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

The gas exchange system — practice question

Tuberculosis (TB) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are conditions that damage the lungs.
(a)[2]

Using TB and COPD as examples, explain how infectious diseases are different from non-infectious diseases.

(b(i))[3]

Using Fig. 3.1, explain how alveoli are adapted for gaseous exchange.

(b(ii))[4]

Using Fig. 3.1, explain how macrophages act to protect the lungs from infection.

(c)[3]

Phagocytes secrete enzymes that break down proteins. In smokers, this can cause extensive destruction of alveolar walls. Outline the effects of this destruction on a person’s health.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 12-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: TB results from a pathogen such as $Mycobacterium$ and can be transmitted, so it is infectious

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