AP Biology

Student Handbook
Jill Baker
2005-2006
jbaker@srcs.org

Class website: www.terralinda.srcs.org>Programs>JBaker>AP Biology

 Table of Contents

About the Class

A. Course Overview 3
B. Prerequisites 3
C. Topic Outline and Tentative Schedule 3
D. Major Themes 4
E. Textbook and Suggested Supplement Books 4
F. The AP Biology Exam 5
G. Practice Exams\inations and Final Exam 5
H. Grading Policies 5
I. Honesty is the Best Policy 6

AP Biology Laboratories
Writing AP Biology Laboratory Reports 8
Good Graphs 10
Lab 1 Osmosis and Dialysis 12
Lab 2 Enzyme Catalysis 31
Lab 3 Mitosis and Meiosis 41
Lab 4 Plant Pigments and photosynthesis 58
Lab 5 Cellular Respiration 66
Lab 6 Molecular Biology 73
Lab 7 Genetics of Organisms 86
Lab 8 Population Genetics and Evolution 96
Lab 9 Transpiration 103
Lab 10 Physiology of the Circulatory System 113
Lab 11: Animal Behavior 127
Lab 12 Dissolved Oxygen and Aquatic Primary Productivity 135

The Exam
Past AP Biology Laboratory Questions 144
Overview of AP Labs for Take Home Exam 145
Points of Emphasis for AP Biology Experimental Design Essay 150
Tips for writing AP Biology Essays 151
Past AP Biology Essay Questions 154
AP Biology Review Section 195

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 About the Class
A. Course Overview
B. Prerequisites
C. Topic Outline
D. Major Themes
E. Textbook
F. AP Biology Examination
G. Practice Examinations
H. Grading Policies

A. Course Overview
This course is a college level biology course. It is designed to be an equivalent to an introductory biology
course for science majors at the freshman university level. It prepares the students for the AP Biology Exam.
Topics covered include biochemistry, cells. photosynthesis, respiration, heredity, molecular genetics,
evolution, diversity of life, plant and animal form and function and ecology. This course follows the College
Board Advanced Placement syllabus and students are expected to take the national college board exam in
May. A.P. Biology has a tremendous amount of information that must be covered during the school year.

B. Prerequisites
Biology and chemistry are recommended. District internet access, access to a computer and printer are
required.

C. Topic Outline and Tentative Time Schedule

I. Molecules and Cells (August 22 – October 17)
A. Chemistry of Life
1. Water
2. Organic molecules in organisms
3. Free energy changes
4. Enzymes
5. Labs: AP Lab 1: Osmosis and Diffusion
AP Lab 2: Enzyme Catalysis
B. Cells
1. Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
2. Membranes
3. Subcellular organization
4. Cell cycle and its regulation
C. Cellular Energetics
1. Coupled reactions
2. Fermentation and cellular respiration
3. Photosynthesis
II. Heredity and Evolution (October 24 – March 3)
A. Heredity
1. Meiosis and gametogenesis
2. Eukaryotic chromosomes
3. Inheritance patterns
B. Molecular Genetics
1. RNA and DNA structure and function
2. Gene regulation
3. Mutation
4. Viral structure and replication
5. Nucleic acid technology and applications

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C. Evolutionary Biology
1. Early evolution of life
2. Evidence for evolution
3. Mechanisms of evolution
III. Organisms and Populations ( March 7 – April 28)
A. Diversity of Organisms
1. Evolutionary patterns
2. Survey of the diversity of life
3. Phylogenetic classification
4. Evolutionary relationships
B. Structure and Function of Plants and Animals
1. Reproduction, growth and development
2. Structural, physiological and behavioral adaptations
3. Response to the environment
C. Ecology (summer assignment)
1. Population dynamics
2. Communities and ecosystems
3. Global issues
4. Labs: AP Lab 11: Animal Behavior
AP Lab 12: Dissolved Oxygen and Aquatic Primary Productivity
Initial Observation laboratory

IV. Exam Review (May 1 – May 5)

D. Major Themes
In an attempt to develop unifying concepts in biology, the AP Biology Development Committee has
identified eight major themes that recur throughout the course.
I.Sciences as a Process
II.Evolution
III.Energy Transfer
IV.Continuity and Change
V.Relationship of Structure to Function
VI.Regulation
VII.Interdependence in Nature
VIII.Science, Technology and Society

E. Textbook
Biology, 7th edition
Neil A. Campbell, Jane B. Reece
Copyright 2005, Benjamin/Cummings

Lab Manual: Advanced Placement Biology Laboratory Manual,

2001,

Recommended
Cliff’s AP Biology. 2nd Edition

Learn More

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AP* Test Prep workbook for Campbell, Biology 7th Edition
Campbell, 2006, Prentice Hall $14.96

F. AP Biology Examination
The AP Biology Examination is three hours in length and is designed to measure a student's
knowledge and understanding of modern biology. The examination consists of a 80-minute,
100-item multiple-choice section, and a 10 minute reading period before the 90-minute free-
response section, consisting of four mandatory questions. The number of multiple-choice items
taken from each major subset of biology reflects the percentage of the course as designated in
the Topic Outline. In the free-response portion, usually one essay question is take from the
Molecules and Cells section, one question is taken from the Heredity and Evolution section, and
two questions focus on the Organisms and Populations section. The multiple-choice section
counts for 60 percent of the student's examination grade, and the free-response section counts
for 40 percent.

In order to provide the maximum information about differences in students' achievements in

biology, the examinations are intended to have average scores of about 50 percent of the
maximum possible score for the multiple-choice section and for the free-response section.
Thus, students will find these exams to be more difficult that most classroom exams.

ALL students in the class are expected to take the exam. The fee is $82.00. The 2006 AP
Biology Exam is scheduled for Monday, May 8th during the morning.
G. Practice Examinations and Final Exam
In December, students take a practice exam covering 50% of the material in AP Biology. This
first practice exam counts as the first semester exam grade. During the first part of May,
students take a practice exam covering all the material in AP Biology. The second practice
exam counts as a quarter exam and as the second semester exam. Students that do not
take the AP exam will be required to take a comprehensive AP Biology exam during
finals week.

H. Grading Policies
Each student’s semester grade will be based on the total number of points that they have accumulated
relative to the total possible points that could have been earned. In general:

Graded Items Percentage of Semester

Grade
Major Tests 25
Lab Reports and Lab Quizzes 30
Daily Work 25
Semester Exam 20

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If a student misses points on a major test, they will be given the opportunity to do test corrections and 0.3
points will be given for each correction answered in depth. It cannot be stressed how important it is for each
student to master the material presented.

The AP test scores are not received until July and are therefore not used as a part of the student’s average in
the course.

I. HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY

Cheating and copying will not be tolerated. The school policy on cheating will be strictly adhered to.
It is to be understood, that copying and letting your work be copied are both considered cheating and
will be dealt with in the same manner.

1st Offence. The work in question will be given a zero. Your parents will be called and a
notice will be sent to the office, other faculty and the counselors with the nature of the
cheating offence, the number of points and the date. You will not be allowed to make up the
assignment. I will write no letters of recommendation for college or scholarships.

2nd Offence. A zero will be given on the assignment. You will be sent to the office with the
recommendation that you be removed from the class.

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The AP Biology Laboratories

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 Writing AP Biology Laboratory Reports
All laboratories will be written in a lab composition book. The first page will be reserved for the table of
contents.

PRE-LAB ASSIGNMENT
• the pre-lab assignment will count 20% of the laboratory grade.
• before coming to lab, you should identify the experimental characteristics below for the specified lab.
• the lab write-up must be in the lab composition book.
• use ink, blue or black. Be neat. Errors may be crossed out and the correction written immediately
after. You will not be penalized for cross-outs. You may type any section of the laboratory and paste it
in your notebook.
• date each entry
• you may work together, but copying another person’s pre-lab is cheating. A grade of zero will be
assigned for the lab if you are caught copying another person’s pre-lab OR if you give your pre-lab to
be copied.
• no points will be given for late assignments. No exceptions!!

I. TITLE: This should indicate what the lab was all about. Please do not exceed 25 words.

II. HYPOTHESES: Identify it as the hypothesis, tell what you predict will happen. You may use
“If/Then” statements.

III. METHODS:
a. Using as few words as possible draw a flow chart of the materials and methods.
b. Identify clearly the control group that will be u sed for comparison. It does not contain the variable
being tested.
c. Identify the dependent variable, the variable that will change, the experimental group.
d. Identify the independent variable, the variable you have control over and will change, frequently it
is time.
e. Identify all factors that will be held constant in the lab. For instance, each set-up my be measured
at the same time, at the same temperature, the same amount of solution in each beaker.
f. Identify what is being measured and the units being used.
Example: CO2 or H2O consumption in mL/min, growth in cm, production of an acid in gm.
g. What method or time frame will be used for measurement?
Example: I will take reading of H2O consumption every 5 minutes for 30 minutes.
h. What is the rate of calculation and/or statistical application.
Example: average number of trials, slope of the curve.
i. How will experimental results be presented? (graphs, charts)
j. What are the expected results? Why?. This will be your best guess based on the introduction to
the labs, which you are expected to read and your hypothesis.

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POST-LAB ASSIGNMENT
IV. RESULTS/DATA/OBSERVATIONS. Display YOUR data that you collected. It should be neatly and
clearly presented. If the lab is "observational" in nature, you would include diagrams and/or
descriptions of structures, chemical reactions, behaviors, etc.. DO NOT FUDGE YOUR DATA!! Put
only the data that you, or your lab group, or the class collected, not what you think that you should
have seen. For almost every lab, you should graph both your lab group's data and the class data—on
the same set of axes if possible. This raw data is the only part of your lab write-up that will be shared
with your partner(s).

V. DISCUSSION:
How do you explain what you saw.
Here you present a summary of the data generated by the lab. Put into your own words what the
numbers or observations tell you. How do you interpret the data or observations in light of your
hypothesis or your own expectations? Nature does not lie, but she is often frustratingly difficult to
figure out. In this section you must discuss YOUR results. If you come up with results that do not
make sense, examine your methods and materials for sources of experimental error, and describe
them here.

VI. ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS: In this section, put the answers to printed questions asked
throughout the lab protocol and at the end of the lab. Unless you are told otherwise, use the class
mean data to answer the questions. The quality and depth of your answers to these questions will be
very important to the quality of your grade. You must use complete sentences.

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 Good Graphs
One of the most common things students have problems with is making good graphs for their experimental
data.

1. Always give your graph a title in the following form: "The dependence of (your dependent variable)
on (your independent variable).
Cute titles are no longer cute. Make them descriptive.

2. The x-axis of a graph is always your independent variable and the y-axis is the dependent variable.
The independent variable is the one you or the experimenter have control over in the experiment, time,
temperature. This would be on the x-axis (the one on the bottom of the graph).
The dependent variable is what your are measuring and will depend on what you set. For example, growth
depends on the time of measurement and the would be on the y-axis (the one on the side of the graph)

3. Always label the x and y axes and give units.

Putting numbers on the x and y-axes is something that everybody always remembers to do (after all, how
could you graph without showing the numbers?). However, people frequently forget to put a label on the axis
that describes what those numbers are, and even more frequently forget to say what those units are. For
example, if you're going to do a chart which uses temperature as the independent variable, you should write
the word "temperature (degrees Celsius)" on that axis so people know what those numbers stand for.
Otherwise, people won't know that you're talking about temperature, and even if they do, they might think
you're talking about degrees Fahrenheit.

Always indicate where the numbers are on the graph, use line tics. The graph does have squares, but the
reader won’t know which number and line correspond unless you put a number and a line where the number
goes.

4. Always make a line graph (unless instructed otherwise)

Never, ever make a bar graph when doing science stuff. Bar graphs are good for subjects where you're trying
to break down a topic (such as gross national product) into it's parts. When you're doing graphs in science,
line graphs are way more handy, because they tell you how one thing changes under the influence of some
other variable.

5. Never, EVER, connect the dots on your graph!

Why? When you do an experiment, you always screw something up. Yeah, you. It's probably not a big
mistake, and is frequently not something you have a lot of control over. However, when you do an experiment,
many little things go wrong, and these little things add up. As a result, experimental data never makes a nice
straight line. Instead, it makes a bunch of dots which kind of wiggle around a graph. This is normal, and will
not affect your grade unless your teacher is a Nobel prize winner. However, you can't just pretend that your
data is perfect, because it's not. Whenever you have the dots moving around a lot, we say that the data is
noisy, because the thing you're looking for has a little bit of interference caused by normal experimental error.

To show that you're a clever young scientist, your best bet is to show that you KNOW your data is sometimes
lousy. You do this by making a line (or curve) which seems to follow the data as well as possible, without
actually connecting the dots. Doing this shows the trend that the data suggests, without depending too much
on the noise. As long as your line (or curve) does a pretty good job of following the data, this is called Line of
Best Fit.

