A-LevelBiologyThe mitotic cell cycleOct/Nov 2022Paper 1 Q201 Mark

A gene codes for the production of a protein, p53, that binds to damaged DNA during interphase and prevents its replication. A carcinogen in cigarette smoke mutates the gene coding for the p53 protein, preventing production of the protein. Which statement explains why this mutation may cause cancer?

Q: What topic does this question test?

This question tests The mitotic cell cycle in A-Level Biology (syllabus code 9700). It is worth 1 mark.

ACells with no p53 are able to undergo mitosis.

BCells with no p53 replicate their damaged DNA.

CThe carcinogen in cigarette smoke increases the rate of cell division.

DThe mutated p53 causes uncontrolled cell division.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: Cells with no p53 replicate their damaged DNA.

📋 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 The mitotic cell cycle in A-Level Biology (syllabus code 9700). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Biology Oct/Nov 2022 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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