SSLC study material

April - 2023

BIOLOGY
UNITS :
 Life processes
 Control and coordination
 How do Organisms Reproduce
 Heredity and Evolution
 Our Environment
 Sustainable Management of Natural resources

Sanjeevkumar isaraddi
isaraddiclasses.com
Previous questions from SSLC Board

April 2019
1. Under what condition lactic acid is produced in the muscle cells ? (1Mark)
Ans. : Lactic acid is produced when there is lack of oxygen in the muscle cells.
2. Explain the process of translocation of food materials in plants. (2Marks)
Ans. :
 Translocation of food materials occurs in the phloem tissue of plants.
 This process takes place in the sieve tubes with the help of adjacent companion cells both in upward
and downward directions.
 This process is achieved by osmotic pressure.
OR
Explain the process of digestion in the small intestine of man. (2Marks)
Ans. :
 Small intestine is the site of complete digestion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.
 Enzymes in the intestinal juice convert proteins into amino acids, complex carbohydrates into
glucose and fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
 Digested food is absorbed by the villi present in the walls of intestine.
3. Draw the diagram showing the sectional view of the human heart. Label the following parts. (3Marks)
(i) Aorta (ii) Chamber of heart that receives deoxygenated blood.
Ans :

June 2019
1. The correct statement related to digestion in small intestine is
(A) acidic food is made alkaline by bile juice (B) food is made acidic by hydrochloric acid
(C) starch is digested due to the action of amylase (D) protein is digested due to the action of pepsin.
Ans : (A) acidic food is made alkaline by bile juice
2. Name the products of anaerobic respiration.
Ans : Ethanol and Carbon dioxide are the products of anaerobic respiration
3. Draw the diagram showing opened stomata. Label the following parts :
(i) Guard cells (ii) Stomatal pore.

4. Diagrams given below represent hearts of three different animals. Observe it and answer the question.

(1) (2) (3)

Among these, which heart is helpful to the animals that require more energy ? Why ? (2Marks)

Ans : (i) Heart - 2

(ii) Oxygenated and deoxygenated blood will not mix together
Efficient supply of oxygen to the body.
Helpful to maintain body temperature.
OR
The approximate lengths of small intestine of animals x and y are given in the table. Observe it and answer
the question.

Animal Approximate length of small intestine

X 20 to 40 feet
Y 5 to 8 feet

Identify the herbivorous and carnivorous animals in the table and support your decision with scientific
reasons.

Ans :

 Animal X is herbivorous and animal Y is carnivorous.

 The small intestine is longer in herbivores than in carnivores because herbivores consume plant
which is full of cellulose and the digestion of cellulose takes a long time. Herbivores need a longer
small intestine to allow cellulose to be digested.
 Whereas Meat is easier to digest, hence carnivores have shorter small intestine.
April 2020
1.―The rate of breathing in aquatic organisms is much faster than that seen in terrestrial organisms‖ Why ?

Ans : Aquatic organisms like fishes obtain oxygen from water present in dissolved state through their
gills. Since the amount of dissolved oxygen is fairly low as compared to the amount of oxygen in the air, the
rate of breathing in aquatic organisms is much faster than that seen in terrestrial organisms.
2. ―The body temperature of frogs and lizards depend on temperature in the environment.‖ Justify.
(2Marks)
Ans. :
 Both frogs and lizards have three chambered heart
 Oxygenated and deoxygenated blood mix in the heart.
 Production of energy became slightly less. This energy cannot be used for maintaining constant
temperature.

3. Draw the diagram showing the schematic sectional view of the human heart. Label the following parts :
i) Aorta (3Marks)
ii) Pulmonary veins.
Ans :

September 2020
1. The site of complete digestion of carbohydrates, proteins and fats is

(A) stomach (B) large intestine (C) small intestine (D) liver.

2. Eating chapatti by chewing it very slowly tastes sweeter. Why ?

Ans. :
 When chapatti is chewed for some time it taste sweeter because, the saliva produced by the salivary
glands consist of enzyme called Amylase .
 This enzyme converts the starch content(carbohydrate)present in the chapatti into sugar.

3. How are the functions of arteries, veins and capillaries are interrelated in the circulation of blood ?
Ans. :
 Arteries carry blood away from the heart to various organs of the body. On reaching an organ or
tissue, the artery divides into smaller and smaller vessels to bring the blood in contact with all the
individual cells.
 Exchange of material between the blood and surrounding takes place across the thin wall of
smallest vessels, the capillaries. The capillaries then join together to form veins.
 Veins convey the blood away from the organ or tissue. Veins collect the blood from different
organs and bring it back to the heart.
OR
How does transportation of water take place over the heights in a plant ?

Ans :
 At the roots, cells in contact with the soil actively take up ions. This creates a difference in the concentration
of these ions between the root and the soil.
 Water moves into the root from the soil to eliminate this difference. There is a steady movement of water into
root xylem, creating a column of water that is steadily pushed upwards.
 Evaporation of water molecules from the stomata of leaves due to transpiration creates a suction which pulls
water from xylem cells of root.

July - 2021 (MCQ based questions )

1. The blood vessels that carry blood from all parts of the human body to the heart are

(A) arteries (B) capillaries (C) pulmonary arteries (D) veins

2. Plants can get rid of excess of water by this process

(A) Transpiration (B) Photosynthesis (C) Respiration (D) Translocation

September - 2021 (MCQ based questions )

1. The blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs in the human body are

(A) Pulmonary veins (B) Aorta (C) Veins (D) Pulmonary arteries
2. The transport of soluble products of photosynthesis in plants is

(A) Transpiration (B) Osmosis (C) Diffusion (D) Translocation

April - 2022
1. Give reason :
a) ‗Ventricles of the human heart have thick wall.‘
b) ‗It is necessary to separate oxygenated and deoxygenated blood in mammals and birds.‘
Ans. : a) Since ventricles have to pump blood into various organs.
b) Since they need more energy to maintain their body temperature constant.
2. Which molecule is formed during the first step of cellular respiration by the breakdown of glucose
molecule in cytoplasm ? Mention the types of respiration and write any two differences between them.
Ans. : Pyruvate.
Two types : i) Aerobic respiration ii) Anaerobic respiration.

Aerobic respiration Anaerobic respiration.

Atmospheric oxygen is utilised Atmospheric oxygen is not utilised

Liberates more energy with carbon Liberates less energy with ethanol and
dioxide and water carbon dioxide
Takes place in mitochondria Takes place in cytoplasm
Takes place in higher levels of Takes place in lower organisms like yeast.
organisms
 OR
Which are the factors essential for photosynthesis ? Mention the events that occur during this process and
represent this process by balanced chemical equation.
Factors essential for photosynthesis : Carbon dioxide, water, minerals, sunlight and chlorophyll.
Events that occur during photosynthesis :
i) Absorption of light energy by chlorophyll.
ii) Conversion of light energy into chemical energy.
iii) Splitting of water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen molecules.
iv) Reduction of carbon dioxide into carbohydrates.
Equation :

June - 2022
1. In plants the major function of xylem is the transportation of-

(A) water (B) food (C) amino acids (D) oxygen.

3. Draw the diagram showing the structure of human excretory system and label ‗ureter‘.

3. Explain the stages of ‗double circulation‘ of the blood in humans.

Ans. : Transportation of blood in heart :
i) Oxygen-rich blood from the lungs comes to the left atrium.
ii) When the left atrium relaxes and contracts then blood gets transferred to left ventricle
iii) When the left ventricle contracts the blood is pumped out to the body through aorta.
iv) De-oxygenated blood comes from the body to the right atrium.
v) As the right atrium contracts the blood get transferred to the right ventricle.
vi) On contraction of right ventricle the blood go to the lungs for oxygenation.
OR
Mention the events that occur during photosynthesis in plants. What are the methods used by plants to get
rid of excretory products ?
Ans. : Events that occur during photosynthesis
 Absorption of sunlight by chlorophyll.
 Conversion of light energy into chemical energy / decomposition of water into oxygen and hydrogen
molecule.
 Reduction of carbon dioxide into carbohydrate.
Methods to get rid of excretory products in plants :

 Excess of water removed by transpiration

 Remove oxygen and carbon dioxide gases through stomata
 Waste products and dead cells in vacuoles by shedding leaves / barks
 Resins and gums get store in old xylem
 Diffusing certain wastes into surrounding soil.

