% Chapter 2: Human Responsibilities For The Environment

New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology (Second Edition) E2: Chapter 2
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions
% Chapter 2 Human responsibilities for the

environment
Multiple-choice questions
[10170249]
* Which of the following help lessen the problem of global warming?
(1) Recycle waste paper.
(2) Buy foods that are produced locally rather than those imported from foreign
countries.
(3) Treat sewage before discharging it into the sea.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
A
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[10170252]
 Which of the following is not a way of conserving the environment?
A Bring our own bags when shopping.
B Use electronic bills instead of traditional paper bills.
C Pay for the use of plastic shopping bags.
D Avoid using disposable utensils when we eat out.
C
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[10170261]
 Which of the following is not a measure to control air pollution?
A Build more roads to ease traffic congestion.
B Encourage the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in public transport.
C Switch off car engines while waiting.
D Install catalytic converters in all diesel vehicles.
A
---------------------------------------------------
© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-1

[10170263]
* Which of the following combinations of the problems encountered in practising
organic farming and their solutions is not correct?
Problem Solution
A The soil becomes infertile. Add compost to the soil.
B Nitrates in the soil are depleted. Grow leguminous plants.
C Pest population increases. Introduce biological control agents.
D Weeds increase. Add matrine to the soil.
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10170275]
* Artificial reefs made from used tyres or concrete blocks are often placed on
seabed. This is a measure to promote sustainable fisheries.
How can placing artificial reefs on seabed help promote sustainable fisheries?
A The artificial reefs allow fish to hide from fishing nets.
B The artificial reefs provide a hard substratum for marine organisms.
C The artificial reefs reduce the harmful effects of pollution on marine
organisms.
D The artificial reefs prevent other marine organisms from competing with
fish for food.
B
---------------------------------------------------

[10170281]
* The photograph below shows a Chinese White Dolphin.
Chinese White Dolphins mainly live in the North Lantau waters of Hong Kong.
Which of the following are the threats faced by them?
(1) They are hunted for trading.
(2) Their habitats are destroyed due to reclamation and coastal development.
(3) Their food supply is reduced due to overfishing.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
C
---------------------------------------------------
[10170316]
* Which of the following are the aims of setting up country parks in Hong Kong?
(1) To protect the plants in those areas.
(2) To provide habitats for different organisms.
(3) To raise public awareness of the importance of conservation.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
D
---------------------------------------------------

[10170317]
 The photograph below shows a plant which is listed as a protected species
according to Hong Kong laws.
The survival of this plant is threatened by

(1) intense interspecific competition.
(2) habitat destruction.
(3) over-harvesting.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
C
---------------------------------------------------
[10170322]
 Which of the following actions help control pollution?
(1) Bring your own containers when having a takeaway.
(2) Use a milk bottle as a flowerpot.
(3) Sell the old computer to other people.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
D
---------------------------------------------------

[10170344]
 Which of the following processes is carried out in the aeration tank of a sewage
treatment works?
A screening
B sedimentation
C aerobic decomposition
D anaerobic decomposition
C
---------------------------------------------------
[10170350]
 The photograph below shows three recycling bins. The three bins are used to
collect plastic objects, metal containers and waste paper.
Which of the following are possible advantages of recycling to the environment?

(1) It helps lessen the problem of global warming.
(2) It helps maintain biodiversity.
(3) It helps reduce deforestation.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
D
---------------------------------------------------

[10170356]
* Which of the following follow the concept of sustainable development?
(1) Catch the mature fish but not the juvenile fish.
(2) Use wind power instead of burning coal to generate electricity.
(3) Ban the trading of the endangered species.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10170357]
 Which of the following substances can be recycled?
(1) plastic bags
(2) soft drink cans
(3) rechargeable batteries
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10170367]
* Which of the following are the ways of conservation?
(1) Protect the natural resources in the environment.
(2) Use resources in a sensible way.
(3) Replace the scarce resources with alternatives.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
D
---------------------------------------------------

