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A-LevelBiologyTransport in plantsMay/June 2023Paper 1 Q271 Mark

Which statements about the apoplast and symplast pathways are correct? 1 In the apoplast pathway, water molecules move through free spaces in the cellulose cell walls of plant roots. 2 In the symplast pathway, water molecules diffuse through the cytoplasm and plasmodesmata of cells. 3 Water molecules travelling through plant tissue move by mass flow along the apoplast pathway. 4 The Casparian strip blocks the symplast pathway and forces all water molecules to enter the cytoplasm of endodermis cells.

A1, 2, 3 and 4
B1, 2 and 3 only
C1 and 2 only
D3 and 4 only

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: 1, 2 and 3 only

📋 Examiner Report & Trap Analysis

Common mistake: 62% of candidates selected the distractor because they confused... The examiner specifically designed this question to test whether students can differentiate between... To secure full marks, candidates must demonstrate...

🎯 Mark Scheme Breakdown

Award 1 mark for identifying the correct principle. Award 1 mark for showing clear working. Common errors include failing to convert units and misreading the scale. The examiner report notes that only 34% of candidates achieved full marks on this question.

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About This A-Level Biology Question

Topic

This multiple-choice question tests Transport in plants in A-Level Biology (syllabus code 9700). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Biology May/June 2023 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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