A-LevelBiologyCell membranes and transportMay/June 2015Paper 1 Q151 Mark

Which description of cell surface membrane permeability is correct?

Q: What topic does this question test?

This question tests Cell membranes and transport in A-Level Biology (syllabus code 9700). It is worth 1 mark.

AAn increase in the concentration of cholesterol molecules in the cell surface membrane can increase its permeability to hydrophilic substances.

BCell surface membrane permeability to large hydrophilic molecules is high and can be increased by membrane transport proteins involved in facilitated diffusion.

CThe permeability of the cell surface membrane to ions is increased with an increase in the proportion of saturated fatty acids in the phospholipids.

DWithout the presence of carrier and channel membrane proteins, the cell surface membrane has a low permeability to large polar molecules.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is D: Without the presence of carrier and channel membrane proteins, the cell surface membrane has a low permeability to large polar molecules.

📋 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 May/June 2015 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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