essay questions and answers on biology

Free Biology Essay Examples & Writing Tips

Don’t know what to write about in your essay on biology? Looking for good biology essay examples for inspiration? This article has all you need!

A biology essay is a type of academic paper that focuses on a particular topic of biology. It can discuss animal life, cycles in biology, or a botanic subject. You will need to demonstrate your critical thinking skills and provide relevant evidence to support your perspective.

On this page, you will find examples of biology essays. You will also find here tips and topics prepared by our experts . They can assist you in nailing your short or extended essay.

If you’ve been assigned to write a biology essay, you probably know which area of research you have to choose. However, it might be beneficial to explore other available scopes. It’s useful for both interdisciplinary study and the cases when you are free to pick your area of research. In this section, let’s figure out what you can study in biology.

Here are biological areas of research you should be familiar with:

• Cancer Biology studies this type of disease to prevent, detect, diagnose and cure it. The ultimate goal of such biologists is to eliminate cancer.
• Cell Biology is a branch that studies the structure, function, and behavior of cells. Here, biologists study healthy and sick cells to produce vaccines, medication, etc.
• Biochemistry is an application of chemistry to the study of biological processes on cell and molecular levels. It is a cross-discipline between chemistry and biology. The focus is on the chemical processes of living organisms.
• Computation Biology is a study of biological data that develops algorithms and models to understand biological systems. Here, scientists either work for institutions or research for private enterprises.
• Genetics is an area that focuses on the study of genes and genetic variations for health benefits. It looks at the way DNA affects certain diseases.
• Human Disease is an area within which scientists study different diseases. The field covers cancer, developmental disorders, disease genes, etc.
• Immunology is a branch of biology that focuses on immunity. Immunologists look at the way the body responds to viruses as a way to protect the organism.
• Microbiology studies all living organisms that are too small for our eye to see. It includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms.
• Neurobiology is the study of the nervous system. Biologists examine the way the brain works and look into brain illnesses.
• Stem Cell and Developmental Biology seeks to examine how the processes behind stem cell’s ability transform cells. The biologists in this area use the power of stem cells to model human illnesses.

Want to know how to start a biology essay? Wondering about the best way to write your essay on biology? Then check out the following tips.

When you’re writing about biology, pay attention to the following features:

• Introduction . Just as in any other form of academic writing, the first section of your paper introduces the subject. Here, explain why your ideas are relevant to biology as a science.
• Thesis Statement. The final one or two sentences of the first paragraph should include your original hypothesis and experiment. You will be proving them in the main body. You do not have to include the results as the reader will encounter them later. If you’re struggling with this part, try our thesis generator .
• Main Body. In this part, write about all the experiments in detail. Often, teachers require to include visual aid to prove your point. For Zoology, Anatomy, Botany, it is pretty easy to find some photos and illustrations.
• Conclusion. Here, restate your thesis. Reemphasize the most critical aspects described in the main body. You can do it by using our summarizing tool . The goal of this last paragraph is to leave an everlasting impression on the reader.

Thank you for reading our article. We hope you found it helpful. Share it with your class peers who also study biology. Additionally, have a look at the biological essay examples below.

746 Best Essay Examples on Biology

Grass and its importance, the benefits of animals to humans essay.

• Words: 1166

Effects of Vinegar on the Germination Rate of Mung Beans Seeds

• Words: 1750

Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological System Theory

• Words: 1827

The Effect of Temperature on Amylase Activity

• Words: 1293

Ubiquity of Microorganisms

• Words: 2210

Biology of Grasses: Description and Importance

Anaerobic respiration and its applications.

• Words: 1274

Browning Reactions Explained

Strawberries history.

• Words: 1484

Dark or Light Skin: Advantages and Disadvantages

Mung seed germination patterns under varying ph values, seed germination experiment: results and discussion, mitosis and meiosis in onion root tip.

• Words: 1691

Botany and Taxonomy of the Onion

• Words: 2414

Lemon, Its Origin and Production

• Words: 1115

Biology: Analysis of Egg Experiment

Eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells: key differences, similarities and differences of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, pets and people, the insect effect on human life, corn plant’s developmental stages, forensic procedures: hairs and fibres.

• Words: 2067

Understanding the Effects of Quantity of Light on Plants Growth

• Words: 1089

Nanobiotechnology, Its Advantages and Disadvantages

A brief discussion of animal and plant cells, seed germination and osmosis.

• Words: 1127

Osmosis Through a Potato Slice Dipped in Solutions of Varying Concentrations

• Words: 1075

The Function and Structures of the Human Heart

Vitamin a: description and usage, biology lab report: biodiversity study of lichens, the c-fern plant laboratory experiment.

• Words: 1101

Consequences of Orange Juice on the Germination of Mung Bean Seeds

The anatomy and physiology of the nervous system of a rat.