MOST LIKELY QUESTIONS FOR 2023( Including previous year questions )

1. What is the role of acid in our stomach ?
Ans : It provides acidic medium to promote the action of pepsin
It kills bacteria present in the food
2. How is small intestine designed to absorb digested food ?

Ans : The small intestine has millions of tiny finger-like projections called villi. These villi increase the
surface area for more efficient food absorption. Within these villi, many blood vessels are present that
absorb the digested food and carry it to the bloodstream.
3. Write the equation for the process of breakdown of glucose in a cell :
(a) in the presence of oxygen.
(b) in the absence of oxygen.

Ans : (a) in the presence of oxygen.

Glucose → Piruvate → Carbon dioxide + water + Energy
(b) in the absence of oxygen.

Glucose → Piruvate → Ethanol + Carbon dioxide + Energy

4. Give reason for the following :
(a) Arteries are thick walled blood vessels.
(b) Veins have valves in them.

Ans : (a) Arteries are thick walled blood vessels because, the blood emerges from the heart under high
pressure.

(b) Veins have valves in them because , to ensure that the blood flows only in one direction.
5. What are the components of the transport system in human beings? What are the functions of these
components?
Ans : The transport system in human beings mainly consists of heart, blood and blood vessels.

(i) Function of heart : The heart receives deoxygenated blood from the body parts and pumps it to
lungs for enriching with oxygen. It receives purified blood from lungs and pumps it around the
body.
 (ii) Function of blood : Blood transports oxygen, carbon dioxide, digested food, hormones and
nitrogeneous waste like urea. It also protects the body from diseases and regulates the body
temperature.

(iii) Function of blood vessels : The blood pushed by the heart flows through the blood vessels
(arteries, veins and capillaries) and also comes back to the heart through them.

6. Why is it necessary to separate oxygenated and deoxygenated blood in mammals and birds?
OR
What are the advantages of having four chambered heart in birds and mammals
Ans :
 Separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood allows good supply of oxygen to the body.
 This system is useful in animals that have high energy requirement.
 Mammals and birds constantly need oxygen to get energy to maintain their body temperature
constant.

7. Describe double circulation of blood in human beings. Why is it necessary?

Ans : Blood goes through the heart twice during each cycle in our body. This is known as double
circulation.
Heart collects deoxygenated blood from body and send it to lungs for purification
Heart collects oxygenated blood from lungs and supply it to all body parts .

Necessity of double circulation:

 It avoidsdeoxygenated and oxygenated blood from mixing.

 This type of separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood ensures a highly efficient supply of
oxygen to the body.
 This is useful in case of humans who constantly need energy to maintain their body temperature.

8. How arteries and veins are structurally differ in each other ?

Ans :
 Since the blood emerges from the heart under high pressure, the arteries have thick, elastic walls.
 Veins do not need thick walls because the blood is no longer under pressure, instead they
have valves that ensure that the blood flows only in one direction.
9. What would be the consequences of a deficiency of haemoglobin in our bodies?

Ans: Due to the deficiency of haemoglobin in blood, its oxygen carrying capacity decreases. As a result the
production of energy by oxidation will become slower. Therefore, one would fall sick and would feel fatigue
most of the time.

10. Describe the structure and functioning of nephrons.

Ans : Structure of nephron :
Each nephron is composed of two parts.

 First one is a cup-shaped bag at its upper end which is called Bowman‘s capsule. The Bowman‘s
capsule contains a bundle of blood capillaries which is called glomerulus.
 The other part of the nephron is coiled which carries filtrate to the collecting duct
Function of nephron :

 Filtration of blood takes place in Bowman‘s capsule from the capillaries of glomerulus. The filtrate
passes into the tubular part of the nephron. This filtrate contains glucose, amino acids, urea, uric
acid, salts and water.
 As the filtrate flows along the tubule, useful substances such as glucose, amino acids, salts and water
are selectively reabsorbed into the blood by capillaries surrounding the nephron tubule.
 The filtrate which remained after reabsorption is called urine.
 Urine is collected from nephrons to carry it to the ureter from where it passes into urinary bladder.
11. How is the amount of urine produced regulated?
Ans : It depends on the quantity of excess water and wastes dissolved in water.

 Quantity of water : When water is abundant in the body tissues, large quantities of dilute urine is
excreted out. When water is less in quantity in the body tissues, a small quantity of concentrate urine
is excreted.
 Quantity of dissolved wastes : Dissolved wastes, especially nitrogenous wastes, like urea and uric
acid and salts are excreted from the body. When there is more quantity of dissolved wastes in the
body, more quantity of water is required to excrete them. Therefore, the amount of urine produced
increases.
12. Compare to animals , plants need less energy. Why ?
Ans :
 Plant doesn‘t move
 Major part of the plant body is made up of dead cells
13. What are the differences between the transport of materials in xylem and phloem?

Ans :

Xylem Phloem
Xylem conducts water and dissolved minerals from Phloem conducts prepared food material from
roots to leaves and other parts. leaves to other parts of plant in dissolved form.
It takes place through vessels and tracheids which takes place through sieve tubes with the help of
are dead tissues. companion cells, which are living cells.
In xylem upward movement of water and dissolved It is done by the osmotic pressure
minerals is mainly achieved by transpiration pull.
Does not requires energy Energy is required here
Movement is only in upward direction Both in upward and downward direction

14. Draw the diagram showing the structure of nephron and label the parts.
15. How are the lungs designed in human beings to maximize the area for exchange of gases?

Ans. In lungs, the bronchioles terminate in balloon-like structures called alveoli. The alveoli contain
network of blood capillaries that increase the surface area for exchange of gases.

16. Mucus is not used for churning the food or digesting it. Then why is it secreted in the stomach?

Ans. Excessive secretion of HCI can damage the inner lining of stomach. Hence, mucus is secreted in the
stomach to protect its inner lining from being damaged by HCI.

17. Leaves of a healthy potted plant were coated with petroleum jelly. How will it affect the plant? State two
reasons.

Ans. The plant will not remain healthy for long due to the following reasons:

1. There will be no transpiration.

2. There will be no exchange of gases which will affect the rate of photosynthesis.

18. A sample of water weed placed in water and exposed to sunlight. Bubbles of gas seen on the surface of
the leaves .
(i) Name the gas evolved
(ii) Name the process taking place and
(iii) write the balanced equation of the reaction taking place

(i) Oxygen gas evolved

(ii) photosynthesis process
(iii) 6𝐶𝑂2 + 6𝐻2 𝑂 → 𝐶6 𝐻12 𝑂6 + 6𝑂2

19. Give two points of differences between respiration in plants and respiration in animals

Ans : (i) In plants, all parts like the root, stem, leaves, etc., perform respiration individually., while in
animals, either the general body surface or specific organs like the skin, gills, lungs, etc.,

(ii) There is a minimal transport of gasses from one part of the plant to other , unlike the animals

(iii) Plant respiration occurs at much slower rate than animals

20 Why the walls of trachea are supported by cartilaginous rings?

Ans. The trachea is supported by cartilaginous rings which prevent the collapsing even when there is not
much air in it.
Previous questions from SSLC Board

April 2019
1. The correct path of the movement of nerve impulses in the following diagram is (1Mark)

(A) Q → S → R → P (B) P → Q → R → S

(C) S → R → Q → P (D) P → R → S → Q

June 2019
1. Draw the diagram showing the structure of neuron. Label the following parts : (2Marks)
(i) The part which has prominent nucleus
(ii) Dendrite.
Ans. :

2. Imagine the following situations : (3Marks)

(i) Clapping at the end of a programme
(ii) Fluctuating blood pressure in the body.
How these situations are functionally different ? Give reason.
Ans. : (i) Voluntary action :

 Action performed based on thinking

 Controlled by forebrain.
(ii) Involuntary action :

