CAIE IGCSE Biology 22.1 Handling Information and Problem Solving Questions

Develop information-handling skills by transferring values between formats, calculating biological rates and describing patterns with comparative data and units.

Syllabus
2026–2028
Course
Biology 0610

Exam points

  • translate figures, tables, verbal descriptions and numerical data between forms
  • calculate biological rates, percentages and derived quantities with working, units and sensible rounding
  • describe trends and identify maxima, minima or optima using comparative values and correct units
  • justify sampling or measurement choices using accuracy, feasibility and time constraints
  • explain biological patterns by linking observed results to plausible causes or mechanisms
  • use data to explain correlations or relationships and state what the evidence cannot show
  • make predictions by extending qualitative or quantitative relationships from tables and graphs
  • test a hypothesis by normalising data, comparing rates and stating a supported conclusion
  • choose a treatment, variety or crop by integrating performance and environmental data
  • explain why a treatment becomes less effective by applying scenario-specific conditions
  • make a justified decision by weighing data-backed advantages and disadvantages

Question 1

[Maximum number: 4]

Scientists measured the rate of photosynthesis in the leaves of a sunflower plant, Helianthus annuus.

The scientists used the apparatus shown in Fig. 3.1 to measure the rate of photosynthesis.

Fig. 3.1

Fig. 3.1

Question (a)

(a)

The apparatus in Fig. 3.1 maintains a constant temperature and a constant humidity.

[ 2 ]

Question (i)

(i)

The apparatus was left for 15 minutes.

Explain how the scientists would use the readings for the concentration of carbon dioxide in chambers 1 and 3 to calculate the rate of photosynthesis.

[ 2 ]

Question (b)

(b)

The scientists carried out another investigation using the same apparatus at different temperatures.

They measured the rate of uptake of carbon dioxide in the light and then they measured the rate of release of carbon dioxide in the dark.

The results are shown in Fig. 3.2.
rate of carbon dioxide uptake and release /μg/ \mu \mathrm{g} per hour per cm2\mathrm{cm}^{2} of leaf

Fig. 3.2

Fig. 3.2

[ 2 ]

Question (i)

(i)

Use the information in Fig. 3.2 to complete Table 3.1.

Table 3.1

Table 3.1

[ 2 ]

Question 2

[Maximum number: 2]

Acid rain has negative effects on many ecosystems.

One group of students recorded the change in temperature as the seeds germinated in five insulated flasks, labelled A to E.

Describe the results obtained by group 1.

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