• Words: 1612

A Light Microscope: Function and Usage

The characteristics and importance of nervous system.

• Words: 1705

Life in the Bottom of the Ocean and Its Protection

• Words: 1529

How Science Biology Might Help Alleviate Human Suffering

Mitosis in onion root and whitefish blastula, dugesia, a planarian with its peculiar characteristics.

• Words: 3207

Transpiration Process in Plants

Is earthworm beneficial or harmful to humans, responsible house plant keeping.

• Words: 2262

Importance of the Brain in Human Body

Characteristics of adult development.

• Words: 1311

Soil Impact on the Growth of Plants

• Words: 1227

Cell Organelles, Their Functions, and Disease

• Words: 1195

Digestion, Absorption and Assembly of Proteins

• Words: 1456

Description of Mitosis and Meiosis

The digestive system in the human body, a lab report for microbiology class, vision, its structure and function in humans, archaea and bacteria prokaryotes dichotomous keys, the genus rosa’s adaptation to the environment.

• Words: 1144

Photosynthesis as a Biological Process

A passion flower: properties and story of discovery, marine life in united arab emirates.

• Words: 1474

How SCOBY Changes Its Environment: Lab Experiment

• Words: 1214

The Muscular Movement: Pyramidal and Extrapyramidal Motor Systems

Psychophysics: definition & fundamentals.

• Words: 1606

“The Egg and the Sperm” by Emily Martin Critique

• Words: 2577

Olfactics and Its Importance for Living Beings

• Words: 1446

History Of Biotechnology

• Words: 1908

Basic and Applied Biology: Key Differences

Yeast and the fermentation process, the concept of selective breeding.

• Words: 2724

How the Human Eye Works Analogous to a Camera

The brain: structure and functions, plant growth and development with music, bird dna extraction: sex determination of gallus gallus.

• Words: 1109

The Human Cloning Debates

• Words: 1197

Wildlife Management and Extinction Prevention in Australia

• Words: 2902

Epithelial Tissue: Structure and Functions

Rabbit muscular system dissection report, ubiquity of bacteria: laboratory activity.

• Words: 1496

Substrate Concentration and Rate of Enzyme Reactions

• Words: 1730

Co-Evolution: Angiosperms and Pollinating Animals

Biology. cell analogy – nucleus + nucleolus, differences of domesticated and wild animals and plants, vaquita – endangered species.

• Words: 1367

Energy Balance and Expenditure

Practical report: determination of a bacteriophage titer, digestive journey of cheeseburger, computational biology as an essential research area, microbial growth and effect of ph on it.

• Words: 1330

Chlamydia Sexually Transmitted Disease

Cell theory, functions, discoveries, how the skeletal muscles derive the energy for contraction.

• Words: 1913

Biology: Photosynthesis and Respiration

Cloning of plants at the botanic garden, the effect of habitat disturbance on invertebrate abundance and diversity.

• Words: 1282

Viruses: Alive or Not From Scientific Perspective

Botany and zoology in the classroom.

• Words: 1631

Whether or Not Human Cloning Should Be Allowed

• Words: 1350

Living Things: What Do They Have in Common?

The pomegranate or “punica granatum l.”.

• Words: 1184

What Enzymes Are and How Do They Work

A study of the brine shrimps and their natural environment.

• Words: 1937

Microbiology: Zygomycota, Ascomycota and Basidiomycota

The dna extraction procedure: scientific experiment, human biology: nervous, muscle, epithelial and connective tissue, different ecosystems and living things, vertical stratification, ethnobotanical uses of plants.

• Words: 1938

Introduction to the Nervous System

Venomous snakes: the importance of the antidotes, the human family tree development, the thermoregulation is and its importance, the role of the olive in human history and lives.

• Words: 1653

Preparation of Polymers and Polymer Modification

Cell creation. basic characteristic of life, microbiology and its role in healthcare, bacteria identification: enterobacter aerogenes.

• Words: 1096

What Is Mitochondria and What Functions Does It Have

• Words: 1095

The Physical Self Concept Analysis

Biochemistry: protein translocation types & forms.

• Words: 1254

Geelong Botanic Garden’s Ecosystem

• Words: 2506

The Ocean’s Rarest Mammal Vaquita – An Endangered Species

• Words: 1878

16S and 18S Ribonucleic Acids: The Key Differences

The intricate world of camouflage: lessons from nature and beyond.

IvyPanda uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience, enabling functionalities such as:

• Basic site functions
• Ensuring secure, safe transactions
• Secure account login
• Remembering account, browser, and regional preferences
• Remembering privacy and security settings
• Analyzing site traffic and usage
• Personalized search, content, and recommendations
• Displaying relevant, targeted ads on and off IvyPanda

Please refer to IvyPanda's Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy for detailed information.

Certain technologies we use are essential for critical functions such as security and site integrity, account authentication, security and privacy preferences, internal site usage and maintenance data, and ensuring the site operates correctly for browsing and transactions.

