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Form and function practice questions.

216 exam-style questions on Form and function with answers and explanations. Six real samples below — the full set is free with an account.

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Sample questions

The 'induced fit' model of enzyme action states that:

  • The active site is a rigid shape exactly matching the substrate
  • The substrate changes to fit the active site permanently
  • The active site changes shape slightly as the substrate binds
  • Enzymes are used up during the reaction

Answer: The active site changes shape slightly as the substrate binds

In the induced fit model the active site is flexible and moulds around the substrate as it binds, straining bonds and lowering activation energy, unlike the older rigid lock-and-key idea.

The Bohr shift describes how increased carbon dioxide (and lower pH) causes haemoglobin to:

  • Bind oxygen more strongly
  • Release oxygen more readily
  • Stop carrying oxygen entirely
  • Convert into myoglobin

Answer: Release oxygen more readily

Higher CO2 and lower pH in active tissues lower haemoglobin's affinity for oxygen, shifting the dissociation curve right. This releases more oxygen exactly where respiration demands it.

Which structure initiates the heartbeat by acting as the heart's natural pacemaker?

  • Atrioventricular (AV) node
  • Sinoatrial (SA) node
  • Bundle of His
  • Purkinje fibres

Answer: Sinoatrial (SA) node

The sinoatrial node in the right atrium spontaneously generates electrical impulses that spread across the atria, setting heart rate. The AV node then relays the signal to the ventricles.

A defining property of a stem cell is that it

  • cannot divide
  • can self-renew and differentiate
  • is always cancerous and divides uncontrollably
  • lacks a nucleus

Answer: can self-renew and differentiate

Stem cells retain the capacity to divide (self-renew) and to differentiate; potency varies (totipotent, pluripotent, multipotent).

Active transport across a membrane requires

  • a concentration gradient only
  • energy from ATP
  • a partially permeable membrane only
  • a rise in temperature

Answer: energy from ATP

Active transport moves substances against their concentration gradient using ATP and membrane pump proteins.

Facilitated diffusion differs from simple diffusion because it

  • requires ATP
  • uses membrane transport proteins
  • moves substances against the gradient
  • only occurs in plant cells

Answer: uses membrane transport proteins

Facilitated diffusion is passive (down the gradient) but uses channel or carrier proteins for large or polar solutes.

216 Form and function questions — free with an account. Spaced repetition, streaks and full exam simulations included.

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