 Action without thinking control

 Controlled by hind brain.
 OR
―We withdraw our leg when stepped on thorn unknowingly.‖
(a) Trace the sequences of events which occur in this action.
(b) Which part of human nervous system controls this action ?
Ans. : (a) (i) Receptors receive the stimulus of pain
(ii) Messages reach spinal cord through sensory neuron.
(iii) Responses reach motor neuron through association neuron.
(iv) Responses reach effectors through motor neuron.
(v) Muscles withdraw the leg.
(b) Spinal cord controls this action

April 2020
1. The incorrect statement related to thyroxine hormone among the following is (1Mark)
(A) it regulates fat metabolism
(B) its deficiency leads to goitre

(C) it is secreted by parathyroid gland

(D) iodine in the food is essential for its production.
2. Name the given structure. What is its general function ? Mention the function of the parts labelled as A
and B. These structures in animals are said to be efficient ways to give quick responses. Why ?
(4Marks)

Ans. :

 Reflex arc
 It gives sudden action in response to the event happening in the environment.
A) Sensory neuron : It conducts the impulse of stimulus from receptor to the spinal cord.
B) Effectors : Which shows the sudden visible response.
Reflex arcs have evolved in animals because the thinking process of brain is not fast enough in many
animals. Mean while many animals have very little of the complex neuron network needed for thinking.
So it can function in the absence of true thought process and increase the chance of survival.
September 2020
1. A person‘s face has become pale and his breathing rate has increased due to fear. Analyse the process
which enables the person to deal with this situation. (2Marks)
Ans. :
 Adrenaline is directly secreted into the blood. The blood to the skin is reduced due to contraction of
muscles around small arteries.
 The breathing rate increases because of the contractions of the diaphragm and the rib muscles. The
heart beats faster, resulting in supply of more oxygen to the muscles.

2. Draw the diagram showing longitudinal section of human brain. Label the following parts : (4Marks)
a) Mid brain
b) Gland which stimulates growth in all organs.
Ans. :

July- 2021 (MCQ based questions)

1. The hormone that regulates carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism in the human body is

(A) Testosterone (B) Adrenaline (C) Insulin (D) Thyroxin

2. A pot that has growing seedling is kept in a dark room. A burning candle is placed near it for a few days.
The top part of the seedling bends towards the light of burning candle. This is

(A) Chemotropism (B) Phototropism (C) Geotropism (D) Hydrotropism

3. The gap between two neurons is

(A) dendrite (B) axon (C) synapse (D) cell body

September -2021(MCQ based questions)

1. A plant hormone that inhibits the growth of plants is

(A) Auxin (B) Gibberellin (C) Cytokinin (D) Abscisic acid

2. The centre of reflex action is

(A) Cerebrum (B) Spinal cord (C) Cerebellum (D) Hypothalamus

3.The correct path of movement of electrical impulse in a neuron is

(A) Dendrite →Cell body →Axon →Axon end

(B) Axon → Axon end →Dendrite →Cell body

(C) Dendrite →Axon →Cell body →Axon end

(D) Cell body →Dendrite →Axon end →Axon

April -2022
1. Mention the function of the following plant hormones :

i) Auxin ii) Cytokinin.

i) Auxin :

Helps the cells in the stems and the cells in the many parts of the plant body to grow longer.

ii) Cytokinin :

* Promotes cell division in fruits and seeds

* Helps in promoting overall growth of plants.

2. Draw the diagram showing the structure of the human brain and label the following parts :

i) Cerebrum ii) Cerebellum.

June -2022
1. An example for positive geotropism in plants is -

(A) growth of shoot (B) growth of roots into deep soil

(C) growth of tendrils of creepers (D) upward growth of roots.

2. Which hormone inhibits the growth of plants ?

Ans. : Abscisic acid

3. Draw the diagram showing the structure of the human brain and label the following parts :

i) Cerebellum ii) Mid-brain.

MOST LIKELY QUESTIONS FOR 2023( Including previous year questions )

1. What is the need for a system of control and coordination in an organism?

Ans : An organism needs control and coordination system for the following functions :

(i) To save the body of the organisms from the harmful changes in the environment.

(ii) To control the speed of voluntary and involuntary actions.

(iii) To have the capability to think and learn for responding to any stimuli.
2. What happens at the synapse between two neurons?

Ans : The small empty space between two nerve cells is called synapse.

At synapse, a chemical substance is produced at the end of axon of one nerve cell that reaches to the other
nerve cell through the dendrite.

3. Which part of the brain maintains posture and equilibrium of the body?

Ans : Posture and equilibrium of the body are controlled by cerebellum.

4. How do we detect the smell of an agarbatti (incense stick)?

Ans : The smell of agarbatti (incense stick) diffuses in the air.

It is detected by olfactory receptors present in the nose.

This information is sent to olfactory lobe by sensory nerves located in the forebrain.

It responds to the information.

5. What are plant hormones? Give an example of a plant hormone that promotes growth.

Ans : Plant hormones are also called phytohormones.

Plant hormones are the chemical substances which help in controlling growth, flowering, height,
development of plants and their response to the environment.

Hormone that promotes growth in plants is - Auxin.

6. How is the movement of leaves of the sensitive plant different from the movement of a shoot towards
light?
Ans :

Movement of leaves of the sensitive plant Movement of a shoot towards light

It is a nastic movement It is a tropic movement
The stimulus is touch The stimulus is light
It does not depend on the direction of stimulus It depends on the direction of stimulus
It is growth independent It is growth dependent

7. How do auxins promote the growth of a tendril around a support?

Ans : When the tip of a tendril touches a support, then the auxins present in its tip move to that side of tip
which is away from the support.
Auxins promote growth. So, due to more auxins in it, the side of tendril away from the support grows faster
(and becomes longer) than the side which is in contact with the support and makes the tendril twirl (or bend)
around the support.
8. Which signals will get disrupted in case of a spinal cord injury?
Ans : (i) All the involuntary actions will get disturbed.
(ii) Reflex actions will be disturbed because reflexes are located in the spinal cord. Therefore, the quick
responses required to safe guard the body will not take place.
9. Design an experiment to demonstrate hydrotropism.
Ans : Equipments requires : Glass through , water container , soil and a plant
Procedure : As shown in figure , in glass through take a soil , plant and keep the
water containing cup just away from the plant. Keep this set up for few days.
Observation : Roots grow towards wet area
Decision : Roots show hydrotropism
10. How does phototropism occur in plants?
Ans : The movement in any part of a plant due to light is called phototropism.

The shoot of plant shows positive phototropism and roots show negative phototropism.

Phototropism in plants occurs due to the hormone auxin. When light falls on one side of a plant, the
secretion of auxin hormone is more in the part away from the light.

Hence, auxin causes growth in length of the cells in shady part. So, the plant appears to bend towards light.
11. How are involuntary actions and reflex actions different from each other?
Ans :
Involuntary actions Reflex actions
It takes place without any thinking It takes place along with stimuli
It is controlled by mid and hind brain It is controlled by spinal cord
The action is relatively slower It is very quick

12. Compare and contrast nervous and hormonal mechanisms for control and coordination in animals.

Ans :
Nervous system Endocrine system
It is a faster process It is a slower process
It transmits information in the form of It transmits information in the form of
electrochemical signals chemical signals
It does not control metabolism It controls metabolism
Growth is not affected Growth is affected

13. What are the parts of hind brain ? Mention their functions.
Ans : (i) Cerebellum : it controls posture and equilibrium of the body
(ii) Medulla : Involuntary actions including blood pressure, salivation and vomiting are controlled by the
medulla
14. Name the endocrine glands found attached with following organs and mention the hormones secreted by
these glands.
(i) Brain (ii) Kidney

Ans : (i) Brain : Pituitary gland , secretes growth hormones

(ii) Kidney : Adrenal gland , helps in metabolism, regulates blood pressure, and is responsible for the fight
or flight response.
15. Why are some patients of diabetes treated by giving injections of insulin?
Ans :
 Insulin hormone regulates blood sugar levels.
 To treat increased level of blood sugar, the diabetic patients are treated by giving injections of
insulin.

16. What is the significance of tropic movements in plants ? Explain any two types of tropic movements.

Ans :
 Tropic movement help in the protection of plants.
 It helps to develop a sudden response during any charge.
 This movement also helps in the growth and development of plants by facilitating the movement of
root, stem, and leaves towards the stimuli like sunlight, nutrients, water, etc.
Phototropism : Movement of shoot towards light.
Geotropism : Movement roots towards gravity / shoots away from gravity.