Cookies and similar technologies are used to enhance your experience by:

• Remembering general and regional preferences
• Personalizing content, search, recommendations, and offers

Some functions, such as personalized recommendations, account preferences, or localization, may not work correctly without these technologies. For more details, please refer to IvyPanda's Cookies Policy .

To enable personalized advertising (such as interest-based ads), we may share your data with our marketing and advertising partners using cookies and other technologies. These partners may have their own information collected about you. Turning off the personalized advertising setting won't stop you from seeing IvyPanda ads, but it may make the ads you see less relevant or more repetitive.

Personalized advertising may be considered a "sale" or "sharing" of the information under California and other state privacy laws, and you may have the right to opt out. Turning off personalized advertising allows you to exercise your right to opt out. Learn more in IvyPanda's Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy .

Woolton Tutors

One-to-one tutoring in science, maths and languages

How to answer A-level Biology essay questions

The Synoptic essay question on paper 3 of the AQA A-level biology course carries 25 marks, so doing well can make a big difference to your overall grade. The essay encourages you to think across different topics (some call this “synoptic” or “holistic” thinking). This is also valuable for other areas of the exams, particularly the application questions .

Here are a few tips for tackling your A-level biology essay: (As an example, let’s use the title “ The importance of movement in cells and tissues ”)

Think broadly…

Essay titles are deliberately vague to give you the chance to show your knowledge in a variety of topics. To help you to choose what’s most relevant, look out for subjective words like “movement” and “cells”. Think of the possible alternatives. “Cells”, for example, hints that you could discuss plants, animals, single-celled organisms etc. in your essay. “Movement” could mean short distances (across a membrane) or much further (circulation or mass flow) or even the whole tissue moving (phototropism).

Visualize and catastrophize!

If you can’t think of enough topics for an “importance” essay, flip the question around – what would happen if movement in cells suddenly ground to a halt? Or if ATP suddenly vanished, or our cells were robbed of their ions? Sometimes catastrophizing in this way frees up thoughts, and helps you see what is really important. Another way is to picture every diagram in your notes or textbook that features the thing-that’s-important-in-the-question. If it’s in a diagram, it could go in your essay.

Pick your strongest topics

It’s possible to drop marks on the essay for scientific errors. With that in mind, even if you have lots of ideas for things to include, always pick the topics you can write confidently about. For bonus marks, try to order them in a way that “flows” like a story. Take care to use A-level (and not GCSE) language too.

Keep an eye on the question

While you’re writing, keep asking yourself “Where am I placing the emphasis?”. If the essay is about movement, perhaps you don’t need a whole page about nervous responses, only the bits where movement is involved – sodium ions flowing through channels, waves of depolarisation etc. Movement is the focus of the essay, after all, not neurons. Always ask yourself “Does this sentence fit with the title of the essay?”

Use outside knowledge

The top marks for the essay are reserved for displaying “evidence of reading beyond specification requirements”. Often you can drop recent scientific research or news into your writing – how vaccines tackle COVID might work in an essay about viruses, for example. I often encourage students to have a quick look at the news pages of New Scientist pages (eg https://www.newscientist.com/subject/health/ ) before paper 3 for inspiration – you don’t need to spend ages doing this, just long enough to have one or two ideas up your sleeve…

Good luck with your essay!

If you’d like to work through some A-level biology describe and explain

If you’d like to work through some example essay questions, please get in touch with me at Woolton Tutors (or Woolton Biology) and we can set up some online biology tutoring sessions.

Best wishes,

Dr John Ankers

Specialist online A-level biology tutor

www.wooltontutors.co.uk

Share this:

Author: Dr John Ankers

Dr John Ankers is a tutor, coach and writer. For writing and consultancy work, please contact me at [email protected] View all posts by Dr John Ankers

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

AP Biology Practice Exams

We have links to all of the best online AP Biology practice exams. These resources will provide thousands of challenging practice questions to work through. Choose from the listing below to get started with your test prep right now!

AP Biology Practice Test

Varsity tutors, biology (mader) 8th edition, ap biology math review, official practice test, college board 1999 exam, albert ap biology practice, biology (mader) 10th edition.

AP Biology | Practice Exams | Free Response | Notes | Videos |  Study Guides

• Tue. Sep 24th, 2024

Educationnewshub.co.ke

• Latest TSC news
• CBC Grade 1-6
• CBC Grade 7-9
• Latest Education news
• Secondary Notes & Exams
• Secondary School Fees
• Latest KICD news

Biology KCSE Essay Questions and Answers Paper 2; Over 1,000

KCSE BIOLOGY PAPPER TWO 231/2 -ESSAYS FROM 1995 -2023

  a). Describe how insect pollinated flowers are adapted to pollination ( KCSE1995)

• Progesterone
• Luteinizinghormone
• Describe how excretion takes place in: ( KCSE1995)
• MammalianKidneys
• Greenplants
• a).Explainhowthemammalianskinisadaptedtoperformitsfunctions (20marks; KCSE 1996)

b). Describe how new plants arise by asexual reproduction (20 marks; KCSE 1996)

Related Posts

Stress in english latest notes, high school lesson plans free downloads, best 100 agriculture and farming books in kenya.

