difficulty in classifying viruses as living
organisms.
Cutting: Cut thin (section) or (cut) away (from self)
or with scalpel (or blade or microtome)
Mounting: placed onto slide with water or how
cover slip applied
Non-cellular / one nucleic acid / can reproduce in
host cell only or obligate parasite / do not possess
organelles or named organelle
839
Name a carbohydrate you would expect to find stored in a seed.
Starch
840
Give one way by which plants can protect themselves from attack.
e.g. Sting
841
Distinguish between Cellulose and Keratin
842
843
Cellulose – carbohydrate or polysaccharide or (found
in plant) cell wall; Keratin – protein or (found in
human) hair (or nails or skin)
Give an account of the importance of the placenta during human
development in the womb.
What is the final product of the first stage of respiration under aerobic
conditions?
Transport in (or out) / example of
barrier / produces progesterone
Pyruvic acid (pyruvate)
844
What type of food is mainly absorbed into the lacteal?
845
Give a brief account of the role of testosterone.
In relation to the scientific method, explain each of the following:
1. Experiment,
2. Theory
1.
846
847
Name the two main parts of the central nervous system in humans.
Brain & Spinal Cord
848
What is meant by the term digestion?
Breakdown of Food
849
How does a hypothesis differ from a theory?
Hypothesis can develop into a theory
or explained
850
Explain what is meant by a niche.
The (functional) role (of an organism)
or ‘occupation’ (of an organism)
851
Other than being prokaryotic, state two ways in which a typical bacterial cell
differs from a typical human cell (e.g. cell from cheek lining).
Cell wall, size, capsule, flagellum,
plasmid
852
State one way in which mitosis differs from meiosis.
No reduction in chromosomes/ no
homologous pairing during process/
resulting nuclei identical/ two cells
853
From what tissues is the placenta formed?
Uterine and embryonic
854
True or false. Tendons join muscles to bones.
True
Fatty acids and glycerol
Development of secondary sexual characteristics or
example named / development of sex organs
/sperm production
2.
Test of hypothesis or test of
prediction
Hypothesis (or explained)
supported (by experiment)
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 40 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
855
856
Messages are carried around the body by neurons (nerve cells). Name any
two types of neuron.
Describe how you examined your transverse section (T.S.) of stem with the
microscope.
Motor Neuron, Sensory Neuron,
Interneuron
Turn on Light or mirror / Low power
lens or coarse focus
857
Explain the importance of double-blind testing in scientific experimentation.
Avoidance of bias
858
Scientists investigated the effect of a certain mineral on the growth of wheat.
Suggest a reason why the seeds used were all taken from one parent plant.
To minimise (genetic) variation
859
What are antibiotics?
Substances produced by microorganisms / inhibit (growth or
reproduction) of bacteria or fungi
860
Name a powerful type of microscope that is used to show what cells are made
of in much greater detail (cell ultrastructure).
Electron microscope
861
Describe three methods used by plants to protect
themselves from adverse external environments.
862
Saprophytic and parasitic fungi are widespread in nature.
of the underlined terms.
863
What name is given to the area where one neuron ends and another begins?
Synapse
864
Explain the term secondary sexual characteristics.
Features that develop at or after
puberty (but are not directly involved
in reproduction)
865
Outline how you made the section of the stem and prepared it for
examination under the microscope.
Cut a thin slice / place, in water or
stain, on slide
866
Explain the following terms that are used in ecology:
Biosphere; Habitat; Consumer; Producer; Niche.
867
Scientists investigated the effect of a certain mineral on the growth of wheat.
The compost in which the wheat plants were grown was sterilised at the start
of the investigation.
1. Suggest a way in which the scientists may have sterilised the compost.
State one reason why it was important to sterilise the compost.
868
Outline how birth occurs.
869
What is meant by cross-pollination?
Transfer of pollen from one flower to
another flower on a different plant of
the same species
870
In biology, what is meant by the term organ?
A group of tissues (working together)
871
Name the type of chemical that carries messages between two neurons.
Neurotransmitter
872
Give two examples of secondary sexual characteristics in males.
873
874
Thorns/ modified leaves e.g. pine needles /stinging (cells)/deep roots /
heat shock proteins/ phytoalexins e.g. production of antimicrobial
chemicals / use of seeds / leaf fall / perennating organs or examples
/dormancy / succulent tissues / toxins / other
– live on dead organisms (matter)
Explain each saprophytic
parasitic – living in or on another organism causing
harm.
Biosphere: The part of the planet where life occurs
Habitat: The place where an organism lives
Consumer: An organism which feeds on another organism
Producer: An organism which makes its own food
Niche: The functional role of an organism (in an ecosystem)
1.
2.
Heat (or method of heating) or
named chemical or irradiation
(or named)
To kill organisms or to prevent
contamination or to eliminate
competition or to eliminate
disease or described
Change in hormone levels (or correctly
described) / contractions / waters break / cervix
dilates / delivery / cord cut / afterbirth
Facial hair/ broader shoulders / larger larynx or
deeper voice / greater bone density / greater bone
strength / pubic hair / enlargement of genitals
Why did you use a herbaceous (non-woody) stem rather than a woody one
Easier to cut
when examining a transverse section (T.S.) of a dicotyledonous stem under a
microscope?
(called) cohesion / water evaporates in leaf or
Strong forces of attraction exist between water molecules. Give an
transpiration / is replaced / upward pull or
account of the importance of these forces in raising water to great
tension /continuous stream / ensures
movement / water column hard to break
height in trees.
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 41 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
875
Where are sperm produced?
Testis
876
Scientists investigated the effect of a certain mineral on the growth of wheat.
Why did they divide the young wheat plants into two equal groups?
As control (or described)
877
By what process do minerals enter a plant?
Active transport
878
What is meant by genetic screening?
Testing (people) for the presence of a
(specific) gene
879
What happens to the neurotransmitter chemical once the messages have
been transmitted between two neurons?
Destroyed or reused
880
Give two functions of the placenta.
881
What is meant by in-vitro fertilisation?
Sperm and egg fuse outside the body
882
Name the plant that you used when examined with a microscope a transverse
section (T.S.) of a dicotyledonous stem.
Celery
883
Explain what is meant by the term pH.
(A measure of) how acidic or alkaline a
solution is
884
885
886
Makes progesterone / conducts food to embryo (foetus) / conducts O 2 to embryo (foetus)
/ conducts antibodies to embryo (foetus) / removes CO2 from embryo (foetus) / removes
urea from embryo (foetus) / keeps the mother's and embryo's (foetus') blood apart.
Name two types of lymphocyte and state a role of
each when viruses or other microorganisms enter
the blood.
B-cells/ T-cells or two named T cells e.g. helper / killer / suppressor / memory
B-cells – produce antibodies/agglutination or lysis / memory
T-cells – recognise / destroy infected or damaged cells / memory / activation /
suppress immune system
Helper T – stimulate B cells or stimulate killer T cells/ recognise antigens /
Killer T – Destroy infected or damaged cells /
Suppressor T – Switch off immune system or explained /
Memory T – memorise antigen
Scientists investigated the effect of a certain mineral on the growth of wheat.
During the investigation they kept the two groups of plants under identical
conditions. Why was this?
List three methods of contraception other than surgical. In your answer you
may refer to either or both sexes.
To have only one variable (or
explained)
Condon (male & female), Pill,
Spermicide, Diaphragm, IUD, Implants,
Rhythm, Coitus interuptus
887
Explain the term digestion?
888
Give the three stages of childbirth
889
How many cells are formed when a cell divides by mitosis?
Two
890
Give one function of vascular tissue in plants.
Transport or Transport example or
Support
891
When lactic acid builds up in the blood, a person is said to be in oxygen
debt. This debt must eventually be paid. Suggest how the debt is paid.
892
To which kingdom does Amoeba belong?
Protista / Protoctista
893
What is an enzyme?
A (biological) catalyst
894
Scientists investigated the effect of a certain mineral on the growth of wheat.
Name two conditions you think the scientists would have kept constant
during the investigation.
Temperature / Light / pH / CO2 /
humidity / other minerals / H2O
895
Name one human tooth type and give its function.
e.g. Incisor; to cut
Molecules or food broken down
1. Contraction of uterus or waters break or dilation of cervix [accept labour];
2. Baby delivered;
3. Afterbirth delivered
When exercise is complete the consumption of
oxygen remains above normal until the debt has
been repaid. This is why one continues to pant
after exercise.
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 42 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
896
897
898
Many babies are breast fed after birth. Give two biological
benefits of breastfeeding.
Benefit for baby: mother-baby bonding / antibodies in milk / laxative
in milk / mother’s milk encourages growth of mutualistic bacteria in
large intestine / milk sterile / milk at body temperature;
Benefit for mother: bonding / uterus recovers faster / natural
contraceptive / reduces risk of breast cancer
Morula: (Solid) ball of cells
and then into a
Blastocyst: Fluid-filled (or hollow) ball
of cells
After implantation, the embryo first develops into a morula
blastocyst. Explain the terms in italics.
Describe how some bacteria respond in order to survive when environmental
conditions become unfavourable.
Produce (endo)spores
899
Why is a dicotyledonous (dicot) plant so called?
Two cotyledons or two seed leaves (in
each seed)
900
When the normal control of mitosis in a cell is lost, cancer may result. Suggest
two possible causes of cancer.
Carcinogen /mutation / mutagen /
example 1 / example 2 / radiation or
named / virus
901
Give two examples of uses of synthetic (man-made) auxins.
Rooting powder / tissue culturing /
weed killer / ripening of fruit /
seedless fruits / other
902
903
True or false. The sino-atrial node (pacemaker) is located on the right side of
the heart.
The stomach secretes hydrochloric acid onto the ingested food. Give one
function of this acid.
True
Kills bacteria
904
What is meant by the term infertility?
Inability to produce offspring
905
Scientists investigated the effect of a certain mineral on the growth of wheat.
Why did they repeat the investigation several times before publishing their
results in a scientific journal?
To ensure (statistical) reliability
906
What is meant by DNA profiling?
Analysing/examining a person’s DNA
(to compare patterns with others) or
getting or providing patterns or bands
907
The following food chain is from a grassland ecosystem: Grass  Rabbit 
Fox. If all the foxes were killed, what would happen to the number of rabbits?
Number would increase
908
Name two diseases of humans caused by viruses.
Cold / ‘flu / polio / rabies / mumps /
rubella / measles / AIDS (HIV)
909
To which kingdom does Rhizopus belong?
Fungi
910
What is osmosis?
911
Give one digestive function of the liver.
Bile
912
In vitro fertilisation is a method used to treat infertility. What is meant by in
vitro fertilisation?
Fusion of gametes [fertilisation]
outside the body (e.g. in a Petri dish)
913
What is an enzyme?
Biological catalyst
914
Cellular respiration may occur in one stage or two stages. Give two
differences, other than location, between Stage 1 and Stage 2.
Stage 1 does not require O2 or is
anaerobic / produces a small amount
of energy (or ATP)
915
State two ways in which sperm differ from ova (eggs).
916
The following food chain is from a grassland ecosystem: Grass  Rabbit 
Fox. Name a herbivore from this food chain.
Rabbit
917
Where in plant cells is DNA found?
Nucleus or chloroplasts or
mitochondria
The movement of water molecules from a region of high (water) concentration to
a region of low (water) concentration across a S.P.M or The movement of water
molecules along a concentration gradient across a S.P.M.
Size comment / shape or structural comment / motile (only if
‘tail or ‘flagellum’’ not given)/ chromosomal difference / does
not (usually) contribute mitochondrial DNA to zygote
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 43 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
918
What is meant by the germination of a seed?
Is the beginning of the growth after a
period of dormancy
919
Give one digestive function and one non-digestive function of the pancreas.
Produces enzymes or named enzyme;
Produces Insulin
920
What happens in the womb during menstruation (days 1 – 5)?
Loss of blood / loss of endometrium
921
Parents who are suspected of being carriers of disease-causing alleles may be
advised to consider a genetic test. Suggest a role for such a test after in-vitro
fertilisation.
Selection of embryo or any valid role
922
Which term describes the mode of nutrition of Rhizopus?
Saprophytic
923
Where in a cell does Stage 1 of respiration occur?
Cytoplasm or cytosol
924
The following food chain is from a grassland ecosystem: Grass  Rabbit 
Fox. Name a producer from this food chain.
Grass
925
What is an ecosystem?
A community of living organisms
interacting with one another and their
environment
926
Where in the cells of a leaf is chlorophyll found?
In the chloroplasts
927
What is meant by aerobic respiration?
Breakdown of food or production of
energy in presence of O2
928
Explain the term ovulation.
Release of egg from ovary
929
930
The cells in the palisade layer contain many organelles that carry out
photosynthesis. Suggest why the cells here contain more of these organelles
than the cells in the spongy mesophyll.
Describe a human activity that may result in pollution. Suggest a way in which
this pollution could be prevented.
Usually closer to the light
Activity: Littering
Prevention: Reuse, Recycle
931
True or false. A nucleus is absent from human red blood cells.
True
932
What term is used to describe respiration in which only Stage 1 occurs?
Anaerobic or fermentation
933
934
935
The following food chain is from a grassland ecosystem: Grass  Rabbit 
Fox. Name a secondary consumer from this food chain.
Name a product of the endocrine portion of the pancreas and state one of its
functions.
Aerobic respiration takes place in two stages.
1. Where in a cell does stage 1 occur?
2. Where in a cell does stage 2 occur?
Fox
Insulin or glucagon
Regulates blood sugar (level)
1. Cytoplasm
2. Mitochondria
Time when fertilisation is possible /
when egg is in oviduct
936
What is meant by the fertile period?
937
Give two characteristic features of eukaryotic cells.
What corresponding term is used to describe bacterial cells?
938
Give one example of a beneficial fungus and one example of a harmful
fungus.
939
In the spongy mesophyll, gases can diffuse throughout the leaf. Name one
such gas.
Nucleus, Membrane-bound organelles
or other named organelle
Prokaryotic
Beneficial – yeast for brewing or baking / named
edible fungus/ other
Harmful – ringworm / athlete’s foot / potato
blight / thrush / dry rot / death cap / other
Air or water (vapour) or O2 or CO2 or
N2 or chemicals in or out
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 44 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Decrease (no increase) in population /
demographic imbalance/ improved social
conditions /comment on STIs / health issues
940
Suggest a possible effect on a human population that may result from
an increased availability of contraception.
941
What do we mean by the word ecology?
Study of relationship between
organisms and their environment
942
Name a chemical end product of anaerobic respiration or fermentation.
Ethanol or lactic acid or CO2
943
Which type of respiration, aerobic or anaerobic, produces more energy?
Aerobic
944
Where does fertilisation occur in the female body?
Oviducts
945
Light energy trapped by chlorophyll is used to split water. List three products
that result when water is split.
Hydrogen (proton) /oxygen/ electron
or energy or ATP
946
What is meant when a bacterium is described as being pathogenic?
Disease-causing
947
Suggest one reason why living organisms need to respire.
To provide energy or named
metabolic activity
948
What is meant by vegetative propagation?
Production of new plant from root or
from stem or from leaf or plant
asexual reproduction (or described)
949
State one function of the stoma.
To allow gas exchange or
Transpiration or Temperature control
950
Give one beneficial effect of bacteria.
Yoghurt or cheese or antibiotic
production
951
1. Name a substance other than alcohol that is produced during the
fermentation process.
2. How would you detect this other substance?
3. How would you know when fermentation had finished?
1. CO2
2. Bubbles
3. Bubbling stops
952
Explain the term implantation.
Embedding of embryo in
endometrium
953
In Stage 2 of respiration electrons pass along an electron transport chain,
releasing energy.
1. In what molecule is this energy stored in the cell?
2. To what are these electrons transferred at the end of the electron
transport chain?
1.
2.
954
The bronchioles end in small sacs. What is the name of these sacs?
Alveoli
955
Name the muscles that are used in breathing.
Intercostal muscles (between the ribs)
956
Name a gland that secretes seminal fluid.
Cowper’s gland / seminal vesicle /
prostate gland
957
Name the four bases that are found in DNA.
Adenine, Guanine, Thymine, Cytosine
958
Give one harmful effect of bacteria.
Diseases or Food decay or named
disease
959
In leaf cells, which chemical traps light energy for photosynthesis?
Chlorophyll
960
Name two female hormones that have a role in the menstrual cycle.
Oestrogen / progesterone / FSH / LH
ATP
Oxygen or H+ (or protons)
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 45 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
961
What is evolution?
The way organisms change genetically
from pre-existing forms to produce
new species over long periods of time
962
What is meant by the term digestion?
The breakdown of food
963
Name the cells which are responsible for controlling the size of the stomata.
Guard cells
964
Horticulturists use a number of methods to artificially propagate plants.
Suggest one advantage of artificial propagation.
Fast or preserves desirable features or
cheap or more reliable
965
Name two methods of cross-pollination.
Wind, Insect
966
Water for photosynthesis enters the roots of plants by osmosis. What is
meant by osmosis?
Movement of H2O through semipermeable membrane from low to
high conc (or high to low water conc)
967
Some bacteria have flagella. What are flagella used for?
Movement
968
What happens to the menstrual cycle when a woman reaches the
menopause?
It stops
969
What is meant by a triplet code?
three bases code for one amino acid
970
State a function for each of the following structures
that are found in fungi; rhizoid, sporangium,
gametangium, zygospore.
971
Why is digestion necessary?
For solubility or for absorption or for
transport
972
What is a selectively permeable (semi-permeable) membrane?
Allows some molecules through /
Visking tubing / cell membrane
973
What is the function of the Eustachian tube?
To equalise pressure (on the eardrum)
or air in or air out or Protection
974
During photosynthesis water is split into three products.
1. Name each of these three products.
2. Name the stage of photosynthesis during which water molecules are split.
1. O2 / H+ / e2. Light Stage
975
Bacteria reproduce by a method known as …
Binary Fission
976
What is meant by the term pollination?
Transfer of pollen / from anther to
stigma
977
To which kingdom do bacteria belong?
Monera (Prokaryotae)
978
Describe two methods used by horticulturists to artificially propagate plants.
Cuttings (or described) / layering (or
described) / grafting (or described) /
micro propagation (or described)
979
For what purpose do single-celled organisms use mitosis?
Reproduction
980
Distinguish between mechanical and chemical digestion by writing a
sentence about each.
981
982
Rhizoid – anchors / digestion / absorption
Sporangium – produces spores / stores spores / asexual reproduction
Gametangium – produces gametes / sexual reproduction
Zygospore – survival / dispersal
Mechanical: physical or grinding or cutting or
churning or chewing or emulsifying
Chemical: (action of) enzyme or named enzyme
or (action of) acid or named acid
The controlled release of energy from
food (carbohydrate) / oxidation of
food
Some of the carbohydrates produced in photosynthesis are used in
respiration. What is respiration?
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is needed for photosynthesis. Where does CO2 enter the
leaf?
Stoma
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 46 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
983
Give two methods of pollination in plants.
Wind / insect / self
984
Name three bacterial shapes.
Rod / Cocci / Spiral
985
Name a disorder other than cancer
for each of the following and
indicate a possible cause and a
means of treatment:
1. Musculoskeletal system,
2. Nervous system.
986
What is connected to the middle ear by the Eustachian tube?
Throat or Pharynx
987
What is meant by pollution?
The harmful addition to the
environment (by humans) that leaves
it less able to sustain life
988
State a function of seminal fluid.
Allows sperm to swim / provides
nutrients / lubricant / protects sperm
989
From which part of the alimentary canal does food arrive into the duodenum?
Stomach
990
A market gardener wants to increase the vegetable yield in his greenhouses.
Suggest two ways he may achieve this.
Extra CO2, more light
991
What is the next step after pollination in the lifecycle of the plant?
Fertilisation
992
993
1.Name Arthritis / osteoporosis
Cause
Arthritis – injury / hormonal imbalance / genetic /immune
response
Osteoporosis- hormonal imbalance / lack of exercise / genetic /
dietary /menopause
Treatment
arthritis – anti-inflammatory drugs/ analgesics/ rest / exercise/
replacement of joint / steroids or named/ immunosuppressants
osteoporosis: HRT / exercise / diet / dietary supplements or
named
Which term from the following list matches the description: A plant tissue.
List: Skin graft; Dermal; Organ; Leaf; Tissue; In vitro growth.
Give two differences between vegetative propagation and propagation
involving seeds.