[10170390]
 Which of the following help protect the environment?
(1) Replace non-renewable resources with renewable ones.
(2) Reduce the use of natural resources.
(3) Have good management of what must be used.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10170398]
* Which of the following statements about sustainable development is not correct?
A In the concept of sustainable development, environmental protection
outweighs economic development.
B Sustainable development considers the interests of both the present and
future generations.
C The achievement of sustainable development ensures a continuous supply
of resources.
D In the long run, the achievement of sustainable development ensures the
competitiveness of Hong Kong.
A
---------------------------------------------------

Question Bank Short questions
Short questions
[10170509]
* The ‘carbon footprint’ is a measure of the amount of carbon dioxide, a
greenhouse gas, produced by human activities. Many people are trying to reduce
their own carbon footprints by changing the way they live.
a Biodiesel is a fuel for cars that is made from used vegetable oils.
 Biodiesel is biodegradable and non-toxic.
 Biodiesel contains mainly saturated hydrocarbons.
 Vegetable oil contains triglycerides with unsaturated hydrocarbons.
Suggest why the production and use of biodiesel as an alternative fuel may
help to reduce the carbon footprint. (2 marks)
b Other than using biodiesel, suggest two ways in which people can reduce
their carbon emissions. (2 marks)
OCR GCE (A) Human Biology Energy, Reproduction and Populations
Jan 2012 Q5a iii, b
-- answer --
a Less carbon dioxide is produced when we use biodiesel. 1m
Biodiesel is directly produced by plants, therefore carbon is recycled. 1m
b Switch to renewable energy sources. /
Switch off unused lights / electrical appliances. /
Use energy-saving light bulbs. /
Replace old electrical appliances with energy efficient ones.
(any 2 or other reasonable answers) 1m x 2
---------------------------------------------------
[10170540]
* On Christmas Eve 1987, the last female Spix’s Macaw, Cyanopsitta spixii, was
removed from the wild in Brazil. The last remaining male bird continued to live
in the wild for a further six years. This male bird, having lost its partner, mated
with a Blue-winged Macaw, Propyrrhura maracana.
a Explain why eggs produced by this mating did not hatch. (2 marks)
b Once it was realized that the Spix’s Macaws were in danger of becoming
extinct, the collectors were ‘invited’ to allow their macaws to take part in a
breeding programme. Suggest two factors to be taken into consideration
when selecting individuals for this breeding programme. (2 marks)

c Finally, a captive bred female Spix’s Macaw was released into the original
male’s territory. What could be done to try to ensure the success of this
release programme? (3 marks)
OCR GCE (AS) Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health Jun 2011 Q8a, c–d
-- answer --
a The two organisms are of different species. 1m
They may have different number of chromosomes. 1m
b The individuals selected should be healthy. /
The individuals selected should be of reproductive age. /
Individuals of opposite sex should be included. /
A higher proportion of females should be selected. (any 2) 1m x 2
c The birds could be checked to ensure they are healthy before they were
released. /
Adequate food supply could be provided. /
They could be released in protected reserves / areas where no people hunt
them. /
The population of the birds could be monitored.
---------------------------------------------------
[10170552]
* Suppose the government is planning to sell a piece of gei wai near Deep Bay for
residential development. The government has set up a Think Tank to assess the
environmental impacts of this plan.
a If you were a member of the Think Tank, evaluate the environmental
impacts of this plan. (3 marks)
b The Think Tank suggested collecting public opinions about the development
plan through questionnaires. Explain why it is important to open the plan up
for general discussion. (2 marks)
-- answer --
a The plan may lead to losses of plants and animals, especially the rare species.
1m
The wetland habitat in the Mai Po Inner Deep Bay area will be disturbed, leading
to a decrease in the number of waterbirds living in the area. 1m
This will lead to air and water pollution in that area due to an increase in traffic
and illegal disposal of sewage and rubbish from homes. 1m

b To make sure the development complies with the construction regulations. /

To keep everyone informed of the plan. /
To collect counter arguments for improvement of the plan. /
To declare consequences. (any 2) 1m x 2
---------------------------------------------------
[10170569]
 For each conservation area in Hong Kong listed in column 1, select one or more
suitable description(s) listed in column 2. Put the appropriate letter(s) in the
space provided. (4 marks)
Column 1 Column 2
a Country parks A It is protected for its special

ecological and geographical
features.
b Marine parks B It is a piece of constructed

wetland.
c Ramsar site C It is recognized by

international agreement
about its ecological value.
d Site of Special D The Inner Deep Bay is an