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6. Make sure your data is graphed as large as possible in the space you've been given.
Let's face it, you don't like looking at little tiny graphs. Your teacher doesn't either. If you make large graphs,
you'll find it's easier to see what you're doing, and your teacher will be lots happier.

7. Use a ruler, be neat, be EXACT.

Examples of Good and Bad Graphs

All those rules I gave you above are true and are handy to know, but it's usually a bad idea to give rules
without showing you what they mean. Below are two examples of graphs. One is a bad graph (which you
may be guilty of making) and the other is a good graph (which is what I always make).

A bad graph! Let's see what's wrong with this graph:

*There's no title. What's it a graph of? Who knows?

*There are no labels on the x or y axis. What are
those numbers? Who knows?
*There are no units on the x or y axis. Is this a graph
of speed in miles per hour or a graph of temperature
in Kelvins? Who can tell?
*Somebody played "connect the dots". This should
be a nice straight line which goes through the points
or a curve that tends to follow them.
• There are no line “ticks” to align the numbers
with an exact spacing on the graph.
A good graph!

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Date: _________________________ Name and Period: ________________________________________

AP Biology Laboratory 1
DIFFUSION AND OSMOSIS
OVERVIEW
In this lab you will:
1. investigate the processes of diffusion and osmosis in a model membrane system, and
2. investigate the effect of solute concentration on water potential as it relates to living plant tissues.

OBJECTIVES
Before doing this lab you should understand:
• the mechanisms of diffusion and osmosis and their importance to cells;
• the effects of solute size and concentration gradients on diffusion across selectively permeable
membranes;
• the effects of a selectively permeable membrane on diffusion and osmosis between two solutions
separated by the membrane;
• the concept of water potential;
• the relationship between solute concentration and pressure potential and the water potential of a
solution; and
• the concept of molarity and its relationship to osmotic concentration.

After doing this lab you should be able to:

• measure the water potential of a solution in a controlled experiment;
• determine the osmotic concentration of living tissue or an unknown solution from experimental data;
• describe the effects of water gain or loss in animal and plant cells; and
• relate osmotic potential to solute concentration and water potential.

INTRODUCTION
Many aspects of the life of a cell depend on the fact that atoms and molecules have kinetic energy and are
constantly in motion. This kinetic energy causes molecules to bump into each other and move in new
directions. One result of this molecular motion is the process of diffusion.

Diffusion is the random movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration of those molecules to
an area of lower concentration. For example, if one were to open a bottle of hydrogen sulfide (H2S has the
odor of rotten eggs) in one comer of a room, it would not be long before someone in the opposite comer
would perceive the smell of rotten eggs. The bottle contains a higher concentration of H2S molecules than the
room does and therefore the H2S gas diffuses from the area of higher concentration to the area of lower
concentration. Eventually, a dynamic equilibrium will be reached; the concentration of H2S will be
approximately equal throughout the room and no net movement of H2S will occur from one area to the other.

Osmosis is a special case of diffusion. Osmosis is the diffusion of water through a selectively permeable
membrane (a membrane that allows for diffusion of certain solutes and water) from a region of higher water
potential to a region of lower water potential. Water potential is the measure of free energy of water in a
solution.

Diffusion and osmosis do not entirely explain the movement of ions or molecules into and out of cells. One
property of a living system is active transport. This process uses energy from ATP to move substances
through the cell membrane. Active transport usually moves substances against a concentration gradient, from
regions of low concentration of that substance into regions of higher concentration.

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EXERCISE 1A: Diffusion
In this experiment you will measure diffusion of small molecules through dialysis tubing, an example of a
selectively permeable membrane. Small solute molecules and water molecules can move freely through a
selectively permeable membrane, but larger molecules will pass through more slowly, or perhaps not at all.
The movement of a solute through a selectively permeable membrane is called dialysis. The size of the
minute pores in the dialysis tubing determines which substances can pass through the membrane.

A solution of glucose and starch will be placed inside a bag of dialysis tubing. Distilled water will be placed in
a beaker, outside the dialysis bag. After 30 minutes have passed, the solution inside the dialysis tubing and
the solution in the beaker will be tested for glucose and starch. The presence of glucose will be tested with
Benedict's solution, Testape(r), or Clinistix(r). The presence of starch will be tested with Lugol's solution
(Iodine Potassium-Iodide, or IKI).

Procedure
1. Obtain a 30-cm piece of 2.5-cm dialysis tubing that has been soaking in water. Tie off one end of the tubing
to form a bag. To open the other end of the bag, rub the end between your fingers until the edges separate.

2. Test the 15% glucose/l% starch solution for the presence of glucose. Your teacher may have
you do a Benedict's test or use glucose Testape(r) or Clinistix(r). Record the results in Table 1.1.

3. Place 15 mL of the 15% glucose/l% starch solution in the bag. Tie off the other end of the bag, leaving
sufficient space for the expansion of the contents in the bag. Record the color of the solution in Table 1.1.

4. Fill a 250-mL beaker or cup two-thirds fall with distilled water. Add approximately 4 mL of Lugol's solution to
the distilled water and record the color of the solution in Table 1.1. Test this solution for glucose and record
the results in Table 1.1.

5. Immerse the bag in the beaker of solution.

6. Allow your setup to stand for approximately 30 minutes or until you see a distinct color change in the bag or
in the beaker. Record the final color of the solution in the bag, and of the solution in the beaker, in Table 1.1.

7. Test the liquid in the beaker and in the bag for the presence of glucose. Record the results in Table 1.1.

Table 1.1
Initial Solution Color Presence of Glucose
Contents Initial Final Initial Final
15% glucose &
Bag
1% starch

Beaker H20 & IKI

Analysis of Results
1. Which substance(s) are entering the bag and which are leaving the bag? What experimental evidence
supports your answer?

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2. Explain the results you obtained. Include the concentration differences and membrane pore size in your
discussion.

3. Quantitative data uses numbers to measure observed changes. How could this experiment be modified so
that quantitative data could be collected to show that water diffused into the dialysis bag?

4. Based on your observations, rank the following by relative size, beginning with the smallest: glucose
molecules, water molecules, IKI molecules, membrane pores, starch molecules.

5. What results would you expect if the experiment started with a glucose and IKI solution inside the bag and
only starch and water outside? Why?

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EXERCISE 1B: Osmosis
In this experiment you will use dialysis tubing to investigate the relationship between solute concentration and
the movement of water through a selectively permeable membrane by the process of osmosis.

When two solutions have the same concentration of solutes, they are said to be isotonic to each other (iso-
means same, -ton means condition, -ic means pertaining to). If the two solutions are separated by a
selectively permeable membrane, water will move between the two solutions, but there will be no net change
in the amount of water in either solution.

If two solutions differ in the concentration of solutes that each has, the one with more solute is hypertonic to
the one with less solute {hyper- means over, or more than). The solution that has less solute is hypotonic to
the one with more solute (hypo- means under, or less than). These words can only be used to compare
solutions.

Now consider two solutions separated by a selectively permeable membrane. The solution that is hypertonic
to the other must have more solute and therefore less water. At standard atmospheric pressure, the water
potential of the hypertonic solution is less than the water potential of the hypotonic solution, so the net
movement of water will be from the hypotonic solution into the hypertonic solution.

Label the sketch in Figure 1.1 to indicate which solution is hypertonic and which is hypotonic, and use arrows
to show the initial net movement of water.

Figure 1.1

Procedure
1. Obtain six 30-cm strips of presoaked dialysis tubing.

2. Tie a knot in one end of each piece of dialysis tubing to form 6 bags. Pour approximately 15-25 mL of each
of the following solutions into separate bags:
a) distilled water
b) 0.2 M sucrose
c) 0.4 M sucrose
d) 0.6 M sucrose
e) 0.8 M sucrose
f) l.0 M sucrose

Remove most of the air from each bag by drawing the dialysis bag between two fingers. Tie off the other end
of the bag. Leave sufficient space for the expansion of the contents in the bag. (The solution should fill only
about one-third to one-half of the piece of tubing.)

3. Rinse each bag gently with distilled water to remove any sucrose spilled during the filling.

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4. Carefully blot the outside of each bag and record in Table 1.2 the initial mass of each bag, expressed in
grams.

5. Place each bag in an empty 250-mL beaker or cup and label the beaker to indicate the molarity of the
solution in the dialysis bag.

6. Now fill each beaker two-thirds full with distilled water. Be sure to completely submerge each bag.

7. Let them stand for 30 minutes.

8. At the end of 30 minutes remove the bags from the water. Carefully blot and determine the mass of each
bag.

9. Record your group's data in Table 1.2. Obtain data from the other lab groups in your class to complete
Table 1.3.

Table 1.2: Dialysis Bag Results - Group Data

Contents In Initial Mass Final Mass Mass Difference Percent Change
Dialysis Bag In Mass*

a) 0.0 M Distilled Water

b) 0.2 M Sucrose

c) 0.4 M Sucrose

d) 0.6 M Sucrose

e) 0.8 M Sucrose

f) 1.0 M Sucrose

* To calculate:
Percent Change in Mass = Final Mass - Initial Mass X 100
Initial Mass

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Table 1.3: Dialysis Bag Results-Class Data
Contents In Percent Change in Mass of Dialysis Bags Class
Average
Dialysis Bag Group Group Group Group Group Group Group Group Total
1 2` 3 4 5 6 7 8

a) 0.0 M Distilled Water

b) 0.2 M Sucrose

c) 0.4 M Sucrose

d) 0.6 M Sucrose

e) 0.8 M Sucrose

f) 1.0 M Sucrose

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10. Graph the results for both your individual data and the class average on Graph 1.1.*

For this graph you will need to determine the following:

a. The independent variable: _____________________.

Use this to label the horizontal (x) axis.

b. The dependent variable: ________

Use this to label the vertical (y) axis
Graph 1.1 Title: __________________________________________________________

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Analysis of Results
1. Explain the relationship between the change in mass and the molarity of sucrose within the dialysis bags.

2. Predict what would happen to the mass of each bag in this experiment if all the bags were placed in a 0.4
M sucrose solution instead of distilled water. Explain your response.

3. Why did you calculate the percent change in mass rather than simply using the change in mass?

4. A dialysis bag is filled with distilled water and then placed in a sucrose solution. The bag's initial mass is
20 g and its final mass is 18 g. Calculate the percent change of mass, showing your calculations here.

5. The sucrose solution in the beaker would have been ________ to the distilled water in the bag. (Circle the
word that best completes the sentence.)
isotonic hypertonic hypotonic

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EXERCISE 1C: Water Potential
In this part of the exercise you will use potato cores placed in different molar concentrations of sucrose in
order to determine the water potential of potato cells. First, however, we will explore what is meant by the
term "water potential."

Botanists use the term water potential when predicting the movement of water into or out of plant cells. Water
potential is abbreviated by the Greek letter psi (Ψ) and it has two components: a physical pressure component
(pressure potential Ψp) and the effects of solutes (solute potential Ψs).

Ψ = Ψp + Ψs
Water = Pressure + Solute
potential potential potential

Water will always move from an area of higher water potential (higher free energy; more water
molecules) to an area of lower water potential (lower free energy; fewer water molecules). Water potential,
then, measures the tendency of water to leave one place in favor of another place. You can picture the water
diffusing "down" a water potential gradient.

Water potential is affected by two physical factors. One factor is the addition of solute which lowers the water
potential. The other factor is pressure potential (physical pressure). An increase in pressure raises the water
potential. By convention, the water potential of pure water at atmospheric pressure is defined as being zero
(Ψ = 0). For instance, it can be calculated that a 0.1-M solution of sucrose at atmospheric pressure (Ψp = 0)
has a water potential of -2.3 bars due to the solute (Ψs = - 2.3).*
*Note: A bar is a metric measure of pressure, measured with a barometer, that is about the same as 1 atmosphere. Another measure
of pressure is the megapascal (MPa). [1 MPa = 10 bars.]

Movement of H2O into and out of a cell is influenced by the solute potential (relative concentration of solute)
on either side of the cell membrane. If water moves out of the cell, the cell will shrink. If water moves into an
animal cell, it will swell and may even burst. In' plant cells, the presence of a cell wall prevents cells from
bursting as water enters the cells, but pressure eventually builds up inside the cell and affects the net
movement of water. As water enters a dialysis bag or a cell with a cell wall, pressure will develop inside the
bag or cell as water pushes against the bag or cell wall. The pressure would cause, for example, the water to
rise in an osmometer tube or increase the pressure on a cell wall. It is important to realize that water potential
and solute concentration are inversely related. The addition of solutes lowers the water potential of the
system. In summary, solute potential is the effect that solutes have on a solution's overall water potential.

Movement of H2O into and out of a cell is also influenced by the pressure potential (physical pressure) on
either side of the cell membrane. Water movement is directly proportional to the pressure on a system. For
example, pressing on the plunger of a water-filled syringe causes the water to exit via any opening. In plant
cells this physical pressure can be exerted by the cell pressing against the partially elastic cell wall. Pressure
potential is usually positive in living cells; in dead xylem elements it is often negative.

