The diagram below shows a phase during meiosis in an animal cell - NSC Life Sciences - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1

The phase represented in the diagram is Metaphase.

Homologous chromosomes are a pair of chromosomes that have the same structure and length, carry the same sequence of genes, and one is of maternal origin while the other is of paternal origin.

The chromosomes appear as an X-shape, indicating that they are duplicated and consist of two sister chromatids. Some chromatids may have a mixture of genetic material from their homologues due to crossing over that occurred during prophase I.

The parent cell had 48 arbitrary units of DNA at the beginning of the cell division.

Part B is the sweat gland.

On a cold day, structure A (the blood vessel) will constrict, reducing blood flow to the surface of the skin, which helps to minimize heat loss from the body.

The human body needs to maintain a constant temperature so that enzymes function optimally. At temperatures outside the normal range, enzymes may denature or become inactive, leading to cellular dysfunction.

The pituitary gland secretes ADH.

On a cold day, the body will conserve water by activating mechanisms that reduce urine production, thereby retaining water.

In this person, the renal tubules have become resistant to ADH, meaning despite its presence, water cannot be reabsorbed effectively, leading to higher levels of urine production.

The type of fertilisation in guppies is internal fertilisation.

1. Sperm deposited inside the female body increases the chances of fertilisation because the gametes are in close proximity. 2. The fertilised eggs develop inside the female, providing protection from environmental dangers.

Guppies are regarded as ovoviviparous because the fertilised eggs remain in the female's body until they hatch, and the young are born alive.

The injection of progesterone maintains and thickens the endometrium, which is crucial for sustaining the pregnancy and preventing premature contractions.

The independent variable is the administration of progesterone treatment.

The dependent variable is the occurrence of gestational diabetes mellitus as measured by glucose levels.

Investigators measured glucose levels daily in participants of Group A and monitored if their glucose levels remained high over the observation period.

1. The same dosage of progesterone (250 mg) was administered to all participants. 2. The frequency of injections was consistent, given continuously between weeks 16 and 20.

Group B serves as the control group, allowing researchers to compare results with Group A to determine the effects of progesterone treatment on gestational diabetes development.