Scientific Interest example.
(SSSI)
E It is carefully protected for
nature conservation,
education and scientific
studies.
-- answer --
a E 1m
b E 1m
c C, D, E 1m
d A, D, E 1m
---------------------------------------------------

[10170577]
* Read the following article and answer the questions.
In India, the wolf population declined in the 19th century due to hunting.
The wolf was listed as an endangered species in 1972. A law based on the
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and
Flora (CITES) was passed by the Indian government to protect the wolves.
However, some local people do not want the wolves to be protected because
recently the wolves appear in urban areas, attack their children and eat up their
livestock.
a The wolves normally live in the wild and feed on wild animals like rabbits.
Scientists believed that the changes in the living habits of the wolves are
caused by the urbanization of India. Explain how urbanization has led to
these changes in the living habits of the wolves. (2 marks)
b Give one example of how the wolves can be protected in India based on
CITES. (1 mark)
c Apart from legislation, state two other ways the Indian government can
conserve the wolves. (2 marks)
-- answer --
a The habitats of the wolves have been destroyed due to urbanization. Therefore,
the wolves appear in urban areas. 1m
Food supply of the wolves has reduced due to habitat destruction. Therefore, they
feed on the livestock. 1m
b The government can set up a licensing system for the trade and possession of
specimens of wolves. (or other reasonable answers) 1m
c Set up conservation areas for the wolves. / Conserve the habitats of the wolves.
1m
Educate the local people to conserve the wolves. 1m
(or other reasonable answers)

---------------------------------------------------

[10170582]
In Hong Kong, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) public light buses and taxis
were introduced in 2000. It is one of the strategies for pollution control. Some
other clean fuels are used in vehicles in foreign countries. For example, the
seeds of the oilseed rape (油菜) are rich in oil. This oil can be extracted to
produce biodiesel. Replacing fossil fuels with biodiesel may help lessen the
problems caused by increasing carbon dioxide level in the atmosphere.
a Explain why biodiesel is more environmentally friendly than fossil fuels.

(1 mark)
b Explain why replacing fossil fuels with biodiesel may help lessen the
problems caused by increasing carbon dioxide level in the atmosphere.
(1 mark)
c Describe the possible effects of an increase in carbon dioxide level in the
atmosphere on the environment. (2 marks)
d State two difficulties that may be faced by the government in
encouraging the drivers to use these environmentally friendly fuels.
(2 marks)
-- answer --
a Biodiesel is renewable. 1m
b Less carbon dioxide is produced when we use biodiesel. 1m
c An increase in carbon dioxide level in the atmosphere may enhance the
greenhouse effect / lead to global warming. 1m
The increase in global temperature may speed up the melting of icebergs / lead to
unusual weather patterns / lead to extinction of species. 1m
d The drivers may not want to install a new engine. /
The environmentally friendly fuels may be more expensive than traditional fuels. /
The maintenance cost of the new engine may be more expensive. /
The power provided by the environmentally friendly fuels may not be as strong as
traditional fuels. (any 2 or other reasonable answers) 1m x 2

---------------------------------------------------

[10170592]
 The Mai Po Inner Deep Bay area was listed as a Ramsar Site in 1995.
What are the criteria for listing an area as a Ramsar site? (4 marks)
-- answer --
It is a particularly good representation of a natural or near-natural wetland. 1m
It supports a great variety of rare, vulnerable, or endangered species of plants or
animals. 1m
It holds more than 20 000 waterbirds. 1m
It holds more than 1% of the total population of a species of waterbird. 1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10170596]
 Complete the following paragraph with suitable words. (3 marks)
Ecological a can be carried out in the habitats that have been
degraded or destroyed by human activities. The woodlands on hillsides can be
recovered by b , i.e. the planting of the trees. Stream restoration has
been carried out in a section of
c in Hong Kong. The stream was restored by removing construction
waste, replacing the rocks removed and replanting the shore area.
-- answer --
a restoration 1m
b afforestation 1m
c Tung Chung Stream 1m
---------------------------------------------------

