IB Biology HL A1.1.6 Physical Properties of Water Question Bank

a. water has greater viscosity than air;

b. thermal conductivity is higher in water than in air;

c. specific heat capacity is higher in water than in air;

d. water is denser/has more buoyancy than air;

The physical property must be named. Comparative terms are expected, making reference to both eg: accept higher in water, but not high in water.

Marking guidance:

Accept the converse of any of the marking points.

2
max

a. front limbs/flippers/legs are used for steering/to paddle/propel through the water OR tail forms a fluke with up-and-down movement / tail adapted to propel in water;

b. (covered in) blubber/thick layer of fat to insulate from cold / increase buoyancy OR

water-proof fur for insulation;

c. can hold their breath (for many/45 minutes/long periods) to dive under water OR

airways changed to allow periodic breathing between dives

OR

no connection between mouth and lungs / closing of nostrils to avoid water entering the lungs

OR

uses claws on their (fore/front) flippers/limbs/legs to make a breathing hole in ice;

d. more/increased blood (volume)/red blood cells/haemoglobin/myoglobin concentration for more oxygen storage;

e. streamlined (body) to minimize resistance/friction (when swimming);

2

Marking guidance:

max