1. Describe the advantage of the Bohr effect during intense exercise - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 6 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 6
1. Describe the advantage of the Bohr effect during intense exercise.
2. VT can be identified as the first point when there is an increase in pO2 breathed out, with... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1. Describe the advantage of the Bohr effect during intense exercise - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 6 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the advantage of the Bohr effect during intense exercise.
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Answer
The Bohr effect facilitates enhanced oxygen delivery to active muscles during intense exercise. As exercise intensity increases, carbon dioxide (CO2) production rises, leading to a decrease in blood pH. This shift in pH causes hemoglobin to release oxygen more readily, allowing for more effective oxygen utilization by tissues that are working harder.
Step 2
Determine the time after the exercise started when the cyclist reached VT.
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Answer
Based on Figure 3, the time at which the cyclist reached VT is 10 minutes.
Step 3
Calculate the ratio of pO2 to pCO2 in breathed-out air at this time.
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The ratio of pO2 to pCO2 in breathed-out air at this time can be calculated as follows:
pO2 = 16.875
pCO2 = 1
Thus, the ratio is:
pCO2pO2=116.875=16.875:1
Step 4
Suggest one physiological change that could cause this result.
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One physiological change that could cause a minimal increase in pCO2 during intense exercise is an increase in tidal volume. This allows for more efficient gas exchange and helps to remove excess CO2 from the bloodstream, despite the high level of CO2 produced.
Step 5
Use Figure 4 to suggest one reason.
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The correct box to tick is: 'Muscle fibres have a limited amount of phosphocreatine.' This limits the duration ATP can be generated anaerobically during high-intensity efforts.
Step 6
Use Figure 4 to justify why professional athletes are not allowed to take GW1516.
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Professional athletes are not allowed to take GW1516 because it enhances the ability of the muscles to utilize fat as an energy source without increased exercise, potentially giving an unfair competitive advantage.
Step 7
Suggest how the overuse of EPO can increase the risk of a heart attack.
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The overuse of EPO increases the haematocrit, making the blood more viscous. This thickened blood can restrict blood flow in coronary arteries, potentially leading to blockages and increasing the risk of thrombosis or heart attacks.