Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · Protein synthesis

Protein synthesis — practice question

Fig. 1.1 presents the structure of the amino acid glycine.
(a(i))[2]

Name the sections of the amino acid molecule marked A and B in Fig. 1.1. A ................................................................. B .................................................................

(a(ii))[3]

Amino acids act as monomers for proteins. Complete Fig. 1.2 by drawing a diagram to show the formation of a peptide bond between two molecules of glycine.

(b(i))[1]

Plasma cells make and secrete antibodies. Fig. 1.3 is a transmission electron micrograph of a plasma cell. Use a label line and the label T on Fig. 1.3 to show where the genes for the polypeptide chains of the antibodies are found.

(b(ii))[2]

Calculate the true diameter of the plasma cell shown by the line P-Q. State the formula you use for your calculation. Show your working and give your answer to the nearest micrometre ($\mu$m).

(b(iii))[1]

The plasma cell in Fig. 1.3 is very metabolically active. Suggest why very few mitochondria can be seen in the electron micrograph in Fig. 1.3.

(c)[2]

Sieve tube elements in plants contain very few organelles such as mitochondria. Explain how having very few organelles helps the sieve tube element function.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Recognises an amino / amine group

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