2. Name
Paralysis/Parkinson’s disease/
Cause
Injury / genetic / disease / lack of
dopamine
Treatment
Physiotherapy / dopamine or drugs to
promote neurotransmitter
production / stem cell / implant
Dermal
No gametes (or one parent) / identical
plants or example / rapid production /
no outside agent
994
What do you understand by the term conservation?
The wise management of the
environment or organisms
995
True or false. Light is essential for the germination of seeds.
False
996
What is the function of the cochlea?
Hearing
997
Carbon dioxide is essential for photosynthesis. Where does it enter the leaf?
stoma / guard cells
998
What is a tissue?
Group of cells with a common
function
999
Suggest a substance that flowers produce that may cause hay fever in some
people.
Pollen
1000
State one digestive function of the pancreas.
(Produces) enzymes or named enzyme
or neutralises (chyme)
1001
Which term from the following list matches the description: A use of tissue
culture. List: Skin graft; Dermal; Organ; Leaf; Tissue; In vitro growth.
Skin Graft
1002
What is the function of the larynx?
Produce sounds
1003
State one reason why water is needed for germination.
chemical (enzyme) reactions / dissolve stored food
/ swell testa / a condition of germination / hydrate
cells / activate enzymes
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 47 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1. Wind / animal / self (or mechanical) / water
2. Colonisation / reduces competition / elaboration
of competition
1004
Seeds and fruits need to be dispersed. Give:1. Two methods of
dispersal, 2. Two advantages of dispersal to the plant.
1005
The triplet code is transcribed into mRNA. What does this statement mean?
information (code) is copied to RNA
molecule
1006
Name a gas that would be needed for the growth of tissue in the laboratory.
Oxygen
1007
What is meant by the term vegetative propagation?
Asexual reproduction
1008
The genetic makeup of an individual is called its ...
Genotype
1009
Which term from the following list matches the description: The heart. List:
Skin graft; Dermal; Organ; Leaf; Tissue; In vitro growth.
Organ
1010
What is an endotherm?
1011
Name one of the scientists who developed the Theory of Natural Selection.
Charles Darwin
Alfred Russell Wallace
1012
To what structure does the ureter connect the kidney?
Bladder
1013
What is aerobic respiration?
The release of energy from
carbohydrate without using oxygen
1014
Why are sterile conditions needed to grow a tissue in a laboratory?
To avoid contamination
1015
Give one example of vegetative propagation in plants and state whether it
involve a stem, a root, a leaf or a bud.
One example / whether stem-rootleaf-bud
1016
Name an excretory substance present in urine.
urea /water /salt
1017
Give the functions of the lens and the vitreous humour of the eye.
Lens: To focus (light) onto the retina
Vitreous humour: Gives shape (to
eye)
1018
Which term from the following list matches the description: Cells growing in a
test tube. List: Skin graft; Dermal; Organ; Leaf; Tissue; In vitro growth.
In vitro growth
1019
What word is used to describe animals which are not endotherms?
Ectotherms
1020
A sex cell is also known as a ...
Gamete
1021
Valves are present in veins. What is their function?
Prevent backflow of blood
1022
What type of cell division, mitosis or meiosis, is involved in tissue culture?
Mitosis
1023
1024
1025
1026
(An animal that) produces its (or own or body) heat
or (body) temperature independent of (temperature
of) environment
State two ways that vegetative propagation differs from reproduction by
Spread / limited spread / offspring all
susceptible to same diseases
seed.
Name two vascular tissues in plants and give one way xylem/phloem
Xylem - lignified/ transports water/ vessels/ tracheids / dead
in which they differ.
Phloem – transports food/ sieve tubes/ companion cells / living
diaphragm
contracts (lowers) / intercostal muscles contract /ribs move up and
Breathing causes pressure changes in the thoracic
out / increased volume of thoracic cavity / pressure decreases / intercostals
cavity. Describe briefly how these pressure changes relax / air rushes in / diaphragm relaxes / volume decreases / pressure increases
/ air pushed out / inhale / exhale
are brought about.
Which term from the following list matches the description: A plant organ.
Leaf
List: Skin graft; Dermal; Organ; Leaf; Tissue; In vitro growth.
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 48 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
food storage / storage of waste /
photosynthesis / strength / support
1027
State a function of ground tissue.
1028
Suggest an advantage of being an endotherm.
1029
1030
1031
The wall of capillaries is only one cell thick. How is this related to their
function?
What medical term is used to describe the disease caused by uncontrolled
mitosis in human cells?
Artificial propagation is widely used in horticulture. Give two example of
artificial propagation carried out by gardeners or horticulturists.
1032
A change in the structure of DNA is called a ...
1033
1. Suspensory ligaments, 2. Cones, 3. Optic nerve and
4. Brain. Outline the roles in vision of the above
structures.
1034
What is meant by contraception?
1035
1036
1037
(Temperature always suitable) for good enzyme activity
or maintains constant body temperature or activity
independent of environmental temperature
substances can diffuse easily / in and
out of blood / tissues / less fat content
Cancer
e.g. Cuttings / layering / budding /
grafting
Mutation
1. Holds lens in place or (involved in) changing shape of lens
2. (Detects) colour
3. Brings impulses from retina or brings impulse to brain
4. Interprets information (received from retina)
Prevention of fertilisation
(conception) or implantation or
pregnancy
Which term from the following list matches the description: A group of cells
with the same function. List: Skin graft; Dermal; Organ; Leaf; Tissue; In vitro
growth.
From your knowledge of photosynthesis suggest a way to increase the yield of
plants such as lettuces in a greenhouse.
Children typically have higher body temperatures than adults. Suggest a
reason for this.
Tissue
increase day length / artificial light/
increase carbon dioxide level /
increase in temperature level
High metabolism or growing (or more
cell division) or more active or more
infections or teething
1038
Give two causes of uncontrolled cell division.
1039
Suggest three reasons for conserving wild animals and plants.
1040
True or false. Lenticels serve the same function as stomata.
1041
Give one advantage and one disadvantage of artificial
propagation.
1042
A part of DNA with information to make one protein is called a ...
Gene
1043
In cases of infertility, eggs may be fertilised outside the body. Following this
procedure, into which part of the reproductive system is the developing
embryo then placed?
Womb or Uterus or Endometrium /
lining of Womb or Uterus or
Endometrium
1044
What is the menstrual cycle?
1045
Explain how the iris works.
(muscular) contraction in response to
light intensity or pupil size changes or
allows more (or less) light in
1046
What is the function of meiosis?
Reduction (halving) of Chromosome
numbers or to produce gametes
1047
A situation in which one organism lives on or in a second species, feeding on it
and causing it harm is known as …
Parasitism
1048
What is vegetative propagation?
Asexual reproduction (in plants) /
cloning
e.g. Radiation, smoking
food source / balance of nature / biodiversity /
prevention of extinction / health of planet /
aesthetic / recreational / O2 / CO2
True
Advantage: e.g. can control production of desirable features;
Disadvantage: e.g. offspring all susceptible to same diseases
Monthly cycle in female / menstruation or lining of uterus / (endometrium) shed / blood
discharged / F.S.H./ Graffian follicles with eggs / secrete oestrogen / endometrium thickens / L.H.
/ ovulation / corpus luteum / progesterone / (if no fertilisation then) lining breaks down
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 49 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1049
Give two functions of the human skeleton.
Strength / support / shape / mobility /
protection / muscle attachment /
blood cell production
1050
The trachea contains rings of cartilage. Suggest a function of this cartilage.
Keeps the trachea (air way) open
1051
Give one cause of infertility in women.
Blockage of fallopian tubes or
hormonal or failure to ovulate,
excessive exercise
1052
Name an excretory organ in the human body other than the kidney. Name a
substance excreted by this organ.
Skin / lungs / liver
Water / carbon dioxide / urea / salt /
bile / sweat
1053
The allele expressed in the heterozygous condition are ...
Dominant
1054
Suggest one advantage of classifying organisms.
e.g. Identification
1055
State a function of the rhizoids of Rhizopus.
It supports the fungus and is involved
in absorption
1056
Organisms capable of making their own food are known as …
Producers
1057
Vertebrae in the neck are called the cervical vertebrae. Name and give the
exact location of two other types of vertebrae.
Thoracic - back of chest; Lumbar small of back; Sacral - back of pelvis;
Caudal or coccyx - tail end
1058
How does vegetative propagation differ from reproduction by seed?
One parent / less variation in offspring
/ no pollination / no sexual
reproduction
1059
Suggest a reason why two eyes are better than one.
Increased visual field or to judge
distance (depth) or 3D vision
1060
State one function of the human ovary.
Produce Eggs or Hormones
(Oestrogen, Progesterone)
1061
How does a portal vein differ from other veins?
capillaries at both ends / joins two
organs – liver and intestines
1062
Name the kingdom to which bacteria belong.
Monera
1063
To which structures in the cell does mRNA carry the code?
Ribosome
1064
The study of biological inheritance is known as ...
Genetics
1065
Name one disorder of the musculoskeletal system.
e.g. arthritis / osteoporosis
1066
All the members of a species living in an area are known as the …
Population
1067
True or false. Parallel leaf veins are characteristic of monocotyledonous
plants.
True
Asthma/ allergic response or genetics or smoking or
narrowing of bronchioles or infection or anxiety / use of
inhaler or avoidance of allergens / exercise .
Bronchitis/ infection or narrowing of bronchi/
antibiotics (for bacterial infection) / cancer of the lungs
/ MS effecting diaphragm
1068
Name a breathing disorder. Give a possible cause of this disorder
and suggest a means of prevention or treatment.
1069
True or False. The copying of the DNA code into mRNA is called transcription.
True
1070
Give one example of the economic importance of bacteria.
e.g Food production
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 50 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1071
Anaerobic respiration by micro-organisms is called fermentation.
Give one example of industrial fermentation, including the type of
micro-organism and the substance produced.
1072
Write notes on the role of lymphocytes.
1073
What is the function of the semi-circular canals?
1074
1075
any example of “industrial fermentation”
Bacteria: beer / wine / yoghurt / enzymes / drugs /
hormones / antibiotics /methane (biogas) / etc.
Fungus / Yeast: carbon dioxide / wine / beer / single
cell protein / antibiotics
Immune system (or described) / B lymphocytes /
produce antibodies / T lymphocytes / any
function of T lymphocyte
Balance
Filtration is an essential process in the formation of urine. In what part of the
kidney does it take place?
Micro-organisms and other organisms that return nutrients to the
environment by decay are known as …
cortex / nephron /glomerulus /
Bowman’s capsule
Decomposers
1076
Name a substance found in the vacuole of a plant cell.
Water or sugar or sap or salt(s) or
named gases or protein
1077
Bacteria may be classified by their shape. Name any two bacterial shapes.
Bacillus or rod shaped, Coccus or
spherical (Round), Spirillum or spiral
shaped
1078
True or False. Genetic engineering is the manipulation and alteration of genes.
True
1079
Name the following blood vessels;
1. The vessels that carry blood from the aorta to the kidneys.
2. The vessels that supply the heart’s muscle with blood.
1. Renal artery
2. Coronary artery
“Seed” potatoes – stem
Runners of strawberries etc. – stem
Tuber of Dahlia – root
Bulb of onion – stem/leaf/bud
New plants from leaf – leaf
Artificial examples
Cuttings/grafts/layers – stem, bud, stem
1080
Give one example of vegetative propagation and state whether it
involves a stem, a root, a leaf or a bud.
1081
What is the function of the cochlea?
Hearing
1082
What term is used to describe the nutrition of Rhizopus?
Explain the importance of this type of nutrition in nature.
heterotrophic/ saprophytic /
decomposes / recycling
1083
In the human diet zinc, iron and copper are examples of …
minerals or trace elements or
inorganic nutrients
1084
A situation in which two organisms of different species live together and at
least one benefits is known as …
Symbiosis
1085
Name the method by which bacteria reproduce.
Binary Fission
1086
True or False. RNA contains the base thymine.
False
1087
Write notes on neurotransmitters.
1088
True or False. Glucose is a monosaccharide.
True
1089
What is connected to the middle ear by the Eustachian tube?
Throat
1090
Why are valves not needed in arteries?
blood is under pressure / blood from
heart / blood pumped
1091
The walls of xylem vessels are reinforced with …
Lignin
Secreted by neuron (or vesicle) / presynaptic (neuron) / in response to impulse /
chemical transmission / across synaptic cleft / cause impulse in next neuron /
destroyed by enzymes / recycled or reabsorbed by pre-synaptic neuron
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 51 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1092
Where is the epiglottis? What is its function?
At the top of windpipe / oesophagus
To prevent food entering trachea /
wrong way / prevent choking
1093
What are pathogenic bacteria?
Disease-causing
1094
A struggle between organisms for a scarce resource is known as …
Competition
1095
True or False. Replication is the copying of DNA.
True
1096
Where in a cell would you expect to find phospholipids?
Cell membrane
1097
What surrounds the bones in the middle ear?
Air
1098
Vitamin … is an example of a water-soluble vitamin.
B or C
1099
True or False. Nitrogen is a trace element.
False
1100
Write notes on homeostasis.
1101
State two factors affecting the growth of bacteria.
Temp, O2, water, food, pH, Waste
1102
Name a disorder associated with a deficiency of a named vitamin in the
human diet.
Vitamin C – Scurvy
Vitamin D - Rickets
1103
True or False. Phenotype is the genetic make-up of an organism.
False
1104
One organism killing and eating another organism is known as …
Predation
1105
1106
Maintenance of / constant internal environment / example
how / example why (Example = pH, solute concentrations or
examples of such solutes, temperature, water)
The ear is an example of a sense organ. Name two sense organs, other than
the ear and the eye, in the human body.
Artificial propagation is widely used in horticulture. Give two examples of
artificial propagation.
Skin / tongue / nose
cutting /grafting /layering /micropropagation
1107
What is Natural Selection?
organisms best suited to environment
/ have greater chance of breeding /
and survive / ’survival of the fittest’
1108
To what kingdom does Rhizopus belong?
Fungi
1109
Give two functions of the rhizoids of Rhizopus.
Anchor, absorb, secretes enzymes
1110
True or False. Eggs are a good source of fat in the diet.
True
1111
What are the final products of the digestion of a protein?
Amino acids
1112
True or False. A human sperm cell contains 23 chromosomes.
True
1113
Name one disorder of the ear or of the eye and give a corrective measure for
the disorder referred to.
e.g. glue ear or short-sightedness, etc.
/ corrective measure
1114
What is the role of mitosis in single-celled organisms?
Reproduction
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 52 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Long stamens / long stigmas / feathery stigmas / large numbers of
pollen grains / smooth pollen or light pollen / no showy colours or no
scent or no nectar or small petals or no petals
1115
Write notes on the adaptations of wind-pollinated flowers.
1116
True or false. Endosperm is a food reserve in some seeds.
True
1117
Describe the role of the sporangium in the reproduction of Rhizopus.
Release or production of spores
1118
What is the biosphere?
The part of the planet where life
occurs
1119
What is meant by a qualitative survey?
A survey which indicates if a species is
present or not
1120
True or False. Chromosomes are made up of DNA and protein.
True
1121
Name the organ that is attached to the kidney by the ureter.
Bladder
1122
True or False. All vitamins are fat soluble.
False
1123
1124
What medical term is used for the group of disorders in which certain cells
lose normal control of mitosis?
Name another organism that you have studied in your biology course that
belongs to the same kingdom as Rhizopus.
Cancer
Yeast
1125
What is meant by saprophytic nutrition?
1126
Suggest one advantage and one disadvantage of artificial
propagation.
1127
Write notes on the economic and medical importance of viruses.
1128
True or False. Alleles are different forms of the same gene.
True
1129
Name one substance excreted by the kidneys.
Urine / Urea / Water / Salt
1130
Construct a grazing food chain containing at least four trophic levels.
Buds  Aphids  Ladybirds 
thrushes  hawks
1131
Name a carbohydrate-digesting enzyme in the human alimentary canal.
Where in the alimentary canal does this enzyme act? State the enzyme’s
product(s).
amylase – mouth / duodenum / small
intestine – maltose
Maltase – small intestine – glucose
1132
Suggest a possible cause of one of the group of cancers.
Named carcinogen
1133
Give one beneficial use of fungi.
e.g. Antibiotic Production
1134
True or False. Lipids are made of amino acids.
False
1135
Reabsorption of useful substances takes place in the kidney. In what part does
this occur?
cortex / medulla / nephron /
convoluted tubule / loop of Henle
1136
Name the site in the kidney where filtration takes place.
Cortex or Bowman’s capsule or
glomerulus
Living on dead matter
Advantage – simple/fast/ same as parent / avoids
competition
Disadvantage – lack of variation / diseases inherited
Economic importance: Crop damage / example of viral
crop disease / animal disease / example of viral animal
disease / human medical costs
Medical importance: Human diseases / examples of viral
human diseases / used in medical research
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 53 of 100
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Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Obesity or High Blood Pressure or Constipation
(low fibre) or Vitamin deficiency or Mineral
deficiency, high cholesterol, clogged arteries
1137
Suggest a reason why eating too much fast food could be bad for your
health.
1138
What is the first stage process of respiration called?
Glycolysis
1139
Which has the bigger lumen (cavity), an artery or a vein?
Vein
1140
Name the chemical elements present in carbohydrates.
Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen
1141
Name the two main types of reproduction.
Sexual & Asexual
1142
Name the stage of mitosis in which the chromosomes are located at the
equator of the cell and before they begin to separate.
Metaphase
1143
State the precise location of the liver in the human body.
On right hand side of body below the
diaphragm and beside/over the
stomach
1144
Suggest one possible treatment for kidney failure.
Dialysis / transplant
1145
Water has many functions in the human body. State any one of these
functions.
Solvent or Transport or Medium for
reactions or Reactant
1146
True or False. Iodine turns starch to a blue-black colour.
True
1147
Distinguish between tuber and bulb.
1148
State a use of the following in the biology laboratory. Biuret test (copper
sulphate and sodium hydroxide solutions).
Test for the presence of protein
1149
Explain the term fertilisation.
Fusion of gametes to produce a zygote
1150
State a function of each of the following components of a cell. (i) Ribosome,
(ii) Cell membrane.
Ribosome: protein synthesis
Cell membrane: Retains cell contents.
Controls entry and exit of substances.
1151
To what are the chromosomes attached in the metaphase stage of mitosis?
Spindle
1152
True or False. The liver produces bile.
True
1153
What is meant by the term ‘fauna’?
The animals in a locality or region
1154
State the colour of iodine if starch is present.
Blue-Black
1155
Which two elements always occur in a 2:1 ratio in carbohydrates?
Hydrogen:Oxygen
1156
True or False. Cellulose is a protein.
False
1157
What part of the flower produces pollen?
The anther or stamen
1158
Explain what is meant by pollution.
The harmful addition to the
environment (by humans) that leaves
it less able to sustain life
1159
Distinguish between ureters and urethra.
Tuber = A swollen end of an underground stem or root
Bulb = modified bud, swollen, underground, overlapping
fleshy leaves and reduced stem
ureter: duct that brings urine from the kidney to the bladder.
urethra: duct which delivers urine from the bladder to the outside.
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
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Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1160
Blood is made up of plasma and blood cells. What is plasma?
Liquid part of blood
1161
Towards the end of mitosis, in what type of cell does a cell plate form?
Plant (cell) or named example
1162
Chips contain starch. What chemical is used to test for the presence of starch?
Iodine
1163
What is the primary role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?
Traps or uses sunlight
1164
Name the stain that you used when examining an animal cell under the
microscope.
Iodine
1165
After fertilisation, what part of the flower becomes the fruit?
Ovary
1166
What term best describes the shape of an enzyme?
Folded
1167
True or False. Polysaccharide molecules contain many sugar units.
True
1168
What is the function of white blood cells?
Fight disease
1169
Name a structural carbohydrate.
Cellulose, Chitin
1170
Give one way in which mitosis differs from meiosis.
1171
Give one function of protein in the human body.
1172
Explain the following terms as used in genetics: species,
variation.
1173
Give two methods of seed dispersal in plants.
e.g. Wind, Animal
1174
In ecological studies what is a key?
a guide to identification
1175
Give an account of the effects of a named pollutant of domestic, agricultural
or industrial origin. Describe one way in which it might be controlled.
Litter – reuse, recycle
1176
Where in the body are white blood cells produced?
e.g. bone (marrow)
1177
State a role that the liver plays in the digestive process.
Produces bile – stored in gall bladder –
secreted into pancreatic duct –
emulsifies fats into fat droplets
1178
Name one group of organisms responsible for decomposition.
