IB DP Biology- D3.3 Homeostasis- IB Style Questions For HL Paper 1A -New Syllabus
Question
These results were obtained by measuring the body temperature of people exercising on a hot and humid day.

What mechanism could result in the changes seen during the rest periods?
(B) Uncoupled respiration in brown adipose tissue
(C) Vasodilation in the skin
(D) Hair erection
▶️ Answer/Explanation
Correct Answer: \( \boxed{\mathbf{C}} \)
During the rest periods, body temperature falls because vasodilation increases blood flow to the skin, allowing more heat to be lost to the surroundings. This cooling mechanism helps regulate body temperature after exercise, especially in hot conditions.
Question
How is the regulation of blood glucose levels carried out by hormones released from the pancreas?
| Option | Deviation of blood glucose level from normal | Hormone secreted by pancreas | Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | higher | glucagon | muscles break down glycogen into glucose |
| B | higher | insulin | small intestine slows glucose absorption |
| C | lower | glucagon | liver converts glycogen to glucose |
| D | lower | insulin | kidney reabsorbs more glucose |
▶️ Answer/Explanation
✅ Answer: (C) lower — glucagon — liver converts glycogen to glucose
Question
The dark areas in the PET/CT scans show increased activity of brown adipose tissue at 2 °C. How does brown adipose tissue help regulate body temperature?

(B) It further insulates the body so that internal heat is not lost.
(C) It turns into thick layers of white adipose tissue to prevent hypothermia.
(D) It breaks down fat to generate heat but not ATP.
▶️ Answer/Explanation
Correct Answer: \( \boxed{\mathbf{D}} \)
Brown adipose tissue (brown fat) carries out non-shivering thermogenesis. It contains many mitochondria with uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), which allows energy from the oxidation of fatty acids to be released as heat instead of being used to produce ATP. This helps maintain body temperature in cold conditions.