It is important for you to be clear about the numerical relationships between water potential and its
components, pressure potential and solute potential. The water potential value can be positive, zero, or
negative. Remember that water will move across a membrane in the direction of the lower water potential. An
increase in pressure potential results in a more positive value, and a decrease in pressure potential (tension
or pulling) results in a more negative value. In contrast to pressure potential, solute potential is always
negative; since pure water has a water potential of zero, any solutes will make the solution have a lower
(more negative) water potential. Generally, an increase in solute potential makes the water potential value
more negative and an increase in pressure potential makes the water potential more positive.

To illustrate the concepts discussed above, we will look at a sample system using Figure 1.2. When a
solution, such as that inside a potato cell, is separated from pure water by a selectively permeable cell
membrane, water will move (by osmosis) from the surrounding water where water potential is higher, into the

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cell where water potential is lower (more negative) due to the solute potential (Ψs). In Figure 1.2a the pure
water potential (Ψ) is 0 and the solute potential (Ψs) is -3. We will assume, for purposes of explanation, that
the solute is not diffusing out of the cell. By the end of the observation, the movement of water into the cell
causes the cell to swell and the cell contents to push against the cell wall to produce an increase in pressure
potential (turgor) (Ψp =3). Eventually, enough turgor pressure builds up to balance the negative solute
potential of the* cell. When the water potential of the cell equals the water potential of the pure water outside
the cell (Ψ of cell = Ψ of pure water = 0), a dynamic equilibrium is reached and there will be no net water
movement (Figure 1.2b).

Figure 1.2

If you were to add solute to the water outside the potato cells, the water potential of the solution surrounding
the cells would decrease. It is possible to add just enough solute to the water so that the water potential
outside the cell is the same as the water potential inside the cell. In this case, there will be no net movement
of water. This does not mean, however, that the solute concentrations inside and outside the cell are equal,
because water potential inside the cell results from the combination of both pressure potential and solute
potential (Figure 1.3)

Figure 1.3

If enough solute is added to the water outside the cells, water will leave the cells, moving from an area of
higher water potential to an area of lower water potential. The loss of water from the cells will cause the cells
to lose turgor. A continued loss of water will eventually cause the cell membrane to shrink away from the cell
wall (plasmolysis).

21
Procedure
Work in groups. You will be assigned one or more of the beaker contents listed in Table 1.4.
For each of these, do the following:

1. Pour 100 mL of the assigned solution into a labeled 250-mL beaker. Slice a potato into discs that are
approximately 3 cm thick (see Figure 1.4).

Figure 1.4

2. Use a cork borer (approximately 5 mm in inner diameter) to cut four potato cylinders. Do not include any
skin on the cylinders. You need four potato cylinders for each beaker.

3. Keep your potato cylinders in a covered beaker until it is your mm to use the balance.

4. Determine the mass of the four cylinders together and record the mass in Table 1.4. Put the four cylinders
into the beaker of sucrose solution.

5. Cover the beaker with plastic wrap to prevent evaporation.

6. Let it stand overnight.

7. Remove the cores from the beakers, blot them gently on a paper towel, and determine their total mass.

8. Record the final mass in Table 1.4 and record class data in Table 1.5. Calculate the percentage change as
you did in Exercise IB. Do this for both your individual results and the class average.

9. Graph both your individual data and the class average for the percentage change in mass in Table 1.4.

22
Table 1.4: Potato Core - Individual Data
Contents In Initial Mass Final Mass Mass Difference Percent Change Class Average
Beaker In Mass Percent Change
in Mass

a) 0.0 M Distilled
Water

b) 0.2 M Sucrose

c) 0.4 M Sucrose

d) 0.6 M Sucrose

e) 0.8 M Sucrose

f) 1.0 M Sucrose

Table 1.5: Potato Core Results - Class Data

Contents In Percent Change in Mass of Potato Cores Class

Average
Beaker Group Group Group Group Group Group Group Group Total
1 2` 3 4 5 6 7 8

a) 0.0 M Distilled Water

b) 0.2 M Sucrose

c) 0.4 M Sucrose

d) 0.6 M Sucrose

e) 0.8 M Sucrose

f) 1.0 M Sucrose

23
Graph 1.2 Percent Change in Mass of Potato cores at Different Molarities of Sucrose

10. Determine the molar concentration of the potato core. This would be the sucrose molarity in which the
mass of the potato core does not change. To find this, follow your teacher's directions to draw the straight
line on Graph 1.2 that best fits your data. The point at which this line crosses the x-axis represents the
molar concentration of sucrose with a water potential that is equal to the potato tissue water potential. At
this concentration there is no net gain or loss of water from the tissue. Indicate this concentration of
sucrose in the space provided below.

Molar concentration of sucrose = __________________________ M

24
EXERCISE ID: Calculation of Water Potential from Experimental Data
1. The solute potential of this sucrose solution can be calculated using the following formula:

Ψs = -iCRT

where i = lonization constant (for sucrose this is 1.0 because sucrose does not ionize in water)
C = Molar concentration (determined above)
R = Pressure constant (R = 0.0831 liter bars/mole °K)
T = Temperature °K (273 + °C of solution)

The units of measure will cancel as in the following example:

A 1.0 M sugar solution at 22°C under standard atmospheric conditions

Ψs =-I x C x R x T

Ψs = -(1)(1.0 mole/liter)(0.0831 liter bar/mole °K)(295 °K)

Ψs =-24.51 bars

2. Knowing the solute potential of the solution (Ψs) and knowing that the pressure potential
of the solution is zero (Ψp = 0) allows you to calculate the water potential of the solution.
The water potential will be equal to the solute potential of the solution.

Ψ = 0 + Ψs or Ψ = Ψs

The water potential of the solution at equilibrium will be equal to the water potential of the
potato cells. What is the water potential of the potato cells? Show your calculations here:

3. Water potential values are useful because they allow us to predict the direction of the flow of water. Recall
from the discussion that water flows from an area of higher water potential to an area of lower water potential.

For the sake of discussion, suppose that a student calculates that the water potential of solution inside a bag
is -6.25 bar (Ψs = -6.25, Ψp =0) and the water potential of a solution surrounding the bag is -3.25 bar
(Ψs = -3.25, Ψp =0). In which direction will the water flow?

Water will flow into the bag. This occurs because there are more solute molecules inside the bag (therefore a
value further away from zero) than outside in the solution.

25
Questions
1. If a potato core is allowed to dehydrate by sitting in the open air, would the water potential of the potato
cells decrease or increase? Why?

2. If a plant cell has a lower water potential than its surrounding environment and if pressure is equal to zero,
is the cell hypertonic (in terms of solute concentration) or hypotonic to its environment? Will the cell gain water
or lose water? Explain your response.

Figure 1.5

3. In Figure 1.5 the beaker is open to the atmosphere. What is the pressure potential (Ψp) of the system?

4. In Figure 1.5 where is the greatest water potential? (Circle one.)

beaker dialysis bag

5. Water will diffuse _______________ (circle one) the bag. Why?

into out of

26
6. Zucchini cores placed in sucrose solutions at 27°C resulted in the following percent changes after 24 hours:

% Change in Mass Sucrose Molarity

20% Distilled Water
10% 0.2 M
-3% 0.4 M
-17% 0.6M
-25% 0.8 M
-30% 1.0 M

7. a. Graph the results on Graph 1.3

Graph 1.3 Title: _______________________________________________________________

27
b. What is the molar concentration of solutes within the zucchini cells? _____________________

8. Refer to the procedure for calculating water potential from experimental data.

a. Calculate solute potential (Ψs) of the sucrose solution in which the mass of the zucchini cores does not
change. Show your work here:

b. Calculate the water potential (Ψ) of the solutes within the zucchini cores. Show your work here:

9. What effect does adding solute have on the solute potential component (Ψs) of that solution? Why?

10. Consider what would happen to a red blood cell (RBC) placed in distilled water:

a. Which would have the higher concentration of water molecules? (Circle one.)

Distilled H20 RBC

b. Which would have the higher water potential? (Circle one.)

Distilled H20 RBC

c. What would happen to the red blood cell? Why?

28
EXERCISE IE: Onion Cell Plasmolysis
Plasmolysis is the shrinking of the cytoplasm of a plant cell in response to diffusion of water out of the cell and
into a hypertonic solution (high solute concentration) surrounding the cell as shown in Figure 1.6. During
plasmolysis the cellular membrane pulls away from the cell wall. In the next lab exercise you will examine the
details of the effects of highly concentrated solutions on diffusion and cellular contents.

Figure 1.6

Procedure
1. Prepare a wet mount of a small piece of the epidermis of an onion. Observe under 100X magnification.
Sketch and describe the appearance of the onion cells.

2. Add 2 or 3 drops of 15% NaCI to one edge of the cover slip. Draw this salt solution across the slide by
touching a piece of paper towel to the fluid under the opposite edge of the cover slip. Sketch and describe the
onion cells. Explain what has happened.

3. Remove the cover slip and flood the onion epidermis with fresh water. Observe under 100X. Describe and
explain what happened.

29
Analysis of Results
1. What is plasmolysis?

2. Why did the onion cells plasmolyze?

3. In the winter, grass often dies near roads that have been salted to remove ice. What causes this to
happen?

30
AP Biology Laboratory
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 2
ENZYME CATALYSIS
OVERVIEW
In this lab you will:
1. observe the conversion of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to water and oxygen gas by the enzyme catalase,
and
2. measure the amount of oxygen generated and calculate the rate of the enzyme-catalyzed reaction.

OBJECTIVES
Before doing this lab you should understand:
• the general functions and activities of enzymes;
• the relationship between the structure and function of enzymes;
• the concept of initial reaction rates of enzymes;
• how the concept of free energy relates to enzyme activity;
• that changes in temperature, pH, enzyme concentration, and substrate concentration can affect the
initial reaction rates of enzyme-catalyzed reactions; and
• catalyst, catalysis, and catalase.

After doing this lab you should be able to:

• measure the effects of changes in temperature, pH, enzyme concentration, and substrate
concentration on reaction rates of enzyme-catalyzed reaction in a controlled experiment; and
• explain how environmental factors affect the rate of enzyme-catalyzed reactions.

INTRODUCTION
In general, enzymes are proteins produced by living cells; the act as catalysts in biochemical reactions. A
catalyst affects the rate of a chemical reaction. One consequence of enzyme activity is that cells can carry
out complex chemical activities at relatively low temperatures.

In an enzyme-catalyzed reaction, the substance to be acted upon, the substrate (S), binds reversibly to the
active site of the enzyme (E). One result of this temporary union is a reduction in the energy required to
activate the reaction of the substrate molecule so that the products (P) of the reaction are formed. In
summary:

E + S -> ES -> E + P

Note that the enzyme is not changed in the reaction and can be recycled to break down additional substrate
molecules. Each enzyme is specific for a particular reaction because its amino acid sequence is unique and
causes it to have a unique three-dimensional structure. The active site is the portion of the enzyme that
interacts with the substrate, so that any substance that blocks or changes the shape of the active site affects
the activity of the enzyme. A description of several ways enzyme action may be affected follows:

1. Salt Concentration. If the salt concentration is close to zero, the charged amino acid side chains of
the enzyme molecules will attract each other. The enzyme will denature and form an inactive
precipitate. If, on the other hand, the salt concentration is very high, normal interaction of charged
groups will be blocked, new interactions will occur, and again the enzyme will precipitate. An
intermediate salt concentration, such as that of human blood (0.9%) or cytoplasm, is the optimum for
many enzymes.

31
2. pH. pH is a logarithmic scale that measures the acidity, or H+ concentration, in a solution. The scale
runs from 0 to 14 with 0 being highest in acidity and 14 lowest. When the pH is in the range of 0-7, a
solution is said to be acidic; if the pH is around 7, the solution is neutral; and if the pH is in the range of
7-14, the solution is basic. Amino acid side chains contain groups, such as –COOH and -NH2, that
readily gain or lose H+ ions. As the pH is lowered an enzyme will tend to gain H+ ions, and eventually
enough side chains will be affected so that the enzyme’s shape is disrupted. Likewise, as the pH is
raised, the enzyme will lose H+ ions and eventually lose its active shape. Many enzymes perform
optimally in the neutral pH range and are denatured at either an extremely high or low pH. Some
enzymes, such as pepsin, which acts in the human stomach where the pH is very low, have a low pH
optimum.

3. Temperature. Generally, chemical reactions speed up as the temperature is raised. As the

temperature increases, more of the reacting molecules have enough kinetic energy to undergo the
reaction. Since enzymes are catalysts for chemical reactions, enzyme reactions also tend to go faster
with increasing temperature. However, if the temperature of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction is raised
still further, a temperature optimum is reached; above this value the kinetic energy of the enzyme
and water molecules is so great that the conformation of the enzyme molecules is disrupted. The
positive effect of speeding up the reaction is now more than offset by the negative effect of changing
the conformation of more and more enzyme molecules. Many proteins are denatured by temperatures
around 40-50oC, but some are still active at 70-80oC, and a few even withstand boiling.

