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A-LevelBiologyNucleic acids and protein synthesisOct/Nov 2019Paper 1 Q371 Mark

Different antibiotics function in different ways. It is important that the antibiotic kills the bacteria, but does not harm the infected human. The antibiotic tetracycline has been found to affect the way in which human mitochondria function. Which statements could explain why human mitochondria function is affected by tetracycline?

AThe antibiotic prevents the synthesis of peptidoglycan cell walls.
BThe antibiotic prevents synthesis of linear DNA.
CThe antibiotic prevents translation of circular DNA.
DThe antibiotic prevents translation by binding to 70S ribosomes.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is D: The antibiotic prevents translation by binding to 70S ribosomes.

📋 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 Nucleic acids and protein synthesis in A-Level Biology (syllabus code 9700). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Biology Oct/Nov 2019 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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