IB Biology HL C3.1 Integration of body systems questions

Exam-style multiple choice and written questions with full markschemes. Check multiple choice answers straight away, or type, photograph or draw a written answer and get it marked.

Question 1

Paper 2Medium4 marks

Twenty-four participants learned to choose one of two buttons to obtain a reward. On each trial, one of two shapes appeared on a screen while one of two tones was played. There were four shape–tone combinations, and the correct button depended on the combination: neither the shape alone nor the tone alone predicted the correct button. Participants received feedback during four training blocks. Twenty-four hours later, they completed a test without feedback or further practice. With two possible buttons, chance performance is 50%.

The graph shows the mean percentage of correct choices in each block and at the 24-hour test. Means are rounded to the nearest whole percentage point.

123424-h test405060708090100Trial block / testMean correct choices / %Chance (two buttons)
(a)

Using Figure 1, explain what the results suggest about learning and memory.

[2]
(b)

Explain why successful performance in this task involves the brain processing information from both inputs.

[1]
(c)

State how this differs from the role of the spinal cord as an integrating centre.

[1]

Question 2

Multiple choiceHard1 mark

During a controlled observation, blood CO₂ is raised briefly and then allowed to fall. The measurements are:

StageBlood CO₂ (relative units)Blood pHVentilation rate (dm³ min⁻¹)
Baseline1.07.406
After CO₂ rises1.37.3212
Recovery1.17.387

Which statements are consistent with the data and feedback control of ventilation?

I. The initial CO₂ increase can lower blood pH by increasing blood acidity.
II. The fall in pH causes brainstem chemoreceptors to signal the diaphragm and intercostal muscles to reduce ventilation.
III. Increased ventilation can remove CO₂ from the blood, raising pH and reducing chemoreceptor stimulation so ventilation falls.

Show answer and explanation

Answer: B. Increased blood CO₂ can lower pH. Brainstem chemoreceptors respond to the pH change by signalling the diaphragm and intercostal muscles to increase ventilation; greater CO₂ removal then helps pH recover and reduces the stimulus.

A: stops at the initial pH change and omits the feedback described in III.
C: reverses the response in II and omits the supported CO₂–pH relationship in I.
D: includes II, which incorrectly says ventilation decreases when pH falls.
Remember: increased ventilation removes CO₂, helping blood pH rise.

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