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BIOLOGY, M2 EQ-Bank 10

"The circulatory and excretory systems in humans are intricately linked, each depending on the other for optimal function."

  1. Describe two ways in which the circulatory system and the excretory system of humans exhibit interdependence.   (2 marks)
  2. Provide one example of a disorder that could affect both systems.   (2 marks)
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a.   Examples of system interdependence:

  • The circulatory system delivers blood to the kidneys, allowing waste products and excess water to be filtered out, which is crucial for the excretory system’s function.
  • Conversely, the kidneys produce a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow, directly influencing the circulatory system. 

b.   Disorder that can affect both systems:

  • High blood pressure (hypertension) is a disorder that affects both the circulatory and excretory systems.
  • Persistent high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter blood effectively and clear waste.
  • This kidney damage can lead to a toxic environment that, in turn, adversely affects the function of the circulatory system.
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a.   Examples of system interdependence:

  • The circulatory system delivers blood to the kidneys, allowing waste products and excess water to be filtered out, which is crucial for the excretory system’s function.
  • Conversely, the kidneys produce a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow, directly influencing the circulatory system. 

b.   Disorder that can affect both systems:

  • High blood pressure (hypertension) is a disorder that affects both the circulatory and excretory systems.
  • Persistent high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter blood effectively and clear waste.
  • This kidney damage can lead to a toxic environment that, in turn, adversely affects the function of the circulatory system.

BIOLOGY, M2 EQ-Bank 6

Describe the role of tissues in an organ, using a specific example to illustrate your answer.   (3 marks)

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Exemplar answer 1 (using the circulatory system):

  • Tissues play a crucial role in organs by providing specialised structures that work together to perform the organ’s function.
  • In the heart, cardiac muscle tissue forms the bulk of the organ and is responsible for its pumping action. Connective tissue provides support and protection, while epithelial tissue lines the inner chambers of the heart to provide a smooth surface for blood flow.
  • The coordinated action of these different tissues allows the heart to function effectively as a pump, demonstrating how the organisation of tissues contributes to an organ’s overall function in the circulatory system. 

Exemplar answer 2 (using the digestive system):

  • In the stomach, epithelial tissue forms the inner lining that secretes gastric juices and protects the organ from the acidic environment.
  • Smooth muscle tissue in the stomach wall enables the churning and mixing of food, while connective tissue provides structure and support.
  • Additionally, nervous tissue allows for the regulation of digestive processes through nerve signals.
  • The coordinated action of these different tissues enables the stomach to break down food, mix it with digestive enzymes and move it along the digestive tract. This illustrates how the organisation of tissues contributes to an organ’s overall function in the digestive system.
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Exemplar answer 1 (using the circulatory system):

  • Tissues play a crucial role in organs by providing specialised structures that work together to perform the organ’s function.
  • In the heart, cardiac muscle tissue forms the bulk of the organ and is responsible for its pumping action. Connective tissue provides support and protection, while epithelial tissue lines the inner chambers of the heart to provide a smooth surface for blood flow.
  • The coordinated action of these different tissues allows the heart to function effectively as a pump, demonstrating how the organisation of tissues contributes to an organ’s overall function in the circulatory system. 

Exemplar answer 2 (using the digestive system):

  • In the stomach, epithelial tissue forms the inner lining that secretes gastric juices and protects the organ from the acidic environment.
  • Smooth muscle tissue in the stomach wall enables the churning and mixing of food, while connective tissue provides structure and support.
  • Additionally, nervous tissue allows for the regulation of digestive processes through nerve signals.
  • The coordinated action of these different tissues enables the stomach to break down food, mix it with digestive enzymes and move it along the digestive tract. This illustrates how the organisation of tissues contributes to an organ’s overall function in the digestive system.