4. Activations and Inhibitors. Many molecules other than the substrate may interact with an enzyme.
If such a molecule increases the rate of the reaction it is an activator, and if it decreases the reaction
it is an inhibitor. These molecules can regulate how fast the enzyme acts. Any substance that tends
to unfold the enzyme, such as an organic solvent or detergent, will act as an inhibitor. Some inhibitors
act by reducing the –S-S- bridges that stabilize the enzyme’s structure. Many inhibitors act by reacting
with side chains in or near the active site to change its shape or block it. Many well-known poisons,
such as potassium cyanide and curare, are enzyme inhibitors that interfere with the active site of
critical enzymes.

The enzyme used in this lab, catalase, has four polypeptide chains, each composed of more than
500 amino acids. This enzyme is ubiquitous in aerobic organisms. One function of catalase
within cells is to prevent the accumulation of toxic levels of hydrogen peroxide formed as a
byproduct of metabolic processes. Catalase might also take part in some of the many oxidation
reactions that occur in all cells.

The primary reaction catalyzed by catalase is the decomposition of H2O2 to form water and oxygen:

2 H2O2  2H2O2 + H2O2 (gas)

In the absence of catalase, this reaction occurs spontaneously but very slowly. Catalase speeds up the
reaction considerably. In this experiment, a rate for this reaction will be determined.

Much can be learned about enzymes by studying the kinetics (particularly the changes in rate) of enzyme-
catalyzed reactions. For example, it is possible to measure the amount of product formed, or the amount
of substrate used, from the moment the reactants are brought together until the reaction has stopped.

If the amount of product formed is measured at regular intervals and this quantity is plotted on a graph, a
curve like the one in Figure 2.1 is obtained.

32
Figure 2.1

Study the solid line on the graph of this reaction. At time 0 there is no product. After 20 seconds, 5
micromoles (µmoles) have been formed; after 1 minute, 10 µmoles; after 2 minutes, 20 µmoles. The rate
of this reaction could be given at 10 µmoles of product per minute for this initial period. Note, however,
that by the third and fourth minutes, only about 5 additional µmoles of product have been formed. During
the first three minutes, the rate is constant. From the third minute through the eighth minute, the rate is
changing; it is slowing down. For each successive minute after the first three minutes, the amount of
product formed in that interval is less than in the preceding minute. From the seventh minute onward, the
reaction rate is very slow.

In the comparison of the kinetics of pf one reaction with another, a common reference point is needed.
For example, suppose you wanted to compare the effectiveness of catalase obtained from potato with that
of catalase obtained from liver. It is best to compare the reactions when the rates are constant. In the first
few minutes of an enzymatic reaction such as this, the number of substrate molecules is usually so large
compared with the number of enzyme molecules that changing the substrate concentration dies not (for a
short period at least) affect the number of successful collisions between substrate and enzyme. During
this early period, the enzyme is acting on substrate molecules at a nearly constant rate. The slope of the
graph line during this early period is called the initial rate of the reaction. The initial rate of any enzyme-
catalyzed reaction is determined by the characteristics of the enzyme molecule. It is always the same for
any enzyme and its substrate at a given temperature and pH. This also assumes that the substrate is
present in excess.

The rate of the reaction is the slope of the linear portion of the curve. To determine a rate, pick any two
points on the straight-line portion of the curve. Divide the difference in the amount of product formed
between these two points by the difference in time between them. The result will be the rate of the
reaction, which if properly calculated, can be expressed as µmoles product/sec. The rate, then, is:

µmoles2 - µmoles1
t2 – t1
or from the graph,
Δy
Δx
In the illustration of Figure 2.1, the rate between two and three minutes is calculated:

30 – 20 = 10 = 0.17 µmoles/sec
180 – 120 60

The rate of the chemical reaction may be studied in a number of ways, including the following:

1. measuring the rate of disappearance of substrate (in this example H2O2);

33
 2. measuring the rate of appearance of product (in this case, O2, which is given off as a gas);
3. measuring the heat released or absorbed in the reaction.

General Procedure
In this experiment the disappearance of the substrate, H2O2 , is measured as follows (see Figure 2.2):

1. A purified catalase extract is mixed with substrate (H2O2) in a beaker. The enzyme catalyzes the
conversion of H2O2 to H2O and O2 (gas).

2. Before all the H2O2 is converted to H2O and O2, the reaction is stopped by adding sulfuric acid (H2SO4).
The H2SO4 lowers the pH, denatures the enzyme, and thereby stops the enzyme’s catalytic activity.

3. After the reaction is stopped, the amount of substrate (H2O2) remaining in the beaker is measured. To
assay (measure) this quantity, potassium permanganate is used. Potassium permanganate (KMnO4) in
the presence of H2O2 and H2SO4 reacts as follows.

5H2O2 + 2KMnO4 + 3H2SO4  K2SO4 + 2MnSO4 + 8H2O + 5O2

Note that H2O2 is a reactant for this reaction. Once all the H2O2 has reacted, any more KMnO4 added will
be in excess and will not be decomposed. The addition of excess KMnO4 causes the solution to have a
permanent pink or brown color. Therefore, the amount of H2O2 remaining is determined by adding KMnO4
until the whole mixture stays a faint pink or brown, permanently. Add no more KMnO4 after this point. The
amount of KMnO4 added is a proportional measure of the amount of H2O2 remaining (2 molecules KMnO4
of reacts with 5 molecules H2O2 of as shown in the equation).

Figure 2.2: The General Procedure

Figure 2.3: The Apparatus and Materials

34
EXERCISE 2A: Test of Catalase Activity

Procedure
1. To observe the reaction to be studied, transfer 10 mL of 1.5% (0.44M) H2O2 into a 50mL glass beaker and
add 1 mL of the freshly made catalase solution. The bubbles coming from the reaction mixture are O2, which
results from the breakdown of by catalase. Be sure to keep the freshly made H2O2 by catalase solution on ice
at all times.
a. What is the enzyme in this
reaction?___________________________________________________

b. What is the substrate in this reaction?

_________________________________________________

c. What is the product in this reaction? __________________________________________________

d. How could you show that the gas evolved is H2O2?

______________________________________

2. To demonstrate the effect of boiling on enzymatic activity, transfer 5 ml of purified catalase extract to a test
tube and place it in a boiling water bath for five minutes. Transfer 10 mL of 1.5% H2O2 into a 50 mL of the
cooled, boiled catalase solution. How does the reaction compare to the one using the unboiled catalase.?
Explain the reason for this difference.

3. To demonstrate the presence of catalase in living tissue, cut 1 cm3 of potato or liver, macerate it and
transfer it to a 50 mL glass beaker containing 10 mL of 1.5%. H2O2. What do you observe? What do you
think would happen if the potato or liver was boiled before being added to the H2O2?

EXERCISE 2B: The Base Line Assay

To determine the amount of H2O2 initially present in a 1.5% solution, one needs to perform all the steps of the
procedure without adding catalase (enzyme) to the reaction mixture. This amount is known as the baseline
and is an index of the initial concentration H2O2 of in solution. In any series of experiments, a base line should
be established first.

Procedure for Establishing a Base Line

1. Put 10 mL of 1.5% H2O2 into a clean glass beaker.

2. Add 1 ml of H2O (instead of enzyme solution).

3. Add 10 mL of H2SO4 (1.0M) Use extreme caution in handling reagents. Your teacher will instruct you
about the proper safety procedures for handling hazardous materials.

4. Mix well.

5. Remove a 5 mL sample. Place this 5 mL sample into another beaker and assay for the amount H2O2 of
as follows. Place a beaker containing the sample over a piece of white paper. Use a burette, a syringe or a 5
mL pipette to add KMnO4, a drop at a time, to the solution until a persistent pink or brown color is obtained.

35
Remember to gently swirl the solution after adding each drop. Check to be sure that you understand the
calibrations on the burette or syringe (See Figure 2.4). Record your reading in the box below.

Base line calculation

Final reading of burette ________ mL

Initial reading of burette ________ mL

Base line (Final-Initial) ___________mL KMnO4

Figure 2.4: Proper Reading of a Burette

The base line assay value should be nearly the same for all groups. Compare your results to
another team’s before proceeding.

Remember the amount of KMnO4 used is proportions to the amount of H2O2 that was in solution.

Note: Handle with KMnO4 care. Avoid contact with skin and eyes.

36
EXERCISE 2C: The Uncatalyzed H2O2 Rate of Decomposition

To determine the rate of spontaneous conversion of H2O2 to H2O and O2 in an uncatalyzed reaction,
put a small quantity of 1.5% H2O2 (about 15 ml) in a beaker. Store it uncovered at room temperature
for approximately 24 hours. Repeat Steps 2-5 from Exercise 2B to determine the proportional
amount of H2O2 remaining (for ease of calculation assume the 1 mL of KMnO4 used in the titration
represents the presence of 1 mL of H2O2 in the solution). Record your readings in the box below.

Uncatalyzed H2O2 decomposition

Final reading of burette ________________ mL

Initial reading of burette ________________ mL

Amount of KMnO4 titrant ________________mL

Amount of spontaneously decomposed

(mL baseline – mL KMnO4) _____________ mL

What percent of the spontaneously

decomposes in 24 hours? [ (mL baseline – mL
24 hours)/ mL baseline] X 100 ____________%

EXERCISE 2D: The Enzyme-Catalyzed H2O2 Rate of Decomposition

In this experiment you will determine the rate at which 1.5% H2O2solution decomposes when
catalyzed by purified catalase extract. To do this, you should determine how much H2O2 has been
consumed after 10, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180 and 360 seconds.

If a day or so has passed since you did Exercise 2B, you must reestablish the base line by
determining the amount of present in your 1.5% H2O2 solution. Repeat the assay procedure (Steps
1-5) and record your results in the box below. The base line assay should be approximately the
same value for all groups. Check with another team before proceeding.

Base line calculation

Final reading of burette ________ mL

Initial reading of burette ________ mL

Base line (Final-Initial) ___________mL KMnO4

37
Procedure for a Time-Course Determination
To determine the course of an enzymatic reaction, you will need to measure how much substrate is
disappearing over times. You will measure the amount of substrate decomposed after 10, 30, 60,
90, 120, 180 and 360 seconds. To use lab time more efficiently, set up all of these at the same time
and do them together. Stop each reaction at the proper time.

1. 10 seconds
a. Put 10 mL of 1.5 % H2O2 in a clean 50 ml glass beaker.
b. Add 1 mL of catalase extract.
c. Swirl gently for 10 seconds.
d. At 10 seconds, add 10 mL of H2SO4 (1.0 M).

2. 30, 60, 90, 120, 180 and 360 seconds

Each time, repeat steps 1 a-d as described above, except for allowing the reaction to
proceed for 30, 60, 90, 120, 180 and 360 seconds, respectively, while swirling gently.

Note: Each time, remove a 5 mL sample and assay for the amount of H2O2 in the sample.
Use a burette to add KMnO4, one drop at a time, to the solution until a persistent pink or
brown color is obtained. Should the end point be overshot, remove another 5 mL sample and
repeat the titration. Do not discard any solutions until the entire lab is completed. Record
your results in Table 2.1 and Graph 2.1.

Table 2.1

KMnO4 Time (seconds)

(ml) 10 30 60 90 120 180 360
a) Base line*
b) Final reading
c) Initial reading
d) Amount of KMnO4 Consumed (B minus
C)
e) Amount of H2O2 Used (A minus D)

3. Record the base line value, obtained in Exercise 2D, in all of the boxes on line A in Table
2.1.

• Remember that the base line tells how much H2O2 is in the initial 5 mL sample. The difference between the
initial and final readings tells how much H2O2 is left after the enzyme-catalyzed reaction. The shorter the time,
the more H2O2 remains and therefore, the more KMnO4 is necessary to titrate to the endpoint. If syringes are
used, KMnO4 consumed may be calculate as c – b.

38
4. Graph the data for enzyme-catalyzed H2O2 decomposition.
For this graph you will need to determine the following:

a. The independent variable: ___________________

Use this value to label the horizontal (x) axis.

b. The dependent variable: ____________________

Use this value to label the vertical (y) axis.

Graph 2.1 Title: ______________________________________

39
Analysis of Results
1. From the formula described earlier recall that rate = Δy
Δx
Determine the initial rate of the reaction and the rates between each of the time points.
Record the rates in the table below.

Time Intervals (seconds

Initial 0 to 10 to 30 30 to 60 60 to 90 90 to 120 120 to 180 to
10 180 360

Rates*

* Reaction rate (mL H2O2 /sec)

2. When is the rate the highest? Explain why?

3. When is the rate the lowest? For what reasons is the rate low?

4. Explain the inhibiting effect of sulfuric acid on the function of catalase Relate this to
enzyme structure and chemistry?

