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Date November 2011 Marks available 4 Reference code 11N.3.SL.TZ0.13
Level Standard level Paper Paper 3 Time zone TZ0
Command term Explain Question number 13 Adapted from N/A

Question

The diagram below shows a reflex arc.

Label I and II. 

I. ..................................................................

II. ..................................................................

[1]
a.

Outline how stimuli can be detected by human sensory receptors.

[2]
b.

Explain how sound is perceived by the ear.

[4]
c.

Markscheme

I: sensory neuron
II: motor neuron
(both needed)

a.

sensory receptors transfer stimulus energy into electrochemical energy;
mechanoreceptors respond to touch/pressure/movement/sound waves;
thermoreceptors respond to temperature changes;
chemoreceptors detect chemicals/molecules;
photoreceptors respond to electromagnetic stimulation/light;

b.

sound waves are (funneled through the ear canal) causing ear drum to vibrate;
vibrations of ear drum cause the bones of the middle ear/ossicles/malleus, incus and stapes/hammer, anvil and stirrup to move;
lever system of middle ear bones increases pressure on the oval window;
vibrations are transmitted from oval window through (fluid-filled) cochlea;
stimulation of hair cells/mechanoreceptors in cochlea;
vibrations are transformed into nerve impulses/action potentials;
impulse sent to brain along auditory nerve;

c.

Examiners report

Most candidates were able to identify the sensory and motor neurones indicated.

a.

This question proved difficult for many candidates. Many incorrectly described a reflex arc rather than outlining how sensory receptors detect stimuli.  

b.

This section on sound perception was very well done by the majority of candidates with many receiving full marks.

c.

Syllabus sections

Option A: Neurobiology and behaviour » Option A: Neurobiology and behaviour (Core topics) » A.3 Perception of stimuli
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