Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · Homeostasis in mammals

Homeostasis in mammals — practice question

In mammals, osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus of the brain continually monitor the water potential of the blood. If the water potential of the blood falls, ADH (antidiuretic hormone) is made by cells in the hypothalamus and then passed into the blood through an endocrine gland.
(a(i))[1]

Explain what the term water potential means.

(a(ii))[1]

Describe what happens to water potential when solute is added to a solution.

(a(iii))[1]

State the exact place from which ADH is released into the blood.

(a(iv))[1]

The fall in the water potential of the blood is sometimes caused by water being lost from the body of a mammal. List two ways in which water can be lost from the body.

(b)[5]

Describe the effect of ADH on the kidney.

(c)[2]

Diabetes insipidus is a condition caused by an inability to produce ADH or by the kidneys being unable to respond to ADH. Suggest symptoms that may be experienced by a person who has diabetes insipidus.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: water potential means the tendency/potential energy of water to move

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