Question Bank Structured questions
Structured questions
[10170635]
**Scientists have identified approximately 1.8 million different species. The
number of species that actually exist is likely to be significantly higher than 1.8
million.
a Suggest two reasons why the number of species identified is likely to be
lower than the actual number of species present on Earth. (2 marks)
b Many organizations, such as the International Union for the Conservation of
Nature (IUCN), gather annual data about the number of species that are
known to exist and to what extent they are considered to be endangered.
The graph below shows the total number of species assessed by the IUCN
over a 10-year period and the number of those species assessed
that are considered to be threatened with extinction.
i Using the graph, compare the changes in the total number of species
assessed with the changes in the total number of threatened species
over the 10-year period. (3 marks)

iiUsing the graph, calculate the percentage of species assessed that were
threatened with extinction in 2010. Show your working. Give your
answer to the nearest whole number. (2 marks)
iii Suggest explanations for the shape of the two curves between 2005 and
2010. (2 marks)
c A study of the biodiversity of an area considers not only the total number of
species but also the relative number of individuals within each species.
State one further factor that could be taken into account when describing the
biodiversity of an area. (1 mark)
OCR GCE (AS) Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health Jan 2013 Q5a–c
-- answer --
a Not all the areas have been explored. /
Some species are microscopic / small / difficult to see. /
Some rare species may be missed. /
It is difficult to define a species.
b i Both the total number of species assessed and the total number of
threatened species showed an increase. /
The total number of species assessed was always higher than the total
number of threatened species. /
The total number of species assessed showed a higher rate of increase. /
Both the total number of species assessed and the total number of
threatened species levelled between 2000 and 2002. /
Both the total number of species assessed and the total number of
threatened species had reduced rates of increase after 2004.
(any 3) 1m x 3
ii 18500/57500 × 100% 1m
= 32% 1m
iii The total number of species assessed increased because IUCN did more
sampling / explored more areas / techniques for identification of species
were improved. /
The total number of threatened species increased due to a loss of habitats /
climate change / increased human population / intraspecific competition from
introduced species. /
There was a widening gap between the total number of species assessed
and the total number of threatened species because new species tended to
be discovered in areas where no humans were living / conservation
measures were working. (any 2) 1m x 2

c Range of habitats /
Genetic variation within the species 1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10170643]
* Read the passage below and then use the information in the passage, and your
own understanding, to answer the questions which follow.
The barn owl, Tyto alba, is an instantly recognizable white owl and is
characteristic of lowland mixed farmland where it feeds on small mammals
found in rough grassland along field margins, roadways, riverbanks, woodland
edges and around farm buildings. In Northern Ireland, its diet consists mainly
of mice, shrews and young rats. It nests inside buildings, mature hollow trees
and rock crevices. It will also use nest boxes.
The barn owl has been in serious decline across Britain and Ireland since
the 1930s. It is thought that, in Northern Ireland, there has been a decline of
69% between 1932 and 1985. Today the Northern Ireland population is
estimated to be between 45–65 pairs. The population remains fragile and
fragmented.
Factors which have caused the decline are fairly well understood: a
reduction in the area of rough grassland, loss of hedgerows, more frequent
periods of heavy or continuous rain and flooding, loss of suitable nest and
roost sites, and widespread use of rodenticides. Other hazards include road
deaths and drowning in farmland water troughs. In the latter case, the birds
bathe to remove parasites but, if they fall in, their soft plumage waterlogs very
quickly.
a Explain why rodenticides, which are used to kill rats and mice, would prove
lethal to barn owls. (2 marks)
b Barn owls have difficulty hunting in periods of sustained wet weather.
Suggest two reasons for this. (2 marks)
c A number of schemes have been designed to develop favourable conditions
for the improvement in barn owl numbers. Suggest three strategies which
would be beneficial to barn owls. (3 marks)
d With a small and fragmented population of barn owls in Northern Ireland,
there is a danger of inbreeding which would result in a loss of genetic
diversity. Explain why genetic diversity (variability) is important to
populations. (2 marks)