1179
1180
Two (daughter) cells or identical (daughter) cells or
(daughter cells) same chromosome number (as
mother cell) or can occur in haploid cells
Growth or Repair or To make enzymes
or Hormones or Antibodies or any
named example of these
Species: Organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile
offspring
Variation: Difference between members of species or population
e.g. bacteria or fungi or microorganisms or
earthworms or insects e.g. bacteria or fungi or
microorganisms or earthworms or insects
A meal in a fast-food restaurant consists of fish and chips with a glass of water
to drink. Give a good source of protein from this meal.
Which food type may be identified in the laboratory by the use of Sudan III or
brown paper?
Fish
Fat (or oil or lipid)
1181
Why is it necessary for plants to disperse their seeds?
To avoid competition or to avail of
suitable conditions
1182
Suggest a temperature at which human enzymes work best.
37°C
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 55 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1183
Give a function of carbohydrates other than a structural one.
1184
Name the scientists who are associated with the
Theory of Natural Selection and refer to any one
observation that prompted its development.
1185
1186
Metabolic – source of energy
(glucose), energy storage (starch,
glycogen)
Darwin and Wallace
1.
Individual members of a species are different from one another.
2.
Offspring resemble their parents (variation is inheritable).
3.
More offspring are produced than can survive and reproduce.
4.
There is a struggle for existence and some individuals have variations
that make them better suited to survival than others.
In the case of IAA state the following:
1. An investigation in which you used it,
2. The precise purpose for its use in the investigation that you have indicated.
Some people may have the blood group B Positive (B+).What factor is present
in their blood that makes it positive?
1. investigate effect on plant growth
2. to determine its effect on growth
Rhesus
Made in bone marrow of long bones,
e.g. ribs, sternum.
1187
State a precise location in the human body where red blood cells are made.
1188
Describe the role of (a) Plants and (b) Animals in the Nitrogen
Cycle and in the Carbon Cycle.
1189
What is the advantage of dormancy to seeds?
To overcome adverse conditions
1190
Give one role for a named mineral in plants.
Role matching named mineral
1191
What is semen?
Sperm (cells) and (seminal) fluid
1192
Why are elements recycled in nature?
Limited supply or words to that affect
or reused
1193
Write an equation to summarize photosynthesis.
1194
The heart pumps blood around the body.1. Name the structure in the heart
that controls the heartbeat. 2. Where is this structure located in the heart?
1195
Explain the terms: plasma; glomerular filtrate.
1196
What is the role of microorganisms in pollution control?
Decomposition
1197
Give three conditions necessary for seeds to germinate.
Water, O2, suitable temperature
Plants: Absorb nitrates / synthesise protein / absorb CO2 /
synthesise carbohydrate (or photsynthesise) / respire / die
Animals: Consume plants / assimilate protein / assimilate.
carbohydrate / produce nitrogenous waste / respire / die
light energy
1198
1199
1200
1201
1202
6CO2 + 6H2O  C6H12O6 + 6O2
chlorophyll
1. Pacemaker;
2. Right atrium
Plasma: clear liquid portion of the blood
Glomerular filtrate: liquid containing dissolved substances that pass from
the glomerulus, in the nephron of the kidney, into Bowman’s capsule.
Similar to blood plasma but without the proteins.
Name a chemical element always present in proteins but not in
Nitrogen
carbohydrates.
What colour indicates a strong positive result of the Fehling’s or Benedict’s
Orange or red
test for reducing sugar?
In the first stage of respiration there is a release of ATP as glucose is
Pyruvic acid
converted to another substance. Name this other substance.
transport / defence / fluid collection / (transport) of fats / (transport) of hormones /
Give an account of three functions of the
(transport) of excretory matter / nodes filter / bacteria or pathogens / produce
lymphatic system.
lymphocytes or antibodies / returns fluid to blood / absorbs fat / at lacteals
What causes the sound of a heartbeat?
Valves closing
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 56 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1203
1204
Name the part at which each of the following occurs:
1. Production of sperm cells.
2. Maturing of sperm cells.
3. Mixing of fluid with sperm cells.
4. Transport of semen.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Testis
Epididymis
Sperm duct or prostate gland
[allow seminal vesicles]
Urethra or sperm duct
What is the function of the midpiece of the sperm?
Respiration or to produce energy
What is pollution?
Any harmful addition to the
environment
1205
Distinguish between hypha and mycelium.
hypha: a filament
mycelium: a mass of hyphae
1206
State two ways in which red blood cells differ from typical body cells e.g. from
the cheek lining.
no nucleus / haemoglobin / shape
comment / size comment / no
mitochondria / carries oxygen or CO2
1207
Give a role of lipids in cells.
1208
State a use of the following in the biology laboratory. Benedict’s (or Fehling’s)
test.
To test for the presence of reducing
sugar
1209
Name the blood vessels that supply the heart cells with blood.
Coronary or cardiac arteries
1210
What is meant by natural selection?
Survival of the fittest, e.g. best
(adapted) survive
1211
Name the hormone responsible for sperm production.
Testosterone
1212
The vast amount of waste generated is one of the consequences of the huge
increase in the human population. Mention the three main ways in which
waste can be minimised.
Reduce / reuse / recycle
Component of membranes (or of named membrane) or
storage or energy or solvent or reference to steroid or
(formation of ) phospholipid (or lipoprotein)
sepal: protection / photosynthesis
anther: pollen - production or storage or release
stigma: receives pollen
ovary: produces or contains ovule or embryo sac or
female gametes/ becomes fruit / site of fertilisation
Broken voice (or enlarged larynx) / body hair /
more muscle / more bone enlargement of testes
/ enlargement of penis
1213
State a role for each of the following: sepal, anther, stigma, ovary.
1214
State two secondary sexual characteristics of the human male.
1215
In respiration the acetyl group enters a cycle of reactions. What name is given
to this cycle? Where in the cell does this cycle take place?
1216
Give a role of water in the human body other than as a
component of cytoplasm and body fluids.
1217
Mention two ways to maintain a healthy heart.
1218
The two male gametes in the pollen tube are derived from the generative
nucleus. Do these gametes form as a result of mitosis or meiosis? Explain your
answer.
mitosis
from haploid (generative nucleus) or
chromosome number retained or two
(daughter cells) produced
1219
Give one cause of infertility in men.
e.g. Low sperm counts
1220
What is a neuron?
A nerve cell
1221
Suggest what could happen to biological diversity as the human population
continues to increase.
Decrease or increase or stays the
same
Kreb’s Cycle
Mitochondria
Solvent (or example of solvent) or reaction medium or
transport or reactant (or example of reaction) or reference to
temperature maintenance or reference to temperature
regulation or lubrication qualified or protection qualified
e.g. eat less fat / exercise regularly /
avoid excess stress / eat less salt / don’t
smoke / avoid inheriting bad genes
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 57 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1222
Why is the dark stage of photosynthesis given the alternative name of the
light-independent stage?
Light is not necessary for this stage
1223
Name a scientist who is associated with the Theory of Natural Selection.
Darwin or Wallace
1224
What maintains the secondary sexual characteristics in the adult human
male?
Testosterone
1225
Give one main function of the stem of a flowering plant.
Photosynthesis / support / transport /
(food) storage
1226
How many common amino acids are found in proteins?
20 (common amino acids)
1227
Explain the term contraception.
Prevention of fertilisation or
pregnancy
1228
Outline the problems associated with the disposal of waste.
Suggest two ways of minimising waste.
1229
Suggest two reasons why the human population
increased so rapidly from the mid-1800s.
1230
Explain why red blood cells are normally absent from glomerular filtrate.
1231
1232
1233
problems – may be toxic / non-biodegradable / pollute
groundwater / no land-fill available / costly /
incineration (causes toxins) / valid example
minimising – reduce or example(s) or recycle or
example(s) or re-use or example(s
Better nutrition or better food distribution or better farming or
improved food preservation techniques / new technology or improved
living conditions / or improved medicine or improved hygiene
too big (to pass into Bowman’s
capsule)
In the case of starch or skimmed milk agar plates state the following:
1. An investigation in which you used it,
2. The precise purpose for its use in the investigation that you have indicated.
Describe the difference in colour or depth of colour, if any, between the
nucleus and cytoplasm when the stained cell was viewed under the
microscope.
1. digestive or other enzyme activity
2. supplies substrate or explained
Cytoplasm paler or nucleus darker or
nucleus blue
Photosynthesis / transpiration /
gaseous exchange / (food) storage
Give one main function of the leaf of a flowering plant.
Pollination: Transfer (of pollen) from the anther
to the stigma
Fertilisation: The fusion (union) of a male
gamete and female gamete [or two haploid
gametes] to form a diploid zygote.
1234
Distinguish between pollination and fertilization.
1235
Name two methods of contraception.
e.g. Natural, Mechanical
1236
State two harmful effects of viruses.
Two harmful effects (Any two viral
diseases)
1237
In relation to membranes in cells, explain what is meant by selective
permeability
Allowing some substances to pass
through
1238
Name three factors can that affect human population.
1239
1240
1241
1242
Variation is essential for natural selection. Mutation can give rise to variation.
Give two causes of mutation.
To what is pyruvic acid (pyruvate) converted under anaerobic conditions in: 1.
Yeast? 2. A human muscle cell?
War / famine / contraception / birth rate
or death rate or longevity / natural
disaster / disease or health care
Radiation, Chemicals, Chance
1. Ethanol + Carbon dioxide
2. Lactic acid
Give one main function of the root of a flowering plant.
Anchorage / absorption (of water or
minerals) / (food) storage
Distinguish between sensory, motor and interneurons (association neurons).
sensory: towards CNS or named part
or from receptor or structural feature
motor: away from CNS or named part
or to effector or structural feature
inter: links two neurons
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 58 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Single set of chromosomes or half the
diploid number
1243
In genetics, what is meant by the term haploid?
1244
Name a disorder of the musculoskeletal system. Give a
possible cause of the disorder that you have named and
suggest a treatment for it.
1245
What is meant by the term immunity?
1246
Suggest one advantage and one disadvantage of
biological control of a pest organism.
1247
Distinguish between photosynthetic and chemosynthetic
bacteria. Give an example of each type.
1248
Give two locations in a cell at which there is a selectively permeable
membrane.
Chloroplast / mitochondrion / nucleus
/ vacuole [allow cell membrane]
1249
Flowers are the organs of which type of reproduction in the plant?
Sexual
1250
Distinguish between thigmotropism and chemotropism.
1251
What is meant by the term recessive gene?
Only expressed in homozygous state
or not dominant
1252
Give one source of evidence for the occurrence of evolution.
Fossils / Anatomy / Embryos /
Genetics
1253
1254
1255
1256
Disorder: osteoporosis or arthritis
Cause: genetic / hormonal / dietary / injury or wear and tear
Treatment: anti-inflamatory drugs / hormonal or named / dietary
supplements / pain killers / muscle relaxants / physiotherapy /
exercise
Defence against disease
Advantage: No (harmful) chemicals or specific (target pest)
Disadvantage: Possible extinction (of a species) or may not be specific
(or explained) or immunity develops or balance of nature disturbed
Photosynthetic: using light to make food or obtain energy
Chemosynthetic: Make food or obtain energy using a chemical
reaction
Example 1: role or implied role e.g. volcanic pools
Example 2: role or implied role e.g. in soil
thigmotropism: a growth response to touch
chemotropism: a growth response to substances
or chemicals
Schwann cell: produces myelin (sheath)
State a function of:
Myelin sheath: insulation or protection or
1. Schwann cells, 2. Myelin sheath.
speeds impulse
The skin is an important part of our immune system. Outline two ways in
Barrier / sweat / scabs
which the skin provides immunity.
Soil erosion / less nutrients / siltation / destroying aquatic
Give two possible effects on an ecosystem of the extinction of a
ecosystems / decrease in consumer numbers / increase in
plant species.
numbers of other plant(s) / change of animal species
The concentration of glucose is the same in plasma and glomerular filtrate.
glucose) small or passes through
Why is this?
1257
Which tissue transports water from the roots?
Xylem
1258
In the case of cold alcohol (ethanol) state the following:
1. An investigation in which you used it,
2. The precise purpose for its use in the investigation that you have indicated.
1. isolation of DNA
2. to separate DNA
1259
What is a mutation?
Change (in the make-up) / in a gene or
DNA or chromosome
1260
What is diffusion? In the case of a named molecule, give a precise
location at which it diffuses in the human body.
1261
State one method that is used to produce seedless fruits.
1262
1263
Movement of molecules (or substances) / from area of
high concentration to area of low concentration (or
along a concentration gradient)
Named molecule and location
growth regulator / selective
propagation
Under aerobic conditions pyruvic acid (pyruvate) is converted to an acetyl
Carbon dioxide
group and in the process a small molecule is released. Name this small
molecule.
Capture-recapture: how captured / how marked /
Describe a procedure for estimating rabbit numbers in an
animal welfare comment / release same place /
ecosystem.
recapture / count / formula or calculation described
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 59 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1264
To help the immune system, many people receive vaccinations during their
lifetime. What is meant by the term vaccination?
‘Safe dose’ of a pathogen / causing
antibody production or causing an
immune response
1265
Which tissue transports food from the leaves?
Phloem
1266
True or False. The cells produced by mitosis are identical.
True
1267
What is meant by evolution?
Change in a species (over time) or
(reference to) natural selection
1268
In relation to Parkinson’s disease or paralysis give:
1. A possible cause,
2. A method of treatment.
1269
State a function of dermal tissue.
Protection
1270
Explain the biological basis for the use of high sugar or high salt
concentrations in the preservation of food.
Bacteria / lose water / by osmosis /
inactivity or death
1271
Name a gas that is essential for the dark stage of photosynthesis.
Carbon dioxide
1272
Give an example of an inorganic nutrient, necessary for phytoplankton
growth, that you would expect to find in lake water.
Nitrate
1273
Is xylem a living or dead tissue?
Dead
1274
1275
Cause: injury / genetic / disease / lack of dopamine
Treatment: physiotherapy / stem cell / dopamine or
drugs qualified
Antibiotics are usually not given to a person suffering from a viral infection.
Suggest a reason for this.
Name one of the scientists who first explained how evolution occurs by
natural selection.
Antibiotics have no effect on viruses
Darwin or Wallace
1276
Briefly explain the role of neurotransmitter substances.
Carries impulse / across synaptic cleft
/ triggers impulse in next neuron
1277
State one way in which a transverse section through a monocotyledonous
stem differs from a dicotyledonous stem.
Vascular bundles scattered
1278
True or False. Meiosis gives rise to variation.
True
1279
Name two forms of heterotrophic nutrition found in bacteria.
Parasitic / saprophytic
1280
Name and briefly explain any two processes
involved in the upward movement of water in
plants.
1281
Suggest a role of the lignin in xylem.
Support
1282
What is an enzyme?
Biological (or protein) catalyst (or
explained)
1283
Give one source of evidence for evolution.
e.g. Fossils
1284
State two functions of a root.
Absorb water/ absorb minerals /
anchorage / food store / reproduction
(qualfied)
1285
Why is glucose normally absent from urine?
Reabsorbed (a high threshold
substance)
Name: Root pressure / transpiration / adhesion / cohesion
Explain: Root pressure: H2O in pushes H2O up
Transpiration: H2O out pulls H2O up (or creates tension)
Adhesion: H2O attracted to walls
Cohesion: H2O (molecules) attracted to each other or allows continuous stream
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 60 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Antigen: causes antibody production.
Antibody: a substance produced by the lymphocytes in
response to a specific invading antigen
1286
Distinguish between antigen and antibody.
1287
What are antibiotics? For what purpose are they used?
Substances produced by microorganisms / inhibit (growth or
reproduction) of bacteria or fungi
1288
Name one process that causes water to move upwards through a plant.
e.g. root pressure / cohesion /
adhesion / transpiration stream
1289
Give two features of xylem that facilitate the upward movement of water.
1290
Write notes on menstruation and a disorder of menstruation.
1291
What is meant by genetic engineering?
Manipulation or artificial / alteration
of genes or chromosomes
1292
True or False. Mitosis always produces four new cells.
False
1293
From what part of a seed does the root develop?
Radicles (allow embryo)
1294
What is meant by the specificity of an enzyme?
(Enzyme) acts on only a particular
substrate
1295
An organism which makes its own food is called a(n) …
Autotroph
1296
Name the structures in the leaves, through which water exits the plant.
Stomata
1297
In which of the vascular tissues will water now rise through the plant?
Xylem
1298
Name two features of a plant cell which are not normally associated with an
animal cell.
Cell wall, chloroplast, vacuole
1299
List three of the main procedures used in genetic engineering.
Isolation / Cutting / Ligation /
Transformation / Cloning / Expression
1300
In the case of alkaline pyrogallol or an anaerobic jar state:
1. An investigation in which you used it,
2. The precise purpose for its use in the investigation that you have indicated.
1. to investigate conditions for
germination
2. to remove oxygen
1301
Name the four elements that are always present in protein.
Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen
1302
Give one example of a root modified for food storage.
Carrot / turnip / parsnip / root tuber /
etc.
1303
Two products of the light stage of photosynthesis are vital for the dark stage.
Name each of them.
ATP, Hydrogen ions (Protons)
1304
Vascular tissue is one type of plant tissue. Name two other plant tissues.
Ground / epidermal / meristematic
1305
Explain how the Active Site Theory may be used to explain the
specificity of enzymes.
1306
Explain how water enters root hairs and then passes to the vascular tissue.
Osmosis / soil water more dilute or
cytoplasm of the root cells more
concentrated / cell to cell (by osmosis)
1307
Give two examples of how genetic engineering is used.
e.g. Long-life tomatoes / Weedkillerresistant crops
1308
True or False. Meiosis is never involved in gamete formation.
False
Narrow / continuous tube (no end walls
or open ended) or pits / no cell contents
/ attraction of H2O to walls / thick wall
menstruation: shedding of endometrium / in absence
of fertilisation or low level of progesterone
disorder: Endometriosis or fibroids / comment
Substrate / matching enzyme’s active site / active
site changes shape / (formation of) enzymesubstrate complex / product(s) formed
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 61 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1309
What is the point of entry of carbon dioxide to a leaf?
Stomata
1310
Name the structures in plant cells in which photosynthesis takes place.
Chloroplasts
1311
1312
One cotyledon vs two cotyledons
Plants can be monocotyledonous or dicotyledonous. Give
Parallel venation vs reticulate venation/
Flower parts in multiples of 3 vs flower parts in multiples of 4 /5.
any one difference between a monocotyledonous plant
Scattered vs ring of vascular bundles in stems
and a dicotyledonous plant.
Fibrous roots vs tap roots
Proteins are made in the ribosomes using a code from DNA. Name the
mRNA
molecule that carries the DNA code to the ribosomes.
1313
Explain what is meant by antibiotic resistance and suggest
how it may develop.
1314
What is the function of meristematic tissue?
1315
1316
1317
resistance: bacteria or fungi not killed by or inhibited by or
immune to (antibiotic)
how develops: natural selection has occurred or surviving
strains multiply or misuse comment or plasmid transfer
Mitosis or cell division or growth or to
produce new cells
All organisms in an ecosystem are influenced by biotic and Biotic – concerned with the activities of living things
Abiotic – concerned with the non-living part of the environment
abiotic factors. Explain the underlined words.
Sweating or water loss or dehydration / blood volume drops or
Following a period of heavy exercise an athlete may produce
concentration increases /detected by receptors / brain alerted
only a small volume of concentrated urine. Explain this
/ ADH secreted / from pituitary / (stimulates) reabsorption of
water/ in distal tubule or collecting duct
observation.
Immobilisation: attached to an inert
Bioprocessing often involves the use of immobilised enzymes in a bioreactor.
substance (or example of inert
substance) or fixed to each other
1. What does the term immobilisation refer to when used about enzymes?
Bioreactor: vessel in which products
2. Explain the term bioreactor.
are made by cells (or organisms)
Antibodies or immunity / less danger of infection/ uterus contracts /
may reduce risk of breast cancer / bonding / correct nutrients or easier
to digest / suitable temperature / delayed ovulation
1318
Write notes on biological benefits of breastfeeding.
1319
True or False. Single-celled organisms use mitosis for reproduction.
True
1320
Explain the term allele as used in genetics.
Alternative form of a gene
1321
1322
Give one example of a monocotyledonous plant and one example of a
dicotyledonous plant.
Name any two abiotic factors from an ecosystem you have studied and
describe how you measured each one.
