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A-LevelBiologyCell membranes and transportFeb/Mar 2022Paper 1 Q191 Mark

In an investigation, a plant cell was placed in pure water. The initial rate at which water molecules entered the cell, R, was greater than the initial rate at which water molecules left the cell. In a second investigation, a plant cell of the same type was placed in a solution with a water potential equal to that of the cell contents. What will happen in the second investigation over a period of five minutes?

AWater molecules will not enter or leave the cell because the water potential of the cell contents is equal to that of the solution.
BWater molecules will enter and leave the cell in equal amounts, both at an initial rate that is less than R in the first investigation.
CWater molecules will enter and leave the cell in equal amounts, both at an initial rate that is greater than R in the first investigation.
DWater molecules will enter and leave the cell in equal amounts, both at an initial rate that is equal to R in the first investigation.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: Water molecules will enter and leave the cell in equal amounts, both at an initial rate that is less than R in the first investigation.

📋 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 Cell membranes and transport 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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