17. Where are different receptors present in our body ? What are their functions ?

Ans : (i) Phonoreceptors are found in Ear. Their function is to hear and balance of the body.
(ii) Photoreceptors are found in Eyes. Their function is to see.
(iii) Olfactory receptors are found in Nose. Their function is smell detection.
(iv) Thermoreceptors found in Skin.- Its function is to feel the heat, cold or touch.
(v) Gustatory receptors found in Tongue - Its function is to detect Taste.

18. Which hormone is known as emergency hormone in our body ? How it helps in coping during
emergency ?

Ans : Adrenaline hormone is known as the Emergency Hormone

 Adrenaline increases the heart beat and breathing rate which results in the supply of more oxygen to
muscles. Hence the rate of metabolism increases.
 This helps the person think rapidly and respond to situation.

19. How does our body respond when adrenaline is secreted into the blood?

Ans. When adrenaline is secreted into the blood, it prepares our body for action.
 It speeds up heart beat and breathing, raises blood pressure and allows more glucose to go into the
blood to give us a lot of energy quickly to fight or urn away from frightening situation.
 The blood supply decreases form the skin and digestive system and increase to skeletal muscles.
 All these conditions help the individual to respond the emergency situation.

20 How endocrine glands do helps in maintaining feedback control?

Ans. The timing and amount of hormones released are regulated by feedback mechanism. For example,
glucose level in the blood is maintained constant by feedback mechanism.

a) High glucose level in the blood induces the pancreatic cells to produce insulin which converts glucose to
glycogen.

b) Less glucose level in the blood do not induce the pancreatic cells to produce insulin so that less
conversion of glucose to glycogen may occur.
Previous questions from SSLC Board

April 2019
1. Part of the flower that develops into fruit and part of the seed that develops into root respectively are
(A) ovary and plumule (B) plumule and radicle (1Mark)

(C) ovary and radicle (D) ovary and ovule

2. Draw the diagram showing the longitudinal section of a flower. Label the following parts : (2Marks)
(i) Style (ii) Anther.
Ans. :

June 2019
1. In sustaining reproductive fertility of a person, (2Marks)
(a) position of the testis in the body
(b) secretion of the testosterone
(c) secretion of the prostrate gland
are supplementary to each other. Explain scientifically.
Ans. :
(a) Sperm formation requires a lower temperature than body temperature.
(b) Testosterone regulates / stimulates the formation of sperm.
(c) Secretion of Prostrate gland makes the transportation of sperm easier.
Thus reproductive fertility is sustained by the formation, stimulation
to the formation and proper transportation of sperms.
2. Draw the diagram showing the germination of pollen on stigma and label the part on which pollination
takes place. (2Marks)
Ans. :

April 2020
1. In the given figure of Cotyledon the parts labelled as A and B respectively are (1Mark)

(A) fruit, shoot (B) primary shoot, primary root

(C) secondary root, primary shoot (D) bud, leaf.
2. Draw the diagram showing the germination of pollen on stigma and label the pollen tube. (2Marks)
Ans. :

3. Explain the significant function of each structure in human male reproductive system. (2Marks)
Ans. :i) Testis : They produce sperms and testosterone hormone which is responsible for male characters.
ii) Scrotum : They regulate temperature necessary for production of sperms.
iii) Urethra and vas deferens : Transport sperm from testis.
iv) Prostate gland and seminal vesicle : They add their secretion to make the sperm transport easier and
provide nutrition.
v) Penis : Delivers the sperms to the site of fertilization.
OR
Explain the structure and important role of placenta during gestation period of woman.
Ans :
  During pregnancy period the embryo gets nutrition from the mother‘s blood with help of disc shaped
special tissue embedded in the uterine wall is called placenta.
 It contains villi on the developing side of the tissue.
 Villi provide glucose and oxygen to pass from mother to embryo.
 Removes the wastes generated from the embryo

September 2020
1. a) How does menstruation occur ? (2Marks)
Ans. :
 The uterus prepares itself every month to receive a fertilized egg and thus its lining becomes thick
and spongy.
 If the egg is not fertilized, the lining slowly breaks and comes out through the vagina as blood and
mucous.
OR
a) Explain the development of fertilized egg into a foetus in a woman. (2Marks)
Ans :
 The fertilized egg starts dividing and forms a ball of cells or embryo.
 The embryo is implanted in the lining of the uterus where they continue to grow and develop organs
to become foetus.

b) In humans, how the surgical contraceptive methods can be used to prevent pregnancy ? (2Marks)
Ans :
 If the vas deferens in the man is blocked, sperm transfer will be prevented. Fertilisation will not take
place.
 If the fallopian tube in the woman is blocked, the egg will not be able to reach the uterus.
Fertilisation will not take place.

July- 2021 (MCQ based questions)

1. The correct sequence found in the process of sexual reproduction in a flower is
(A) pollination, fertilization, seed, embryo
(B) seed, embryo, fertilization, pollination
(C) embryo, seed, pollination, fertilization

(D) pollination, fertilization, embryo, seed

2. The embryo gets nutrition from the mother‘s blood with the help of a special part called
(A) Fallopian tube (B) Ovary

(C) Uterus (D) Placenta

3. The common passage for both sperms and urine in human male reproductive system is

(A) Urethra (B) Ureter

(C) Vas deferens (D) Urinary bladder
September - 2021 (MCQ based questions)
1. The parts that develop into fruit and seed in a flower respectively are

(A) stamen and ovary (B) ovule and ovary

(C) ovary and ovule (D) stamen and ovule
2. In the human female reproductive system, the egg is carried from ovary to the uterus through this part

(A) cervix (B) fallopian tube (C) placenta (D) vagina

3. A common bacterial infection that spreads through sexual contact in human beings is

(A) Gonorrhea (B) AIDS (C) Hepatitis-B (D) Warts

April - 2022
1. In humans, sexually transmitted viral infection is -

(A) AIDS (B) Syphilis (C) Tuberculosis (D) Gonorrhoea.

2. In males, testes are located outside the abdominal cavity in scrotum. Why ?
Ans. : Because to maintain lower temperature required for the formation of sperms than the normal body
temperature.
3. Draw the diagram showing the longitudinal section of a flower and label ‗ovary‘.

June - 2022
1. Part of a flower in the plant that develops into fruit is -

(A) petal (B) stigma (C) ovary (D) style.

2. How does uterus prepare to receive the fertilized egg in woman ? What happens if egg does not fertilise ?
Explain.

 Uterus prepares itself every month to receive fertilized egg. It makes its inner layer thick and spongy.
 If the egg is not fertilized, it lives for about one day.
 If fertilization doesn‘t occur the lining slowly breaks and comes out through the vagina as blood and
mucous. ( Menstruation occurs )

MOST LIKELY QUESTIONS FOR 2023( Including previous year questions )

1. What is puberty ?
Ans : The adolescence period in which reproductive tissues begin to mature is called Puberty.
2. What are the changes seen in girls at the time of puberty?
Ans : The various changes occur in girls at puberty are :
a. Hair grow under armpits and pubic region.
b. Mammary glands (or breasts) develop and enlarge.
c. The hips broaden.
d. Extra fat is deposited in various parts of the body like hips and thighs.
e. Fallopian tube, uterus and vagina enlarge.
f. Ovaries start to release eggs.
g. Menstruation (monthly periods) starts.
h. Feelings and sexual drives associated with adulthood begin to develop.

3. ―DNA copying an essential part of the process of reproduction‖ . Justify the statement
Ans :
 To transmit the characteristics of parent organism to its offsprings (progenies)
 While copying occasional variations are produced in offsprings ,
 The changes in the copy of DNA provide an organism the capability to survive in changing
conditions.