Example Monocot / Example dicot
e.g. Temperature – thermometer;
Soil pH – pH meter
1323
Which of the two vascular tissues of plants is composed of living cells?
Phloem
1324
To what group of biomolecules do the main products of the dark stage
belong?
Carbohydrates
1325
An organism that eats another organism is called a …
Consumer or heterotroph
1326
What is usually found in the cytoplasm of a plant cell?
Cytosol and Organelles
1327
Give one example of the use of immobilised enzymes in bioreactors. In your
answer name the enzyme, the substrate and the product.
Enzyme / Substrate (must match
enzyme) / Product (must match
enzyme or substrate)
1328
Explain the term genotype as used in genetics.
Genetic makeup (of organism)
1329
Write notes on formation and functions of the placenta.
1330
Name one animal from the ecosystem you have studied. Describe one way in
which it is adapted to its habitat.
formation: (placenta) formed from embryonic and uterine tissues
functions: connected to embryo by umbilical cord / (placenta)
produces hormones /example of transfer / example of a barrier
e.g. Grasshopper; green colour
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 62 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1331
Give one function of ground tissue.
Support or storage or photosynthesis
1332
Give two ways by which pollen is transferred from one flower to another.
Wind / insects / birds
1333
In addition to carbon dioxide another small molecule is needed for
photosynthesis. Name this other molecule.
Water
1334
Name the liquid part of blood.
Plasma
1335
Water is essential for photosynthesis. Briefly outline how
water from the soil reaches the leaf.
1336
Explain the term gene as used in genetics.
1337
1338
1339
concentration gradient / root hair / osmosis / cell to cell / root
pressure / xylem / cohesion or explained / adhesion or
capillarity or explained / Dixon and Joly / transpiration or
evaporation [accept water loss] / tension
Unit of heredity / functional section of
DNA
In which part of the human female reproductive system is the ovum (egg)
Ovary
formed?
Distinguish between a quantitative and a qualitative survey by writing Quantitative - The number of individuals present
Qualitative– Variety of organisms present
a sentence about each.
(Sucking or pumping) stimulates
Suggest a biological explanation for the following: As long as a baby feeds
(pituitary) / production of hormone
regularly from its mother’s breast (or if a breast pump is regularly used) the
(or correctly named hormone) /
promotes milk flow
milk will continue to flow.
1340
Where precisely is vascular tissue found in the root?
In the centre
1341
After fertilisation, what part of the flower becomes the fruit?
Ovary
1342
Name a test or the solution(s) that is (are) used to detect protein in a food
source.
Biuret test
Copper sulphate & Sodium hydroxide
1343
What type of asexual reproduction is shown in yeast?
Budding
1344
Where in a human cell would you expect to find most DNA?
Nucleus only - (allow chromosomes)
1345
The place where an organism lives is called its …
Habitat
1346
Name one plant from the ecosystem you have studied. Describe how you
carried out a quantitative survey to determine its frequency.
e.g. 1. Daisy; 2. Throw quadrat / note
if daisies present / random or repeat
or calculate or scale up
1347
Give two components of plasma
1348
Which of the tissue types (dermal, ground, vascular) has a different location in
a young root?
Vascular
1349
Name the chamber of the heart that receives blood back from the lungs.
Left Auricle (atrium)
1350
Many seedless fruits, e.g. grapes, are available in shops today. State one way
of forming seedless fruits.
1351
Suggest a biological explanation for the following: Doctors are reluctant to
prescribe antibiotics to patients suffering from common cold-like symptoms.
1352
What is meant by DNA profiling?
Composed of 90% water and dissolved substances, e.g.
products of digestion waste products, hormones, plasma
proteins, antibodies, enzymes, salts.
Genetic engineering / growth
regulators / hormones / selective
breeding
Common cold is a viral disease /
antibiotics do not affect viruses /
(overuse of antibiotics) may lead to
antibiotic resistance in bacteria (in
patients)
Treating a DNA sample / revealing a
pattern / unique to species or individual
or compare with other pattern
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 63 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1353
Name a carbohydrate found in the cell wall of plant cells.
Cellulose
1354
As a result of pollution, a species of plant disappears from an ecosystem.
Suggest two possible effects that the disappearance of this plant might have
on the other plants and animals living in the area.
Plants and/or animal numbers
increase and /or decrease
1355
What is meant in ecology by a quantitative survey?
A survey which records or estimates
the numbers of a species (in a
particular ecosystem).
1356
Give one location in a seed in which food is stored. Name a carbohydrate that
you would expect to be present in this food store.
Cotyledon / Endosperm
Starch
1357
Which part of a flower usually develops into a fruit?
Ovary
1358
What is a pyramid of numbers?
The numbers of organisms at each
trophic level
1359
Sometimes artificial methods are used to propagate (reproduce) plants. Name
any two methods of artificially propagating plants.
Grafting/cutting/layering...
1360
In DNA profiling, what is used to cut the DNA strands into fragments?
Enzymes
1361
Give the term used for the growth response towards light.
Phototropism
1362
Give two reasons why water is important for all living organisms.
e.g. Water is a good solvent, Water
maintains its temperature well
1363
1364
Suggest a biological explanation for the following: A person who has suffered
from constipation may be advised to increase the amount of wholegrain
cereal in her/his diet.
What happens to water molecules when they reach the sites of
photosynthesis?
Adds fibre / fibre absorbs water /
peristalsis encouraged / faster
digestive transit
photolysis or split
Protons or H+ / electrons / oxygen
Pollen (grain) germinates or pollen tube produced / grows through
style / generative nucleus divides by mitosis / to form 2 (male)
gametes / entry into embryo sac / one (gamete) fertilises the egg
(cell) / one fertilises the polar nuclei.
The fusion (union) of a male gamete
and female gamete [or two haploid
gametes] to form a diploid zygote.
1365
Describe in detail the events that follow the arrival of a
pollen grain at the stigma up to and including fertilisation.
1366
What is meant by fertilization?
1367
Give two good sources of protein in the human diet.
Lean meat, fish, eggs
1368
Give two applications of DNA profiling.
e.g. Forensics / paternity or maternity
testing
1369
Explain the term excretion.
Getting rid of waste / made in the
body
1370
What is an enzyme?
A biological or organic or protein
catalyst.
1371
Write notes on survival times for sperm and ova.
sperm: up to 7 days
ova: up to 2 days. sperm nourished in
female tract or longer survival time
means greater chance of fertilisation
1372
What is a quadrat frame?
Square frame used for taking a
random sample of plants in an area
1373
Suggest a biological explanation for the following: After a long session of
heavy exercise, an athlete’s urine is likely to be concentrated and low in
volume.
Water lost by exhaling (or by
sweating) / less water in blood / ADH
secreted / causes collecting ducts (or
distal tubes or kidney) / to reabsorb
water
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 64 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1374
Many species of plant have mechanisms that prevent self-pollination. Suggest
how such plants could benefit from this.
Greater variation or prevents
inbreeding
1375
Why is phototropism of benefit to plants?
For photosynthesis, maximises the
amount of sunlight that falls on leaf
1376
Cancer is the uncontrolled multiplication of abnormal cells. Give two causes of
cancer.
e.g. Viruses / radiation / (cigarette)
smoking / named pollutant
1377
The primary source of energy in an ecosystem is the …
Sun
1378
On what structures in the cytoplasm are enzymes made?
Ribosome
1379
Name two substances excreted by the kidneys.
Urea/water/salt / urine
1380
Waste management is becoming an increasingly difficult
matter. Suggest two reasons for this.
1381
Give one cause of female infertility.
1382
Name two methods of cross pollination.
Wind / animal
1383
Explain the following terms, which are used in genetics: allele, homozygous,
genotype.
Allele:
Homozygous:
Genotype:
1384
Suggest a possible treatment for cancer.
e.g. Chemotherapy / radiotherapy /
surgery
1385
Suggest a biological explanation for the following: A person’s fingers may turn
white when exposed to low temperature for a period of time.
Arterioles / constrict / less blood (in
fingers) / heat loss minimised
1386
Name an enzyme and its substrate.
e.g. Catalase; Hydrogen peroxide
1387
Which type of division, mitosis or meiosis, is involved in budding?
Mitosis
1388
Name the parts of the kidney in which each of the following takes place:
1.
Filtration
2.
Reabsorption
1. Cortex
2. Medulla or Cortex
1389
Name the group of substances that controls growth responses in plants.
(plant) growth regulators
1390
Write the dental formula for an adult human.
i2/2, c1/1, p2/2, m3/3
1391
Name the structure on which pollen must land to complete pollination.
Stigma
1392
Name the two types of cell division.
Mitosis / Meiosis
1393
The parts of the earth and atmosphere in which life is found is called the …
Biosphere
1394
1395
1396
Increasing population/ increasing consumption (prosperity) /
too little recycling /opposition to incinerators/shortage of
landfill sites/ illegal dumping/ NIMBY / cost
Genetic / hormonal / lack of ovulation / disease of endometrium / collapsed
Fallopian tubes or abuse of alcohol or abuse of drugs / anorexia / menopause /
contraception / hysterectomy / fibroids /obesity / STD / smoking /stress
Name one disorder of the human breathing system. Give one possible
e.g. Asthma; Use of Inhaler
treatment for the disorder referred to.
Amylase: enzyme – converts starch to maltose
What is an amylase? Name a site of amylase action. What is the
Site: Mouth or intestine
approximate pH value at this site?
pH: 7.5
Name a substance transported to the liver by the blood in the hepatic portal
Named food or CO2
vein.
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 65 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1397
Name an excretory organ in the body other than the kidney.
Lungs/skin/liver
1398
Name the blood vessels that bring blood back from the lungs.
Pulmonary veins
1399
Name the site of production of a pollen grain.
Anther
1400
Which substance moves through cell membranes by osmosis?
Water
1401
What is meant by absorption?
The passing of small molecules into
the bloodstream from the digestive
tract
1402
Pick a term from the list to match the following description: The role of the
organism in the habitat.
List: Pollution; Niche; Recycle; Burning fuel; Conservation; Smell.
Niche
1403
Give one reason why the body needs water.
1404
Identify X and Y in the following equation which is a summary of aerobic
respiration.
C6H12O6 + 6X  6Y + 6H20
X = O2
Y = CO2
1405
What is a meristem?
A region of mitosis in a plant
Name any one hormone produced by the body. Give a deficiency symptom of
the hormone named
Name one other term used in biology to describe the movement of
substances through cell membranes.
Any human hormone
Deficiency symptom must match
Hormone
1406
1407
Component / Solvent / Medium / Reaction /
Transport / (cell) shape / Temp. regulator /
(allow reference to hydration)
Iodoform test / sodium hypochlorite / potassium iodide / heat or
warm / yellow (crystals) OR Dichromate test / potassium dichromate
or sodium dichromate / acidified / warm / from orange to green
1408
How did you test for the presence of alcohol?
1409
Name the blood vessel that brings oxygenated blood to the liver.
1410
1411
Diffusion or active transport
Pick a term from the list to match the following description: Any harmful
addition to the ecosystem.
List: Pollution; Niche; Recycle; Burning fuel; Conservation; Smell.
What is the function of the petal? Give two ways in which it may be adapted
for this function.
Hepatic artery
Pollution
To attracts insects for pollination
Brightly coloured / nectary
1412
What is genetic engineering?
Manipulation or alteration of genes
1413
In which part of the human female reproductive system does fertilization
occur?
Fallopian tubes (oviducts)
1414
Give one way in which water is lost from the body.
Urination, sweating, exhaling
1415
1416
1417
Answer the following in relation to an activity you carried out to demonstrate
osmosis. (i) Draw a labelled diagram of the apparatus you used in your
demonstration. (ii) Suggest a control that you might use in this activity. (iii)
State the result(s) of your investigation. (iv) Briefly explain the result(s)
referred to in part (iii).
Give two advantages of using immobilised yeast cells in the production of
alcohol.
Give one example of the use of hormone supplements.
(i) Labelled diagram, (ii) Same
concentrations e.g. only water (in
bag), (iii) e.g. increase (or decrease) in
mass or volume of Visking tubing, (iv)
Water moved into (or out of) tubing
Can be reused / are easy to extract
from the solution / pure product
Any one use
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 66 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1418
Pick a term from the list to match the following description: A problem
associated with waste disposal.
List: Pollution; Niche; Recycle; Burning fuel; Conservation; Smell.
Smell
1419
The human being is an endotherm. What does this mean?
Animals who can maintain their own
temperature from heat generated by
its own internal metabolism
1420
Where in the human body is the liver located in relation to the stomach?
Above or to the right or behind
1421
Describe one method of waste management by reference to
agriculture, fisheries or forestry.
1422
Describe the role of the sweat glands in relation to body temperature.
Sweat / evaporates/ heat lost
1423
Explain what is meant by anaerobic respiration.
Energy release (from food) / without
oxygen
1424
1425
1426
Agriculture e.g. Slurry / dilute / on dry land / a fertilizer.
Fisheries e.g. Heads, neutralise waste / pulped and dried /
fertiliser or pig feed.
Forestry e.g. Small branches / humus / Large branches /
wood products.
If yeast cells are kept under anaerobic conditions, alcohol (ethanol) and
another substance are produced. 1. What are anaerobic conditions? 2. Name
the other substance produced.
Some biological washing powders contain enzymes similar to the ones found
in our digestive system. Suggest what would happen to these enzymes in an
80 °C wash.
Pick a term from the list to match the following description: A way to
minimise waste.
List: Pollution; Niche; Recycle; Burning fuel; Conservation; Smell.
1. Conditions where there is no
oxygen present
2. Carbon dioxide
Denaturation
Recycle
1427
The central nervous system is made up of two main parts. Name each part.
Brain/spinal cord
1428
Where would you find rods and cones?
Retina of eye
1429
Name the test or name the chemical used to test a sports drink for the
presence of glucose (reducing sugar).
Benedict’s reagent, Fehling’s A & B,
Clinistix
1430
Where is bile stored after it has been made in the liver?
Gall bladder
1431
Where in the cell does anaerobic respiration occur?
Cytoplasm
1432
Give two functions of a stem.
Support / conduction (xylem and
phloem) / sometimes storage
1433
1434
Some biological washing powders contain enzymes similar to the ones found
in our digestive system. Why is 40 °C the recommended temperature for
these washing powders?
Pick a term from the list to match the following description: Wise
management of an ecosystem.
List: Pollution; Niche; Recycle; Burning fuel; Conservation; Smell.
Optimum temperature
Conservation
1435
State two functions of the human skeleton.
Support / movement / protection /
blood formation
1436
Name a disorder of the nervous system. Give one cause of the disorder and
suggest a means of treating the disorder.
Named disorder/cause/treatment
1437
Give one function of symbiotic bacteria in the human digestive system.
bacteria living in the colon produce
vitamin B2 and vitamin K
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 67 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1438
Name the part of the central nervous system that runs through the vertebrae.
Spinal cord
1439
Name the two substances produced by the yeast in the process of
fermentation.
Ethanol (alcohol) / carbon dioxide
1440
In which part of the flower is pollen produced?
Anther
1441
1442
Pick a term from the list to match the following description: A possible cause
of pollution.
List: Pollution; Niche; Recycle; Burning fuel; Conservation; Smell.
Some biological washing powders contain enzymes similar to the ones found
in our digestive system. Many of these enzymes are extracted from bacteria.
Suggest why such enzymes are included in washing powder.
Burning Fuel
To break down food-based (or other
biological) stains
1443
Give one role that the bile salts play in the digestive process.
Emulsify fats (or explained) or
neutralise (or comment on pH)
1444
Name the test or give the chemicals used to test a sports drink for the
presence of protein.
Biuret test
Copper sulphate & sodium hydroxide
1445
What does the term infertility mean?
The inability to produce offspring /
gametes
1446
What is anaerobic respiration?
The release of energy from
carbohydrate without using oxygen
1447
How did you know that fermentation had ceased?
Bubbling stopped
1448
Suggest some ways of minimizing waste.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
1449
State a function of vascular tissue.
Transport / Support
1450
1451
1452
1453
1454
Name two processes that occur in plant or animal cells that require the use of
enzymes.
What happens to the small arteries (arterioles) in the skin when the external
temperature drops?
Photosynthesis, Respiration, DNA
replication. Etc.
Constrict / reduce blood flow / less
heat lost
M/O: Production of human insulin
Animal: Sheep producing blood clotting factors
Plant: Production of Golden Rice – possible
solution to Vitamin A deficiency
Storage of (fat-soluble) vitamins (or glycogen or named
mineral) / deamination / heat generation / detoxification /
plasma protein production / cholesterol production
Give one example of genetic engineering involving an animal and one
example involving a plant.
Give two further functions of the liver, other than the
manufacture of bile.
Where does each of the following events take place:
1.
Ovulation
2.
Fertilisation
1. Ovary
2. In oviduct (not in uterus)
1455
Name the gas released during photosynthesis.
Oxygen
1456
Where in the digestive system are the products of digestion absorbed? State
one way in which this part of the system is adapted for absorption.
Small intestine
Folds / villi / length
1457
Name the two types of vascular tissue in plants.
Xylem, phloem
1458
Define the term osmosis
The movement of water molecules from a region of high (water) concentration to
a region of low (water) concentration across a S.P.M or The movement of water
molecules along a concentration gradient across a S.P.M.
1459
Give a detailed account of how enzymes work,
referring in your answer to their specificity.
(Enzymes have) active site(s) / induced fit / complementary shape to substrate /
particular to small number of substrates / enzyme-substrate complex / products
formed or products released / enzyme unchanged (or can be reused)
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 68 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1460
What is the main source of body heat in endotherms?
Respiration / metabolism
1461
Give two ways in which pollen may be transported to another flower.
Wind / insect
1462
The vertebrae form part of the axial skeleton. Name the vertebrae found in: 1.
The neck, 2. The small of the back.
1. Cervical
2. Lumbar
1463
Answer the following questions in relation to an investigation that you carried
out to study the effect of light intensity or carbon dioxide concentration on
the rate of photosynthesis. (i) Name the plant that you used, (ii) How did you
vary the light intensity or the carbon dioxide concentration? (iii) Name one
factor that you kept constant during the investigation. (iv) How did you keep
that factor constant? (v) How did you measure the rate of photosynthesis? (vi)
What was the result of your investigation?
(i) named aquatic plant, (ii) Increased
or decreased lamp-beaker distance OR
Different concs of NaHCO3, (iii)
Temperature / CO2 conc. OR
Temperature / light intensity, (iv)
Water bath if temperature/ (same)
lamp at same distance if light intensity
/ same conc NaHCO3 if CO2 conc., (v)
Count bubbles / per unit time, (vi)
Greater light intensity or higher CO2
conc./ → higher rate of
photosynthesis
1464
In vitro fertilisation is a method used to treat infertility. What is meant by the
term in vitro in relation to fertilisation?
In a glass vessel / Test tube (Allow
‘outside body’)
1465
True or False. The base Uracil is found in DNA.
False
1466
Where in a plant cell does photosynthesis take place?
Chloroplast
1467
Briefly outline the role of carbon dioxide in the control of the human
breathing rate.
1468
Where in the cell does the first stage of respiration take place?
Cytosol
1469
Give one function of rods and one function of cones.
Rods: monochromatic vision (dim
light)
Cones: colour vision
1470
Give an example of osmosis in plants.
Water entering root hair cell; water
moving from cell to cell in
transpiration
1471
Enzyme activity is affected by …
Temperature or pH
1472
Name the three bones that form the human arm.
Humerus, radius, ulna
1473
True or False. Chloroplasts contain DNA.
True
1474
Give one cause of infertility in women.
1475
Write a short note (about five lines) on one of the
following: arthritis or osteoporosis.
1476
Give the alternative name of the first stage of photosynthesis.
1477
Carbon dioxide levels are usually higher in venous blood than in arterial
blood. Why is this the case?
1478
In ecology what is meant by a trophic level?
Feeding level, i.e. the position of an
organism in a food chain
1479
Enzymes trapped in an inactive material are referred to as …
Immobilised
Medulla oblongata registers blood CO2 levels.
More CO2 results in faster (breathing) or less
CO2 results in slower (breathing)
Inability to ovulate / blocked oviducts
/ menopause or age / weight /
excessive exercise …
Cause / symptom / treatment / prevention
Arthritis: e.g. injury /disease / inflammation / affects joints / impairs
movement / joint replacement / dietary supplement /etc. OR
Osteoporosis: e.g. loss of bone tissue / bones brittle / common in older
women / HRT / calcium deficiency / pain / exercise / lack of exercise
Light (stage)
Venous blood has collected CO2 / from
respiration (or cells) / arterial blood has
been cleared of CO2 (in lungs)
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 69 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Provides bulk / can prevent overeating / gives muscles something to
push against / keeps gut contents moving / absorbs water / keeps
faeces soft / easier to egest / prevents constipation.
