The Complete List of HSC Biology Practice Questions

HSC Biology Module 3: Biological Diversity

Question 1

HSC 2014, Q26

Explain how Darwin/Wallace’s theory of evolution by natural selection and isolation accounts for convergent evolution. Use an example to support your answer.  (5 marks)

Question 2

HSC 2013, Q26

A virus was used to kill rabbits in Australia. After first release of the virus nearly all rabbits were killed, but over time the numbers recovered.

Outline how Darwin/Wallace’s theory of evolution could be used to explain the recovery of rabbit numbers. (3 marks)

Question 3

HSC 2013, Q27

Explain how ONE advance in technology has provided support for the theory of evolution. (4 marks)

Question 4

HSC 2010, Q30

Use this information and other relevant knowledge to demonstrate how the practice of biology has led to the validation of current theories of evolution. (7 marks)

Question 5

HSC 2009, Q27

Most offspring resemble their parents in a number of characteristics, but there are often some characteristics in the offspring that are unexpected.

Explain, using examples, how genetics and the environment can affect the phenotype of individuals. (8 marks)

Question 6

In 1926, T H Muller experimented with fruit flies (Drosophila sp.) by exposing them to X-rays. He found that their offspring showed new phenotypes not observed in the wild population.

Explain how the results of these experiments can provide support for Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. (4 marks)

Question 7

HSC 2004, Q18

A plant species was found in the area immediately around Sydney has also been found in a small area in the Gibraltar Range in the far north of NSW.

(a) Predict what might happen to the TWO populations over the next 5 million years, in terms of Darwin/Wallace’s theory of evolution. (3 marks)

(b) Justify the use of vertebrate forelimbs as evidence to support the theory of evolution. (3 marks) 

Question 8

HSC 2003, Q19

The widespread use of antibiotics for the treatment of bacterial infections has led to the development of antibiotic resistance in some species of bacteria.

From your studies of evolution and the mechanisms of inheritance, explain how resistance has developed in bacteria. (3 marks)

Question 9

HSC 2002, Q25

(a) Define the concept of punctuated equilibrium in evolution. (1 mark)

(b) How does punctuated equilibrium differ from the process proposed by Darwin? (3 marks)

Question 10

HSC 2016, Q22

Name an Australian ectotherm and describe its response to a decrease in ambient temperature. (2 marks)

HSC Biology Module 4: Ecosystem Dynamics

Question 1

HSC 2016, Q35b

The table compares some of the amino acids present in a particular protein in different primates.

Using these data and your knowledge of the characteristics of primate groups, explain why using different types of data improves the reliability of estimated evolutionary relationships. (5 marks)

Question 2

HSC 2016, Q35c

(a) What are TWO features of chromosomes used in karyotype analysis? (2 marks)

(b) Sketch a graph that depicts changes in human population over the last 10,000 years. Identify a point on the graph that shows the effect of a technological advance on world population. (2 marks)

Question 3

HSC 2016, Q35d

A new fossil form was recently found in South Africa. This fossil shares characteristics with both the genus Australopithecus and the genus Homo.

There has been debate as to whether this new fossil form should be classified in the genus Australopithecus or in the genus Homo.

(a) Describe a key difference between fossils classified as the genus Australopithecus and those classified as the genus Homo. (2 marks)

(b) Explain how DNA sequencing technology could be used to determine which genus the new fossil belongs to. In your answer, refer to relevant hominid species. (4 marks)

Question 4

HSC 2015, Q35a and b

The diagram shows two primates.

(a) Provide the word that describes the tail for the classification of each primate (2 marks)

(b) Spider monkeys and baboons are members of the same order. Use the hierarchical classification system to explain whether they would necessarily be in the same phylum and the same genus. (2 marks)

(c) Explain ONE piece of evidence for, and ONE piece of evidence against, the theory of regional continuity. (4 marks)

Question 5

HSC 2015, Q35d

(a) Distinguish between relative dating and absolute dating of fossils. (2 marks)

Students found three fossils (A, B and C) at an archaeological site.

The students concluded that their data were conflicting and they could not determine the relative ages of the fossils.

