Q BankQuestion BankDocsDocuments

A2.2.10—Cell identification in micrographs

Cell and organelle identification in micrographs depends on membrane patterns, internal architecture, scale, location, and combinations of features rather than isolated visual resemblance.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
A2.2.10
Level
SL

Exam analysis

Chance of appearing6%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceNovember 2023
Most common paperPaper1
Typical marks1

Common command terms

  • Identify
  • Determine
  • State
  • Outline

Scoring notes

Common mistake
Naming an organelle from general shape without checking its membrane or internal pattern.

Recent exam appearances

November 2023Paper2 ["SL"] · TZ24(a)[ 3 ]A2.2.10—Cell identification in micrographs
May 2023Paper3 ["SL"] · TZ217(a)(iii)[ 1 ]A2.2.10—Cell identification in micrographs
November 2020Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ01[ 1 ]A2.2.10—Cell identification in micrographs
May 2019Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ12[ 1 ]A2.2.10—Cell identification in micrographs
May 2018Paper2 ["SL"] · TZ23(a)(ii)[ 2 ]A2.2.10—Cell identification in micrographs
Practice this objective

Coverage 2015–2023 · Updated 15 Jul 2026

Concept essentials

  • Internal membrane patterns provide strong evidence for organelle identity.
  • Scale bars constrain which structures can match an observed size.
  • Several features together provide more reliable cell-type identification than shape alone.
  • Sectioning can change the apparent shape of a three-dimensional structure.
ConceptIB Biology SL