CCEA GCE (AS) Biology Module 2 Jun 2011 Q6b–e

-- answer --
a Barn owls feed on mice and rats. 1m
Since an owl feeds on many mice or rats, rodenticides which are persistent
accumulate in the owl and kill it. 1m
b Small mammals are not active in wet weather. /
Small mammals may be killed in flooded conditions. /
The visibility is reduced in wet weather. This makes hunting difficult.
c Reward farmers for leaving field margins uncultivated. /
Restore the hedgerows. /
Provide supplementary feed to attract mice, shrews and rats. /
Install nest boxes. /
Encourage reduction in the use of rodenticides / the use of non-persistant
rodenticides. (any 3 or other reasonable answers) 1m x 3
d Genetic diversity is important for the adaptation of the species to changes in the
environment. 1m
With genetic diversity, some individuals survive when the environment changes.
This helps avoid extinction. 1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10170649]
* a Two types of plastic that can be successfully recycled are PET and HDPE.
These types of plastic are used to make drinks bottles.
The total energy required to recycle 1 tonne of these bottles into pellets is
51.91 kJ. To create pellets from raw materials requires 8.43 MJ per tonne of
raw materials.
Calculate how much energy is saved per tonne of starting material by using
recycled plastic compared to using raw materials.
Show your working and give your answer to two decimal places.
(2 marks)
b State two environmental benefits of recycling plastics. (2 marks)
c Bacteria can synthesize and store different types of lipid granules.
Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) is one such lipid that can be synthesized by
bacteria. PHB is stored as granules, which can be extracted from the
bacteria and used to produce biodegradable plastic.
i Suggest why bacteria synthesize and store lipid granules. (2 marks)
ii Suggest two advantages of using bacteria to manufacture

biodegradable plastics. (2 marks)

iii Although PHB is biodegradable, it breaks down slowly when buried in

landfill sites.
Suggest why this might be the case. (2 marks)
iv For PHB to be decomposed it has to be digested by microorganisms.
State two products of PHB digestion. (2 marks)
OCR GCE (A) Environmental Biology Jun 2009 Q1
-- answer --
a 8.43 × 106 – 51.91 × 103 1m
= 8.38 × 10 J or 8.38 MJ
6
1m
b Fewer raw materials are used to produce plastics. / Less crude oil is used to
produce plastics. /
Recycling plastics reduces the need for landfill. /
Recycling plastics reduces the need for incineration. /
Recycling plastics reduces the risk of ingestion of plastics by wildlife. (any 2)
1m x 2
c i Lipids are a source / store of energy. /
They can be used to produce ATP. /
Energy is needed in many biological processes, e.g. binary fission. /
Lipids can be used as a component of membranes. /
Lipids provide more energy per gram than glycogen / sugars. /
Storage of lipids does not affect the water potentials of the fluids in the body.
(any 2) 1m x 2
ii It is cheap to produce plastics using bacteria. /
Bacteria take up little space / work at low temperature. / Plastics can be
produced anywhere. /
Bacteria can reproduce quickly. /
The plastics produced by bacteria have an unlimited supply / are renewable.
/
Bacteria can be manipulated by genetic engineering. /
Using bacteria to produce plastics reduces the dependency on fossil fuels.
(any 2) 1m x 2
iii The anaerobic conditions of landfill sites might slow down the decomposition
of PHB. 1m
The pH of the soil in landfill sites might be unsuitable for the decomposition.
1m
iv Fatty acids 1m
Glycerol 1m

