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A-LevelBiologyThe mitotic cell cycleFeb/Mar 2024Paper 1 Q221 Mark

Which statements correctly describe features of stem cells that are essential for their role in cell replacement and tissue repair? 1 After mitosis of stem cells, the daughter cells can either remain as stem cells or follow a developmental pathway that leads to the formation of specialised cells. 2 Stem cells are different to all other body cells because they retain all of the genetic information in their DNA throughout the life of the organism. 3 A small population of stem cells is retained in the body of adults throughout their life time. 4 Stem cells have more telomeres than other body cells and this allows them to undergo an unlimited number of mitotic divisions.

A1, 2, 3 and 4
B1, 2 and 3 only
C1 and 3 only
D2, 3 and 4 only

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is C: 1 and 3 only

📋 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 Feb/Mar 2024 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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