IB Biology HL 4.1.8 Modelling sigmoid growth Question Bank
Practise IB Biology SL/HL 4.1.8 by applying modelling sigmoid growth concepts to exam-style questions.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2025
- Course
- Biology HL
- Level
- HL
Practise IB Biology SL/HL 4.1.8 by applying modelling sigmoid growth concepts to exam-style questions.
Duckweed (Lemna aequinoctialis) is a small floating plant that sometimes forms a continuous cover over the surface of ponds. In an experiment, it was grown either in nutrient-rich medium or in sewage water for four weeks. The biomass obtained per square metre at different times is shown in the population growth curves.

Label two phases on the nutrient-rich medium population growth curve.
a. anywhere between 0-6: lag;
b. anywhere between 6-18: exponential/log/growth/rapid reproduction/increase;
c. anywhere between 18-24: decelerating/transitional;
d. above 24 / between 24-30: plateau/stationary growth/stable;
Marking guidance:
Award marks for any two correct labels within the correct range.
Phase names in marking points are expected. Do not accept phase 1, phase 2, etc., as labels.
2
max