• Form 1 Agriculture Exams and Marking Schemes Free
• a). What is parasitism? (KCSE1997)

b). Describe how the tapeworm is adapted to a parasitic mode of life (KCSE 1997)

• a). What is meant by the term digestion? (KCSE1997 )

b). Describe how the mammalian small intestine is adapted to its function (KCSE 1997)

• Discuss the various evidences, which show that evolution has taken place (20 marks; KCSE 1998)
• Explain how the mammalian intestines are adapted to perform their function (20 marks; KCSE 1998)
• a). Describethe:
• Process of inhalation in mammals ( KCSE 1999)
• Mechanisms of opening and closing of stomata in plants (KCSE1999)

b). Explain how the various activities of man have caused pollution of air (20 marks; KCSE 1999)

• a). Describe the role of hormones in the human menstrual cycle (20 marks; KCSE2000)

b). How are leaves of mesophytes suited to their functions (20 marks; KCSE 2000)

• a). State the functions of the following parts of the mammalian ear; (KCSE2001)
• Tympanicmembrane
• Eustachiantube
• Earossicles

b). Describe how semicircular canals perform their functions (KCSE 2001 )

• a). Describe the process of fertilization in a flowering plant ( KCSE2001)

b). State the change that take place in a flower after fertilization ( KCSE 2001)

• a). Describe the role of hormones in the growth and development of plants (20 marks; KCSE 2002)
• a). Name three types of skeletons found in multicellular animals ( KCSE2002)

b). Describe how the cervical, lumbar and sacral vertebrae are suited to their functions

Also read..

BIOLOGY FORM ONE SUMMARIZED NOTES

Biology Form one to four exams, notes and revision materials

BIOLOGY FORM FOUR SUMMARIZED NOTES

BIOLOGY FORM TWO SUMMARIZED NOTES

Biology notes form 1-4; Free KCSE downloads

Free Biology notes, revision questions, KCSE past Papers, Exams, Marking Schemes, Topical revision materials, Syllabus and Many more

BIOLOGY FORM ONE NOTES FREE

BIOLOGY FORM THREE SUMMARIZED NOTES

Biology notes (Updated form one to four free notes)

Biology Simplified Notes Form 1 to 4 Free

Biology Free notes and Exams for Form one to Four

BIOLOGY KCSE MARKING AND SETTING TIPS IN LINE WITH EMERGING TRENDS

Biology topical questions and answers

Biology KCSE Past Papers and all marking schemes free downloads

Biology free lesson plans for all topics (Form one to four)

CBC Senior School Subjects (Grade 10, 11, 12)

CRE free lesson plans for all topics (Form one to four)

History and Government free lesson plans for all topics (Form one to four)

Free Secondary School Exams and Marking schemes (Form 1 to 4)

Syllabus For All Secondary Schools Per Subjects (Latest Syllabus)

English free lesson plans for all topics (Form one to four)

Free Physics notes, revision questions, KCSE past Papers, Exams, Marking Schemes, Topical revision materials, Syllabus and Many more

FORM 4 EXAMINATIONS AND MARKING SCHEMES: ALL SUBJECTS FOR KCSE CANDIDATES- OVER 1,000 PAPERS

Form 4 Term 1-3 Free Exams and marking schemes; All subjects downloads

FORM 3 ALL SUBJECTS EXAMS, ASSIGNMENTS: FREE TERM 1-3 EXAMS & ANSWERS

Updated Secondary School Notes form one to four Free Downloads (All subjects Comprehensive Notes)

Physics free lesson plans for all topics (Form one to four)

(KCSE 2002)

• a). Describe the functions of the various parts of the human eye (20 marks; KCSE2003)

                                                                                                                                         1 | P a ge

(b). Describe how fruits and seeds are suited to their modes of dispersal (20 marks; KCSE 2003)

• a). How is the mammalian skin adapted to its functions? (20 marks; KCSE2004)

b). Explain how a biotic factors affect plants (20 marks; KCSE 2004)

• a). Describe how gaseous exchange takes place in terrestrial plants (20 marks; KCSE2005)

b). How is the human eye adapted to its function? (20 marks; KCSE 2005)

• a). Describe how human kidney functions (20 marks; KCSE2006)

b).Describehowwatermovesfromthesoiltotheleavesinatree (20marks; KCSE2006)

• a). Describe the structure and functions of the various parts of the human ear (20 marks; KCSE 2007 )

b). Describe causes and methods of controlling water pollution (20 marks; KCSE 2007 )