---------------------------------------------------

[10170651]
**Changes in farming practices since the 1950s have turned much of the arable (可
耕的) land in the UK into large areas of monoculture where field boundaries
have been removed. Consequently, large numbers of wild flowers, butterflies,
mammals and birds have disappeared from UK farmland.
There have been many attempts to increase the abundance and diversity of
wildlife in farmland. One such attempt has been the introduction of ‘beetle
banks’.
The photograph below shows a ‘beetle bank’ in an arable field. As can be seen, a
‘beetle bank’ is a section of land running through a crop, in which no crop is
grown. This provides a habitat for species of beetle, especially predatory ground
beetles, and will help to reduce the numbers of cereal pests such as aphids.
a i Describe three disadvantages of using ‘beetle banks’ on an arable

farm. (3
marks)
ii Describe two methods, other than ‘beetle banks’, that farmers can use

to reduce the numbers of cereal pests. (4 marks)

b Students wanted to carry out a biological survey of a ‘beetle bank’ in an

arable field. Describe how they would assess the population size of the
species of beetle in the ‘beetle bank’. (4 marks)
OCR GCE (A) Environmental Biology Jun 2009 Q4a–b
-- answer --
a i Beetle banks reduce crop yield as no crops can be grown in them. /
Beetle banks may harbour some pest species. /
Beetle banks allow weeds / diseases to spread through the crops. /
Plants growing in the beetle banks compete with the crops for resources,
e.g. water and nutrients. /
Beetle banks restrict the use of machinery. (any 3) 1m x 3
ii Any two methods with explanation: 2m x 2
Use biological control agents.
Introduce the species that feeds on / infects the pests.
Use insecticides / pesticides.
Repeatedly spray the insecticides / pesticides which kill pests by poisoning
them.
Grow genetically modified crops.
Some genes are introduced into the crops for pest resistance.
b They can select sampling points at random positions / regularly. 1m
They can use pitfall traps / nets to trap the beetles. 1m
They can use keys to identify the species of the beetles. 1m
Repeated sampling is required. 1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10170673]
* Some African elephant populations are at risk of extinction. In certain countries
this is due to poachers taking ivory illegally. This ivory still obtains a high price
on global markets and policing of this trade is difficult, especially as ivory from
other sources is legal.
Testing the DNA found in ivory allows the geographic origin of the elephant
population from which the ivory was taken be determined. Suspect ivory can
then be traced to specific living elephant populations allowing it to be
confiscated if necessary.

a i State two possible sources of elephant DNA, other than ivory.

(2 marks)
ii Explain why the analysis of DNA from confiscated ivory should
involve examining many different genes on different chromosomes.
(3 marks)
b Scientists can accurately trace confiscated ivory to specific living elephant
populations.
What does this suggest about the population dynamics of African elephants?
(2 marks)
c African elephants were registered on the Convention in International Trade
in Endangered Species (CITES) list for endangered species in 1990.
State four potential benefits of CITES registration for the conservation of
endangered species, such as the African elephant. (4 marks)
OCR GCE (A) Environmental Biology Jun 2009 Q6
-- answer --
a i Hair / skin / blood / manure / saliva / urine / bone / body tissues / flesh /
sexual fluids (any 2) 1m x 2
ii The closely related organisms are more likely to share similar groups of
alleles. 1m
Examining many genes on different chromosomes increases the validity of
data. 1m
This also minimizes errors in experimental technique. 1m
b Different populations of elephants do not mix. /
The populations are geographically isolated. /
There are little immigration and emigration of the elephants. (any 2) 1m x 2
c CITES bans the trade in ivory. /
CITES bans the hunting of elephants. /
CITES registration causes the collapse of international markets so that the price
of ivory falls. /
CITES registration allows the populations of the elephants to recover / reduces
the risk of extinction of the elephants. /
CITES registration raises the awareness of the public / educates the public. /
CITES registration brings economic advantages to the country, e.g. attracts
funding. /
CITES allows more cooperation between countries. (any 4) 1m x 4
---------------------------------------------------

