iGCSE Biology (0610)-21.2 Biotechnology - iGCSE Style Questions Paper 1

Question

Scientists have developed a genetically modified pineapple plant that produces pink fruit.

The pineapple fruit is pink because of increased concentrations of a substance called lycopene. Eating foods containing lycopene may have health benefits for humans.

Which statement describes the purpose of this genetic modification?

(A) to confer resistance to insect pests
(B) to confer resistance to herbicides
(C) to improve the nutritional qualities
(D) to improve the crop yield

▶️ Answer/Explanation

The question states that the genetic modification increases the concentration of lycopene, a substance noted for its potential health benefits for humans. Genetic engineering used to increase specific vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants in a crop is known as biofortification. Options (A), (B), and (D) describe agronomic traits that benefit the farmer or the plant’s survival, whereas adding health-boosting compounds directly benefits the consumer’s diet. Therefore, the primary goal of this modification is to enhance the biological value of the fruit for human consumption.
✅ Answer: (C)

Question

Which statement describes a disadvantage of growing crop plants as a monoculture?

A There is a decrease in biodiversity.
B There is a decrease in the chance of a disease destroying the crop.
C There is a decrease in the use of herbicides.
D There is a decrease in the use of insecticides.

▶️ Answer/Explanation

Detailed solution

The correct answer is A: There is a decrease in biodiversity.

Explanation:

Monoculture involves growing only one type of crop over a large area, which replaces varied natural habitats with a single species. This drastically reduces the variety of plants and animals that can survive in that environment, leading to a loss of biodiversity. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because monocultures actually increase the risk of total crop failure from disease and typically require higher amounts of chemical herbicides and insecticides to manage pests that thrive in such uniform environments.

Question

What are the effects of deforestation on the environment?

▶️ Answer/Explanation

Detailed solution

The correct answer is D.

Deforestation increases flooding because the loss of tree roots and leaf litter reduces water infiltration, leading to rapid surface runoff. It destroys food webs by eliminating habitats and primary energy sources for local species. Additionally, it leads to increased $CO_2$ levels since fewer trees are available to absorb the gas through photosynthesis, and carbon stored in wood is released during decay or burning. Therefore, Row D accurately reflects these environmental impacts.

iGCSE Biology (0610)-21.2 Biotechnology – iGCSE Style Questions Paper 1

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