(b) Evaluate the students’ conclusion with reference to the data presented. (4 marks)

Question 6

HSC 2015, Q35e

‘Science has been used to solve problems in the investigation of evolutionary relationships between humans and other primates, and so has provided information of interest to society.’

Justify this statement in terms of the scientific knowledge behind DNA–DNA hybridisation AND karyotype analysis. (7 marks)

Question 7

2014 HSC, Q35c

Demonstrate how applications of the Human Genome Project could affect future trends in human biological evolution. (4 marks)

Question 8

HSC 2014, Q35d

The graph shows the relationship between the average skin pigmentation of humans and the distance they live from the equator.

(a) Identify the TWO general trends shown in the graph.

(b) Explain the evolutionary significance of a named example of polymorphism (other than skin colour) in humans. (4 marks)

Question 9

This text summarises new ideas on recently discovered fossil hominins called Denisovans.

Using this information, analyse how scientists use technologies and the results they generate, to deduce ideas on hominin history which could modify existing theories. (8 marks)

Question 10

2013 HSC, Q34b

¹⁴C can be used for dating fossils. Its half life is approximately 5750 years.

Compare this method for dating with another dating technique. (4 marks)

HSC Biology Module 5: Heredity

Question 1

(b)  Explain the effect of independent assortment of chromosomes on the genotype of the offspring (2 marks)

(c)  Explain the role of isolation in the process of evolution (3 marks)

Question 2

A pedigree chart of an inherited characteristic is shown.

Subsequent genetic analysis showed I-2 does not have the recessive allele.

Explain the inheritance of this characteristic. (3 marks)

Question 3

Scientists have tried to achieve a viable embryo by fusing two ova (eggs) from the same female.

Explain whether the offspring produced using this process would be a clone of the female whose two ova were used. Use your knowledge of gamete formation and sexual reproduction to support your answer. (5 marks)

Question 4

Outline the work done by Morgan that has led to our understanding of sex linkage. (3 marks)

Question 5

Explain the relationship between replication of DNA and evolution. (5 marks)

Question 6

A plant species may have red or white flowers. Two red-flowered plants were crossed. Most of the offspring had red flowers, but some had white flowers.

Explain the presence of both red- and white-flowered offspring. (3 marks)

Question 7

HSC 2007, Q20

The table shows that 20% of the bases in a section of double-stranded DNA are adenine (A).

(a) Complete the table below by identifying the other three base types and calculating the percentage of each base type in the section of double-stranded DNA. (3 marks)

Bases	Percentage (%)
A	20
T
G
C

(b) Construct a simple flowchart to describe the process of DNA replication. (3 marks)

Question 8

HSC 2007, Q22

The diagram shows two steps of the process of meiosis occurring in a cell with four chromosomes.

(a) Describe the behaviour of the chromosomes between the steps shown. (2 marks)

(b) List FOUR possible combinations of alleles that would be found in the gametes resulting from this process. (2 marks)

(c) Explain ONE advantage of the process of meiosis to the species. (2 marks)

(d) Distinguish between the terms allele and gene (2 marks)

Question 9

HSC 2009, Q18

This flow chart represents a model of polypeptide production.

(a) In the table below, name and outline what occurs in Processes 1 and 2. (8 marks)

Question 10

HSC 2005, Q24

Nick’s wife Maria has a history of red-green colour blindness in her family. Jack, their two-year old son, may be red-green colour blind. Maria’s brothers, Vincent and Paul, are colour blind but her brother, James, is not. Maria’s mother, Anne, is a carrier of red-green colour blindness. Her father, John, is unaffected.

(a) Construct a family pedigree to show the inheritance of this sex-linked genetic disorder. (4 marks)

(b) Predict whether Jack will be colour blind. Justify your answer. (2 marks)

HSC Biology Module 6: Genetic Change

Question 1

HSC 2017, Q31

Assess the importance of the work of Beadle and Tatum to the ability to produce a specific transgenic species. (8 marks)

Question 2

HSC 2015, Q29

‘The application of modern reproductive techniques in plant and animal breeding limits genetic diversity.’