• Describe the nitrogen cycle (20 marks; KCSE2008)
• a). State four characteristics of gaseous exchangesurfaces

b). Describe the mechanism of gaseous exchange in a mammal (16 marks; KCSE 2008)

• a). How are flowers adapted to wind and insect pollination? (20 marks; KCSE2009 )

b). Describe the role of the liver in homeostasis in the human body (20 marks; KCSE2009)

• a). Describe the process of fertilization in flowering plants (20 marks; KCSE2010)

b). Describe how a finned fish such as tilapia moves in water (20 marks; KCSE 2010)

• a). Describe the exoskeleton and its function in insects (13 marks; KCSE2011)

b). Describe how accommodation in the human eye is brought about when focusing on a near object (7 marks; KCSE 2011)

• Using a relevant example in each case, describe simple and conditional reflex action (20 marks; KCSE2012)
• a).Usingarelevantexample,describehowanallergicreactionoccursinahumanbeing

(10 marks; KCSE 2012)

b).Describehowenvironmentalfactorsincreasetherateoftranspirationinterrestrialplants

• a). Describe the process of blood clotting in human beings (10 marks; KCSE2013 )

b).Howarerespiratorysurfacesinmammalsadaptedtotheirfunctions? (10marks; KCSE 2013)

• Describe the role of the following organs in excretion andhomeostasis
• The liver (10 marks; KCSE2013)
• The skin during hot environmental conditions (10 marks; KCSE2013 )
• a). Explain how each of the following factors affect the rate ofphotosynthesis:
• Temperature (2 marks; KCSE2014)
• Chlorophyll concentration (2 marks; KCSE2014 )

b). Describe the process of carbohydrate digestion in human beings (16 marks; KCSE2014)

• a). How does excretion take place in plants (4 marks; KCSE2014)

b). Describe the role of the human skin in homeostasis (16 marks; KCSE 2014)

• a).Explainthevariouswaysinwhichseedsandfruitsareadaptedtodispersal (20marks; KCSE 2015)

b). How is a mammalian heart structurally adapted to its function? (20 marks; KCSE2015)

                                                                                                                                         2 | P a ge

• (a).Usingarelevantexampleineachcase,describesimpleandconditionalreflexaction

(20 marks; KCSE 2016)

b). Describe how the mammalian heart is structurally adapted to its function (20 marks; KCSE 2016)

• a ) Explain the importance of protecting the forest ecosystem with reference to the following (20 marks; KCSE 2017 )
• a) Climate change
• b) Biodiversity

c)Biotechnology

d)Water conservation

• e) Pollution
• b) Describe how a mammalian eye is structurally adapted to its functions (20 marks)
• a) Describe the mode reproduction in a named fungus (5 marks)
• b) Describe the roles of hormones in the menstrual cycle (15 marks; KCSE 2018 )
• a) Giving examples, describe the following among organisms (20marks; KCSE 2019 )
• Predator-prey relationship
• b) Explain the effect of increased physical activity on the following organ system (20 marks)
• a)(i)Explain the role of the liver in blood regulation (3 marks ; KCSE 2020)
• Describe how a mammalian heart is adapted to its functions (17 marks)
• b) (i) Explain how the presence of chloroplast in guard cell affect the opening of the stomata (5marks)

(ii) Describe how various environmental factors affect the rate of photosynthesis (15marks)

• a) (i) Explain the role of placenta during pregnancy(10 marks) ( KCSE 2021)
• ii) Explain features and mechanisms that hinder self pollination and self fertilization(10 marks)

b)( i) Describe how xylem is structurally adapted to its functions  (5marks)

(ii) Describe the functions of mammalian blood in the human body(15 marks)

• a i) Describe how plants eliminate waste products(8 marks; KCSE2022 )

ii)Describe the structure and function of mammalian nephron (12marks)

• b) i. Describe five tropic responses and their survival values (15marks)

ii)Describe how mammalian heartbeat is controlled                (5mks)

You might also like:

• How to apply for Knec training online- Step by step guide
• SasaPay – Complete Guide
• Log in to my NHIF – Self care portal
• NHIF hospitals and their codes Per County (Machakos)
• Homa Bay County KCSE 2023 Best, Top Performing Schools

Related Post

Why kakamega school’s soccer team is called the ‘green commandos’, 𝐄𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐯𝐭 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩, kmtc sends 11,000 students’ transcripts to campuses, kcpe 2022 results analysis per school – mumias central primary school, add education news hub to your homescreen.

Critical Thinking Questions

Why is it advantageous for the cell membrane to be fluid in nature?

Why do phospholipids tend to spontaneously orient themselves into something resembling a membrane?

How can a cell use an extracellular peripheral protein as the receptor to transmit a signal into the cell?