5. Predict the effect that lowering the temperature would have on the rate on enzyme activity.
Explain your prediction.

6. Design a controlled experiment to test the effect of varying pH, temperature or enzyme
concentration.

40
AP Biology Laboratory
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 3
MITOSIS AND MEIOSIS

OVERVIEW
In this lab you will investigate the process of mitosis and meiosis:

1. You will use prepared slides of onion root tips to study plant mitosis and to calculate the relative
duration of the phases of mitosis in the meristem of root tissue. Prepared slides of whitefish
blastula may be used to study mitosis in animal cells and to compare animal mitosis with plant
mitosis.

2. You will simulate the stages of meiosis by using chromosome models. You will study crossing over and
recombination that occurs during meiosis. You will observe the arrangements of ascospores in the asci
from a cross between wild type Sordaria fimicola and mutants for tan spore coat color in this fungus.
These arrangements will be used to estimate the percentage of crossing over that occurs between the
centromere and the gene that controls the tan spore color.

OBJECTIVES
Before doing this lab you should understand:
• The events of mitosis in plant and animal cells;
• The events of meiosis (gametogenesis in animals and sporogenesis in plants); and
• The key mechanical and genetic differences between meiosis and mitosis.

After doing this lab you should be able to:

• Recognize the stages of mitosis in a plant or animal cell;
• Calculate the relative duration of the cell cycle stages;
• Describe how independent assortment and crossing over can generate genetic variation among the
products of meiosis;
• Use chromosome models to demonstrate the activity of chromosomes during meiosis I and meiosis II;
• Relate chromosome activity to Mendel’s laws of segregation and independent assortment;
• Demonstrate the role of meiosis in the formation of gametes or spores in a controlled experiment using
an organism or your choice;
• Calculate the map distance of a particular gene from a chromosome’s centromere or between two
genes using an organism of your choice;
• Compare and contrast the results of meiosis and mitosis in plant cells; and
• Compare and contrast the results of meiosis and mitosis in animal cells.

INTRODUCTION
All new cells come from previously existing cells. New cells are formed by the process of cell division, which
involves both division of the cell’s nucleus (karyokinesis) and the division of the cytoplasm (cytokinesis).

There are two types of nuclear division: mitosis and meiosis. Mitosis typically results in new somatic (body)
cells. Formation of an adult organism from a fertilized egg, asexual reproduction, regeneration and
maintenance or repair of body parts are accomplished through mitotic cell division. You will study mitosis in
Exercise 2A. Meiosis results in the formation of either gametes (in animals) or spores (in plants). These
cells have half the number of chromosome number of the parent ell. You will study meiosis in Exercise 3B.

41
Where does one find cell undergoing mitosis? Plant and animals differ in this respect. In higher plants the
process of forming new cells is restricted to special growth regions called meristems. These regions usually
occur at the tips of stems or roots. In animals, cell division occurs anywhere new cells re formed or as new
cells replace old ones. However, some tissues in both plants and animals rarely divide once the organism is
mature.
To study the stages of mitosis, you need to look for tissues where there are many cells in the process of
mitosis. This restricts your search to the tips of growing plants, such as the onion root tip, or in the case of
animals, to developing embryos, such as the whitefish blastula.

EXERCISE 3A.1: Observing Mitosis in Plant and Animal Cells Using Prepared Slides of the Onion Root
Tip and Whitefish Blastula

Roots consist of different regions (see Figure 3.1a). The root cap functions in protection. The apical
meristem (Figure 3.1b) is the region that contains the highest percentage of cells undergoing mitosis. The
region of elongation is the area in which growth occurs. The region of maturation is where root hairs
develop and where cells differentiate to become xylem, phloem and other tissues.

Figure 3.1a: Median Longitudinal Section Figure 3.1b: Apical Meristem Tip Close
Up

42
Figure 3.2: Whitefish Blastula

The whitefish blastula is often used for the study of cell division. As soon s the egg is fertilized, it begins to
divide and nuclear division follows. You will be provided with slides of whitefish blastula, which have been
sectioned in various planes in relation to the mitotic spindle. You will be able to seed side and polar views of
the spindle apparatus.

PROCEDURE
Examine prepared slides of either onion root tips or whitefish blastula. Locate the meristematic region of the
onion, or locate the blastula with the 10X objective and then use the 40X objective to study individual cells.
For convenience in discussion, biologists have described certain stages, or phases, of the continuous mitotic
cell cycle, as outlined on this page and the next. Identify one cell that clearly represents each phase. Sketch
and label the cell in the boxes provided.

1. The nondividing cell is in a stage called interphase. The nucleus

may have one or more dark-stained nucleoli and is filled with a
fine network of threads, the chromatin. During interphase DNA
replication occurs.

Interphase

43
 2. The first sign of division occurs in
Figure 3.3 prophrase. There is a thickening of the
chromatin, threads, which continues
until is evident that the chromatin has
condensed into chromosomes (Figure
3.3). With somewhat higher
magnification you may be able to see
that each chromosome is composed of
two chromatids joined at a
centromere. As prophase continues,
the chromatids continue to shorten and
thicken. In late prophrase the nuclear
envelope and nucleoli are no longer
visible, and the chromosomes are free in Prophase
the cytoplasm. Just before this time, the
first sign of a spindle appears in the
cytoplasm; the spindle apparatus is
made up of microtubules, and it is
thought that these microtubules may pull
the chromosomes towards the poles of
the spindle where the two daughter
nuclei will eventually form.

3. At metaphase the chromosomes have moved to the center of the

spindle. One particular portion of each chromosome, the
centromere, attaches to the spindle. One particular portion of
each chromosome, the centromere, attaches to the spindle. The
centromeres of all the chromosomes lie at about the same level of
the spindle, on a plane called the metaphase plate. At metaphase
you should be able to observe the two chromatids of some of the
chromosomes.

Metaphase

44
4. At the beginning of anaphase, the centromere regions of each pair
of chromatids separate and are moved by the spindle fibers toward
opposite poles of the spindle, dragging the rest of the chromatid
behind them. Once the two chromatids separated, each is called a
chromosome. These daughter chromosomes continue their
poleward movement until they form two compact clumps, one at each
spindle pole.

Anaphase

5. Telophase, the last stage of division, is marked by a pronounced

condensation of the chromosomes, followed by the formation of a new
nuclear envelope around each group of chromosomes. The
chromosomes gradually uncoil to form the fine chromatin network
seen in interphase, and the nucleoli and nuclear envelope reappear.
Cytokinesis may occur. This is the division of the cytoplasm into two
cells. In plants, a new cell wall is laid down between the daughter
cells. In animal cells. The old cell will pinch off in the mille along a
cleavage furrow to form two new daughter cells.

Telophase

Analysis Questions

1. Explain how mitosis leads to two daughter cells, which of which is diploid and genetically
identical to the original cell. What activities are going on in the ell during interphase?

2. How does mitosis differ in plant and animal cells? How does the plant mitosis accommodate a rigid,
inflexible cell wall?

3. What is the role of the centrosome (the area surrounding the Centrioles)? Is it necessary for mitosis?
Defend your answer.

45
EXERCISE 3A.2: Time for Cell Replication

To estimate the relative length of time that a cell spends in the various stages of cell division, you will examine
the meristematic region of a prepared slide of the onion root tip. The length of the cell cycle is approximately
24 hours for cell in actively dividing onion root tips.

Procedure
It is hard to imagine that you can estimate how much time a cell spends in each phase of cell division from a
slide of dead cells, yet this is precisely what you will do in this part of the lab. Sine you are working with a
prepared slide, you cannot get information about how long it takes a slide to divide. What you can determine
is how many cells are in each phase. From this, you can infer the percentage of time each cell spends in
each phase.

1. Observe every cell in one high-power field of view and determine which phase of the cell cycle
it is in. This is best done in pairs. The partner observing the slide calls out the phase of each
cell while the other partner records. Then switch so the recorder becomes the observer and
vice versa. Count at least two full fields of view. If you have not counted at least 200 cells then
count a third field of view.

2. Record your data in Table 3.1.

3. Calculate the percentage of cells in each phase, and record in Table 3.1.

Consider that it takes, on average, 24 hours (or 1,440 minutes) for each onion root tip cell to complete the
cell cycle. You can calculate the amount of time spent in each phase of the cell cycle form the percentage
of cells in that stage.

Percentage of cells in stage X 1,440 minutes = ________ minutes of cell cycle spent in stage

Table 3.1
Number of Cells Percent of Time in
Total Cells Each Stage
Field 1 Field 2` Field 3 Field 4 Counted

Interphase

Prophase

Metaphase

Anaphase

Telophase

Total Cells Counted

46
QUESTIONS

1. If your observations had not been restricted to the area of the root tip that is actively dividing, how
would your results have been different?

2. Based on the data in Table 3.1, what can you infer about the relative length of time an onion root tip
cell spends in each stage of cell division?

3. Draw and label a pie chart of the onion root tip cell cycle using the data from Table 3.1

Title: ____________________

EXERCISE 3B:Meiosis

Meiosis involves two successive nuclear divisions that produce two haploid cells. Meiosis I is the reduction
division. It is their first division that reduces the chromosome number from diploid to haploid and separates
the homologous pairs. Meiosis II, the second division, separates the sister chromatids. The result is four
haploid gametes.

Mitotic cell division produces new cells genetically identical to the parent cell. Meiosis increases genetic
variation in the population. Each diploid cell undergoing meiosis can produce 2n different
chromosomal combinations, where n is the haploid number. In humans the number is 223, which is more than
eight million combinations. Actually, the potential variation is even greater because, during meiosis I, each
pair of chromosomes (homologous chromosomes) comes together in a process known as synapsis.
Chromatids of homologous chromosomes may exchange parts in a process called crossing over. The relative
distance between two genes on a given chromosome can be estimated by calculating the percentage of
crossing over that takes place between them.

47
EXERCISE 3B.1: Simulation of Meiosis

In this exercise you will study the process of meiosis by using chromosome simulation kits and following the
directions in Figures 3.4 – 3.8. Your kit should contain two strands of beads of one color and two strands of
another color. A homologous pair of chromosomes is represented by one strand of each color, with one of
each pair coming from each parent. The second strands of each color are to be used as chromatids for each
of these chromosomes.

Figure 3.4

Interphase. Place one strand of each color near the center of your work area. (Recall that chromosomes at
this stage would exist as diffuse chromatin and not as visible structures.) DNA synthesis occurs during
interphase, and each chromosome, originally composed of one strand, is now made up of two strands, or
chromatids, joined together at the centromere region. Simulate DNA replication by bringing the magnetic
centromere region of one strand in contact with the centromere region of the other of the same color. Do the
same with the homolog.

Summary: DNA replication

Figure 3.5

Prophase I. Homologous chromosomes come together and synapse along their entire length. This pairing,
or synapsis, of homologous chromosomes represents the first big difference between mitosis and meiosis. A
tetrad, consisting of four chromatids, is formed. Use the models of two chromosomes to simulate synapsis
and the process of crossing over. Crossing over can be simulated by popping the beads apart on one
chromatid at the fifth bead, or “gene,” and doing the same with the other chromatid. Reconnect the beads to
those of the other color. Proceed through prophase I of meiosis and not how crossing over results in
recombination of genetic information. The visual result of crossing over is called a chiasma (plural
chiasmata).

48
 Summary: Synapsis and Crossing Over

Figure 3.6

Metaphase I. The crossed-over tetrads line up in the center of the cell. Position the chromosomes near the
middle of the cell.

Summary: Tetrads align on equator

Figure 3.7

Anaphase I. During anaphase I the homologous chromosomes separate and are “pulled” to opposite ends of
the cell. This represents a second significant difference between the events of mitosis and meiosis.

Summary: Homologs separate

Chromosome number is reduced

49
Figure 3.8

Telophase I. Place each chromosome at opposite sides of the cell. Formation of a nuclear envelope and
division of the cytoplasm (cytokinesis) often occur at this time to produce two cells, but this is not always the
case. Notice that each chromosome within the two daughter cells still consists of two chromatids.

Summary: 2 haploid cells formed

Each chromosome composed of 2 chromatids

Interphase II (Interlines). The amount of time spent “at rest” following Telophase I depends on the type of
organism, the formation of new nuclear envelopes, and the degree of chromosomal uncoiling. Because
interphase II does not necessarily resemble interphase I, it is often given another name – interkinesis. DNA
replication does not occur during interkinesis. This represents a third difference between mitosis and
meiosis.

Meiosis II

A second meiotic division is necessary to separate the chromatids of the two chromosomes in the two
daughter cells formed by this first division. This will reduce the amount of DNA to one strand per
chromosome. This second division is called meiosis II. It resembles mitosis except that only one homolog
from each homologous pair of chromosomes is present in each daughter cell undergoing meiosis II.

The following simulation procedures apply to haploid nuclei produced by meiosis I.

