Biology 5090 · O Level · Biotechnology

Biotechnology — practice question

Bacillus subtilis is a bacterium species that is widely employed in biotechnology. It can be used to produce the protein lipase for industrial purposes.
(a(i))[4]

Two of the labelled parts A, B, C and D in Fig. 5.1 are involved in making proteins such as lipase. Identify those two parts, name them, and explain how they take part in protein manufacture.

(a(ii))[1]

Suggest why B. subtilis has flagella.

(a(iii))[2]

Explain why plasmids are useful in biotechnology.

(b(i))[1]

Give the name of the large industrial vessels used to culture bacteria.

(b(ii))[1]

In graph E, biomass increases as shown in Fig. 5.2. Use the letter M to indicate the part of graph E where the bacteria are reproducing most rapidly.

(b(iii))[2]

Calculate the percentage increase in biomass shown by graph E in the first $6$ hours.

(b(iv))[2]

Describe two ways in which graph E and graph F differ.

(b(v))[1]

Suggest one environmental condition that may have produced the differences between graph E and graph F.

(c)[3]

Lipase is also made by the human body. Explain why it is made and how its function differs from that of bile.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 17-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Part A is DNA / genetic material

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