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A-LevelBiologyBiological moleculesFeb/Mar 2022Paper 1 Q151 Mark

Which row correctly describes the primary structure, secondary structure, tertiary structure and quaternary structure of some proteins? [Figure 15.1]

Aprimary structure determines the folding of the polypeptide secondary structure depends on hydrogen bonding between the side-chains of amino acids tertiary structure defines the overall shape and folding of the protein quaternary structure formed when two or more identical polypeptides join together
Bprimary structure defines the order of amino acids in the polypeptide secondary structure usually forms immediately after polypeptide synthesis tertiary structure is held together by all the types of bonding that occur in proteins quaternary structure found in globular proteins such as haemoglobin but never in fibrous proteins
Cprimary structure involves covalent bonds only secondary structure involves interactions between –H and =O tertiary structure essential for the function of enzymes and receptors quaternary structure formed when two or more polypeptides join together
Dprimary structure involves peptide bonds between the side-chains of amino acids secondary structure involves folding between local regions within a polypeptide molecule tertiary structure changes reversibly when bound to non-competitive inhibitors quaternary structure can involve hydrogen bonds, covalent bonds and hydrophobic interactions

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is C: primary structure involves covalent bonds only secondary structure involves interactions between –H and =O tertiary structure essential for the function of enzymes and receptors quaternary structure formed when two or more polypeptides join together

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

Source

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

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