4. What is self-pollination and cross-pollination ? Name the agents involved in this process.
Ans : Self-pollination : If transfer of the pollen from stamen to the stigma occurs in the same flower, it is
called as self-pollination.
Cross-pollination : If transfer of the pollen from stamen to the stigma occurs one flower to another flower,
it is called as self-pollination.
Pollination achieved by agents like wind, water or animals.
5. If a woman is using a copper-T, will it help in protecting her from sexually transmitted diseases?
Ans : No , it won‘t help in protecting her from sexually transmitted diseases
Copper-T is a contraceptive device which prevents union of sperm with egg.
6. What are the different methods of contraception?
Ans : (i) Barrier method : In this method, condom, diaphragm and cervical caps are used. These prevent the
entry of sperms in the female genital tract during sexual intercourse.
(ii) Chemical method : In this method a woman uses two kinds of pills (oral and vaginal pills). The oral pills
are hormonal preparations which suppress the release of ovum in fallopian tube. These are called oral
contraceptives. The vaginal pills/ creams are spermicidal. The chemicals kill the sperms during their journey
in the vaginal tract.
(iii) Intrauterine contraceptive devices : Intrauterine contraceptive devices such as copper-T are placed
safely in the uterus by a skilled doctor. It prevents the sperms to reach the uterus.
(iv) Surgical method : In this method, a small part of vas deferens of male and fallopian tube of female is cut
or tied by surgery. It is called vasectomy in males and tubectomy in females.
7. What could be the reasons for adopting contraceptive methods?
Ans :
a) To control the birth rate and prevent the increase in population.
b) To reduce the adverse effects on mother‘s body due to frequent pregnancy.
c) To provide safety from sexually transmitted diseases.
8. In female reproductive system,
(i) How does an egg from the ovary reach uterus and develops into foetus?
(ii) What are the changes that occur in the uterus for the development of the foetus?
Ans : (i) After sexual intercourse, sperm move from the vagina through the cervix and uterus to the
fallopian tubes, where one sperm fertilizes the egg.
The fertilized egg (zygote) divides repeatedly as it moves down the fallopian tube to the uterus.
Then zygote divides repeatedly and becomes a solid ball of cells.
(ii) The inner lining of uterus thickens and its blood vessels enlarge to provide nourishment to the foetus.
As pregnancy progresses, uterus expands to make room for the foetus.
9. In sexual reproduction,
(i) how does the re-establishment of DNA amount occur in the new generation?
(ii) how is the amount of variations increase among the individuals of each of the population?
Ans : (i) When the gametes fuse during fertilization, the resulting new generation organism gets one pair of
chromosome (Haploid) from each parent and thus the chromosome becomes diploid.
Thus, the full number of chromosomes is re-established and the specific chromosome number of a species is
maintained.

(ii) During fertilisation, 1 gamete from each parent combines to form a zygote.

Each gamete contains a different set of DNA.

Because of recombination and mutation in DNA variations occur in an individual

This variation of an individual transmitted to its population

10. Differentiate between bisexual and unisexual flowers.

Unisexual flowers contain male and female reproductive organs in separate flowers whereas bisexual
flowers contain both male and female reproductive organs in the same flower.

11. Explain the process of budding in Hydra.

 In hydra, a bud develops as an outgrowth due to repeated cell division at one specific site.
 These buds develop into tiny individuals
 When fully mature, detach from the parent body and become new independent individuals.

12. Can you think of reasons why more complex organism cannot give rise to new individuals through
regeneration?

Ans. The reason is that complex organisms are not merely random collection of cells.

 The cells are specialized and are organized in them as tissues , organs and organ system.
 These organs have to be placed at definite positions in the body.
 So, regeneration is not possible in multi cellular organism.
13. Differentiate between asexual and sexual reproduction.

Ans.

Asexual Reproduction Sexual Reproduction

Only one parent is involved Two parents are involved
Organisms do not resemble exactly, but certain
Offspring resembles exactly with the parent
features of both the parents
Cell divides mitotically Mitosis and meiosis both divisions are involved.
Gametes are not produced Gametes are produced
Not fertilization Fetilisation of gametes
Organisms produced have less adoptability Organism produced has more adaptability
Variations are absent Variations are present

Why is it said that ―sexual reproduction promotes diversity of characters in the off springs‖?

Ans.
 It is because sexual reproduction results from the fusion of two gametes coming from two different
and sexually distinct individuals.
 This leads to variation and promotes diversity of characters in the off springs.

Protozoan reproduce by binary fission as well as by multiple fission. In your opinion which process is better
and why?

Ans. Multiple fission is better than binary fission because:

1. More number of individuals is produced.

2. It helps to tide over unfavourable conditions.

What are the male and female gonads in human beings ? Mention their functions

Ans : Testes are the male gonads

Functions :
 It secretes male hormone called testosterone
 It produces male gametes (sperms)
Ovaries are the female gonads
Functions :
 It secretes female hormone called estrogen and progesterone
 It produces female gametes (Ovum)
Previous questions from SSLC Board

April 2019
1. A pure dominant pea plant producing round — yellow seeds is crossed with pure recessive pea plant
producing wrinkled — green seeds. The number of plants bearing round — green seeds in the F1 generation
of Mendel‘s experiment is (1Mark)

(A) 0 (B) 1 (C) 3 (D) 9

2. What are fossils ? (1Mark)

Ans. : The preserved traces of the living organisms are called fossils.
3. (i) Write the differences between homologous organs and analogous organs.
(ii) Write the differences between the sex chromosomes of man and sex chromosomes of woman.
(iii) Sex of a child is determined by the father. How ? (4Marks)
Ans : (i) Differences between homologous organs and analogous organs

Homologous organs Analogous organs

Organs of different organisms Organs of different organisms
have common origin have different origin
They have similar structure They have different structure
and perform different function and perform similar function
Ex : Forelimbs of frog and Ex : Wings of bird and wings of bat.
forelimbs of bird

(ii) * Woman has a perfect pair of sex chromosomes, both called X.

* Man has a normal sized chromosome X and another short sized chromosome Y.
(iii) A child who inherits X chromosome from her father will be a girl and a child who inherits Y
chromosome from his father will be a boy. Both the girl and the boy inherit only X chromosome from the
mother. Therefore sex of a child is determined by the father.

June 2019
1. Observe the table which shows contrast forms of pea plants (1Mark)

Colour of the seed Position of the flower

Green ( G ) Axial ( A )
Yellow ( g ) Terminal ( a )

The genetic makeup with green seed and terminal flowers is indicated as

(A) gGAa (B) GgAa (C) GgAA (D) Ggaa.

2. Name the factors responsible for speciation. (1Mark)
Ans. : Natural selection
Variations
Geographical isolation.
3. (i) How does relative method help to determine the age of fossils ? (3Marks)
(ii) ―Experiences of an individual during its life time cannot direct evolution.‖ Why ?
(iii) ―Chromosomes inherited from the father determines the sex of a child.‖ Explain.
Ans. : (i) Gives the information that, fossils which are closer to the surface are most recent than those in
deeper layers.
(ii) Change in non-reproductive tissues cannot be passed on to the DNA of germ cells.
Experiences gained by the organism is not transferred to the DNA and cannot be transferred to the next
generation. ( Any one )
(iii) All children will inherit an X chromosome from mother.
Child who inherit an X chromosome from father will be a girl.
Child who inherit an Y chromosome from father will be a boy.

April 2020
1. The gene for brown coloured hair is recessive that of gene for black coloured hair. What is the hair colour
of a person who has inherited a gene for brown coloured hair from mother and black coloured hair from
father ?
Ans. : Black coloured hair
2. The plant bearing round yellow coloured ( RrYy ) seed are self pollinated with the same plant. Represent
the result obtained in the F2 generation of dihybrid cross with the help of a checker board. Mention the
varieties of plants obtained in F2 generation. (4Marks)

Ans :

The plants obtained are

Round yellow — 9 , Round green — 3
Wrinkled yellow — 3 , Wrinkled green — 1
 OR
What is evolution ? Explain the three evidences for evolution. (4Marks)

Ans : Phenomenon of gradual change of organisms from simple form into complex form in a long period is
called evolution.
Three evidences are :
i) Homologous organs :

 The organs which have same basic structures but modified to perform different functions are called
homologous organs.
 Provide the information that organisms of different species might be evolved from common ancestor.
ii) Analogous organs :

 The organs which have different basic structures but they perform similar function are called
analogous organs.
 Provide the information that though the organs of different organisms perform same function, they
may not have same function but they may not be evolved from common ancestor.
iii) Fossils :

 The dead remains of past organism under the rocks/deep earthen layers are called fossils.
 They help to study evidence and missing link between different species.
 They help to understand the sequence of evolution and help in classification of organisms.