Discuss this statement. (6 marks)

Question 3

HSC 2010, Q23

(a) Use an example to explain why hybridisation within a species is carried out. (2 marks)

(b) Use an example of a named transgenic species to discuss the social and environmental impact of this technology. (5 marks)

Question 4

HSC 2009, Q23

(a) Explain the possible impact of this reproductive technology on the genetic composition of the population (2 marks)

(b) Describe the potential impact of the use of reproductive technologies on the path of evolution using ONE named plant or animal that has been genetically altered (3 marks)

Question 5

HSC 2008, Q25

(a) How could a mutation in DNA affect polypeptide production? (3 marks)

(b) How could a change in a polypeptide affect cell activity? (2 marks)

Question 6

HSC 2008, Q28

(a) Explain how ONE named process that occurs during meiosis results in genetic variation. (3 marks)

(b) Why is genetic variation important in the survival of a species? (3 marks)

Question 7

HSC 2006, Q22

(a) Identify a transgenic species, and state its use. (2 marks)

(b) Outline ONE process used to produce a transgenic species. (2 marks)

(c) Discuss ONE ethical issue arising from the use of transgenic species. (4 marks)

Question 8

HSC 2004, Q28

‘All mutations are harmful.’

Discuss this statement. (4 marks)

Question 9

HSC 2003, Q20

The diagram shows various forms of radiation that are part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

(a) Select ONE form of radiation that is considered to be a mutagen. (1 mark)

(b) Describe evidence that supports the mutagenic nature of the selected form of radiation. (2 marks)

Question 10

HSC 2003, Q22

Discuss some ethical considerations arising from the development of genetically modified animals. (4 marks)

HSC Biology Module 7: Infectious Disease

Question 1

HSC 2006, Q28

A gardener noticed a red and swollen area on his arm that had received a deep scratch from a thorn on a plant.

(a) Identify the most likely human defence adaptation that caused these symptoms. (1 marks)

After a number of days, the gardener’s arm remained red and swollen, so he visited his doctor who prescribed an antibiotic to treat the infection.

(b) Why did the doctor prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection? (1)

The gardener should have taken the antibiotic for ten days but stopped after five days because the arm was no longer red or swollen.

(c) Explain how this action by the gardener might lead to antibiotic resistance. (4 marks)

Question 2

HSC 2011, Q24

(a) Name a viral disease that is controlled by the use of a vaccine. (1 mark)

The flowchart shows the steps involved in the preparation of a vaccine to prevent a viral disease.

(b) Outline how a vaccine that is prepared in this way will produce immunity to a specific viral disease. (2 marks)

(c) Explain ONE procedure in the flowchart that ensures the safety of the prepared vaccine. (2 marks)

Question 3

HSC 2011, Q31

Fungi are a natural source of antibiotics. A scientist developed a new antibiotic by exposing a fungus to radiation.

Information relevant to this antibiotic:

• It stops the activity of an enzyme in pathogenic bacteria.
• It has no effect on a similar enzyme in humans.
• The chemical composition of the enzyme in humans differs from the enzyme in the pathogenic bacteria by two amino acids.
• It is used to treat humans infected with the pathogenic bacteria.

Using this example and other relevant knowledge, describe how advances in our understanding of biology have implications for society. (7 marks)

Question 4

HSC 2014, Q22

(a) Explain how TWO specific personal hygiene practices reduce the risk of infection. (4 marks)

Drinking water contaminated with dissolved lead (a heavy metal) can cause a serious disease.

(b) Classify this disease as either infectious or non-infectious. Justify your answer. (2 marks)

Question 5

HSC 2017, Q22

(a) For each type of disease in the following table, name a specific disease and its cause. (2 marks)

(b) Explain how TWO different methods used to treat drinking water reduce the risk of infection. (4 marks)

Question 6

HSC 2014, Q25

(a) Name a development in the history of our understanding of malaria and identify a prevention strategy that resulted from that development. (2 marks)

Scientists are currently developing a vaccine for malaria.