Figure 3.9

Prophase II. No DNA replication occurs. Replicated Centrioles (not shown) separate and move to opposite
sides of the chromosome groups.

50
Figure 3.10

Metaphase II. Orient the chromosomes so that they are centered in the middle of each daughter cell.

Figure 3.11

Anaphase II. The centromere regions of the chromatids now appear to be separate. Separate the
chromatids of the chromosomes and pull the daughter chromosomes toward the opposite sides of each
daughter cell. Now that each chromatid has its own visible separate centromere region, it can be called a
chromosome.

Summary: Chromatids separate

Figure 3.12

Telophase II. Place the chromosomes at opposite sides of the dividing cell. At this time a nuclear envelope
forms and, in our simulation, the cytoplasm divides.

51
Analysis and Investigation

1. List three major differences between the events of mitosis and meiosis.
1.

2.

3.

2. Compare mitosis and meiosis with respect to each of the following in Table 3.2:

Table 3.2

Mitosis Meiosis
Chromosome Number of Parent
Cells
Number of DNA Replications

Number of Divisions

Number of Daughter Cells

Chromosome Number of Daughter

Cells
Purpose/ Function

3. How are meiosis I and meiosis II different?

52
4. How do oogenesis and spermatogenesis differ?

5. Why is meiosis important for sexual reproduction?

Exercise 3B.2: Crossing Over during Meiosis in Sordaria

Sordaria fimicola is an ascomycete fungus that can be used to demonstrate the results of crossing over during
meiosis. Sordaria is a haploid organism for most of its life cycle. It becomes diploid only when the fusion of
the mycelia (filamentlike groups of cells) of two different strains results in the fusion of the two different types
of haploid nuclei to form a diploid nucleus. The diploid nucleus must then undergo meiosis to resume its
haploid state.

Meiosis, followed by one mitotic division, in Sordaria, results in the formation of eight haploid ascospores
contained within a sac called an ascus (plural, asci). Many asci are contained within a fruiting body called a
perithecium (ascocarp). When ascospores are mature the ascus ruptures, releasing the ascospores. Each
ascospore can develop into a new haploid fungus. The life cycle of Sordaria fimicola is shown in Figure 3.13.

Figure 3.13: The Life Cycle of Sordaria fimicola

53
To observe crossing over in Sordaria, one must make hybrids between the wild type and mutant strains of
Sordaria. Wild type Sordaria have black ascospores (+). One mutant strain has tan spores (TN). When
mycelia of these two different strains come together and undergo meiosis, the asci that develop will contain
four black ascospores and four tan ascospores. The arrangement of the spores directly reflects whether or
not crossing over has occurred. In Figure 3.14 no crossing over has occurred. Figure 3.15 shows the results
of crossing over between the centromere of the chromosome and the gene for ascospore color.

Figure 3.14: Meiosis with No Crossing Over

Formation of Noncrossover Asci

Two homologous chromosomes line up at metaphase I of meiosis. The two chromatids of one chromosome
each carry the gene for tan spore color (tn) and the two chromatids of the other chromosome carry the gene
for wide type spore color (+).

54
The first meiotic division (MI) results in two cells, each containing just one type of spore color gene (either tan
or wild type). Therefore, segregation of these genes has occurred at the first meiotic division (MI). Each cell
is haploid at the end of meiosis I.

The second meiotic division (MII) results in four haploid cells, each with the haploid number of chromosomes
(1N).

A mitotic division simply duplicates these cells, resulting in 8 spores. They are arranged in the 4:4 pattern.

Figure 3.15: Meiosis with Crossing Over

In this example crossing over has occurred in the region between the gene for spore color and the
centromere. The homologous chromosomes separate during meiosis I.

This time the MI results in two cells, each containing both genes (1 tan, 1 wild type); therefore, the genes for
spore color have not yet segregated, although the cells are haploid.

Meiosis II (MII) results in segregation of the two types of genes for spore color.

A mitotic division results in 8 spores arranged in the 2:2:2:2 or 2:4:2 pattern. Any one of these spore
arrangements would indicate that crossing over has occurred between the gene for spore coat color and the
centromere.

Procedure

1. Two strains of Sordaria (wild type and tan mutant) have been inoculated on a plate of agar. Where the
mycelia of the two strains meet (Figure 3.16), fruiting bodies called perithecia develop. Meiosis occurs
within the perithecia during the formation of the asci. Use a toothpick to gently scrape the surface of the
agar to collect perithecia (the black dots in the figure below).

55
 Figure 3.16

2. Place the perithecia in a drop of water or glycerin on a slide. Cover with a cover slip and return to your
workbench. Using the eraser end of a pencil, press the cover slip down gently so that the perithecia
rupture but the ascospores remain in the asci. Using the 10X objective, view the slide and locate a group
of hybrid asci (those containing both tan and black ascospores). Count at least 50 hybrid asci and enter
your data in Table 3.3.

Table 3.3
Number of 4:4 Number of Asci % Asci Showing Gene to
 showing Crossover Total Asci Crossover Centromere
  Divided by 2 Distance
 (map units)



The frequency of crossing over appears to be governed largely by the distance between genes, or in this
case, between the gene for spore coat color, and the centromere. The probability of a crossover occurring
between two particular genes on the same chromosome (linked genes) increases as the distance between
those genes becomes larger. The frequency of crossover, therefore, appears to be directly proportional to the
distance between the genes.

A map unit is an arbitrary unit of measure used to describe relative distances between linked genes. The
number of map units between two genes or between a gene and the centromere is equal to the percentage of
recombinants. Customary units cannot be used because we cannot directly visualize genes with the light
microscope. However, due to the relationship between distance and crossover frequency, we may use the
map unit.

Analysis of Results

56
1. Using your data in Table 3.3, determine the distance between the gene for spore color and the
centromere. Calculate the percentage of crossovers by dividing the number of crossover asci (2:2:2:2 or
2:4:2) by the total number of asci X 100. To calculate map distance, divide the percentage of crossover asci
by 2. The percentage of crossover asci is divided by 2 because only half the spores in each ascus are the
result of a crossover event (Figure 3.3).

2. Draw a pair of chromosomes in Mi and MII and who how you would get a 2:4:2 arrangement of
ascospores by crossing over. (Hint: refer to Figure 3.15).

57
AP Biology Laboratory
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 4
PLANT PIGMENTS AND PHOTOSYNTHESIS
OVERVIEW
In this lab you will:
1. separate plant pigments using chromatography, and
2. measure the rate of photosynthesis in isolated chloroplasts using the dye DPIP.

The transfer of electrons during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis reduces DPIP, changing it
from blue to colorless.

OBJECTIVES
Before doing this lab you should understand:
• how chromatography separates two or more compounds that are initially present in the mixture;
• the process of photosynthesis;
• the function of plant pigments;
• the relationship between light wavelength and photosynthetic rate; and
• the relationship between light intensity and photosynthetic rate.

After doing this lab you should be able to:

• separate pigments and calculate their Rf values;
• describe a technique to determine photosynthetic rates;
• compare photosynthetic rates at different light intensities or different wavelengths of light using
controlled experiments; and
• explain why the rate of photosynthesis varies under different environmental conditions.

EXERCISE 4A: Plant Pigment Chromatography

Paper chromatography is a useful technique for separating and identifying pigments and other molecules from
cell extracts that contain a complex mixture of molecules. The solvent moves up the paper by capillary action,
which occurs as a result of the attraction of solvent molecules to the paper and the attraction of solvent
molecules to one another. As the solvent moves up the paper, it carries along any substances dissolved in it.
The pigments are carried along at different rates because they are not equally soluble in the solvent and
because they are attracted, to different degrees, to the fibers in the paper through the formation of
intermolecular bonds, such as hydrogen bonds.

Beta carotene, the most abundant carotene in plants, is carried along near the solvent front because it is very
soluble in the solvent being used and because it forms no hydrogen bonds with cellulose. Another pigment,
xanthophylls, differs from carotene in that it contains oxygen. Xanthophylls is found further from the solvent
front because it is less soluble in the solvent and has been slowed down by hydrogen bonding to the
cellulose. Chlorophylls contain oxygen and nitrogen and are bound more tightly to the paper than are the
other pigments.

Chlorophyll a is the primary photosynthetic pigment in plants. A molecule of chlorophyll a is located at the
reaction center of photosystems. Other chlorophyll a molecules, chlorophyll b and the carotenoids (that is,
carotenes and xanthophylls) capture light energy and transfer it to the chlorphyll a at the reaction center.
Carotenoids also protect the photosynthetic system from the damaging effects of ultraviolet light.

58
Procedure
Your teacher will demonstrate the apparatus and techniques used in paper chromatography. Here is a
suggested procedure, illustrated in Figure 4.1.

1. Obtain a 50-ml graduated cylinder that has 1 cm of solvent in the bottom. The cylinder is tightly
stoppered because this solvent is volatile, and you should be careful to keep the stopper on as much
as possible.

2. Cut a piece of filter paper that will be long enough to reach the solvent. Cut one end of this filter paper
into a point. Draw a pencil line 1.5 cm above the point.

3. Use a coin to extract the pigments from spinach leaf cells. Place a small section of leaf on the top of
the pencil line. Use the ribbed edge of the coin to crush the cells. Be sure that the pigment line is on
top of the pencil line. You should repeat this procedure 8 to 10 times, being sure to use a new portion
of the leaf each time.

4. Place the chromatography paper in the cylinder so that the pointed end is barely immersed in the
solvent. Do not allow the pigment to be in the solvent.

5. Stopper the cylinder. When the solvent is about 1 cm from the top of the paper, remove the paper and
immediately mark the location of the solvent front before it evaporates.

6. Mark the bottom of each pigment band. Measure the distance each pigment migrated from the bottom
of the pigment origin to the bottom of the separated pigment band. In Table 4.1 record the distance
that each front, including the solvent front, moved. Depending on the species of plant used, you may
be able to observe 4 or 5 pigment bands.

Figure 4.1

59
Table 4.1
Distance Moved by Pigment Band (millimeters)

Band Number Distance Band Color

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Distance Solvent Front Moved _________ (mm)

Analysis of Results
The relationship of the distance moved by a pigment to the distance moved by the solvent is a constant called
Rf. It can be calculated for each of the four pigments using the following formula:

Rf = distance pigment migrated (mm)

distance solvent front migrated (mm)
Record your Rf values in Table 4.2.

Table 4.2

________________ = Rf for Carotene (yellow to yellow orange)

________________ = Rf for Xanthophyll (yellow)

________________ = Rf for Chlorophyll a (bright green to blue green)

________________ = Rf for Chlorophyll b (yellow green to olive green)

Topics for Discussion

1. What factors are involved in the separation of the pigments?

2. Would you expect the Rf value of a pigment to be the same if a different solvent were used? Explain.

3. What type of chlorophyll does the reaction center contain? What are the roles of the other pigments?

60
EXERCISE 4B: Photosynthesis/The Light Reaction
Light is a part of a continuum of radiation, or energy waves. Shorted wavelengths of energy have greater
amounts of energy. For example, high-energy ultraviolet rays can harm living tissues. Wavelengths of light
within the visible part of the light spectrum power photosynthesis.

When light is absorbed by leaf pigments, electrons within each photosynthesis are boosted to a higher
energy level, and this energy is used to produce ATP and to reduce NADP to NADPH. ATP and NADPH
are then used to incorporate CO2 into organic molecules, a process called carbon fixation.

Design of the Exercise

Photosynthesis may be studied in a number of ways. For this experiment a dye-reduction technique will be
used. The dye-reduction experiment tests the hypothesis that light and chloroplasts are required for the
light reactions to occur. In place of the electron acceptor, NADP, the compound DPIP (2,6-dichlorophenol-
indophenol), will be substituted. When light strikes the chloroplasts, electrons boosted to high energy
levels will reduce DPIP. It will chance from blue to colorless.

In this experiment chloroplasts are extracted from spinach leaves and incubated with DPIP in the
presence of light. As the DPIP is reduced and becomes colorless, the resultant increase in light
transmittance is measured over a period of time using a spectrophotometer. The experimental design
matrix is presented in Table 4.3.

Table 4.3: Photosynthesis Setup

Cuvettes

1 2 3 4 5
Blank Unboiled Unboiled Boiled No
(no DPIP) Chloroplasts Chloroplasts Chloroplasts Chloroplasts
Dark Light Light Light
Phosphate
1 mL 1mL 1 mL 1 mL 1 mL
Buffer
Distilled H2O 3 mL + 3
4 mL 3 mL 3 mL 3 mL
drops
DPIP - 1 mL 1 mL 1 mL 1 mL
Unboiled
3 drops 3 drops 3 drops - -
Chloroplasts
Boiled
- - - 3 drops -
Chloroplasts

Procedure
1. Turn on the spectrophotometer to warm up the instrument and set the wavelengths to 605 nm by
adjusting the wavelength control knob.