September 2020
1. Explain the two methods to estimate the age of fossils. (2Marks)
Ans. :
 Relative method — If we dig into the earth, the fossils we find closer to the earth‘s surface are more
recent than the fossils we find in deeper layers.
 By detecting the ratios of different isotopes of the same element in the fossil material.
2. Mendel crossed plants bearing red flowers ( RR ) with the plants bearing white flowers ( rr ) and produced
progeny from them. The plants with red flowers obtained in F1 generation were different from the plants
with red flowers of parental generation. Why ? Explain with reasons. (3Marks)

Ans. :
 In parent generation, plant bearing red flowers has both the dominant traits RR. In parent generation,
plant bearing white flowers has both the recessive traits rr.
 F1 generation plant inherits one copy of dominant trait ( red ) and one copy of recessive trait (
white ) from the parental plants Rr. But only the dominant trait ( red ) is expressed.

July- 2021 (MCQ based questions)

1. If a round green seeded pea plant [ RRyy ] is crossed with wrinkled yellow seeded pea plant [ rrYY ], the
seeds produced in F1 generation are
(A) round and green seeds (B) wrinkled and yellow seeds

(C) round and yellow seeds (D) wrinkled and green seeds
2. Homologous organs
(A) have same structure and perform same function

(B) have same structure and perform different functions

(C) have different structures and perform same function
(D) have different structures and perform different functions
3. The experiences of an individual during its lifetime cannot be passed on to its progeny because, they are

(A) inherited traits (B) acquired traits (C) dominant traits (D) recessive traits

September - 2021 (MCQ based questions)

1. Tall pea plants having round seeds ( TTRR ) are crossed with dwarf pea plants having wrinkled seeds
( ttrr ). The progeny obtained in F1 generation is

(A) Tall plants having wrinkled seeds (B) Tall plants having round seeds
(C) Dwarf plants having round seeds (D) Dwarf plants having wrinkled seeds
2. Analogous organs have
(A) same structure and perform same function
(B) different structures and perform different functions

(C) different structures and perform same function

(D) same structure and perform different functions
3. The genotypic ratio of F2 generation of Mendel‘s monohybrid cross experiment is
(A) 3 : 1 (B) 2 : 1

(C) 1 : 2 : 1 (D) 9 : 3 : 3 : 1

April -2022
1. When a tall ( TT ) pea plant is crossed with a dwarf ( tt ) pea plant, represent the result obtained in F2
generation of monohybrid cross with the help of checker board and mention the ratio of varieties of plants.

Ratio : TT : Tt : tt OR Tall : Dwarf

1:2:1 3:1

2. a) Mention any four main factors that lead to the rise of new species.
b) The experiences of an individual acquired during its lifetime cannot be passed on to its progeny. Give
reason.
a) Factors responsible for the rise of new species :
 Geographical isolation
 Natural selection
  Inheritance of traits
 Genetic drift / gene flow
 Variation / mutuation / changes in DNA.

b) Change in non-reproductive tissues cannot be passed on to the DNA of germ cells.

OR
What are fossils ? Mention the methods of estimation of dating fossils and explain briefly.

Preserved traces of living organisms in deep layers of the earth.

Methods :
i) Relative method : The fossils we find closer to the surface are more recent than fossils we find in deeper
layers.
ii) Determining the time period by using isotopes ( Carbon dating ) Detecting the ratios of different isotopes
of same element in the fossil material.

June- 2022
1. What is the sex of a child born by receiving X chromosome from father ?

Ans. : Female child / baby girl

2. Can the wing of butterfly and the wing of bat be considered as Analogous organs ? If yes, why ? If no,
why ?
Ans. :
 Yes, these structures are considered as Analogous organs.
 Because the wing of butterfly and wing of bat both are useful for flight.
 But their basic design / origin are not same.

3. ―An individual organism cannot pass the experiences acquired during its life time to the progenies of the
next generation.‖ Explain this concept with the help of an illustration.
Ans. :
 Change in non-reproductive tissues cannot be passed on to the DNA of the germ cells.
 For example, if we breed a group of mice all their progeny will have tails, as expected. Now, if the
tails of these mice are removed by surgery in each generation, the tailless mice produce tailed
progeny.
 Because, removal of the tail cannot change the genes of the germ cells of the mice.
OR
Pure ‗short‘ pea plant is crossed with pure ‗tall‘ pea plant. Represent the results obtained in F2 generation
with the help of checker board and mention the ratio of the types of plants obtained.
Result of F2 generation :
Ratio obtained in F2 generation :

Pure tall : tall : Pure dwarf OR Tall : dwarf

1:2:1 3:1

MOST LIKELY QUESTIONS FOR 2023( Including previous year questions )

1. How does the creation of variations in a species promote survival?

Ans :
 The variations provide stability to the population of various species by preventing them from getting
wiped out during adverse conditions.
 The natural environment also changes, and variations in species which become suited to the
environment help it to survive.
2. How do Mendel‘s experiments show that traits may be dominant or recessive?
Ans : When plants with two contrasting characteristics are crossed each other , the characteristics appeared
in first generation were called dominant (i.e. tall plants) and the characteristics that did not appear were
called recessive (dwarf i.e. plants).
3. How do Mendel‘s experiments show that traits are inherited independently?
Ans : When tall-round seeded plant is crossed with short-wrinkle seeded plant , we find new combinations
in F2 progenies like tall-wrinkle seeded and short-round seeded plants .

This shows that the tall/short trait and the round seed/wrinkled seed trait are independently inherited.

4. What are the different ways in which individuals with a particular trait may increase in a population ?
Ans :

 If it gives the benefit of survival through natural selection.

 Due to a sudden increase in a particular trait in a population, i.e., by genetic drift.

5. ―Traits acquired during the life-time of an individual is not inherited‖ . Explain with suitable example.
Answer: The traits acquired during the life-time are changes in the non-reproductive cells of the organisms
and are not capable of being passed on to the next generation.
If a rat accidently lost its tail or we remove it intentionally , this is an acquired character. But this character
does not inherited because all progenies of rat are born with tail
6. What are fossils ? What do they tell us about the process of evolution ?

Ans: Fossils : Fossils are the remains or traces of a dead organism. These are formed through the formation
of sedimentary rocks. They provide following information on the process of evolution.

1. They tell about the gradual development of complex structured organisms from simple structured
organisms.

2. It is known through them that birds are evolved from reptiles.

7. Why are human beings who look so different from each other in terms of size, colour and looks said to
belong to the same species ?
Ans: Humans may be slightly different in different races of people, but there is no reproductive isolation.
Reproductive isolation differentiates one species from the other.
Human beings may be different in size, colour and looks , they can marry among themselves and produce
fertile offspring.
8. In evolutionary terms, can we say which among bacteria, spiders, fish and chimpanzees have a ‗better‘
body design ? Why or why not ?
Ans: Bacteria is a primitive organism as they came into being very early in evolution. But these organisms
are still surviving in the present conditions after millions of years. This is because they have adapted well to
the changing environment over these years. Same is the case for all other organisms like spiders, fishes and
chimpanzees which have adapted to their environment and have survived. Therefore, all the organisms
which exist have a body design which is better as it is suited to their environment.
9. Only variations that confer an advantage to an individual organism will survive in a population. Do you
agree with this statement ? Why or why not ?
Ans: No, many of the times the variations are not advantageous to an individual organism but still survive
in a population, e.g., take the case of free ear lobe and attached ear lobe.
Sometimes , variation may be advantageous or disadvantageous to an individual. Ex : feather coloration in
peacock is advantageous as it is used attract the opposite sex. But it is disadvantageous as it is recognised by
the predators.
10. The human hand, cat paw and horse foot, when studied in detail show the same structure of bones and
point towards a common origin.

(a) What do you conclude from this ?