(b) Outline how a vaccine against malaria would prevent the occurrence and spread of the disease in a population. (4 marks)

Question 7

HSC 2017, Q30

(a) What is the role of ONE type of T lymphocyte in the immune response? (2 marks)

(b) Explain ONE benefit and ONE limitation of suppressing the immune system in organ transplant patients. (4 marks)

Question 8

HSC 2016, Q24

Name an infectious disease and explain how ONE host response is a defence adaptation. (3 marks)

Question 9

HSC 2016, Q28

Bacteriophages are viruses that use bacteria has host cells. One type of bacteriophage infects only one species of bacterial cell. The infected cells are destroyed as the bacteriophage particles burst out of them, completing their life cycle.

Bacteriophages can be used to fight bacterial infections. As bacteria evolve, bacteriophages also evolve.

(a) Explain TWO advantages of using bacteriophage treatment compared to antibiotic treatment for bacterial infections. (4 marks)

(b) Describe a possible disadvantage of using bacteriophage treatment. (2 marks)

Question 10

HSC 2016, Q30

Explain why the combined use of quarantine and vaccination programs is a more effective way of controlling disease than using only one of these strategies. (5 marks)

HSC Biology Module 8: Non-Infectious Disease and Disorders

Question 1

HSC 2012, Q23

A non-infectious disease was observed in a mother and her four sons who live with her. She has no daughters. The father of these children does not have the disease and does not live with them. The woman’s parents and her two sisters who live overseas do not have the disease.

(a) Her doctor suspects that the disease is NOT inherited. Identify data that could be collected to investigate a non-inheritable cause of the disease. (1 mark)

A geneticist suspects that the disease is inherited.

(b) Draw the family pedigree for this disease. (2 marks)

(c) From the evidence, what indicates that the disease could be the result of a recessive allele and not be sex linked? (2 marks)

Question 2

HSC 2007, Q26

Describe how genes assist in the maintenance of health. (3 marks)

Question 3

HSC 2011, Q25

A diagram of a nephron is shown.

(a) Label each of the two boxes on the diagram using A, B, C or D to identify the processes that take place at this location. (2 marks)

(b) Which one of the above processes (A, B, C or D) occurs due to active transport? (1 mark)

(c) Outline the effect of aldosterone on the control of body fluids. (2 marks)

Question 4

HSC 2008, Q20

Describe the occurrence, symptoms, cause and treatment/management of a named non-infectious disease. (5 marks)

Question 5

HSC 2009, Q26

Describe how processes such as enantiostasis and homeostasis are used to maintain metabolic function when salt concentration varies in plants living in estuarine environments. (3 marks)

Question 6

HSC 2008, Q22

Explain how hormone activity maintains water and salt levels in the blood. (5 marks)

Question 7

HSC 2011, Q27

A new non-infectious disease has been discovered in people in some aged care homes.

Outline at least FOUR feature of an epidemiological study that could be used to identify the cause of this disease. (4 marks)

Question 8

HSC 2012, Q26

A scientist performed an epidemiological study to investigate the cause and effect relationship of smoking and lung cancer as follows:

1. Handed out a scientifically valid questionnaire to all colleagues (n = 144) at work
2. Checked that there were an equal number of male and female respondents
3. Discovered that there were more non-smoking respondents than smoking respondents. Removed some of the non-smokers until both groups had equal numbers
4. Checked that all the respondents had a medical check-up in the past year
5. Analysed data, wrote the paper and published it in a scientific blog.

From the information provided, analyse the methodology used by this scientist. (5 marks)

Question 9

HSC 2006, Q18

(a) Name ONE adaptation in an Australian terrestrial plant that assists in minimising water loss. (1 mark)

(b) Explain why it is important for plant cells to control water loss. (2 marks)

Plant breeders have developed a new variety of terrestrial plant which has one structure that appears to assist in water conservation in hot, dry environments.

(c) Design a first-hand investigation the plant breeder could use to determine if this structure assists in water conservation. (4 marks)

Question 10

HSC 2015, Q32e

‘Science is used to solve problems for the benefit of society.’

Justify this statement with reference to the scientific knowledge used to solve ONE problem in hearing and ONE problem in visual accommodation. (7 marks)

Struggling to work through these HSC Biology practice questions? Get the support you need with a Sydney Biology tutor!