2. While the spectrophotometer is warming up, your teacher may demonstrate how to prepare a
chloroplast suspension from spinach leaves.

3. Set up an incubation area that includes a light, water flask, and test tube rack (see Figure 4.2). The
water in the flask acts as a heat sink by absorbing most of the light’s infrared radiation while having
little effect on the light’s visible radiation.

61
Figure 4.2: Incubation Setup

4. Your teacher will provide you with two beakers, one containing a solution of boiled chloroplasts and
the other one containing unboiled chloroplasts. Be sure to keep both beakers on ice at all times.

5. At the top rim, label the cuvettes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 4, respectively. Be sure to follow your teacher’s
directions on how to label cuvettes. Using lens tissue, wipe the outside walls of each cuvette
(remember: handle cuvettes onto near the top). Cover the walls and bottom of cuvette 2 with foil and
make a foil cap to cover the top. Light should not be permitted inside cuvette 2 because it is a control
for this experiment.

6. Refer to Table 4.3 to prepare each cuvette. Do not add unboiled chloroplasts yet. To each cuvette,
add 1 mL of phosphate buffer. To cuvette 1, add 4 mL of distilled H2O. To cuvettes 2, 3, and 4, add 3
mL of distilled H2O and 2 mL of DPIP. To cuvette 5, add 3 mL plus 3 drops of distilled water, and 1 mL
of DPIP.

7. Bring the spectrophotometer to zero by adjusting the amplifier control knob until the meter reads 0%
transmittance. Add 3 drops of unboiled chloroplasts to cuvette 1. Cover the top with Parafilm ® and
invert to mix. Insert cuvette 1 into the sample holder and adjust the instrument to 100% transmittance
by adjusting the light-control knob. Cuvette 1 is the blank to be used to recalibrate the instrument
between readings. In other words, you will measure the light transmitted through each of the other
tubes as a percentage of the light transmitted through this tube. For each reading, make sure that the
cuvettes are inserted into the sample holder so that they face the same way as in the previous
reading.

8. Obtain the unboiled chloroplast suspension, stir to mix, and transfe 3 drops to cuvette 2. Immediately
cover and mix cuvette 2. Then remove it from the foil sleeve and insert it into the spectrophotometer’s
sample holder, read the % transmittance, and record it as the time 0 reading in Table 4.4. Replace
cuvette 2 in the foil sleeve and place it in the incubation test tube rack. Turn on the flood light. Take
and record additional readings at 5, 10, and 15 minutes. Mix the cuvettes contents just prior to each
reading. Remember to use cuvette 1 occasionally to check and adjust the spectrophotometer to 100%
transmittance.

9. Obtain the unboiled chloroplast suspension, mix, and transfer 3 drops to cuvette 3. Immediately cover
and mix cuvette 4. Insert into the sample holder, read the % transmittance, and record it in Table 4.4.
Place cuvette 3 in the incubation test tube rack next to cuvettes 2 and 3. Take and record additional
readings at 5, 10, and 15 minutes. Mix the cuvette’s contents just prior to each reading. Remember to
use cuvette 1 occasionally to check and adjust the spectrophotometer to 100% transmittance.

62
 10. Obtain the boiled chloroplast suspension, and mix, and transfer 3 drops to cuvette 4. Immediately
cover and mix cuvette 4. Insert into sample holder, read the % transmittance, and record it in Table
4.4. Place cuvette 4 in the incubation test tube rack next to cuvettes 2 and 3. Take and record
additional readings at 5, 10, and 15 minutes. Mix the cuvette’s contents just prior to each reading.
Remember to use cuvette 1 occasionally to check and adjust the spectrophotometer to 100%
transmittance.

11. Cover and mix the contents of cuvette 5. Insert it into the sample holder, read the % transmittance,
and record it in Table 4.4. Place cuvette 5 in the incubation test tube rack next to tubes 2, 3, and 4.
Take additional readings at 5, 10, and 15 minutes. Mix the cuvette’s contents just prior to each
reading. Remember to use cuvette 1 occasionally to check and adjust the spectrophotometer to 100%
transmittance.

Table 4.4: Transmittance (%)

Time (minutes)
Cuvette 0 5 10 15
2 Unboiled/Dark
3 Unboiled/Light
4 Boiled/Light
5 No Chloroplasts/Light

Analysis of Results

Plot the percentage of transmittance from the four cuvettes on Graph 4.1.
Label each plotted line.

For this graph you will need to determine the following:

a. The independent variable: _______________________________________

Use this to label the horizontal (x) axis.

b. The dependant variable: _________________________________________

Use this to label the vertical (y) axis.

63
Graph 4.1 Title: ______________________________________________________

64
Topics for Discussion

1. What is the function of DPIP in this experiment?

2. What molecule found in chloroplasts does DPIP “replace” in this experiment?

3. What is the source of the electrons that will reduce DPIP?

4. What was measured with the spectrophotometer in this experiment?

5. What is the effect of darkness on the reduction of DPIP? Explain.

6. What is the effect of boiling the chloroplasts on the subsequent reduction of DPIP? Explain.

7. What reasons can you give for the difference in the percentage of transmittance between the live
chloroplasts that were incubated in the light and those that were kept in the dark?

8. Identify the function of each of the cuvettes.

Cuvette 1: __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________

Cuvette 2: __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________

Cuvette 3: __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________

Cuvette 4: __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________

Cuvette 5: __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________

65
AP Biology Laboratory
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 5
CELL RESPIRATION
OVERVIEW

In this experiment you will work with seeds that are living but dormant. A seed contains an embryo plant and a
food supply surrounded by a seed coat. When the necessary conditions are met, germination occurs and the
rate of cellular respiration greatly increases. In this lab you will

1. measure oxygen consumption during germination,

2. measure the change in gas volume in respirometers containing either germinating or

nongerminating pea seeds, and

3. measure the rate of respiration of these peas at two different temperatures.

OBJECTIVES

Before doing this lab you should understand:

• respiration, dormancy, and germination;
• how a respirometer works in terms of the gas laws;
• the general processes of metabolism in living organisms; and
• how the rate of cellular respiration relates to the amount of activity in a cell.

After doing this lab you should be able to:

• calculate the rate of cell respiration from experimental data;
• relate gas production to respiration rate;
• test the rate of cellular respiration in germinating versus nongerminated seeds in a controlled
experiment; and
• test the effect of temperature on the rate of cell respiration in germinating versus nongerminated seeds
in a controlled experiment.

INTRODUCTION

Aerobic cellular respiration is the release of energy from organic compounds by metabolic chemical
oxidation in the mitochondria within each cell. Cellular respiration involves a series of enzyme-mediated
reactions.

The equation below shows the complete oxidation of glucose. Oxygen is required for this energy-releasing
process to occur.

C6H12O6 + 6 02 -> 6 CO2 + 6 H2O + 686 kilocalories of energy/mole of glucose oxidized

66
By studying the equation above, you will notice there are three ways cellular respiration could be measured.
One could measure the
1. Consumption of 02 (How many moles of 02 are consumed in cellular respiration?)

2. Production of CO2 (How many moles of CO2 are produced in cellular respiration?)

3. Release of energy during cellular respiration

In this experiment the relative volume of 02 consumed by germinating and nongerminating (dry) peas at two
different temperatures will be measured.

Background Information
A number of physical laws relating to gases are important to the understanding of how the apparatus that you
will use in this exercise works. The laws are summarized in the general gas law that states:

PV = nRT

where P is the pressure of the gas,

V is the volume of the gas,
n is the number of molecules of gas,
R is the gas constant (its value is fixed), and
T is the temperature of the gas (in °K).

This law implies the following important concepts about gases:

1. If the temperature and pressure are kept constant, then the volume of the gas is directly proportional to the
number of molecules of the gas.

2. If the temperature and volume remain constant, then the pressure of the gas changes in direct proportion
to the number of molecules of gas present.

3. If the number of gas molecules and the temperature remain constant, then the pressure is inversely
proportional to the volume.

4. If the temperature changes and the number of gas molecules is kept constant, then either the pressure or
volume (or both) will change in direct proportion to the temperature.

It is also important to remember that gases and fluids flow from regions of high pressure to regions of low
pressure.

In this experiment the CO2 produced during cellular respiration will be removed by potassium hydroxide
(KOH) and will form solid potassium carbonate (K2CO3 ) according to the following reaction:

CO2 + 2 KOH -> K2CO3 + H20

Since the CO2 is being removed, the change in the volume of gas in the respirometer will be directly related to
the amount of oxygen consumed.

In the experimental apparatus shown in Figures 5.1 and 5.2, if water temperature and volume remain
constant, the water will move toward the region of lower pressure. During respiration, oxygen will be
consumed. Its volume will be reduced, because the CO2 produced is being converted to a solid. The net
result is a decrease place them on a paper towel. They will be used in respirometer 2.

67
4. Respirometer 3: Refill the graduated cylinder with 50 mL of FLO. Determine how many glass beads would
be required to attain a volume equivalent to that of the germinating peas. Remove these beads and place
them on a paper towel. They will be used in respirometer 3.

5. Repeat Steps 1-4 to prepare a second set of germinating peas, dry peas plus beads, and beads for use in
respirometers 4, 5, and 6, respectively.

6. To assemble the six respirometers, obtain six vials, each with an attached stopper and pipette. Place a
small piece of cotton in the bottom of each vial and, using a dropper, moisten the cotton with 15% KOH.*
Make sure that the respirometer vials are dry on the inside. Do not get KOH on the sides of the
respirometer. Place a small wad of nonabsorbent cotton on top of the KOH-soaked absorbent cotton (see
Figure 5.1). It is important that the amounts of cotton and KOH be the same for each respirometer.
* Your teacher may ask you to use soda-lime pellets instead of KOH Solution.

Figure 5.1: Assembled Respirometers

7. Place the first set of germinating peas, dry peas plus beads, and beads in vials 1, 2, and 3, respectively.
Place the second set of germinating peas, dry peas plus beads, and beads in vials 4, 5, and 6,
respectively. Insert the stopper fitted with the calibrated pipette. Place a weighted collar on each end of the
vial (see Figure 5.2).

68
Figure 5.2: Respirometers Equilibrating in the Water Bath

8. Make a sling of masking tape attached to each side of each of the water baths to hold the pipettes out of
the water during an equilibration period of seven minutes. Vials 1, 2, and 3 should rest in the room-
temperature water bath (approximately 25 °C) and vials 4, 5, and 6 should rest in the 10°C water bath
(see Figure 5.2).

9. After the equilibration period of seven minutes, immerse all six respirometers entirely in their water baths.
Water will enter the pipettes for a short distance and then stop. If the water continues to move into a
pipette, check for leaks in the respirometer. Work swiftly and arrange the pipettes so that they can be read
through the water at the beginning of the experiment. They should not be shifted during the experiment.
Hands should be kept out of the water bath after the experiment has started. Make sure that a constant
temperature is maintained.

10. Allow the respirometers to equilibrate for three more minutes and then record, to the nearest 0.01 mL, the
initial position of water in each pipette (time 0). Check the temperature in both baths and record it in Table
5.1. Every 5 minutes for 20 minutes, take readings of the water's position in each pipette and record the
data in Table 5.1.

Table 5.1: Measurement of Of Consumption by Soaked and Dry Pea Seeds at Room Temperature
(25°C) and 10°C Using Volumetric Methods

Temp Time Beads Alone Germinating Peas Dry Peas and Beads
(°C) (mln) Reading Reading Diff.* Corrected Reading Diff.* Corrected
at time X Diff.* at time X diff. Δ at time X diff. Δ
0
5
10
15
20
0
5
10
15
20
* Difference = (initial reading at time 0) - (reading at time X)
Δ Corrected difference = (initial pea seed reading at time 0 - pea seed reading at time X) - (initial bead reading at time 0 -
bead reading at time X)

69
Analysis of Results
1. In this activity you are investigating both the effect of germination versus nongermination and warm
temperature versus cold temperature on respiration rate. Identify two hypotheses being tested in this
activity.
a.

b.

2. This activity uses a number of controls. What conditions must remain constant? Why?

3. Graph the results from the corrected difference column for the germinating peas and the dry peas at both
room temperature and at 10°C.

For this graph you will need to determine the following:

a. The independent variable: __________________________

Use this to label the horizontal (x) axis.

b. The dependent variable: ________

Use this to label the vertical (y) axis

Graph 5.1 Title: ____________________________________________________

70
4. Describe and explain the relationship between the amount of 02, consumed and time.

5. From the slope of the four lines on the graph, determine the rate of 02 consumption of germinating and dry
peas during the experiments at room temperature and at 10°C Recall that rate = Δy.
Δx
Record the rates in Table 5 2

Table 5.2

Condition Show Calculations Here Rate

(mL 02/minute)

Germinating Peas/10°C

Germinating Peas/
Room Temperature

Dry Peas/10°C

Dry Peas/Room Temperature

6. Why is it necessary to correct the readings from the peas with the readings from the beads?

7. Explain the effect of germination (versus nongermination) on pea seed respiration.

8. Graph 5.2 is a sample graph of possible data obtained for oxygen consumption by germinating peas up to
about 8°C. Draw in predicted results through 45°C. Explain your prediction.