Which explanation identifies how the following affect the rate of diffusion: molecular size, temperature, solution density, and the distance that must be traveled?

Why does water move through a membrane?

Both of the regular intravenous solutions administered in medicine, normal saline and lactated Ringer’s solution, are isotonic. Why is this important?

Describe two ways that decreasing temperature would affect the rate of diffusion of molecules across a cell’s plasma membrane.

A cell develops a mutation in its potassium channels that prevents the ions from leaving the cell. If the cell’s aquaporins are still active, what will happen to the cell? Be sure to describe the tonicity and osmolarity of the cell.

Where does the cell get energy for active transport processes?

How does the sodium-potassium pump contribute to the net negative charge of the interior of the cell?

Glucose from digested food enters intestinal epithelial cells by active transport. Why would intestinal cells use active transport when most body cells use facilitated diffusion?

The sodium/calcium exchanger (NCX) transports sodium into and calcium out of cardiac muscle cells. Describe why this transporter is classified as secondary active transport.

Why is it important that there are different types of proteins in plasma membranes for the transport of materials into and out of a cell?

Why do ions have a difficult time getting through plasma membranes despite their small size?

This book may not be used in the training of large language models or otherwise be ingested into large language models or generative AI offerings without OpenStax's permission.

Want to cite, share, or modify this book? This book uses the Creative Commons Attribution License and you must attribute OpenStax.

Access for free at https://openstax.org/books/biology-2e/pages/1-introduction

• Authors: Mary Ann Clark, Matthew Douglas, Jung Choi
• Publisher/website: OpenStax
• Book title: Biology 2e
• Publication date: Mar 28, 2018
• Location: Houston, Texas
• Book URL: https://openstax.org/books/biology-2e/pages/1-introduction
• Section URL: https://openstax.org/books/biology-2e/pages/5-critical-thinking-questions

© Jul 10, 2024 OpenStax. Textbook content produced by OpenStax is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License . The OpenStax name, OpenStax logo, OpenStax book covers, OpenStax CNX name, and OpenStax CNX logo are not subject to the Creative Commons license and may not be reproduced without the prior and express written consent of Rice University.

Frequently Asked Biology Questions and Answers

DR Torsten Wittmann/Science Photo Library/Getty Image

• Cell Biology
• Weather & Climate
• B.A., Biology, Emory University
• A.S., Nursing, Chattahoochee Technical College

Biology is a wondrous science that inspires us to discover more about the world around us. While science may not have the answers to every question, some biology questions are answerable. Have you ever wondered why DNA is twisted or why some sounds make your skin crawl? Discover answers to these and other intriguing biology questions.

Why Is DNA Twisted?

DNA is known for its familiar twisted shape. This shape is often described as a spiral staircase or twisted ladder. DNA is a nucleic acid with three main components: nitrogenous bases, deoxyribose sugars, and phosphate molecules. Interactions between water and the molecules that compose DNA cause this nucleic acid to take on a twisted shape. This shape aids in the packing of DNA into chromatin fibers, which condense to form chromosomes . The helical shape of DNA also makes DNA replication and protein synthesis possible. When necessary, the double helix unwinds and opens to allow DNA to be copied.

Why Do Certain Sounds Make Your Skin Crawl?

Nails on a chalkboard, squealing brakes, or a crying baby are all sounds that can make one's skin crawl. Why does this happen? The answer involves how the brain processes sound. When we detect a sound, sound waves travel to our ears and the sound energy is converted to nerve impulses. These impulses travel to the auditory cortex of the brain's temporal lobes for processing. Another brain structure, the amygdala , heightens our perception of the sound and associates it with a particular emotion, such as fear or unpleasantness. These emotions can elicit a physical response to certain sounds, such as goose bumps or a sensation that something is crawling over your skin.

What Are the Differences Between Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells?

The primary characteristic that differentiates eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic cells is the cell nucleus . Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus that is surrounded by a membrane, which separates the DNA within from the cytoplasm and other organelles . Prokaryotic cells do not have a true nucleus in that the nucleus is not surrounded by a membrane. Prokaryotic DNA is located in an area of the cytoplasm called the nucleoid region. Prokaryotic cells are typically much smaller and less complex than eukaryotic cells. Examples of eukaryotic organisms include animals, plants, fungi and protists (ex. algae ).

How Are Fingerprints Formed?

Andrey Prokhorov/E+/Getty Image

Fingerprints are patterns of ridges that form on our fingers, palms, toes, and feet. Fingerprints are unique, even among identical twins. They are formed while we are in our mother's womb and are influenced by several factors. These factors include genetic makeup, position in the womb, amniotic fluid flow, and umbilical cord length. Fingerprints are formed in the innermost layer of the epidermis known as the basal cell layer. Rapid cell growth in the basal cell layer causes this layer to fold and form various patterns.

What Are the Differences Between Bacteria and Viruses?