(b) What is the term given to such structures ?
Ans : (a) All have originated from same ancestor
(b) These structures are called homologous organs
11. No two individuals are absolutely alike in a population. Why ?
Ans : Variation occur in the DNA due to the Crossing-over and Recombination during the DNA copying
process. Hence, no two individuals are absolutely alike in a population.
12. Write the differences between Acquired traits and Inherited traits
Ans :

Acquired Traits Inherited Traits

1. These are the traits which are developed in an 1. These are the traits which are
individual due to special conditions. passed from one generation to the next.
2. They cannot be transferred to the progeny. 2. They get transferred to the progeny.
3. They cannot direct evolution. 3. They are helpful in evolution.
E.g., Low weight of starving beetles. E.g., Colour of eyes and hair.
Previous questions from SSLC Board

April 2019
1. A food chain in a polluted aquatic ecosystem is given. Observe it and answer the following questions.

Fresh water → Algae → Fishes → Birds.

(i) Which organisms are disturbed more due to bio-magnification ? Why ?

(ii) This ecosystem will be destroyed gradually due to bio-magnification. Why ?
Ans :
(i) Birds get affected more due to bio-magnification.
As the birds occupy the top most level in the given food chain, the maximum concentration of harmful
chemicals causing bio-magnification get accumulated in their body.
(ii) Bio-magnification is the process of accumulation of non-degradable chemicals in the various tropic
levels of food chains. As the chemicals are non-degradable or cannot be washed. they cannot be removed
from the organisms of the food chain. This leads to gradual destruction of the ecosystem.
OR
A student places a piece of cucumber, a glass piece, a banana peel and a plastic pen in a pit and closes it.
What changes can be observed in these materials after a month ? Give scientific reason for these changes.
Ans :
 Cucumber piece and banana peel are organic substances.
 They are biodegradable substances, and are eco-friendly.
 Glass piece and plastic pen are inorganic/synthetic substances.
 They are non-biodegradable substances and cause soil pollution.

June 2019
1. Observe the food chain given below :

Grass → Grass hopper → Frog → Snake → Eagle.

If the energy available at first tropic level is 5000 J, then the amount of energy available for snake is

(A) 500 J (B) 5 J (C) 0·5 J (D) 50 J.

2. Micro-organisms like bacteria are called decomposers. Why ?

Ans : Bacteria and fungi are called decomposers because they break down the dead and decaying organic
matter into simpler substances and provide the nutrients back to the soil.

June 2020
1. ―As energy moves progressively through various tropic levels of food chain it is no longer available to the
previous level.‖ Give reasons.
Ans : (1) The flow of energy is unidirectional.
 (2) At every tropic level, large amount of energy is lost in form of heat for maintaining metabolic
activities.
(3) The amount of heat lost is generally 90 % and only 10 % of energy is retained and is available
from previous tropic level to the next
(4) Thus it is said that no energy is available for the previous tropic level.

September 2020
1. Give reason :
a) Food chains generally consist of only three or four steps.
b) Decomposers play an important role in an ecosystem.
c) Protecting of ozone layer is necessary.

Ans : a) Food chains generally consist of only three or four steps because, energy is lost in each tropic level.
Hence, a shorter food chain is more efficient.

b) Decomposers play an important role in an ecosystem because, they break down the dead and decaying
organic matter into simpler substances and provide the nutrients back to the soil.

c) Protecting of ozone layer is necessary because , the ozone layer is a natural layer of gas in the upper
atmosphere that protects humans and other living things from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the
sun

July 2021 (MCQ based questions)

1. The correct statement with respect to biodegradable substances among the following. These substances

(A) undergo recycling naturally in the environment

(B) harm various organisms in the ecosystem
(C) increase the density of harmful chemicals in different tropic levels
(D) remain inert in the environment for a long time

September 2021 (MCQ based questions)

1. The materials that change slowly their form and structure in the environment are

(A) Plant fibres (B) Peels of vegetables (C) Waste papers (D) Used tea leaves

April - 2022
1. Atmospheric layer that absorbs ultraviolet radiations coming from the sunlight is made up of this
molecule.

(A) N2 (B) H2 (C) O3 (D) O2

2. What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem ?.

Ans. : Decompose dead wastes ( organic ) of plants and animals thus keep surroundings clean and maintain
ecological balance.
3. What is trophic level ? Flow of energy in an ecosystem is always unidirectional. Why ? Explain.
Ans. : Different levels or stages of food chain are called trophic level.

Energy flow in an ecosystem is unidirectional because,

 The energy that is captured by autotrophs does not revert back to the solar input.
 The energy which passes to the herbivores do not come back to autotrophs.
 As energy moves progressively through the various trophic levels it is no blonger available to the
previous level.
 At different levels energy is lost in the form of heat.

June - 2022
1. Primary consumers in any food chain are always -

(A) carnivores (B) herbivores (C) higher carnivores (D) producers.

2. Nowadays Chlorofluorocarbon ( CFC ) free refrigerators are being manufactured. Why ?
Ans. : CFC‘s are responsible for the decrease in the amount of ozone layer which protects the earth from
ultraviolet rays of sun.
3. What is ‗biological magnification‘ ?
Ans. : Process that involves magnification ( increase ) of the harmful chemicals at different trophic levels
of ecosystem.
4. Mention any two effects of non-biodegradable substances on the environment.
Ans. :
 These substances do not undergo natural recycling and remain inert in the environment.
 May harm the various members by adding into different stages of ecosystem / cause ‗Biological
magnification‘.
 Cause environmental pollution.

OR
Mention any two methods that reduce the problems caused while disposing the wastes.
By adopting following methods :

 Segregation of dry wastes and wet wastes.

 Reusing of wet wastes by converting them into manures.
 Recycling dry wastes
 Limiting the use of disposable materials
 Following eco-friendly packagings.

MOST LIKELY QUESTIONS FOR 2023( Including previous year questions )

1. What is ozone and how does it affect any ecosystem?

Ans : Ozone is a molecule formed by three oxygen atoms (O3)

Ozone is essential for all kinds of ecosystems on earth as it protects the ecosystem from the harmful effects
of ultraviolet radiations cause skin cancer, cataract and affect our immune system.
2. How ozone layer is formed ? Explain with equations
Ans :
 Ozone at the higher levels of the atmosphere is a product of UV radiation acting on oxygen (O2)
molecule.
 The higher energy UV radiations split apart some molecular oxygen (O2) into free oxygen (O)atoms.
 These atoms then combine with the molecular oxygen to form ozone
𝑈𝑉 𝑙𝑖𝑔 ℎ𝑡
𝑂2 𝑂+𝑂
𝑂 + 𝑂2 → 𝑂3 (𝑜𝑧𝑜𝑛𝑒)
3. Why is damage to the ozone layer a cause for concern? What steps are being taken to limit this damage?
Ans :
 The damage to the ozone layer is a cause for concern because if the ozone layer in the atmosphere
disappears completely, then harmful ultraviolet radiations coming from the sun would reach the
earth. These ultraviolet radiations would cause skin cancer and other ailments in human beings,
animals and also damage the plants.
 Ozone layer is damaged by the substance called chloroflourocarbons (CFC) , so we have to avoid
using such substances.
 The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) unanimously forged an agreement among its
member countries to freeze CFC production .

4. Why are some substances biodegradable and some non-biodegradable?

Ans : Substances that are broken down by biological processes are said to be biodegradable.
In our environment, many of the substances are broken easily by decomposers
However, there are other substances also which are not broken down in this manner and are known as non-
biodegradable substances.
Since these substances are not degraded by decomposers, so they persist for a long time.
5. Give any two ways in which biodegradable substances would affect the environment.
Ans : a) They may produce foul smell during decomposition process.
b) They may produce some harmful gases such as ammonia, methane, carbon dioxide, etc., which can
further-cause global warming.
c) These substance are the sources for harmful microbes and can spread diseases.

6. Give any two ways in which non-biodegradable substances would affect the environment.
Ans :
a. These inert substances simply persist in the environment. This means that these substances require land
area for dumping.
b. Excess of fertilizers, pesticides and other chemicals changes soil chemistry and also affects aquatic life.
c. Most of these chemicals and heavy metal are easily absorbed by the organisms. This causes biological
magnification.