1480
State a benefit of dietary fibre.
1481
True or False. The microscope lenses closest to the stage are the eyepiece
lenses.
False
1482
A catabolic reaction in an animal. E.g. …
Respiration
1483
As a result of fertility treatment, an embryo develops successfully from an in
vitro fertilisation. What is the next step for the embryo?
Implantation / Frozen
1484
What is meant by the term digestion?
The process of breaking down food
into soluble molecules
1485
Give a feature of a capillary which allows the rapid uptake of carbon dioxide.
Wall one cell thick or thin wall
1486
Some cells in the human body undergo meiosis. Give one function of meiosis.
one (diploid) nucleus divides to form 4
different (haploid) (daughter) nuclei
1487
Term for the substance with which an enzyme reacts.
Substrate
1488
During the first stage of photosynthesis energised electrons enter two
pathways. Where do the energised electrons come from?
Chlorophyll
1489
True or False. Sodium alginate is used to immobilise enzymes.
True
1490
Where is FSH produced?
Pituitary
1491
What forms in the carpel after pollination and fertilization?
Seed or zygote or embryo or food
reserve
1492
Name the liquid part of the blood.
Plasma
1493
Name a structure found in cells in which carbon dioxide is produced.
Mitochondrion
1494
In genetics, what is meant by sex linkage?
Gene located on X- chromosome or on
Y-chromosome
1495
Give an advantage of using immobilised enzymes.
Reusable
1496
What is meant by an enzyme?
Biological catalyst
1497
True or False. Plant cell walls are fully permeable.
True
1498
Why does digestion occur in seeds during germination?
Soluble / for transport / allow
”glucose for respiration‟
1499
In the second stage of photosynthesis compounds of the general formula
Cx(H2O)y are formed. What name is given to this group of compounds?
Carbohydrates
1500
Does the first stage of respiration require oxygen?
No
1501
Different lifestyle factors have an effect on the health of our circulatory
system. Name any two of these factors.
Any two factors
1502
Outline the details of the process of inhalation.
Brain sends message to muscles / intercostal muscles contract /
diaphragm contracts / ribcage moves up and out / diaphragm moves
down / volume of thoracic cavity increases / pressure drops / air in
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 70 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1503
Name another type of microscope that gives greater detail than a light
microscope.
Electron microscope
1504
Give an example of a protein that has a structural role.
Myosin in muscle
Collagen in skin
1505
True or False. Animal cells do not have membranes.
False
1506
Name a fungus, other than yeast, that you studied during your course.
Rhizopus
1507
What is the function of the cornea?
Allows light to enter eye
1508
An anabolic reaction in a plant. E.g. …
Photosynthesis
1509
From which simple compound does the plant obtain the H used to make
compounds of general formula Cx(H2O)y?
Water (or H2O)
1510
Where in a plant cell does photosynthesis take place?
Chloroplast
1511
Name two compounds that leave the plant through lenticels.
Water / Carbon dioxide
1512
Does the aorta carry blood towards or away from the heart?
Away from
1513
True or False. An organ is a group of systems.
False
1514
Distinguish between biotic and abiotic factors.
1515
Name the blood vessel that joins the ileum to the liver.
Hepatic portal vein
1516
What is a nutrient medium?
Material [or described] supplying food
or material allowing growth
1517
Give two meanings for the term sterile.
1518
List two differences between a plant cell and an animal cell.
1519
1520
Biotic: these are the living features of an ecosystem that affect the other
members of the community
Abiotic: the non-living features of an ecosystem that affect the community
1. Free from all types of micro-organisms.
2. Incapable of producing fertile gametes
Plant cells have a wall / large vacuole /
chloroplast
Name the structures found in stems, equivalent to stomata in leaves, which
Lenticels
are involved in gaseous exchange in plants.
1. supplies carbon for the formation of carbohydrate
State a precise role for each of the following in
2. supplies hydrogen or protons (H+) or electrons or photolysis or
photosynthesis: 1. Carbon dioxide, 2. Water.
described [allow formation of carbohydrate or named once]
1521
State a function of the contractile vacuole of Amoeba.
Water balance / Osmoregulation
1522
Why is the wall of the left ventricle thicker than the wall of the right ventricle?
Blood from left ventricle must be
pumped further / greater pressure
1523
1524
1525
Name the simple compound that supplies the necessary energy for the second
stage reactions in photosynthesis.
The DNA molecule is composed of two strands held together by paired bases.
1. Which base can link only to thymine?
2. Which base can link only to cytosine?
An edaphic factor is an example of an abiotic factor. Explain the underlined
term.
Adenosine Triphosphate (or ATP)
1. Adenine
2. Guanine
Factors relating to the soil [which
affects the distribution of organisms in
a (terrestrial) ecosystem]
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 71 of 100
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Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Holds cell together / selectively
permeable / displays antigens
1526
Give two functions of the cell membrane.
1527
Comment on the amount of energy released in the first stage of
respiration.
1528
Name a disorder of the nervous system and give a possible treatment for it.
Name: Parkinson’s disease;
Treatment: Drugs
1529
State a function of the pseudopod of Amoeba.
Movement / Feeding / Egestion /
Homeostasis
1530
What type of lens is used to correct long sight?
Convex lens
1531
Name the arteries that supply the heart wall with blood.
Coronary / Cardiac
1532
Give one function of FSH.
Production or development of follicle
(egg) or (stimulate) oestrogen
production
1533
What is meant by the dormancy of seeds?
Period of reduced metabolism (or
period of reduced activity) or period
of no growth.
1534
Which organelle is known as “the powerhouse of the cell”?
Mitochondrion
“The same amount of DNA is present in nuclei of cells taken from the liver,
heart, pancreas and muscle of a rat.” Use your knowledge of DNA and mitosis
to explain this statement.
There are probably more people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease now than
ever before. Suggest a reason for this.
chromosome contains DNA
mitosis maintains same chromosome
number or cells derived from mitotic
division
1537
Give one difference between a plant cell and an amoeba.
Plant Cell has Cell Wall
1538
For what is ATP an abbreviation?
Adenosine triphosphate
1539
Distinguish between quantitative and qualitative
surveys in an ecosystem.
1540
What is the role of valves in the heart?
To prevent backflow of blood
1541
What name is given to the first stage of respiration?
Glycolysis
1542
Why does the nucleus of a cell have many pores?
To allow passage of materials
1535
1536
1543
1544
Very little (4 ATP) released during Glycolysis when one
molecule of glucose is converted into two molecules of
pyruvate. 2 ATP used to start the process.
Larger population or more people
living into old age
Quantitative: A survey which records or estimates the numbers of a species
(in a particular ecosystem).
Qualitative: A survey which indicates if a species is present or not
Colon or rectum or stomach or duodenum or ileum
In which part of the digestive system is water absorbed?
Stores faeces or expels faeces or digestion or digestion
Give another function of this part of the digestive system.
or digestion (Allow Intestine)
A student brings a tuna and sweetcorn sandwich, an apple and a bag of crisps Tuna
for her lunch. What food in the student’s lunch is a good source of protein?
1545
What do you think is meant by the term “degenerative illnesses”?
1546
Give one way in which the dormancy of seeds is of benefit to
plants.
1547
A fat-soluble vitamin. E.g. …
Vitamin A, D, E, K
1548
What is meant by immobilisation?
An enzyme which is fixed to an inert
material by chemical or physical
means.
Getting worse
Survival or germination delayed until conditions suitable for
growth or greater time for embryo development (or greater
time for dispersal) or reduced competition
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 72 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1549
The lymphatic system is another series of vessels carrying fluid in the body.
Give any two functions of the lymphatic system.
Returns fluid to blood / transport /
lymphocytes(Immunity)
1550
Why does the nucleus of a cell have many pores?
To allow passage of materials
1551
Explain what is meant by the term DNA profiling.
1552
A student brings a tuna and sweetcorn sandwich, an apple and a bag of crisps
for her lunch. What food in the student’s lunch is a good source of fat?
Crisps / “Butter” (on bread)
1553
Why is a quadrat unsuitable for studying most animal populations?
Most animals move too fast or are too
big / use capture-recapture method /
can be used if animal is slow moving
1554
State three functions of the cerebrum.
1555
Explain the following terms that are used in ecology: niche,
edaphic factor, symbiosis.
1556
Suggest one way in which knowledge of dormancy is useful to
farmers and gardeners.
1557
What is meant by nitrogen fixation?
The conversion of nitrogen into
nitrates
1558
Draw labelled diagrams of two pieces of apparatus that you used to collect
animals and in each case name the apparatus and an animal collected.
Apparatus / Named animal / Diagram
1559
In what structures in the lungs does gaseous exchange take place?
Alveoli or Air sacs
1560
Name one water-soluble vitamin.
Vitamin B or C
1561
What is meant by nitrification?
The process of converting ammonia
into nitrites and/or nitrites to nitrates
1562
Where in the cell does the second stage of respiration take place?
Mitochondria
1563
Distinguish between the position of the cerebellum and the position of the
cerebrum in the human brain.
The cerebellum – hind brain and
cerebrum – forebrain
1564
What is the role of ATP in cells?
stores or provides energy for cell
activities
1565
Suggest a plant that would not be suitable to survey using a quadrat.
Large plants, e.g. ash, oak, etc.
1566
What is a quadrat used for in your ecology studies?
Quantitative surveys e.g. distribution,
frequency, cover
1567
Water, oxygen and a suitable temperature are all required for the
germination of seeds. In the case of each of these factors describe
its effect on the process of germination.
1568
Name one structural protein in humans.
Keratin / Myosin / Collagen
1569
Give one feature of the alveoli that allows efficient exchange of gases.
Thin walls / moist surfaces /
surrounded by capillaries/ large
surface area / expandable
1570
Name the type of bonding which occurs between members of a base pair in
DNA.
Hydrogen bonding
Producing a picture of pieces of DNA when an organism’s DNA
is broken up using specific enzymes and then sorted by size on
a gel. The result is a bit like a bar code.
Memory / learning / emotion / speech /
vision / intelligence / movement / language /
smell / hearing / logic / personality / taste
Niche: The functional role of an organism (in an ecosystem)
Edaphic factor: Factors relating to the soil [which affects the
distribution of organisms in a (terrestrial) ecosystem]
Symbiosis: A relationship between two species living in close
proximity involving benefit to one or both
(Optimum) storage conditions or (optimum) sowing (or
ploughing) time or (maximise) the growing season or seed
treatment before sowing (or examples)
Water: for enzyme action (or example of enzyme
action) or as a solvent or transport of materials or
bursting the testa [allow washing away inhibitors]
Suitable temp: required for (optimum or increased)
enzyme activity
Oxygen: needed for (aerobic) respiration
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 73 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Neurotransmitters are secreted by the neuron into (or crosses) the synaptic cleft.
They react with receptors on the next neuron and set up the impulse in this neuron.
They are inactivated by enzymes and reabsorbed by the presynaptic neuron
1571
Give an account of how neurotransmitters
work.
1572
A reducing sugar. E.g. …
All monosaccharides and maltose
1573
Name the nutrient medium that you used.
Nutrient agar
1574
In ecology, what is meant by the term conservation?
Wise management of natural
resources
1575
Where in a cell does this first stage of respiration take place?
Cytosol
1576
Give one function of fat in the human body.
Energy (storage) / Insulation / Cell
Membranes/(Storage of fat soluble)
vitamins/Protection
1577
What is the function of the nitrogen cycle?
To make (nitrogen) available or
described / for use by organisms
1578
What is the function of the larynx?
To make sound
1579
1580
Which part of the embryo in a germinating seed gives rise to each of the
following parts of the seedling? 1. The root 2. The shoot.
Name the type of particle whose movement in and out of neurons is an
essential feature of nerve impulse transmission.
1.
2.
Radicle
Plumule
Ion
Lack of randomness / insufficient quadrats /
species identification / carelessness / human
error / unsuitable equipment
1581
State one possible source of error in a survey of an ecosystem.
1582
Suggest why conservation is important in an ecosystem.
To prevent extinction / (to maintain)
biodiversity / (to maintain) the
balance of nature
1583
Does the second stage of respiration require oxygen?
Yes if respiration is aerobic
No if respiration is anaerobic
1584
What term is used to describe all the chemical reactions in the human body?
Metabolism
1585
What term do ecologists use to describe an animal which kills and eats other
animals?
Predator
1586
Name a substance that is used to immobilise enzymes.
(calcium or sodium) alginate or other
correct
1587
Outline the steps involved in inhalation.
1588
Explain what is meant by an antagonistic muscle pair.
1589
What are the stages involved in DNA profiling.
1590
What is meant by the term pollution?
1591
Describe the development of pollen grains from microspore mother
cells.
1592
Give four factors that influence the size of the human population.
1593
What is meant by the term species?
Impulse from brain / (intercostal) muscles contract / diaphragm
contracts / thoracic cavity increases or rib cage up and out or
diaphragm flattens / pressure drops / air in
A pair of muscles that work with
opposing actions
DNA extracted or explained / DNA cut into
fragments / using enzymes / fragments separated /
on basis of size / pattern analysed
Any harmful addition to the
environment
Meiosis / 4 (or tetrad ) / haploid / micospores /
(divides by) mitosis / tube and generative nucleus /
pollen grain matures (or wall forms)
famine or food availability / birth control / war / disease /
birth rate / death rate or longevity / degree of medical
care / natural disaster or example
Organisms capable of interbreeding
and producing fertile offspring
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 74 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1594
A polysaccharide. E.g. …
Starch, glycogen, cellulose, chitin
1595
What is meant by the term photosynthesis?
The method by which plants make
their own food
1596
To what substance is glucose normally converted in the first stage of
respiration? Is oxygen required for this conversion?
Pyruvate
No oxygen required
1597
Name the structure which attaches muscle to bone.
Tendon
1598
State any two types of pollution associated with waste disposal.
e.g. Air pollution / water pollution /
ground pollution
1599
Name the blood vessel that returns blood to the heart from the lungs.
Pulmonary vein
1600
What is meant by the term fertilisation?
Fusion of gametes or formation of
zygote
1601
State the function of the following: epiglottis, larynx.
epiglottis: to close off trachea or
described
larynx: to make sound
1602
From what structure in the carpel does the seed develop?
Ovule
1603
A gas from the air is needed for photosynthesis. Name this gas.
CO2 / Water Vapour
1604
1605
1606
1607
1608
1609
Explain the following terms as used in genetics: 1. heterozygous, 2. incomplete Heterozygous:
Incomplete dominance:
dominance, 3. phenotype.
Phenotype:
Name a group of organisms in which the XY chromosome pair gives rise to a
Birds or butterflies or moths
different sex than in cattle.
1. Give one example of a waste associated with agriculture or forestry or
1. Example of waste;
2. How waste is managed
fisheries. 2. State how the named waste is managed.
Asthma
Name a breathing disorder. Name:
Bronchitis
Cause: narrowing of the bronchioles and mucus
Cause: bacteria, viruses and irritants such as
___________________ and state: 1. secretion
cigarette smoke and air pollutants
Prevention: avoid of pollen, house mites, dog
A cause, 2. A means of prevention,
Prevention: avoid smoky atmosphere
and cat dander or vigorous exercise
Treatment: antibiotics if bacterial
3. A treatment
Treatment: steroid tablets or inhalers
Comment on the amount of energy released in the second stage of
Very large amount / much greater
than in the first stage
respiration.
nucleus / mitosis / two male gametes (or nuclei) /
Give a brief account of the process of fertilisation in flowering Generative
one fuses with egg / to form zygote / other (male gamete or
plants.
nucleus) fuses with (two) polar nuclei / to form
1610
Describe briefly the role of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles in
inhalation. In your answer refer to volume and thoracic air pressure.
diaphragm contracts / lowers / intercostal
muscles contract / rib cage up/ volume of
chest (cavity) increased / decreased pressure
/ air in / to equalise pressure
1611
Name the part of a plant cell in which photosynthesis takes place.
Chloroplasts
1612
Give two applications of DNA profiling.
Paternity disputes, Forensic Science,
Genetic Screening, Genetic
Archaeology
1613
Give three ways to minimise waste.
e.g. Reduce / Reuse / Recycle
1614
What term is used to describe the allele pair Pp?
Heterozygous
1615
Give two advantages of using immobilised enzymes.
enzyme can be reused / can be recovered /
pure product / comment on cost or efficiency
or stability or longer lasting
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 75 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1616
1617
1618
Producing a picture of pieces of DNA when an organism’s DNA
is broken up using specific enzymes and then sorted by size on
a gel. The result is a bit like a bar code.
What is meant by DNA profiling?
In animals: lactic acid
Name a compound to which pyruvic acid (pyruvate) may be converted, in the
In plants (yeast): ethanol and carbon
absence of oxygen.
dioxide
Sepals:
protect
flower
(or
bud)
or
photosynthesis
or attract insects
Give a role for each of the following parts of a
Anthers: produce pollen
flower: sepals, anther and stigma.
Stigma: traps (or catches) pollen [allow where pollen lands if qualified]
light energy
1619
Write a balanced equation for photosynthesis.
1620
Name the process involved in the passage of gas between the alveolus and
the blood.
Diffusion
1621
Give one example of the use of micro-organisms in waste management.
e.g. To consume waste e.g. sewage
breakdown
1622
Name and outline the procedure used for analysing the DNA samples that
revealed the presence of horse meat in products labelled as beef. Would the
result be the same if the beef were contaminated with pig meat? Explain your
answer.
DNA profiling
Cut (DNA into fragments) / with
(restriction) enzymes / separate
fragments / on basis of size / analyse
results (or explained)
1623
What term is used to describe the animal that is killed and eaten?
Prey
1624
State two ways in which the energy that is released during respiration is used
in the human body.
Movement / metabolism / protein
synthesis / assimilation
1625
A trace element in the human diet. E.g. …
Iron, copper, zinc
1626
In DNA profiling, what are used to cut DNA strands into fragments?
Restriction enzymes
1627
1628
6CO2 + 6H2O  C6H12O6 + 6O2
chlorophyll
Plants contain the green pigment chlorophyll. What is the role of chlorophyll
in photosynthesis?
Is the following statement true or false? Give a reason for your answer. Food
chains are usually short.
To absorb light / to convert light to
chemical energy
True / Energy lost at (or between)
levels or described
1629
Explain the term habitat as used in ecology.
Where an organism lives
1630
Name the molecule, formed from DNA, which carries the instruction to
manufacture proteins.
mRNA
1631
Give three ways in which an alveolus is adapted for efficient gas exchange.
capillary network / moist surface /
thin walled / elastic wall
1632
Name the main gas transported in the pulmonary vein. How is this gas
transported?
Oxygen
Transported as oxyhaemoglobin
1633
What is genetic screening?
1634
State two locations in the seed where food may be stored.
Cotyledon / endosperm
1635
What is an enzyme?
A biological (or organic or protein) /
catalyst
1636
Give one application of a named immobilised enzyme. In your answer, refer to
substrate, enzyme and product.
Application: Making lactose-free milk
Enzyme: Immobilised lactase
Substrate: Heat-treated skimmed milk
Product: lactose-free milk
1637
True or False. The term abiotic refers to the living factors in an ecosystem.
False
Testing (people) for the presence of a (specific)
gene or
To establish presence or absence of gene(s)
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 76 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1638
Is the following statement true or false? Give a reason for your answer. The
herbivores in an ecosystem normally live long lives.
False / Usually eaten by 2nd level
consumers (or carnivores)
1639
Where in a cell are proteins manufactured?
Ribosomes
1640
Give two applications (uses) of DNA profiling.
Paternity disputes, Forensic Science,
Genetic Screening, Genetic
Archaeology
1641
Comment on the difficulty of defining viruses as living organisms.
1642
What is meant by the term immunity?
1643
Name any one enzyme, and its substrate, and its product.
1644
Where does meiosis occur in the human male?
Testis
1645
True or False. Grazing food chains begin with animals.
False
If the population of prey declines suggest two possible consequences for the
predators.
Is the following statement true or false? Give a reason for your answer. The
only remaining natural ecosystems in Ireland, for example mountain land
above the heather line and salt marsh, are ones for which mankind has no
use.
Starvation or death / migration /
decline in population / increased
competition / change food source
1648
Name the biomolecule that is the major component of meat.
