Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · The gas exchange system

The gas exchange system — practice question

Collagen forms an important part of the cartilage in some structures of the human gas exchange system. The cells that make and release the cartilage components are called chondrocytes.
(a)[2]

Fig. 4.1 is a transmission electron micrograph showing a chondrocyte. Using Fig. 4.1 as a reference, explain two visible features of the chondrocyte that indicate how it is adapted to its function.

(b(i))[2]

Describe the way cartilage is distributed in the human gas exchange system.

(b(ii))[2]

Outline the role of cartilage in the human gas exchange system.

(c(i))[1]

Fig. 4.2 displays part of the primary structure of a collagen polypeptide. Name the covalent bond type that joins the amino acids shown in Fig. 4.2.

(c(ii))[3]

Fig. 4.3 shows the molecular structure of the amino acid glycine (gly). With reference to Fig. 4.2 and Fig. 4.3, and to the function of collagen, explain how the structure of a collagen polypeptide makes it suitable for forming a collagen molecule.

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