Question 1

Paper 2Medium16 marks

A field team records three consecutive dive cycles of a bottlenose dolphin. Each cycle consists of one dive followed by a surface interval. No breaths are observed during dives; at least one breath is observed during each surface interval.

Dive cycleTime underwater / minSurface interval for breathing / min
14.00.5
25.00.5
33.00.5
(a)

Describe the pattern in the timing of the dives and surface intervals, using data from the table.

[2]
(b)

Calculate the percentage of the total observation time that the dolphin spends underwater.

[3]
(c)

Explain how the dolphin’s body shape, limbs and tail are adapted for swimming. Include the direction of tail movement.

[6]
(d)

Explain how airway adaptations allow the dolphin to breathe in the pattern recorded.

[5]

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