Protein
1649
Other than the secretion of hormones, how does an endocrine gland differ
from an exocrine gland?
ductless or secretes into blood stream
1650
Name the plant from which you isolated DNA in your practical studies.
Kiwi
1646
1647
1651
1652
non-cellular / one nucleic acid / can reproduce in
host cell only or obligate parasite / do not possess
organelles or named organelle
the ability of the body to resist
infection
Enzyme: any enzyme
Substrate: must match enzyme
Product: must match substrate or enzyme
True / Use causes change or no abuse
or no economic value or
False / Valid reason
The rate of activity of enzymes can be affected by various factors. Name any
Temperature / pH
two factors that can affect enzyme activity.
Maintaining a constant internal environment
What is homeostasis? Note one reason why it is important in the
Reason: allows normal metabolic activities or keeps
human body.
temperature suitable for enzyme reactions
1653
Explain the term producer as used in ecology.
Organism that makes its own food
1654
The embryo plant within the seed has a number of parts. List two of these
parts, apart from food stores, and give a role for each of them.
radicle / plumule
develops root / develops shoot
1655
What is an antibiotic?
1656
What is meant by the term gene expression?
1657
Is the following statement true or false? Give a reason for your answer.
HIV / AIDS has orphaned many children in sub-Saharan Africa.
1658
What is meant by an ectotherm?
1659
Enzymes are sometimes immobilised in industrial processes. What is meant by
the term immobilised in relation to enzymes?
Substances produced by bacteria or fungi
[accept micro-organisms] to treat infections
[kill other bacteria or fungi]
The production of a (particular)
protein (using the gene’s code)
True / Premature death of parents or poor
living conditions or poor health care (or
example) or poor education or an example of
a cultural reason
Animals whose body temperature
varies with the environmental
temperature
Attached to a (inert)substance/
trapped / in beads
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 77 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1660
A carbohydrate is composed of carbon, hydrogen and …
Oxygen
1661
What is the primary source of energy for plant cells?
Sun / light
1662
For what precise purpose did you use freezer-cold ethanol (alcohol) in your
isolation of DNA?
To separate the DNA
1663
State two ways in which hormone action differs from nerve action.
chemical transmission / slower action
/ longer lasting effect / many
target organs
1664
Where is sperm stored in the human male?
Epididymis
1665
Explain the term species.
Interbreeding population producing
fertile offspring
1666
To which kingdom do bacteria belong?
Monera or Prokaryotae
1667
Give one advantage of using immobilised enzymes.
Can be reused / pure product /
cheaper
1668
What are the two main biochemical components of a virus particle?
Protein coat / nucleic acid
1669
Explain the term niche as used in ecology.
Role or ‘occupation’ of organism (in its
habitat)
1670
An example of a water-soluble vitamin is …
Vitamin B, C
1671
A chemical that is used to show the presence of starch is …
Iodine
1672
Decomposition is essential for the addition of nutrients to the soil. Explain the
underlined term.
The decaying of a dead organism
1673
How did you measure pulse rate or breathing rate?
1674
Following dispersal, the seed undergoes a period of dormancy.
What is dormancy? Suggest two advantages of dormancy.
1675
What is the main source of energy in an ecosystem?
The Sun
1676
Where are primary producers found in a pyramid of numbers?
Base or bottom
1677
Calcium and iron are examples of essential …
Minerals / elements
1678
Outline briefly the role of B lymphocytes in the human immune system.
recognition / produce antibodies /
specific to antigens or in response to
antigens
1679
In the case of a named hormone give: 1. a deficiency symptom, 2. a
corrective measure.
1680
State two functions of testosterone.
1681
The liquid in which chemical reactions take place in the cell is …
Cytosol
1682
When you investigated the effect of exercise on the human pulse rate or
breathing rate what did you first establish?
The resting (pulse) rate or resting
(breathing) rate
Feel (or locate) pulse (or observe
breathing) / Count heart beats (or breaths)
for stated time / Repeat and find average.
Dormancy: a period of rest before growth
Advantages: Ensures springtime germination / maximises
the growing season for the new seedling / in desert plants
– ensures water for further growth
Hormone: Thyroxine
1. Child – slow growth, mental retardation
2. thyroxine tablets
Stimulates male primary & secondary sexual
characteristics / sperm formation
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 78 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1683
1684
Explain the following terms used in ecology:
1. Biosphere – Everywhere life is possible
1.
Biosphere
2. Habitat – A place where organism(s) live
2.
Habitat.
Name two groups of micro-organisms in the soil which are responsible for
Bacteria / fungi
decomposition.
1685
Glucose is an example of which type of biomolecule?
Carbohydrate / monosaccharide /
sugar
1686
Using named examples, construct a simple inverted pyramid of numbers.
Pyramid showing any inversion (at
least two levels). Any two named
organisms in inverted relationship
1687
Antibiotics should not be prescribed for a person suffering from a viral
infection. Suggest a reason for this.
Antibiotics have no effect on viruses
1688
Fats are made from fatty acids and …
Glycerol
Predator: An animal (or organism ) which kills and eats an animal
(or organism or prey)
Habitat: The place where an organism lives
Niche: The functional role of an organism (in an ecosystem)
Biosphere: The part of the planet where life occurs
Ecosystem: A community of living organisms interacting with one
another and their environment
1689
What is meant by each of the following in ecology:
predator; habitat; niche; biosphere; ecosystem?
1690
Where did you find the semilunar valves during the dissection of the heart?
At the base / of the aorta or the
pulmonary artery
1691
What is meant by a quantitative survey of organisms in a habitat?
A survey in which the number of a
particular species/organism is counted
1692
Distinguish between active and passive immunity.
1693
Proteins always contain the elements carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and …
Nitrogen
1694
True or false. If the eyepiece lens of a microscope is marked X10 and the
objective lens is marked X4, the total magnification is X14.
False
1695
Give two examples of the use of hormone supplements.
e.g. 1. Treatment of diabetes 2.
Contraception
1696
What is the function of flagella on bacteria?
For movement or propulsion
1697
Genetics is the study of …
The study of the structure and
function of genes and their
transmission from parents to offspring
1698
Name two pieces of apparatus used to collect animals from an ecosystem.
Pooter / Beating tray / Pitfall trap /
Net…
1699
Briefly describe how you carried out the dissection to expose the tricuspid
valve.
Cut through the right side of the heart
/ using a scalpel
1700
In a woman the sex chromosomes are XX; in a man they are …
XY
1701
An example of a fat-soluble vitamin is …
A/D/E/K
1702
Give a cause of male infertility and suggest a corrective measure.
Cause: low sperm count / low sperm
mobility / endocrine gland failure
Correction: IVF
1703
If the diploid number in a cell is 46, the haploid number is …
23
Active: When the body produces its own antibodies
Passive: The body receives ready-made antibodies to
combat infection giving short lived protection
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 79 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1704
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Name a hormone-producing gland in the human body.
Where in the body is the gland located?
Name a hormone that this gland secretes.
State a role of this hormone.
Describe what happens if the body experiences a deficiency of this
hormone.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Name of a hormone-producing
gland
Location of named gland
Hormone secreted by named
gland
Role of hormone
Description of deficiency
symptom [Accept named
condition]
1705
In order to make proteins, DNA is first transcribed as messenger ...
mRNA
1706
What is meant by the term predator?
Organism that kills & eats others
(allow kills its prey)
1707
When dissecting a mammalian heart where, precisely, did you locate the
tricuspid valve?
Between the right atrium and right
ventricle
1708
Name any two of the main bacterial types (shapes).
Cocci / rods / spirals
1709
A solution used to test for the presence of glucose is …
Benedict’s (solution) / Fehling’s
(solution)
1710
A change in the genetic material of an organism is called a …
Mutation
1711
Name two diseases caused by viruses.
Measles / mumps / rubella / AIDS
1712
1713
True or false. Plant cells have chloroplasts; animal cells do not have
chloroplasts.
What term is used to describe the glands that secrete hormones in the human
body?
True
Endocrine (or ductless)
1714
What is meant by the term conservation?
Management of an ecosystem (not
natural resource & not protection)
1715
Give one main function of the leaf.
To make food
1716
Where do scientists usually publish the results and conclusions of their
investigations?
Scientific journal(s)
1717
True or False. Anabolism is the breaking down of large molecules.
False
1718
“Vaccination gives rise to active immunity”. Explain this statement.
vaccination introduces antigen /
causes antibody production to gain
immunity to that infection
1719
By which method do bacterial cells reproduce?
Binary fission
1720
In certain situations a person is given a specific antibody rather than being
vaccinated.
1. Is this an example of active or passive immunity?
2. Under what circumstances might an antibody, rather than a vaccination, be
given?
3. Comment on the duration of immunity that follows the administration of an
antibody.
1. passive
2. infection may already have
occurred or possibility of dangerous
infection or no vaccine available or
vaccine too expensive
3. short term
1721
Is an enzyme a lipid, a protein or a carbohydrate?
Protein
1722
Explain the following terms that are used in genetics: Allele.
Allele – alternative form of a gene
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 80 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
automatic / response to a stimulus /
involuntary (or not controlled by
brain)
1723
What is a reflex action?
1724
Give one example of a limitation of the scientific method.
1725
Name the group of biomolecules to which enzymes belong.
Proteins
1726
What is the role of the fruit?
reproduction or seed dispersal (a
source of food for animals)
1727
Give a function of ligaments.
Joins bone to bone
1728
Name the tube-like tissue found in the stem in which water moves through
the plant.
Xylem
1729
Some bacteria are anaerobic. What does this mean?
They live (respire) without or in the
absence of oxygen
1730
Explain the following terms that are used in genetics: Heterozygous.
Heterozygous–two alleles / Tt (2
genes not acceptable)
1731
True or false. Humans receive oxygen from the air they inhale.
True
1732
True or False. Metabolism is the sum of all the chemical reactions in the body.
True
1733
Describe how you examined the cells using the microscope.
1734
Give one example of a reflex action.
e.g. coughing, blinking, sneezing etc.
1735
Where in a cell are enzymes produced?
Ribosomes
1736
Name the element, other than carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, which is always
found in protein.
Nitrogen
1737
Give an example of a beneficial application of a virus.
bacteriophage or used in genetic
engineering or vaccine production or
vector (in disease treatment)
1738
Explain the following terms that are used in genetics: Phenotype.
Phenotype – genotype expressed /
genotype +environment
1739
What is meant in ecology by a quantitative survey?
A survey which records or estimates
the numbers of a species (in a
particular ecosystem).
1740
True or False. Nutrition is the way living organisms get rid of waste.
False
1741
Explain why a coverslip is used.
To protect the sample from drying out
or to protect the lens from the stain
1742
What are pathogenic bacteria?
Disease causing organisms/bacteria
1743
Suggest an advantage of reflex actions.
Protection or fast (response)
1744
Give one main function of the root.
Anchorage / absorption / storage
1745
What is the principal source of energy for the Earth’s ecosystems?
The sun
The extent of our basic knowledge or the basis of investigation
or our ability to interpret results or application to the natural
world in state of change or accidental discoveries
Focus using coarse focus or focus using
lower power focus using medium (or
high) power (or using fine focus)
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 81 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1746
In humans, brown eye (B) is dominant to blue eye (b). Two parents, one
heterozygous for eye colour and the other with blue eyes, start a family.
(i)
What is the genotype of the blue-eyed parent?
(ii)
What are the possible gametes that each parent can produce?
1747
State one reason that your body needs protein.
1748
True or False. In science, a hypothesis is an educated guess based on
observations.
True
1749
Give a function of synovial fluid.
lubricate a joint / reduce friction
1750
Outline how you used the coverslip.
At angle / how lowered
1751
Name a producer.
Any named green plant
1752
Name a disorder of the human nervous system.
Paralysis or Parkinson’s
1753
Give two example of the economic importance of bacteria.
Any two examples
1754
Explain, in terms of what happens to body cells, what is meant by the term
cancer.
Control over cell division is lost
1755
What is meant by an abiotic factor?
A non- living feature of an ecosystem
that affects the community
1756
True or False. In experiments the factor that is changed is called the variable.
True / False
1757
What is a tissue?
Group of similar cells
1758
What stain did you use on the animal cells when examining them under the
light microscope?
Methylene blue
1759
Explain briefly what is meant by a gene.
A unit of DNA which codes for the
production of a specific protein
1760
True or false. Cell membranes let only some molecules pass through.
True
1761
In the case of a disorder of the human nervous system state:
1. A possible cause.
2. A means of prevention or a treatment.
Paralysis or Parkinson’s
1.
Relevant cause
2.
Relevant means of prevention
or treatment
1762
Give two possible causes of cancer.
Any two causes e.g. Radiation /
Smoking …
1763
State one way in which a named organism is adapted to the ecosystem.
Greenfly – colour (camouflage)
1764
What is the purpose of a control in scientific experiments?
To compare (with the experiment)
1765
Explain why it is difficult to classify viruses as living organisms.
1766
1767
(i)
(ii)
(bb)
One Parent – (B) / (b)
Other Parent - (b)
Structural: growth, repair, muscle, hair, nails
Metabolic: enzymes, immunity (antibodies)
non-cellular / one nucleic acid / can reproduce in
host cell only or obligate parasite / do not possess
organelles or named organelle
The allele for brown eye (B) is dominant to the allele for blue eye (b).
Explain each of the underlined terms.
Describe how you obtained a sample of cells when preparing animal cells for
examination with a light microscope.
Allele: An alternative form of a gene
Dominant: One allele masks the
expression of the other
Rubbed inside cheek with swab
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 82 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1768
Name two foods in which you found protein.
1769
What is a quadrat frame?
1770
Some people choose to be screened to determine their risk of getting a
particular type of cancer. What is meant by genetic screening?
1771
Distinguish between the terms haploid and diploid.
1772
Which stage of respiration releases more energy?
The second stage / in the
mitochondria
1773
Explain briefly what is meant by respiration.
The controlled release of energy from
food within a cell. A 24 hour process.
1774
Give the two main chemical components of a virus.
Protein coat / nucleic acid
1775
On a microscope the eyepiece lens is marked 10× and the objective lens is
marked 40×. A cell is viewed through these lenses. The image of the cell is 0.8
mm in diameter. What is the actual diameter of the cell?
0.002 mm
1776
Name two tissues found in animals.
Dermal, vascular, muscular, nervous,
1777
1778
Lean meat, fish, eggs
a square frame with internal dimensions of one metre or half a
metre. May or may not be sub-divided with wires or string. Used
for taking a random sample of plants in an area
Checking / for presence of specific
gene
Haploid: (A nucleus having) one set of chromosomes (or
one copy of each chromosome)
Diploid: (A nucleus having) Two sets of chromosomes
(or two copies of each chromosome)
Blood samples taken from a crime scene were put through a process called
DNA profiling. During the process cells were broken down to release the DNA,
which was then cut into fragments. The fragments were then separated.
1. What was used to cut the DNA?
2. On what basis were the DNA fragments separated?
3. Give an application of DNA profiling other than solving crime.
Name the process that converts the principal source of energy into chemical
energy in plants.
1.
2.
3.
Enzyme
Size
Paternity or maternity /
taxonomy / evolution
Photosynthesis
1779
Distinguish between the terms homozygous and heterozygous.
Homozygous: alleles the same
Heterozygous: alleles different
1780
What reagent or chemicals did you use to test for protein?
Biuret reagent / coper sulphate &
sodium hydroxide
1781
True or false. Human chromosomes are found in the nucleus.
True
1782
Give two abiotic factors that you investigated, describe
how you measured each one.
1783
How did you obtain a thin piece of a sample of the cells and prepare it for
examination under the microscope?
1784
State the function of the coarse focus knob on a microscope.
Focus with low power
1785
Briefly describe how viruses reproduce.
Entry / Use cell’s components /
Synthesis / Assembly / Release
1786
What does animal plankton feed on?
Plant plankton (phytoplankton)
1787
Distinguish between the terms genotype and phenotype.
Abiotic factor
Temperature, Light
intensity, Air speed, Water
current, Humidity, pH
Measured with ..
Thermometer, Light (Lux) meter,
Anemometer, Flow meter, Hygrometer,
Universal indicator or probe
Cut or peel /with what / onto slide /
into water //safety point / stain /
cover slip / detail on cover slip
Genotype: genetic make-up or genes (alleles)
present
Phenotype: expression of genotype (and
environment) or physical make up
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 83 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1788
Where in the nucleus would you find genes?
1789
Distinguish between autotrophic and
heterotrophic nutrition.
1790
What stain did you use on plant cells when examining them under the
microscope?
Iodine solution
1791
Give examples of two harmful bacteria.
TB/ syphilis/ cholera/ tetanus/ sore
throat/ names of bacteria/ etc.
1792
1793
1794
1795
On the chromosomes
Autotrophic: Organisms that are capable of making (synthesising) their own food
from inorganic compounds, e.g. all chlorophyll containing plants
Heterotrophic: Organisms that cannot make their own food. Depend on other
organisms as sources of food, e.g. all animals, saprophytes and parasites
(or biuret) (solution) / negative
In the investigation to show digestive activity by seeds during germination Iodine
result beneath seeds indicates the absence
how did you demonstrate that digestive activity had taken place?
of (or digestion of) starch (or protein)
In stage 1 of respiration, glucose is partly broken down. Where in the cell does Cytosol
this happen?
Give one way in which viruses are beneficial and one way in which
Beneficial – Disease control / specific example
Harmful – Cause diseases / specific example
they are harmful.
Segregation: only one (member) of a pair of alleles (or chromosomes) enters a gamete
Distinguish between the terms
Independent assortment: Either member of a pair of alleles (or chromosomes) can combine (or
segregation and independent assortment. transmit) with either member of another pair (in gamete formation)
1796
What is meant by ground tissue?
Living plant cells making the soft parts
of leaves, e.g. pith, cortex and spongy
tissue.
1797
Describe how you applied the stain to cells when examining them under the
microscope.
With a dropper / Under coverslip /
method
1798
What is meant by tissue culture?
The growth of individual cells outside
an organism.
1799
What is meant by excretion?
Removal of the waste products of
metabolisms
1800
Why are saprophytic bacteria important in nature?
decompose dead organisms or recycle
nutrients
1801
In the investigation to show digestive activity by seeds during germination
what control did you use?
Same set-up and procedure with
boiled seeds
1802
Give a function of ground tissue.
Food and waste storage,
photosynthesis and also give strength
and support.
1803
Explain the terms transcription and translation.
1804
The objective lenses on a microscope are usually labelled 40X, 10X, and 4X.
Which objective lens should you begin with when using the microscope?
4X / Low Power
1805
Name the vein connected to the lungs.
Pulmonary vein
1806
What is meant by osmoregulation?
controlling the osmotic pressure
within an organism by regulating the
amounts of salt and water present
1807
Distinguish between aerobic and anaerobic
respiration.
1808
Where does filtration of blood take place within the kidney?
From the glomerulus into the capsular
space of Bowman’s capsule in the
cortex
1809
Suggest a reason why sterile conditions are needed in tissue culture.
to prevent bacterial growth or
contamination
1810
In the investigation to show digestive activity by seeds during germination
what substance, to be digested by the seeds, was added to the medium?
Starch or milk or protein
Transcription: making of (m)RNA using DNA (template)
Translation: making a protein using (m)RNA (code)
Aerobic: The release of energy from carbohydrate using oxygen
Anaerobic: The release of energy from carbohydrate without using oxygen
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 84 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1811
Give one cell structure that you observed under the microscope that indicated
that the cells you were looking at were plant cells.
Cell Wall / Chloroplast / (Large)
Vacuole
1812
In which structures in the cell does translation occur?
Ribosome
1813
Distinguish clearly between pollination and fertilisation.
pollination – transfer of pollen
fertilisation – fusion of gametes or of
sex cells
1814
Name the artery connected to the kidneys.
Renal artery
1815
Name the small gaps between neurons.
Synapses
1816
State three factors necessary for the germination of a seed.
Suitable temperature, Oxygen, Water
1817
1818
The scientific method involves making a hypothesis, carrying out experiments,
recording results, and forming conclusions. Why is it a good idea to repeat an
experiment many times?
Name the substance that is used as a medium on which to germinate the
seeds in the investigation to show digestive activity.
To verify results /(statistical)
reliability/ minimise error
Agar
1819
What is saprophytic nutrition?
A type of heterotrophic nutrition
where an organism obtains its food
from dead or decaying organic matter
1820
How many bases in sequence make up a codon in mRNA?
Three
1821
What is a meristem?
