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A-LevelBiologyGas exchangeFeb/Mar 2021Paper 1 Q361 Mark

Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A person with emphysema has difficulties in breathing out. Why does emphysema cause difficulties in breathing out?

ASmooth muscle fibres in the airways are destroyed.
BToo little mucus is produced in the bronchi.
CThe elasticity of the alveoli decreases.
DThe surface area of the alveoli becomes larger.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is C: The elasticity of the alveoli decreases.

📋 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 Gas exchange in A-Level Biology (syllabus code 9700). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Biology Feb/Mar 2021 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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