While both bacteria and viruses are capable of making us sick, they are very different microbes. Bacteria are living organisms that produce energy and are capable of independent reproduction. Viruses are not cells but particles of DNA or RNA encased within a protective shell. They do not possess all of the characteristics of living organisms. Viruses must rely on other organisms in order to reproduce because they do not possess the organelles needed to replicate. Bacteria are typically larger than viruses and susceptible to antibiotics . Antibiotics do not work against viruses and viral infections.

Why Do Women Typically Live Longer Than Men?

In almost every culture, women usually outlive men. While several factors can influence the life expectancy differences between men and women, genetic makeup is considered to be the major reason women live longer than men. Mitochondrial DNA mutations cause males to age faster than females. Since mitochondrial DNA is only inherited from mothers, mutations that occur in female mitochondrial genes are monitored to filter out dangerous mutations. Male mitochondrial genes are not monitored so the mutations accumulate over time.

What Are the Differences Between Plant and Animal Cells?

Encyclopaedia Britannica/UIG/Getty Images

Animal cells and plant cells are both eukaryotic cells with a number of common characteristics. These cells also differ in a number of characteristics such as size, shape, energy storage, growth, and organelles. Structures found in plant cells and not animal cells include a cell wall , plastids, and plasmodesmata. Centrioles and lysosomes are structures that are found in animal cells but not usually in plant cells. While plants are capable of generating their own food through photosynthesis , animals must obtain nutrition through ingestion or absorption.

Is the 5-second Rule True or a Myth?

The 5-second rule is based on the theory that food that has been dropped on the floor for a brief period of time does not pick up many germs and is safe to eat. This theory is somewhat true in that the less time food is in contact with a surface, the fewer  bacteria are transferred to the food. Several factors play a role in the level of contamination that may occur once food has been dropped on the floor or another surface. These factors include the texture of the food (soft, sticky, etc.) and the type of surface (tile, carpet, etc.) involved. It is always best to avoid eating food that has a high risk of contamination, such as food that has been dropped in the trash.

What Are the Differences Between Mitosis and Meiosis?

Mitosis and meiosis are cell division processes that involve the division of a diploid cell . Mitosis is the process by which somatic cells ( body cells ) reproduce. Two identical daughter cells are produced as a result of mitosis. Meiosis is the process by which gametes (sex cells) are formed. This two-part cell division process produces four daughter cells that are haploid . In sexual reproduction , the haploid sex cells unite during fertilization to form a diploid cell.

What Happens When Lightning Strikes You?

Lightning is a powerful force that can cause serious injury to those that are unfortunate enough to be hit by it. There are five ways in which individuals may be hit by lightning. These types of strikes include a direct strike, side flash, ground current strike, conduction strike, and a streamer strike. Some of these strikes are more serious than others but all involve electrical current traveling through the body. This current moves over the skin or through the cardiovascular system and nervous system causing serious damage to vital organs .

What Is the Purpose of Bodily Functions?

Have you ever wondered why we yawn, burp, sneeze, or cough? Some bodily functions are the result of voluntary actions controlled by the individual, while others are involuntary and not under the control of the individual. Yawning, for example, is a reflex response that occurs when a person is tired or bored. Though the reasons for yawning are not fully understood, studies indicate that it helps to cool the brain.

What Are the Different Types of Plant Growth?

Have you ever noticed how plants grow toward different types of stimuli? Growth of a plant in the direction of a stimulus is called plant tropism. Some of these stimuli include light, gravity, water, and touch. Other types of plant tropisms include growth in the direction of chemical signals (chemotropism) and growth in response to heat or temperature changes (thermotropism).

• How To Study for Biology Exams
• Biology Homework Help
• Basic Tips to Ace Your Biology Class
• What Is AP Biology?
• How To Take Good Biology Notes
• Biology: The Study of Life
• Scientific Method Example
• Biology Prefixes and Suffixes: epi-
• Biology Prefixes and Suffixes: "Cyto-" and "-Cyte"
• Laws of Thermodynamics as Related to Biology
• Biology Prefixes and Suffixes: -ectomy, -ostomy
• Biology Prefixes and Suffixes: dactyl-, -dactyl
• Biology Prefixes and Suffixes: heter- or hetero-
• Biology Prefixes and Suffixes: -phyll or -phyl
• Karyo- or Caryo- Biology Prefixes and Suffixes
• Biology Prefixes and Suffixes: meso-

• CBSE Class 12 Study Material

CBSE Class 12 Biology Competency-Based Questions With Answer Key 2024-25: Chapter 9 Organisms And Population FREE PDF Download!

Cbse class 12 biology chapter 8 practice questions 2024-25: this article will give you insights on competency-based questions and answer keys for chapter 9 organisms and population. you can download the pdf for free..