A region of mitosis in a plant
1822
Briefly explain chemosynthesis.
formation of carbohydrates (food)
from inorganic compounds without
sunlight
1823
Name the vein that joins the intestine to the liver.
Hepatic portal vein
1824
Why is a control used when carrying out experiments?
To compare (with experiment)
1825
Name the gas needed to release energy to make a skin graft.
Oxygen
1826
Name two products excreted by the human.
Urea, carbon dioxide, salt, water
1827
1828
At the start of the investigation to show digestive activity during germination
the seeds were sterilised. How did you sterilise the seeds?
Each mRNA codon specifies one of three possible outcomes during protein
synthesis. Name these three possible outcomes.
Disinfectant or named disinfectant.
Start / Adding an amino acid / Stop
1829
What is germination?
Is the beginning of the growth after a
period of dormancy
1830
State a location in the seed where food is stored.
Cotyledon / endosperm
1831
For what purpose did you use Fehling’s solution or Benedict’s solution in the
course of your practical activities?
To check for Glucose / reducing sugar
1832
What term is used for the organism from which a parasite obtains its food?
Host
1833
Give the precise location of the heart in the human body.
Thorax / slightly left of sternum
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 85 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1834
Suggest the most suitable temperature to make skin cells grow for a skin graft.
37°C
1835
At the start of the investigation to show digestive activity during germination
the seeds were sterilised. Why is this necessary?
To kill (or inhibit) any microorganisms
(or bacteria and fungi)
1836
What does the letter ‘t’ stand for in tRNA?
Transfer
1837
Where does reabsorption of salt take place within the kidney?
medulla or Loop of Henle or
convoluted tubule
1838
For what purpose did you use an anaerobic jar in the course of your practical
activities?
To see if O2 is necessary for
germination / to limit or reduce O2
1839
Give a location for a meristem.
Tip of shoots or roots
1840
Name one organ of excretion, other than the kidney, in the human body.
Lungs, skin
1841
Neurons produce neurotransmitter substances. What is their function?
to carry impulse/ across synapse (gap)
1842
What structure(s) protects the heart?
Pericardium / rib cage
1843
During translation one end of a tRNA molecule attaches to an mRNA codon.
What is usually attached to the other end of the tRNA molecule?
An amino acid
1844
Name the three factors necessary for seeds to germinate.
Water / oxygen / suitable
temperature (or warmth)
1845
For what purpose did you use a cover slip in the course of your practical
activities?
To examine a specimen / to reduce
evaporation / to hold specimen in
place / to protect lens or microscope
1846
Give a function of the guard cell.
Controls opening and closing of
stomata
1847
An organ for churning of food to chime is the …
Stomach
1848
Symbiotic bacteria in the large intestine produce …
Vitamins B and K
1849
Biomolecules of the general formula Cx(H2O)y are examples of …
Carbohydrates
1850
What type of cell division, mitosis or meiosis, is involved in tissue culture?
Mitosis
1851
For what purpose did you use a buffer solution in the course of your practical
activities?
To keep pH constant
1852
Name a part of a seed in which food for germination is stored.
Cotyledon or Endosperm
1853
What are the two main events in the replication of DNA?
(DNA) opens (or unzips) / new strands
(made)
1854
Name the upper chambers of the heart.
Atria or auricles
1855
Give two functions of water in a living organism.
1856
Is energy release a feature of anabolic or catabolic reactions?
Component of cytoplasm and body fluids / excellent solvent / most chemical
reactions take place in water / reactant in photosynthesis / product of respiration /
given off to the atmosphere in transpiration / component of sweat and urine /
involved in osmosis / helps control the shape of cells / needed for germination
Catabolic
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 86 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1857
1858
1859
How do fats differ from oils at room temperature?
For what purpose did you use Methylene blue in the course of your practical
activities?
Name the test or give the chemicals used to detect the presence of protein in
a food sample.
Fats are solid, oils are liquids
To stain (animal/plant) cells / nucleic
acids
Biuret test
Copper sulphate & sodium hydroxide
1860
Name the base in DNA that pairs with cytosine.
Guanine
1861
Briefly describe the fate, under aerobic conditions, of Acetyl Co-enzyme A.
Enters Kreb’s Cycle (or explained) or
(broken down) to CO2 and H2O
1862
Name a structural polysaccharide.
Cellulose, chitin
1863
Name the valve between the upper and lower chambers on the left-hand side.
Bicuspid valve
1864
Name two gases that enter or leave the leaf.
Oxygen and carbon dioxide
1865
For what purpose did you use sodium alginate in the course of your practical
activities?
To immobilise enzymes (or yeast cells)
/to make beads
1866
To what organ does the ureter link the kidney?
Bladder
1867
Give an example of a reflex action in humans.
Knee jerk or ankle kerk
1868
What is a tropism?
Growth of a plant in response to a
stimulus
1869
What is the name of the two-carbon compound into which pyruvate is broken
down under aerobic conditions?
Acetyl Co-enzyme A
1870
Waves of contractions passing along the gut is …
Peristalsis
1871
Give one other application of tissue culture apart from skin grafting.
Cancer research, plant propagation
1872
For what purpose did you use IAA in the course of your practical activities?
(To examine the effect of) growth
regulators (on plants) / to stimulate
plant growth / to inhibit plant growth.
1873
What is the average resting human heart rate?
72
1874
Give the names of the two processes involving DNA which take place during
interphase.
uncoiling / transcription / replication
or duplication
1875
Explain the term diploid number.
Chromosomes in pairs (two sets of
chromosomes.)
1876
What is a plant growth regulator?
Controls the growth (of a plant)
1877
What type of teeth grinds food into smaller pieces?
Premolars and Molars
1878
1879
Name two substances, other than carbon dioxide, into which pyruvate may be
broken down under anaerobic conditions in cells.
For what purpose did you use freezer-cold alcohol in the course of your
practical activities?
Lactic acid, Ethanol
To bring DNA out of solution / to
isolate DNA
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 87 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1880
To which main blood vessel does the renal artery link the kidney?
Aorta
1881
What term is used to describe a group of disorders of the body in which cells
lose the normal regulation of mitosis?
Cancer
1882
Give two factors which cause an increase in heart rate.
Exercise / stress / anxiety / drugs /
infection
1883
As a result of her observations a scientist may formulate a … She will then
progress her investigation by devising a series of … and then carefully
analysing the resulting …
Hypothesis / Experiments / Data
1884
For which purpose did you use brown paper or Sudan III in food testing?
Test for fat (or lipid or oil)
1885
Answer the following questions in relation to your investigation into the
growth of leaf yeast.
1. From what plant did you obtain the yeast?
2. Name the nutrient medium on which you grew the yeast.
1886
Name two processes requiring ATP that occur in cells.
Photosynthesis, respiration, (active)
transport, mitosis (or named phase of
mitosis)
1887
Give a function of the myelin sheath.
Insulation of neurons / speeds up
impulse transmission
1888
Name an enzyme that turns fats to fatty acids and glycerol.
Lipase
1889
For convenience of study, mitosis is divided into four stages. List these in
order.
Prophase / Metaphase / Anaphase /
Telophase
1890
Write a balanced equation to represent aerobic respiration.
C6H12O6 + 6O2  E + 6CO2 + 6H2O
1891
Name the blood vessels that bring oxygen to the heart muscle.
Coronary arteries
1892
1893
1894
1.
2.
Any valid plant e.g. Ash / Privet
…
(nutrient) Agar
Leaf (or leaf section) stuck to lid / tweezers /
Outline the steps you followed to get the yeast cells onto the nutrient
stuck with what /of Petri dish / Yeast-side down /
medium when investigating the growth of leaf yeast.
dish left agar-side down / 24 hours.
For which purpose did you use Biuret solution or alkaline copper sulphate in
Test for (soluble) protein
food testing?
Which part of the female reproductive system is influenced by both FSH and
Ovary
LH?
High-energy molecule (or bond) or easily
broken down or easily re-formed or
reusable or energy easily released
1895
Suggest an advantage of using ATP as an energy store in cells.
1896
Give two biological advantages of
breastfeeding.
1897
Why are reflex actions important in humans?
fast response or defence against injury
1898
What is the role of the motor neuron?
A nerve cell which carries an impulse
from the CNS
1899
Answer the following questions in relation to your investigation into the
growth of leaf yeast.
1. How long did it take for the yeast to become visible on the nutrient
medium?
2. How did you recognise the yeast?
1.
2.
1900
Name the fluid present in the ureter.
Urine
gives a baby all the nutrients it needs in exactly the right proportions for optimum
development / is a source of antibodies which are passed on to the baby to protect it
against allergies and illness / can cause a cessation of menstruation
≥ 72 hours / 3 days
Pink colonies / spots
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 88 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1901
1902
For which purpose did you use petroleum jelly in the investigation of the
growth of leaf yeast on agar plates?
Explain why the walls of the lower chambers of the heart are thicker than the
walls of the upper chambers.
Attach leaves (or leaf parts)
They have to pump blood further
1903
True or False. In multicellular organisms mitosis is primarily used for growth.
True
1904
What is a habitat?
The place where an organism lives
1905
Name the process by which the gases move in or out of the leaf.
Diffusion
1906
Describe one aseptic technique you carried out during the investigation of the
growth of leaf yeast.
Swab bench with disinfectant /
sterilise instrument / Petri dish face
downwards on bench
1907
List three abiotic factors that you investigated.
Temperature, Light intensity, Air
speed, Water current, Humidity, pH
1908
In the case of a named organism give an adaptation feature that you noted.
Greenfly / colour – camouflage
1909
For which purpose did you use antiseptic wash solution in the investigation of
the growth of leaf yeast on agar plates?
To prevent contamination or
described
1910
What substance emulsifies fats?
Bile
1911
Name the two vascular tissues found in a vascular bundle.
Xylem / phloem
1912
True or False. Mitosis is a source of variation.
False
1913
Name the coloured part of the eye.
Iris
1914
The first stage of respiration takes place in the cytosol. What is the cytosol?
Cytoplasm without the organelles
1915
Why is a control especially important in biological investigations?
As a standard for comparison
1916
Give an example of a growth regulator that promotes growth.
auxin or IAA or NAA or ethylene
(ethene)
1917
For which purpose did you use freezer-cold ethanol while extracting DNA from
plant tissue?
To separate (or see) the DNA
1918
What is meant by an enzyme’s optimum pH?
This is the pH at which an enzyme
works best at.
1919
What is the function of the pupil in the eye?
To allow light in
1920
True or False. Centromeres give rise to the nuclear spindle.
False
1921
What is an ecosystem?
1922
Give one function of each of the following: 1. Dermal tissue, 2.
Ground tissue
1923
From your study of ecology explain the term fauna
A community of living organisms
interacting with one another and their
environment
Dermal: protection or example of protection e.g.
water loss, infection or comment on Turgor
Ground: food storage / storage of waste /
photosynthesis / strength / support
Animals
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Page 89 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1924
1925
1926
1927
1928
Waste management is a matter of growing concern in Ireland as the
disease / pollution / toxins / smell /
unsightly / other valid named problem
population expands. Outline three problems associated with waste disposal.
Homozygous: Has identical alleles [for a trait]
Explain the following terms which are used in genetics:
Recessive: Allele whose expression is masked by dominant allele
homozygous, recessive, phenotype
Phenotype: Physical appearance of an organism
In which part of the eye would you find the rods and cones?
The Retina
For which purpose did you use washing-up liquid or other detergent while
extracting DNA from plant tissue?
If a scientist wished to determine the effect of a certain herbicide on weed
growth she would include a control in the investigation. Suggest a suitable
control in this case.
(Detergent) breaks down membranes
no herbicide or implied
1929
True or False. The nuclear membrane disappears in the early part of mitosis.
True
1930
Does the first stage of respiration release a small or large amount of energy?
Small amount
1931
From your study of ecology explain the term food web
Interconnected food chains or more
than one species at each trophic level
1932
Suggest two methods of waste minimisation.
reduce consumption / reduce
packaging / recycle / reuse
1933
What is the function of the cones in the retina of the eye?
To detect colour / Colour vision /
Bright light
1934
In which of the vascular tissues does water transport occur?
Xylem
1935
1936
What is the significance of the fact that the two allele pairs are located on
different chromosome pairs?
For which purpose did you use an aquatic plant such as pondweed rather than
a terrestrial plant when investigating the rate of photosynthesis?
they assort independently or greater
variation
To see (or measure ) gas (or bubbles)
[negative for terrestrial plants]
1937
True or False. When a cell is not dividing it is said to be in prophase.
1938
Distinguish between mechanical and chemical digestion.
1939
What are symbiotic bacteria?
Bacteria living in the colon / produce
vitamins B2 and K / body absorbs
these vitamins
1940
Choose a term from the following list to match the description.
Alcohol, Oxygen, Water, Mitochondria, Lactic acid, Large
A substance required for aerobic respiration.
Oxygen
1941
From your study of ecology explain the term biotic factor
Living (organism’s influence on
another organism)
1942
Explain how the small intestine is adapted for the absorption of the
products of digestion.
1943
Where in the cell does the second stage of aerobic respiration take place?
Mitochondria
1944
State one way in which xylem is adapted for water transport.
Narrow / tubes / continuous / hollow
1945
For which purpose did you use methylene blue or iodine solution when
examining cells with the microscope?
As a stain or to see more clearly
False
Mechanical: Breakdown of food by physical means e.g. peristalsis
Chemical: Breakdown of food molecules by enzymes
large surface area (folding) or good blood
supply or lymph supply or (lining) one cell
thick or long or villi or microvilli
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Page 90 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1946
True or False. In telophase of mitosis, a cleavage furrow forms in plant cells.
False
1947
Choose a term from the following list to match the description.
Alcohol, Oxygen, Water, Mitochondria, Lactic acid, Large
The amount of energy released in aerobic respiration.
Large
1948
What is meant by excretion?
Removal of the waste products of
metabolism
1949
What does an ecologist mean by competition?
When two or more organisms fight for
a resource that is in short supply
1950
From your study of ecology explain the term symbiosis
Relationship between (different)
species in which at least one benefits
1951
From which blood vessel is the afferent arteriole derived?
Renal artery
1952
1953
Name the part(s) of the digestive system in which the following are
absorbed into the blood. 1. The products of digestion, 2. Water.
Choose a term from the following list to match the description.
Alcohol, Oxygen, Water, Mitochondria, Lactic acid, Large
A product of anaerobic respiration in muscles.
1. ileum or villi [allow duodenum or small intestine]
2. Colon [allow any named part from stomach onwards]
Lactic acid
1954
True or False. Single-celled organisms use meiosis for asexual reproduction.
False
1955
Give an example of each of a growth regulator that inhibits growth.
auxin or IAA or NAA or abscisic acid or
ethylene (ethene)
1956
What is a hypothesis?
Educated guess or (possible)
explanation
1957
In which direction does water transport take place?
Up
1958
Give an example of waste produced in agriculture or fisheries or
forestry and describe how it is managed.
1959
From your study of ecology explain the term habitat
(Place) where a species (or an
organism) lives
1960
Choose a term from the following list to match the description.
Alcohol, Oxygen, Water, Mitochondria, Lactic acid, Large
A product of aerobic respiration.
Water
1961
What is fermentation?
Anaerobic respiration or production of
alcohol from starch and sugars
1962
Name harmful member of the Monera.
Any named (harmful) bacterium or
named (harmful) effect of a bacterium
1963
The use of replicates is an important aspect of scientific research. What, in
this context, are replicates?
duplicates of an experiment or
procedure
1964
What is meant by sex-linked?
Gene located on X- chromosome or on
Y-chromosome
1965
Why is a control normally used when carrying out an experiment?
Comparison (with experiment)
1966
Name a process involved in the passage of the products of digestion into the
blood.
Diffusion
Agriculture e.g. Slurry / dilute / on dry land / a fertilizer.
Fisheries e.g. Heads, neutralise waste / pulped and dried /
fertiliser or pig feed.
Forestry e.g. Small branches / humus / Large branches /
wood products.
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 91 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1967
Choose a term from the following list to match the description.
Alcohol, Oxygen, Water, Mitochondria, Lactic acid, Large
A product of anaerobic respiration in yeast.
Alcohol
1968
Which organ is attached to the kidney by the ureter?
Bladder
1969
From your study of ecology explain the term ecosystem
Organisms and their (interactions
with) environment
1970
What is a denatured enzyme?
An enzyme that has been destroyed
by excessive heat, pH, etc. This
enzyme will not 'work' again
1971
Urea and carbon dioxide are excretory products of the human body. In the
case of each product name a substance from which it is derived.
Urea: protein or amino acid
Carbon dioxide: carbohydrate or
named example or fat or named
example of fat or fatty acids
1972
1973
1974
Name a member of the Protista that catches and consumes smaller
organisms.
Name a structure in the human digestive system, other than teeth, which is
involved in mechanical digestion
Choose a term from the following list to match the description.
Alcohol, Oxygen, Water, Mitochondria, Lactic acid, Large
The cell structures in which Stage 2 of aerobic respiration takes place.
Amoeba
tongue or oesophagus or stomach or
small intestine or named part of small
intestine
Mitochondria
1975
Name the cavity of the body in which the heart and lungs are located.
Thoracic or chest
1976
Give one example of the use of micro-organisms in waste management.
landfill sites / sewage treatment
plants / digesters / compost heaps
1977
Answer the following in relation to a lipase: 1. Where is it secreted? 2.
Where does it act? 3. What is the approximate pH at its site of action?
1978
From your study of ecology explain the term biosphere
Part(s) of earth that supports life
1979
In which part of the kidney does filtration of the blood occur?
From the glomerulus into the capsular
space of Bowman’s capsule in the
cortex
1980
Name a multicellular fungus.
Rhizopus (or bread mould) or other
named fungus
1981
True or False. The liver produces bile.
True
1982
Is oxygen required for the second stage of aerobic respiration?
Yes
1983
Suggest where a scientist may publish the results of her investigations.
(scientific) journal or named journal
1984
State one way in which heart muscle differs from other muscles in the body.
Doesn’t tire [
1985
Give two activities of symbiotic bacteria in the human digestive
system.
1986
Where in the kidney is Bowman’s Capsule located?
Cortex
1987
True or False. The semicircular canals in the ear are involved in balance.
True
1988
Name the openings in the leaf which allow the entry of carbon dioxide for
photosynthesis. State a factor which influences the diameter of these
openings.
Stomata
light or CO2 or potassium ions (K+) or
wind or turgidity of guard cells or
water availability or high temperature
1. pancreas
2. duodenum or small intestine or ileum
3. 7 - 9 inclusive
digestion / production of vitamins / benefit immune
system / compete with other micro-organisms [allow
one reference to harmful activity]
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 92 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
1989
Give any structural feature of members of the first-named kingdom not found
in members of the second kingdom. Protista and Animalia.
(Can be) unicellular or (can have)
chloroplast or pseudopodia or
contractile vacuole or food vacuole
1990
Explain the term excretion.
Removal of the waste products of
metabolism
1991
The genetic code is contained within the DNA of chromosomes. Briefly
describe the nature of this code.
1992
What is a virus made up of?
Protein coat / Nucleic acid or DNA or
RNA
1993
Water enters the outermost cells of the root by osmosis. What does this tell
you about the cell sap of these outermost cells?
lower water concentration or higher
solute concentration
1994
True or False. The growth response of a plant to light is called phototropism.
True
1995
Give three roles of the skeleton.
support / movement / protection /
anchorage for muscle / gives shape /
blood production
1996
1997
1998
Suggest a situation in which some cells in the human body may not be able to lack of oxygen or exercise or restricted
blood supply
engage in the second stage of aerobic respiration
Nucleus or mitochondrion or multicellular or
Give any structural feature of members of the first-named kingdom
eukaryotic or nervous system or digestive system
not found in members of the second kingdom. Animalia and Monera. or reproductive system or muscular system
/ hot conditions or
Suggest two situations which may result in a drop in the water content of the infection
perspiration or exercise / high salt
blood.
intake / low water intake / diuretic(s)
1999
Name two substances excreted by the kidneys.
2000
Briefly describe how viruses reproduce.
2001
True or False. Tendons attach bone to bone.
2002
2003
three bases (triplet or codon) / in sequence /
(codes for) one amino acid /(base or triplet or
codon) sequence / codes for protein
Water / Salts / Urea
Attachment / (viral) nucleic acid into (host) cell / uses
host structures (or described) / part(s) replicated /
virus assembly / release (or lysis)
During photosynthesis oxygen is produced.