7. Which bag will you prefer for shopping and why ?

(a) Jute bag (b) Polythene bag

Ans : Jute bag was biodegradable , while polythene bag was non-biodegradable, so I prefer Jute bag for
shopping
8. How can you help in reducing the problem of waste disposal? Give any two methods.
Ans : (i) Preparing compost : All biodegradable wastes like, kitchen waste , cattle wastes can be dumped in
the compost pit.

(ii) By following 3 R‘s : Reduce , reuse and recycle

 By opting biodegradable substances in our daily life

 Reusing and recycling of plastics and papers
9. Why only 10% energy is transferred to the next trophic level ?
Ans : At every tropic level, 90% of energy is lost in form of heat for maintaining metabolic
activities. Hence , only 10% energy is transferred to the next trophic level
10. Why natural ecosystem is more stable than artificial ecosystem ?
Ans : The natural ecosystem is more stable because it has been evolved naturally by adopting requires
changes with the time whereas artificial ecosystem is created by man seeing the natural ecosystem.
11. Study the food chain given below.
 Grass → Grasshopper → Frog
 Wheat → Rat → Snake → Hawk
Which of the two consumers frog/hawk will get more available energy and why?
Ans : Frog will get more energy
Because , In a food chain only 10% of the energy will be available for the next tropic level.
Frog is a secondary consumer while Hawk is a tertiary consumer , Hence Frog will get more energy.
12. What will happen if we kill all the organisms in one tropic level?
Ans : The number of organisms will be increased in lower tropic level and this will leads to scarcity of food.
The number of organisms will be decreased in higher tropic level because of unavailability of food.
Finally the whole food chain will be destroyed.
13. Why it is an advantage to have a shorter food chain ?
Ans : In a food chain only 10% of the energy will be available for the next tropic level.
Hence , to get sufficient energy shorter food chain is advantageous.

.
Previous questions from SSLC Board

April 2019
1. By constructing Khadin check-dams in level terrains, (1Mark)
(A) underground water level decreases

(B) underground water level increases

(C) vegetation in the nearby areas are destroyed due to excess moisture
(D) underground water gets polluted
2. List the disadvantages of using fossil fuels. (2Marks)
Ans :
 When these fuels are burnt, the products are oxides of carbon, water, oxides of nitrogen and oxides
of sulphur.
 Oxides of nitrogen and sulphur may lead to acid rain.
 Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas. When its concentration in the atmosphere increases
continuously, leads to intense global warming.

OR
List the advantages of ‗reduce‘ and ‗reuse‘ to save environment.
Ans :
 By the practice of ‗Reduce‘, we can save
(i) Electricity (ii) Water (iii) Food (iv) Natural resources.

 By the practice of ‗Reuse‘

(i) Environment pollution can be controlled (ii) Materials are available for immediate use
(iii) Energy can be saved (iv) Use of raw materials can be minimised.

June 2019
1. (i) How does combustion of fossil fuels cause greenhouse effect ? (3Marks)
(ii) List the reasons for failure in sustaining ground water.
Ans : (i) Combustion of fossil fuels Releases carbon dioxide to the atmosphere .

The increase in carbon dioxide leads to global worming

(ii) Reasons for failure in sustaining ground water-
 Deforestation
 Growing crops which demand high water
 Pollution due to industrial effluents
 Pollution due to urban wastes.
OR
(i) Reuse of plastic products is better than recycle method. Why ?
(ii) ―Local people are stakeholders of forest resources.‖ Explain.
Ans : (i) In recycling method energy is required , which in turn leads to pollution . There is no need of
energy in reuse method.
(ii) Local people depend on forest resources for following purpose -

 For fire wood : Timber and Thatch.

 For bamboo used in huts & baskets
 For implements of agriculture, fishing and hunting.
 To gather fruits, nuts and medicines.
 To fodder for their cattle‘s.

April 2020
1. ―Building crescent shaped earthen embankment in level terrain is better than the construction of large
dams across the river to store water.‖ Analyse this statement with their effects. (3Marks)
Ans. : Problems of constructing large dams across the river -

 Social problems : Effects of the construction of large dams across the rivers
 Economic problems : Swallop up huge amount of public money.
 Environmental problems : They contribute enormously to deforestation and loss of biological
diversity.
Advantages of building crescent shaped earthen embankment in level terrain :

 They recharge the ground water beneath.

 Water does not evaporate, but spreads out recharge wells and provide moisture for vegetation.
 It does not provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes like stagnant water

September 2020
1. In the alpine meadows of the great Himalayan National Park, the practice of regular grazing by sheep was
put to an end. What are the effects on the meadows due to this measure ? (1Mark)
Ans. : Without the regular grazing by the sheep, the grass first grows very tall and then falls over preventing
fresh growth.

(This Unit was not considered for evaluation in 2021 & 2022
MOST LIKELY QUESTIONS FOR 2023( Including previous year questions )
1. Why do you think that there should be equitable distribution of resources? What forces would be working
against an equitable distribution of our resources?
Ans :
 Everyone has rights to use natural resources. There should be equitable distribution of resources so
that all, rich, powerful and poor people get benefit from the development of these resources.
 Rich, greedy and powerful people could work against an equitable distribution of our resources.
 These resources does not reach the people those are far away from their availability.
2. ―A short-term goal in resource management is disadvantageous‖ Justify the statement.
Ans :
 Exploiting resources with short term aim would be self-centred satisfaction. They provide immediate
advantages. But later it will be hazardous to the environment.
 For example : Constructing huge dams may fulfill our present need. In long term it cause adverse
effect on environment
3. It is essential to have long-term goal in resource management. Why ?
Ans : The resources can be used for the benefit of the present generation and also conserved for the benefit
of generations to come.
This ensures uniform distribution of resources among the people.
4. How can you as an individual contribute or make a difference to the management of
(a) forests and wildlife, (b) water resources and (c) coal and petroleum ?

Ans : (a) forests and wildlife -

* By reusing and reducing papers we may contribute the conservation of forest
* By refusing the purchase of things made of wild life we may contribute the conservation of
wildlife
(b) water resources -
* By reusing waste water for garden
* By refusing things like detergents we may prevent water pollution
(c) coal and petroleum -
* By using public transport rather than individual we can conserve fuels
* By avoiding unnecessary use of electricity
5. ―Managing forest and wildlife is challenging task‖ Justify the statement by any two examples.
Ans :

 It is difficult to observe the activities of people living in and around forest

 Difficulties in controlling the forest fire
 To control the encroachment of forest area
 Hunting wildlife for ethnic tradition

6. Give any two examples for People‘s Participation in the Management of Forests
Ans :
 Amrita Devi Bishnoi, sacrificed her life along with others for the protection of khejri‘ trees in
Khejrali village .Rajasthan.

 The Chipko Andolan, result of a grass-root level effort to end the alienation of people from their
forests. The movement was originated in a remote village called Reni in Garhwal

 With the active and willing participation of the local community, the sal forests of Arabari underwent
a remarkable recovery.
7. Who are the stakeholders ?

Ans :
(i) the people who live in or around forests are dependent on forest produce for various aspects of their life
(ii) the Forest Department of the Government which owns the land and controls the resources from forests.
(iii) the industrialists –who use various forest produce,
(iv) the wildlife and nature enthusiasts who want to conserve nature in its pristine form.

8. List any four human activities for deforestation.

Ans :
 Converting forest land in to an agricultural land
 Mining in forest area
 Constructing dams and roads in forest area
 Hectic use of forest products like timber , paper etc.

9. Suggest two measures for controlling CO2 levels in atmosphere.

Ans : (i) Reduce or refuse to the use of fossil fuels

(ii) Planting more trees or forest conservation efforts has to be practiced

10. Ground water conservation is more advantageous to any other means of water conservation. Why ?

Ans : (i) It does not evaporate

(ii) It spreads and recharges the wells

(iii) It provides moisture for vegetation

(iv) It does not provide breeding ground to mosquitoes

(v) it is protected by contamination by human or animal wastes

11. What is sustainable development ? Why do we need to manage our resources ?

Ans : Economic development that is conducted without depletion of natural resources is called sustainable
development.

(i) Natural resources are limited in quantity.

(ii) Due to increase in population, their demand has increased resulting in over use of resources.

(iii) To make available and utilize for the future generations