CBSE 2024-25 Competency-Based Questions With Answers: Competency-based questions designed by the Central Board Of Secondary Education (CBSE) are designed to evaluate a student’s ability to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-life situations. These questions can include multiple-choice questions, Case studies, Source-based integrated questions, True-false questions, Assertion-reasoning questions, Short and long-answer questions  and Gap-filling exercises.  Competency-based questions aim to move beyond root learning encouraging the students to develop skills like creative thinking, problem-solving and systems thinking. These questions are essential for the students to develop a sense of deep understanding of any chapter and particular topics. 

• Build a strong relationship about the subject
• Learn to analyse and solve problems with their creative thinking
• Practising applying their theoretical knowledge to real-world life situations. 

CBSE Class 12 Biology Competency-Based Questions With Answer Key 2024-25

Multiple-choice questions.

1. The larvae of insects such as the African midge inhabit temporary pools in  hollows of rocks when water evaporates in their arid environment. These larvae  revive when immersed in water even after a few years.  Which response to abiotic stress does the statement depict?

a)regulation

b)Migration

c)suspension

d)conformation 

2. Trees in some regions have very thin barks and broad leaves placed at different angles to allow them to capture adequate sunlight and leaves with pointed tips  that allow water to run off easily.  In which biome are such trees likely to be found?

Answer Key 

• C. suspension
• D. rainforests 

Now, that the students have access to all the important questions for Chapter 9 Organisms And Population, we are also providing a Free PDF to download these questions in an accessible format.

CHECK: CBSE Class 12 Biology Competency-Based Questions: Chapter 9 Organisms And Population 2024-25 FREE PDF Download

• CBSE Class 12 Biology Competency-Based Questions With Answer Key 2024-25: Chapter 8 Molecular Basis Of Inheritance FREE PDF Download!
• CBSE Class 12 Biology Competency-Based Questions With Answer Key 2024-25: Chapter 7 Microbes In Human Welfare FREE PDF Download!

Get here latest School , CBSE and Govt Jobs notification and articles in English and Hindi for Sarkari Naukari , Sarkari Result and Exam Preparation . Download the Jagran Josh Sarkari Naukri App .

• RSMSSB CET Admit Card 2024
• Rajasthan CET Admit Card 2024
• OSSSC ICDS Admit Card 2024
• RRB NTPC Apply Online 2024
• OTET Answer Key 2024
• RPSC RAS Notification 2024
• राजस्थान CET एडमिट कार्ड 2024
• Jharkhand Police Admit Card 2024
• MP Police Bharti Physical Test 2024
• Daughters Day Quotes, Wishes

Latest Education News

TNPSC Group 2 Answer Key 2024 Out at tnpsc.gov.in: Check Response Sheet PDF and Objection Raise Prices

IBPS RRB Clerk Result 2024 Live Updates: Direct Link to Check Office Assistant Prelims Result at ibps.in, Check Latest Updates

BPSC 70th Notification 2024 OUT for 1957 Vacancies at bpsc.bih.nic.in: Check Bihar CCE Application Dates, Exam Details Here

TNPSC Group 2 Prelims Answer Key 2024 OUT at tnpsc.gov.in: Submit Objection Before 30 September

Brain Teaser: Can Your High IQ Find Which Pipe is Filling the Bucket in 5 Seconds?

Picture Puzzle IQ Test: Your IQ Is Higher Than 130 if You Spot The Pug in 13 Seconds

हॉलीवुड की अब तक बनी 10 सबसे महंगी फिल्मों की सूची, यहां देखें

Visual Skill Test: Find the odd one out in 4 seconds!

Tamil Nadu State Scholarship (TNSSP) 2024: Login Portal, Benefits and Application Form

Laapataa Ladies Finds Its Pataa: Selected as India's Official Entry for the 2025 Oscars

BPSC 70th Notification 2024 OUT: बीपीएससी परीक्षा की अधिसूचना जारी, 1900 से अधिक पदों पर होगी भर्ती, यहाँ चेक करें डिटेल्स

Spot 3 differences between the honeybee pictures in 19 seconds!

Haryana Board Class 11 Business Studies Model Paper With Solution 2024-25: Download Free PDF

Oscar 2025: List of Indian Movies which has Official Entry for Academy Awards

WB ANM, GNM Final Answer Key 2024 Out at wbjeeb.nic.in, Result Soon

ANM, GNM Result 2024 Date Announced at wbjeeb.nic.in, Final Answer Keys Released

Today Current Affairs One Liners 23 September 2024: 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad

RRB NTPC Apply Online 2024 Starts at rrbapply.gov.in for 3445 Undergraduate Vacancies: Get Direct Link Here

MP ITI Training Officer Admit Card 2024 OUT: जारी हुआ मध्य प्रदेश आईटीआई ट्रेनिंग ऑफिसर एडमिट कार्ड, ये रहा Direct Link

Current Affairs Quiz 23 September 2024: IIFA Awards 2025