1. From what substance is oxygen produced?
2. In which stage of photosynthesis is oxygen produced?
3. Give two possible fates of oxygen following its production.
When the water content of the blood drops a hormone is released.
1. Name this hormone and the endocrine gland from which it is secreted.
2. Give a precise target area for this hormone.
3. How does the hormone reach the target area?
4. Explain the role of the hormone at its target area, when the water
content of the blood is low.
False
1. water
2. light (dependent) stage
3. respiration / (diffuses) to
atmosphere
1. ADH (vasopressin) / pituitary
2. distal tubule or collecting duct
3. in the blood
4. (makes walls) more permeable
(resulting in) more absorption of
water
2004
Describe how minerals such as nitrates enter the root of a plant from the soil.
Active transport
2005
What is meant by non-coding DNA?
does not code for a protein or for RNA
2006
2007
2008
Give any structural feature of members of the first-named kingdom not found Chloroplast or cellulose cell wall or
named anatomical feature
in members of the second kingdom. Plantae and Fungi.
1. protons (H+) / electrons / oxygen
In photosynthesis water (H2O) is split into three products.
2. electrons pass to chlorophyll / ATP /
1. Name these three products.
protons stored / NADPH / used in dark phase
oxygen released into air/ respiration
2. State what happens to each of these products.
True or False. A motor neuron carries impulses to the brain.
False
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 93 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
2009
During 2009 swine flu spread through the population of many countries.
Younger people were more at risk of becoming ill with swine flu than older
people. Using your knowledge of the immune system, suggest a reason for
this.
(Older people) previous exposure /
antibodies (or active immunity or
memory cells)
2010
Give two excretory organs in the human body other than the kidney.
Skin, Lungs
2011
Give the part of the nephron in which each of the following takes place:
1. Filtration,
2. Reabsorption of amino acids.
1. Bowman's capsule or glomerulus
2. proximal tubule
2012
Suggest a reason why it is important to know a person’s blood group.
transfusion/ to avoid reaction by
mother to foetus/ to prevent
loss of foetus
2013
To which kingdom does Rhizopus belong?
Fungi
2014
Give any structural feature of members of the first-named kingdom not found
in members of the second kingdom. Fungi and Animalia.
Cell wall or hypha (or named hypha)
or mycelium or named reproductive
structure
2015
True or False. Rhizopus is a member of the animal kingdom.
False
2016
Explain what is meant by the axial skeleton.
vertebral column and skull (and rib
cage)
2017
What is a tissue?
Cells with common function (or with
common structure)
2018
Give one structural difference between DNA and RNA.
(DNA) contains thymine or RNA
contains uracil
2019
Name a part of the flower from which fruit forms.
Ovary / Carpel / Receptacle
2020
Amylase is an enzyme that is found in saliva. State the substrate and the
product of this enzyme.
starch
maltose
2021
True or False. Xylem transports water in plants.
True
2022
Osmosis has been described as a special case of diffusion. Explain why.
2023
Name a major blood vessel that returns blood in venules to the heart.
Vena cava
2024
Suggest a treatment for a named disorder of the musculoskeletal system.
Disorder: Osteoporosis /
Treatment: Diet rich in Calcium and
Vitamin D and medication
2025
Name a tissue found in plants. Give a function of the tissue referred to.
Dermal or ground or vascular (or
xylem or phloem) or meristematic.
Function relevant to tissue
2026
Suggest a reason why myxomatosis is no longer a major threat to the Irish
rabbit population.
natural immunity or Natural Selection
or virus mutated
2027
Give two features of the nephron that aid filtration.
2028
True or False. A potato is a modified stem.
2029
Give three examples of the ways in which fruits are involved in seed dispersal.
2030
Give an account of the role of each of the following in
photosynthesis: 1. ATP, 2. NADP.
movement of water (solvent) / along
concentration gradient / through a
selectively permeable membrane
large surface area / porous capillary walls/ (lining) one cell thick /
efferent arteriole narrower than afferent arteriole or arterioles in
arteriole out or arteriole to capillary network
True
Animal dispersal / Winged / Wind /
Self dispersal / Water Dispersal /
Human dispersal
1. provides or stores energy / reduction of CO2 or
glucose formation or for dark stage
2. accepts electrons / hydrogen carrier / for the dark
stage or glucose formation or for dark stage
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 94 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
2031
Give one way in which lymph differs from blood.
No red blood cells or no haemoglobin
/ no platelets / no clotting (proteins)
2032
Name a cell organelle, apart from the nucleus, in which DNA is found.
Chloroplast / mitochondria
2033
Name a tissue found in animals. Give a function of the tissue referred to.
Epithelial or Muscular or Connective
or Nervous or named example.
Function relevant to tissue
2034
Outline briefly how a virus replicates (reproduces).
2035
Genes are found on what structures within a cell?
2036
Give a function for each of the following: 1. Red marrow, 2. Cartilage, 3.
Tendon.
2037
Distinguish between batch and continuous flow food processing
using micro-organisms in the food industry.
2038
Suggest why it is necessary for a plant to disperse its seeds.
2039
The use of one species to control the population of
another species is called biological control. Suggest
one advantage and one disadvantage of biological
control.
2040
Give two functions of the lymphatic system.
2041
Explain what is meant by the term tissue culture
Cells grown on (or in) medium or cells
grown outside organism
2042
What is the function of the spindle during cell division?
To contract / to separate
chromosomes / chromatid / to attach
2043
Explain what is meant by an antagonistic muscle pair and give an example in
the human body.
pair of muscles that have opposite
effects or explained
biceps and triceps or other example
2044
True or false. Stage 1 of respiration requires oxygen.
False
2045
Name a group of biomolecules in the blood which are too large to pass
through the filtration system of the nephron.
Proteins
2046
Is the blood in the Aorta oxygenated or deoxygenated?
Oxygenated
2047
2048
2049
attaches to (host) cell / introduces nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) / (host)
DNA inactivated / viral DNA or RNA replicated / using resources of host
cell / protein coat formed / assembly (of virus)
Chromosome (allow chromatid) (Do
not allow DNA)
1. formation of blood cells
2. protection (absorbs shock) or reduces
friction or allows bone elongation
3. joins muscle to bone
Batch: fixed amount of nutrients added at beginning or
(bioreactor) emptied at end of production
Continuous: nutrients continuously fed into bioreactor or
product removed continuously
To avoid competition / colonisation
Advantage: environmentally friendly or specific or (may be) inexpensive
Disadvantage: upsets balance of nature (or described e.g. predator
population will fall when prey becomes scarce allowing prey to increase
again or introduced species may become a pest or predator may change to
a different prey) or (may be) expensive.
Maintains a constant level of ECF or drains fluid or returns fluid to
blood / manufacture of lymphocytes or maturation of lymphocytes /
filtering bacteria / fighting infection / transport of named material
Following dispersal most seeds enter a period of dormancy. What is
dormancy?
If a transverse section of an arteriole were viewed under the microscope state
one way in which it would differ from a transverse section through a venule.
Tissues grow by cell division. Name the type of cell division by which tissues
grow.
a period of rest, inactivity or nonvegetative state before growth
Narrow(er) lumen or thick(er) wall or
no valves
Mitosis
2050
Give one application of tissue culture.
Appropriate application
2051
Name the nitrogenous bases whose first letters are A and C.
Adenine and Cytosine
2052
Apart from water, name one other substance which is found in sweat.
urea/ salt/ named salt/ lipids/
hormones
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 95 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
2053
What is meant by sterile?
Free from all organisms
2054
Name the container in which you grew the leaf yeast.
Petri dish / (agar) plate
2055
2056
Organs are found in both plants and animals. What is meant by the term
organ?
State the location in the human body of the following muscles which are used
for breathing: diaphragm, intercostals.
A group of tissues / Structure
composed of two or more tissues
Below the lungs and above the
stomach
Between the ribs
Formation of bone / formation of soft tissue /
formation of fluid / formation of chlorophyll or
haemoglobin / biochemical function of a named mineral
2057
Give any two functions of minerals in organisms.
2058
To which kingdom does Amoeba belong?
Protista or Protoctista
2059
Give an advantage of dormancy.
Ensures springtime germination
2060
Give one reason why the wall of the left ventricle is thicker than the wall of
the right ventricle.
Left ventricle pumps blood around
body. Right ventricle only pumps
blood to the nearby lungs
2061
True or false. Stage 1 of respiration takes place in the cytoplasm.
True
2062
Name one organ found in plants.
Leaf / Root / Stem / Bud / Tuber /
Flower/ bulbs/ Rhizome …
2063
How did you measure the breathing rate or the pulse?
count number of breaths or number
of pulses / per unit time OR sensor
(data logger)
2064
Where in the cell would you expect to find most DNA?
Nucleus
2065
State a disorder due to a dietary deficiency of a fat-soluble vitamin.
Night blindness due to lack of Vitamin
A
2066
Is the cell of Amoeba prokaryotic or eukaryotic? Give a reason for your
answer.
Eukaryotic. Membrane-bound
organelles or named membranebound organelle
2067
What is meant by the germination of seeds?
Is the beginning of the growth after a
period of dormancy
2068
Name the stage in the plant’s life cycle that follows dormancy.
Germination
2069
What is meant by pollution?
Any harmful addition to the
ecosystem (e.g. not acceptable)
2070
What is meant by nitrogen fixation?
The conversion of nitrogen into
nitrates.
2071
Give an example of pollution which may result from domestic (household) or
industrial or agricultural activity.
Littering
2072
True or false. Stage 2 of respiration takes place in the cytoplasm.
False
2073
Give one function of the contractile vacuole in Amoeba.
Osmoregulation or explained
2074
Name a fat-soluble vitamin.
A, D, E, or K
2075
Describe briefly one way by which the skin helps to retain heat in cold
conditions.
(erect) hair / hair traps air / arteriole
contracts (and keeps blood warm) / pores
close / adipose (tissue) / Goose pimples
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 96 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
2076
Name one human activity that causes pollution.
Any relevant activity but not naturally
occurring catastrophe
2077
What is a chromosome?
A structure made of DNA and protein
which can be inherited.
2078
State one way in which it is possible to produce seedless fruits in horticulture.
e.g. (Growth) regulators
2079
What is the role of the bicuspid valve?
stops back flow (of blood) / blood
from atrium to ventricle
2080
Name two habitats from the ecosystem you have studied.
Ecosystem: Woodland
Habitats: Rotting log / beneath a
stone
2081
Suggest one reason why a contractile vacuole is more active in freshwater
amoebae than in marine amoebae.
Freshwater more hypotonic or more
H2O intake or reference to
concentration difference
2082
How does a phospholipid differ from a fat?
A phospholipid has a phosphate or A
phospholipid has two fatty acids
2083
State two problems associated with waste disposal in Ireland.
1.
2.
2084
2085
For hair colour black (B) is dominant over brown (b). Seán is heterozygous
(Bb) and Máire is homozygous (bb). 1. What colour is Seán’s hair? 2. What
colour is Máire’s hair?
DNA contains the instructions needed to make protein. These instructions are
called the … code.
e.g. Finding land for landfill sites
e.g. Litter / pollution or named
form of pollution .
1. Black
2. Brown
Genetic
In an autoclave @121 °C for 15
minutes
2086
How may apparatus be sterilised?
2087
Write the balanced equation for photosynthesis.
2088
Seeds may remain inactive for a period before germination. What term is used
to describe this period of inactivity?
Dormancy
2089
List two ways of minimising waste.
Reduce / Reuse / Recycle
2090
Red hair in humans is recessive to all other hair colours. A red-haired woman
and a black-haired man, whose own father was red-haired, started a family.
What is the % chance of obtaining offspring with red hair?
50%
2091
Fat is broken down by X into Fatty Acids and Y. Identify X and Y.
X = lipase, Y = glycerol
2092
Give a brief account of the Theory of Natural Selection.
2093
True or false. Some of the energy released in respiration is lost as heat.
True
2094
In what main part of a plant does most photosynthesis take place?
Leaf
2095
What is meant by evolution?
The way organisms change genetically
from pre-existing forms to produce
new species over long periods of time
2096
Give one example of the use of microorganisms in waste management.
e.g. Breaks down waste / in sewage
treatment plants
2097
What is the main source of light for photosynthesis?
The sun
light energy
6CO2 + 6H2O  C6H12O6 + 6O2
chlorophyll
organisms have variations / that are inherited/ beneficial /
will reproduce/ struggle for existence / pass on these
variations / ‘Survival /of fittest’ / origin of species
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 97 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
2098
2099
In Dalmatian dogs the allele for brown spots is recessive to the allele for black
spots. The two parents were heterozygous in respect of spot colour. What is
the % chance of obtaining offspring with black spots?
The following biochemical reactions took place in some living cells: A B + C +
D. Is this an example of anabolism or catabolism?
75%
Catabolism
2100
Suggest two ways to prevent or control pollution.
Reduce, reuse, recycle
2101
Name a group of organisms involved in nitrogen fixation.
Bacteria / Monera / Lichens/ Clover /
Legumes
2102
The haploid number of chromosomes is found in the human egg and sperm.
Explain the underlined term.
Having one set of chromosomes
2103
Carbohydrates always contain the elements carbon, hydrogen and …
Oxygen
2104
Bile is involved in digestion in the human body. 1. Where is bile produced? 2.
Where is bile stored? 3. Where does bile act in the alimentary canal?
1. liver
2. gall bladder
3. Duodenum / (small) intestine /
ileum
2105
In which part of the flower is pollen produced?
Anther of the stamen
2106
2107
In roses there is incomplete dominance between the allele governing red
petals and the allele governing white petals. Heterozygous individuals have
50%
pink petals. A plant with pink petals was crossed with a plant with white
petals. What is the % chance of obtaining offspring with white petals?
During photosynthesis water molecules are split into three Electrons, Protons (H+), Oxygen
Electrons – to chlorophyll / reference to energy / ATP
products. Name each of these products. Describe what
Protons / H (ions) - Pathway 2 / Dark Stage / general proton pool
Oxygen – Respiration / Excreted
happens to each of the products.
2108
Explain the term Biotic factor.
A living factor in an ecosystem
2109
What is meant by pollution?
The harmful addition to the
environment (by humans) that leaves
it less able to sustain life
2110
Lipids are made up of fatty acids and …
Glycerol
2111
What is meant by egestion? From where does egestion occur?
Removal of unabsorbed material from
the body. From the rectum via the
anus.
2112
True or false. Lactic acid is a product of anaerobic respiration.
True
2113
Write a short paragraph (about 5 lines) on waste management.
2114
In the fruit fly Drosophila the allele for full wing is dominant to the allele for
vestigial wing. One parent was homozygous in respect of full wing and the
other parent was heterozygous. What is the % chance of obtaining offspring
with full wing?
100%
2115
What is the role of peristalsis in the digestive system?
push food along gut / mechanical
digestion / prevents constipation
2116
Explain the term Symbiosis.
Relationship between two species
involving benefit
2117
Name a fat-soluble vitamin.
A/D/E/K
waste produced / must be disposed safely /
recycled / re-used / reduce / example of waste /
how managed / role of micro-organisms
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 98 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
2118
Name the structures in which photosynthesis occurs in plant cells.
Chloroplasts
2119
Name one of the scientists associated with the Theory of Natural Selection.
Darwin / Wallace
2120
What is meant by pollination?
Transfer / of pollen / from anther to
stigma
2121
Where in the eye is the retina located?
back of the eye
2122
Give an example of a catabolic reaction in a cell.
Respiration or fermentation or
glycolysis
[allow digestion]
2123
Name a structural carbohydrate found in plants.
Cellulose
2124
Explain the terms: allele and dominant.
Allele: An alternative form of a gene
Dominant: One allele masks the
expression of the other
2125
Explain the term Competition.
The struggle for a resource
2126
What is the role of alveoli in the lungs?
exchange gases/ carbon dioxide out/
oxygen in / increase surface area /
diffusion
2127
What is meant by the term aerobic respiration?
The release of energy from
carbohydrate using oxygen
2128
Water enters the roots of plants by osmosis.
Explain what is meant by osmosis.
2129
What process follows pollination in the life cycle of a flowering plant?
2130
Name one good source of protein in the human diet.
2131
What is a triglyceride?
Fat (or lipid or oil) unit (or molecule)
or glycerol and three fatty acids or
ester
2132
In what cell structure does photosynthesis take place?
Chloroplast
2133
Explain the term Trophic level.
A living factor in an ecosystem
2134
Name the tissue that transports water from the root to the leaves.
Xylem
2135
What is blood plasma? Give a role for blood plasma.
2136
Indicate clearly whether each of the following statements refers to stage 1 or
to stage 2 of respiration. A. Takes place in the mitochondria, B. Produces a
large amount of energy, C. Takes place in the cytoplasm, D. Does not require
oxygen.
2137
Outline the evidence for evolution from any one named source.
Fossils / comparative anatomy /
embryos / DNA changes / Horse /
bones
2138
Vitamins may be divided into two groups depending upon their solubility.
Name these two groups.
Fat-soluble
Water-soluble
2139
Where do the products of digestion enter the blood?
Stomach / ileum / intestine /villi /
(colon) / shoulder vein
movement of water through semi-permeable membrane / from region of high
osmotic potential to low osmotic potential / from high concentration of water to
low concentration of water / from dilute solution to concentrated solution
Fertilisation
(Lean) Meat / Fish / Cheese / Eggs / Pulses
(Do not accept Dairy Products)
Plasma: blood without cells/ watery liquid part of blood
Role: carries dissolved substances / named substance / waste
/ hormones / gases / blood clotting agent/ water / antibodies /
proteins / inorganic salts / fibrinogen / CO2 / Bicarbonate / Heat
A.
B.
C.
D.
Stage 2
Stage 2
Stage 1
Stage 1
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 99 of 100
Name: _________________________
Leaving Cert. Biology Revision Questions
Give an example of a beneficial organism and of a harmful organism that
belong to the same kingdom as Rhizopus.
List three characteristics in each case of;
1. An insect-pollinated flower,
2. A wind-pollinated flower.
Beneficial: Yeast for baking and
brewing
Harmful: ringworm – parasitic fungus
2142
Explain the term Niche.
The functional role of an organism
2143
Name a breathing disorder. Suggest a possible
cause of it and state how it may be treated.
2144
To what group of biomolecules do enzymes belong?
Proteins
2145
State one way in which an oil differs from a fat.
Oil is liquid (at room temperature) or
fat is solid or oils are unsaturated or
explained
2146
State two functions of symbiotic bacteria in the alimentary canal.
2140
2141
2147
2148
1. brightly coloured petals / anthers
within petals, nectaries,
2. feathery stigmas, anthers outside
petals, petals absent or reduced
Asthma
Cause: narrowing of the bronchioles
and mucus secretion
Treatment: steroid tablets or inhalers
Two types of cells that receive light are found in the retina. Name each of
these.
Name two types of cell found in the blood and give a function for each of
them.
Bronchitis
Cause: bacteria, viruses and irritants
such as cigarette smoke and air
pollutants
Treatment: antibiotics if bacterial
digest cellulose/ produce (release) vitamins/
keep harmful bacteria at bay / immunity
(reference to health) / formation of faeces
Rods and cones
red blood cell: carries oxygen (also
carries carbon dioxide)
white blood cell: defence
2149
What is the main source of energy for photosynthesis?
The sun
2150
How do these products of digestion pass into the blood?
by diffusion (into villi ) / absorption
2151
Explain the term Biosphere.
Parts of the earth where life (or
organisms) exists
2152
Give an example of a trace element.
e.g. Fe, Cu, Zn or other correct
2153
2154
2155
2156
Substrate: the substance on which an enzyme acts to
The action of the enzyme amylase on its substrate starch is an
produce the product
example of a catabolic reaction. Explain each of the underlined
Catabolic: Chemical reaction where larger molecules
are broken down to smaller molecules
terms.
The ABO blood group system has four blood groups. What are these four
A, B, AB, O
groups?
The optic nerve is attached to the eye. What is the function of the optic
carries message to brain
nerve?
Suggest two reasons why life on earth might not continue without
Lack of oxygen / lack of food (energy)
/ plants die / excess CO2 / animals die
photosynthesis.
2157
What is meant by immobilisation of an enzyme?
An enzyme which is fixed to an inert
material by chemical or physical
means.
2158
In relation to the human diet, what is meant by a trace element?
Small amount (needed) or indication
of e.g. < 0.01%
These answers are the work of a practising teacher, not the SEC, and may have to be adjusted depending on the precise wording of an exam question.
Page 100 of 100