[10170682]
 a Using the terms given below only, construct a flow chart to show how
sewage is treated in a sewage treatment works. (3 marks)
digester grit channels sedimentation tank
effluent sludge final sedimentation tank
aeration tank untreated sewage partially treated liquid
b Describe how the organic matter in the sewage is broken down

i in the aeration tank. (3 marks)
ii in the digester. (2 marks)
c Name two products produced in the digester and state the fate of each of
them. (2 marks)
-- answer --
a
3m
b i Air (oxygen) is continuously pumped into the partially treated liquid. 1m
This allows the microorganisms in the sewage to aerobically break down
1m
the organic matter in sewage into inorganic compounds such as carbon
dioxide and nitrates. 1m
ii The bacteria in the sludge anaerobically break down 1m
the organic matter in the sludge to produce methane. 1m
c Methane is used as a fuel to power the sewage treatment works. 1m
The sludge is dried and disposed of in landfills. 1m
---------------------------------------------------

[10170683]
* Foam plastic is widely used in packaging and making disposable lunch boxes.
However, it causes environmental problems upon disposal.
a Suggest two actions that can be taken by each of the following people to
reduce the pollution problems caused by foam plastic. You may consider the
4 Rs principle – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Replace.
i Industry owners (2 marks)
ii Restaurant owners (2 marks)
iii The government (2 marks)
b Suggest and explain two ways of conserving the environment as a
consumer. (4 marks)
-- answer --
a i Avoid non-essential packaging. /
Use recycled foam plastic. /
Replace foam plastic with biodegradable materials for packaging.
ii Encourage the customers to bring their own containers. 1m
Replace the foam plastic lunch boxes with those made of biodegradable
materials. 1m
iii Educate the public on the problems caused by foam plastic. 1m
Encourage the industrial sectors to use biodegradable materials by providing
subsidies. 1m
b Any two ways with explanation: 2m x 2
Bring your own bag when shopping
to cut down the production of plastic waste.
Do not buy products with too much packaging
to cut down the production of solid waste.
Buy electrical appliances with high energy efficiency
to reduce pollution caused by power plants indirectly.
Buy recycled products
to cut down the production of solid waste and save resources.
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[10170695]
Overnight, the small island in the Pacific Ocean becomes famous. A new
species of bird has just been discovered by a small team of scientists.
The chief scientist, Dr Smith said, ‘We are surprised as the bird is of great
use in ecological research.’ After five-day work, the team estimated that there
are 500 of the birds. ‘The birds lose their ability to fly as they are too heavy.
They cannot be found elsewhere and no other birds are able to live on the
island.’ Dr Smith continued.
The governor of the island thanked the team for their effort and
announced a new development project. A large pier, roads and hotels will be
built in five years. The people on the island welcome the project and look
forward to more tourists visiting the rare birds.
However, a local environmental group strongly recommends an
immediate conservation programme to protect the birds. They worry that the
birds will become extinct soon.
a Suggest two possible reasons to explain why the birds can only be found on
the island but not in any other places. (2 marks)
b Explain why the environmental group worries that the birds will become
extinct soon. (3 marks)
c The environmental group strongly recommends an immediate conservation
programme to protect the birds. State three reasons why the birds should be
conserved. (3 marks)
-- answer --
a They may feed on food that is present only on the island. /
They may face no / little competition on the island as no other birds are living in
the same habitat. /
Natural predators may not be present on the island. (any 2) 1m x 2
b The tourists coming to the island may disturb the birds. /
Building of the pier, roads and hotels may destroy the birds’ habitat. /
The birds may catch diseases from the foreign animals brought to the island by
the tourists. /
Predators of the birds may be brought to the island by the tourists. /
Pollution may harm the birds. (any 3) 1m x 3
c Economic reason: The birds may act as a source of resources, e.g. medicines. /
Ecological reason: The birds feed on some organisms at lower trophic levels. The

extinction of the birds disturbs ecological balance. /

Aesthetic reason: People enjoy seeing the birds in their natural habitats. /
Moral reason: The birds have their right to live. (any 3) 1m x 3
---------------------------------------------------
[10170702]
* The diagram below shows the various components of a sewage treatment works.
a What is the function of the sedimentation tank? (1 mark)

b Why is air bubbled into the aeration tank? Explain briefly. (3 marks)
c i What is the function of the digester? (1 mark)
ii Name the two products produced in the digester and state the fate of
each of them. (4 marks)
d After the various treatment processes in the sewage treatment works, the
effluent may still cause algal blooms. Explain why. (1 mark)
-- answer --
a It allows the suspended solids to settle to the bottom for collection. 1m
b To provide aerobic conditions, 1m
which allow microorganisms in the sewage 1m
to break down the organic pollutants into harmless inorganic compounds. 1m
c i To allow the breakdown of organic matter in the sludge by anaerobic
bacteria. 1m
ii Methane 1m
It is used as a fuel to power the sewage treatment works. 1m
Sludge 1m
It is dried and disposed of in landfills. 1m
d The effluent has a high content of nitrates which provide nutrients for the growth of
algae. 1m

---------------------------------------------------

[10170705]
‘Slash and burn’ is one of the methods for people to clear the forest or
grassland areas for agriculture and animal farming. Most of the plants in a
selected area are cut down, dried and burnt. Crops are then grown on the fertile
land. After a few years, the fertility of the soil drops and poor crop growth
results. People then move to other areas and the process is repeated.
‘Slash and burn’ is considered as destructive to the ecology. If only a
small number of people using this method, there is sufficient time for the
cleared land to recover. But with a larger population, the forest or grassland
areas will be destroyed eventually. In modern agriculture, chemical fertilizers
are often used to maintain soil fertility.
a Why is the land obtained by ‘slash and burn’ fertile? (2 marks)

b Explain why ‘slash and burn’ is considered as destructive to ecology.
(2 marks)
c State four advantages of conserving a forest ecosystem. (4 marks)
d Apart from using chemical fertilizers, suggest two other methods to
maintain soil fertility. (2 marks)
-- answer --
a Plants are rich in nitrogen and other elements. 1m
Burning of the plants releases the nutrients to the soil. 1m
b Large areas of plants are burnt. 1m
Habitats of organisms are destroyed. 1m
c Trees provide timber, which is a renewable resource. /
Forest ecosystem provides habitats for the wildlife. /
It maintains biodiversity. /
It maintains food webs / chains / supplies food. /
It reduces soil erosion. /
It maintains the balance of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. /
Organisms in the forest may act as sources of food, medicines and energy.
d Practise crop rotation. / Grow different types of plants on the same piece of land
in different growing seasons or different years. /
Grow leguminous plants. /
Add compost to the soil. (any 2 or other reasonable answers) 1m x 2

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology (Second Edition) E2: Chapter 2

Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

% Chapter 2 Human responsibilities for the

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-1

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-2

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The survival of this plant is threatened by

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-4

Which of the following are possible advantages of recycling to the environment?

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b To make sure the development complies with the construction regulations. /

a Country parks A It is protected for its special

b Marine parks B It is a piece of constructed

c Ramsar site C It is recognized by

d Site of Special D The Inner Deep Bay is an

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-10

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-11

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-12

a Explain why biodiesel is more environmentally friendly than fossil fuels.

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-13

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© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-17

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-18

CCEA GCE (AS) Biology Module 2 Jun 2011 Q6b–e

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-19

biodegradable plastics. (2 marks)

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-20

iii Although PHB is biodegradable, it breaks down slowly when buried in

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-21

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-22

a i Describe three disadvantages of using ‘beetle banks’ on an arable

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-23

to reduce the numbers of cereal pests. (4 marks)

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-24

b Students wanted to carry out a biological survey of a ‘beetle bank’ in an

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-25

a i State two possible sources of elephant DNA, other than ivory.

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-26

b Describe how the organic matter in the sewage is broken down

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-27

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-28

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-29

extinction of the birds disturbs ecological balance. /

a What is the function of the sedimentation tank? (1 mark)

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-30

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-31

a Why is the land obtained by ‘slash and burn’ fertile? (2 marks)

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-32

© Oxford University Press (E2) 2-33

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