Graph 5.2 Title: ___________________________________

9. What is the purpose of KOH in this experiment?

71
10. Why did the vial have to be completely sealed around the stopper?

11. If you used the same experimental design to compare the rates of respiration of 25 g reptile and a 25 g
mammal at 10°C, what results would you expect? Explain your reasoning.

12. If respiration in a small mammal were studied at both room temperature (21°C) and 10°C, what results
would you predict? Explain your reasoning.

13. Explain why water moved into the respirometers' pipettes.

14. Design an experiment to examine the rates of cellular respiration with peas that have been germinating for
different lengths of time: 0, 24,48, and 72 hours. What results would you expect? Why?

72
AP Biology Laboratory
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 6
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
OVERVIEW
In this lab you will investigate some basic principles of molecular biology:
1. Plasmids containing specific fragments of foreign DNA will be used to transform Escherichia coli cells,
conferring antibiotic (ampicillin) resistance.

2. Restriction enzyme digests of phage lambda DNA will be used to demonstrate techniques for
separating and identifying DNA fragments using gel electrophoresis.

OBJECTIVES
Before doing this lab you should understand:
• How gel electrophoresis separates DNA molecules present in a mixture;
• The principles of bacterial transformation;
• The conditions under which cells can be transformed;
• The process of competent cell preparation;
• How a plasmid can be engineered to include a piece of foreign DNA;
• How plasmid vectors are used to transfer genes;
• How antibiotic resistance is transferred between cells;
• The importance of restriction enzymes to genetic engineering experiments.

After doing this lab you should be able to:

• Use plasmids as vectors to transform bacteria with a gene for antibiotic resistance in a controlled
experiment;
• Demonstrate how restriction enzymes are used in genetic engineering;
• Use electrophoresis to separate DNA fragments;
• Describe the biological process of transformation in bacteria;
• Calculate transformation efficiency;
• Be able to use multiple experimental controls;
• Design a procedure to select positively for antibiotic-resistant transformed cells; and
• Determine unknown DNA fragment sizes when given DNA fragments of known size.

INTRODUCTION
The bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) is an ideal organism for the molecular geneticist to manipulate and
has been used extensively in recombinant DNA research. It is a common inhabitant of the human colon and
can be grown in suspension culture in a nutrient medium such as Luria broth, or in a Petri dish of Luria broth
mixed with agar (LB agar) or nutrient agar.

The single circular chromosome of E. coli contains about five million DNA base pairs, only 1/600th the haploid
amount of DNA in a human cell. In addition, the E. coli cell may contain small circular DNA molecules (1,000
to 200,000 base pairs) called plasmids, which also carry genetic information. The plasmids are
extrachromosomal; they exist separately from the chromosome. Some plasmids replicate only when the
bacterial chromosome replicates and usually exist only as single copies within the bacterial cell. Others
replicate autonomously an often occur in as many as 10 to 200 copies within a single bacterial cell. Certain
plasmids, called R plasmids, carry genes for resistance to such antibiotics as ampicillin, kanamycin, or
tetracycline.

73
In nature genes can be transferred between bacteria in three ways: conjugation, transduction, or
transformation. Conjugation is a mating process during which genetic material is transferred from one
bacterium to another of a different mating type. Transduction requires the presence of a virus to act as a
vector (carrier) to transfer small pieces of DNA from one bacterium to another. Bacterial transformation
involves transfer of genetic information into a cell by direct uptake of the DNA. During gene transfer, the
uptake and expression of foreign DNA by a recipient bacterium can result in conferring a particular trait to a
recipient lacking that trait. Transformation can occur naturally but the incidence is extremely low and is limited
to relatively few bacterial strains. These bacteria can take up DNA only during the period at the end of
logarithmic growth. At this time the cells are said to be competent. Competence can be induced in E. coli with
carefully controlled growth conditions. Once competent, the cells are ready to accept DNA that is introduced
from another source.

Plasmids can transfer genes (such as those for antibiotic resistance) that occur naturally within them, or
plasmids can act as carriers (vectors) for introducing foreign DNA from other bacteria, plasmids, or even
eukaryotes into recipient bacterial cells. Restriction endonucleases can be used to cut and insert pieces of
foreign DNA into the plasmid vectors (Figure 6.1). If these plasmid vectors also carry genes for antibiotic
resistance, transformed cells containing plasmids that carry the foreign DNA of interest in addition to the
antibiotic resistance gene can be easily selected from other cells that do not carry the gene for antibiotic
resistance.

I. Create plasmid with gene of interest.

II. Transform recipient cells with plasmid DNA.

III. Plate recipients on ampicillin plates and select for resistant colonies.
IV. Isolate colonies carrying the plasmid.

74
EXERCISE 6A: Bacterial Transformation – Ampicillin Resistance

You will insert a plasmid that contains a gene for resistance to ampicillin, an antibiotic that is lethal to many
bacteria, into competent E. coli cells.

Transformed bacteria can be selected based on their resistance to ampicillin by spreading the transformed
cells on nutrient medium that contain ampicillin. Any cells that grow on this medium have been transformed.

Procedure
1. Mark 1 sterile 15-mL “+”; this tube will have the plasmid added to it. Mark another tube “-“; this tube will
have no plasmid added.

2. Use a sterile micropipette to add 250 microliters (uL) of ice cold 0.05 M CaCl2 to each tube.

3. Transfer a large (3mm) colony of E. coli from a starter plate to each of the tubes using a sterile
inoculating loop. Try to et the same amount of bacteria into each tube. Be careful not to transfer any
agar.

4. Vigorously tap the loop against the wall of the tube to dislodge the cell mass.

5. Mix the suspension by repeatedly drawing in and emptying a sterile micropipette with the suspension.

6. Add 10 uL of pAMP solution (0.005 ug/uL) directly into the cell suspension in tube “+”. Mix by tapping
the tube with your finger. This solution contains the antibiotic-resistant plasmid.

7. Keep both tubes on ice for 15 minutes.

8. While the tubes are on ice, obtain 2 LB agar plates and 2 LB/Amp agar (LB agar containing ampicillin)
plates. Label each plate on the bottom as follows: one LB agar plate “LB+” and the other “LB-“; label
one LB/Amp plate “LB/Amp+” and the other “LB/Amp-“.

9. A brief pulse of heat facilitates entry of foreign DNA into the E. coli cells. Heat-shock ccells in both the
“+” and “-“ tubes by holding the tubes in a 42 C water bath for 90 seconds. It is essential that cells be
given a sharp and distinct shock, so take the tubes directly from the ice to the 42 C water bath.

10. Immediately return cells to the ice for 2 minutes.

11. Use a sterile micropipette to add 250 uL of room-temperature Luria-Bertani broth to each tube. Mix by
tapping with your finger. Any transformed cells are now resistance to ampicillin because they possess
the gene whose product renders the antibiotic ineffective.

12. Place 100 mL of “+” cells on the “LB+” plate and on the “LB/Amp+” plate. Place 100 mL of “-“ cells on
the “LB-“ plate and on the “LB/Amp-“ plate.

13. Immediately spread the cells by using a sterile spreading rod. Repeat the procedure for each plate.

14. Allow plates to set for several minutes. Tape your plates together and incubate inverted overnight at
37 C.

75
Analysis of Results
1. Observe the colonies through the bottom of the culture plate. Do not open the plates. Count the
number of individual colonies; use a permanent marker to mark each colony as it is counted. If cell
growth is too dense to count individual colonies, record “lawn”.

LB+ (Positive Control) _____________ LB- (Positive Control) _________________

LB/Amp+ (Experimental) ___________ LB/Amp- (Negative Control) ____________

2. Compare and contrast the number of colonies each of the following pairs of plates. What does each
pair of results tell you about the experiment?

a. LB+ and LB- _________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
_

b. LB/Amp – and LB/Amp+ ________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
_

c. LB/Amp+ and LB+ _____________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
_

3. Transformation efficiency is expressed as the number of antibiotic-resistant colonies per microgram of

pAMP. Because transformation is limited to only those cells that are competent, increasing the amount
of plasmid used does not necessarily increase the probability that a cell will be transformed. A sample
of competent cells is usually saturated with small amounts of plasmid, and excess DNA may actually
interfere with the transformation process.

a. Determine the total mass of pAMP used. __________________________________

(You used 10 uL of pAMP at a concentration of 0.005 ug/uL.)
Total Mass = volume x concentration.

b. Calculate the total volume of cell suspension prepared. ______________________

c. Now calculate the fraction of the total cell suspension that was spread on the plate. Number of
uL spread/total volume. ________________________________________

d. Determine the mass of pAMP in cell suspension that was spread on the plate. Total mass of
pAMP X fraction spread.

e. Determine the number of colonies per mg of plasmid. Express in scientific notation. Number of
colonies observed/mass pAMP spread [from calculation in Step 3.d] = transformation
efficiency. ___________________________________________

4. This is the transformation efficiency. What factors might influence transformation efficiency? Explain
the effect of each you mention.
__________________________________________________________________________

76
 __________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

EXERCISE 6B: Restriction Enzyme Cleavage of DNA and Electrophoresis

Restriction enzymes, or restriction endonucleases, are essential tools in recombinant DNA

methodology. Several hundred have been isolated from a variety of prokaryotic organisms. Restriction
endonucleases are named according to a specific system of nomenclature. The letters refer to the
organism from which the enzyme was isolated. The first letter of the name stands for the genus name
of the organism. The next two letters represent the second word, or species name. The fourth letter (if
there is one) represents the strain of the organism. Roman numerals indicate whether the particular
enzyme was the first isolated, the second, or so on.

Examples:

HaeIII H = Haemophilus

ae = aegyptus

III = second endonuclease isolated

EcoRI E = genus Escherichia

co = species coli

R = strain RY13

I = first endonuclease isolated

Restriction endonucleases recognize specific DNA sequences in double-stranded DNA (usually a four
to six base pair sequence of nucleotides) and digest the DNA at these sites. The result is the
production of fragments of DNA of various lengths. Some restriction enzymes cut cleanly through the
DNA helix at the same position on both strands to produce fragments with blunt ends (Figure 6.2a).
Other endonucleases cleave each strand off-center at specific nucleotides to produce fragments with
“overhangs,” or sticky ends (Figure 6.2b). By using the same restriction enzyme to “cut” DNA from two
different organisms, complementary “overhangs,” or sticky ends, will be produced and can allow the
DNA from two sources to be “recombined.” Digestion with EcoRI or HindIII will produce DNA
fragments with sticky ends (Figure 6.2b).

In this exercise samples of DNA obtained from the bacteriophage lambda have been incubated with
different restriction enzymes. The resulting fragments of DNA will be separated by using gel
electrophoresis. One sample has been digested with the restriction endonuclease EcoRI, one with the
restriction endonuclease HindIII, and the third sample is uncut. The DNA samples will be loaded into
wells of an agarose gel and separated by the process of electrophoresis. After migration of the DNA
through an electrical field, the gel will be stained with methylene blue, a dye that binds to DNA.

77
Figure 6.2a

Figure 6.2b

When any molecule enters an electrical field, the mobility or speed at which it will move is influenced
by the charge of the molecule, the strength of the electrical field the size and shape of the molecule,
and the density of the medium (gel) through which it is migrating. When all molecules are positioned at
a uniform starting site on a gel and the gel is placed in a chamber containing a buffer solution and
electricity is applied, the molecules will migrate and appear as bands. Nucleic acids, like DNA and
RNA, move because of the charged phosphate groups in the backbone of the DNA molecule. Because
the phosphates are negatively charged at neutral pH, the DNA will migrate through the gel toward the
positive electrode.

In this exercise we will use an agarose gel. In agarose the migration rate of linear fragments of DNA
is inversely proportional to their size; the smaller the DNA molecule, the faster it migrates through the
gel.

78
Procedure
A: Preparing the Gel

1. Prepare the agarose gel for electrophoresis according to the directions given by your teacher
or in the kit.

2. Obtain the phage lambda DNA digested with EcoRI endonuclease. The DNA is mixed with a
gel-loading solution containing a tracking dye, bromophenol blue, that will make it possible to
“track” the progress of its migration in the agarose gel.

3. Obtain the phage lambda DNA digested with HindIII endonuclease. The DNA fragments are of
a known size and will serve as a “standard” for measuring the size of the EcoRI fragments from
Step 2. It also contains the tracking dye.

4. Obtain the undigested phage lambda to use as a control. It also contains the tracking dye.

B: Loading the Gel

Helpful Hints for Gel Loading

Pull a small amount of gel-loading solution into the end of a micropipette. (Do not allow the solution to
move up into the pipette or bubbles with be introduced into the well of the agarose gel during loading.)

Hold the tip of the pipette in the buffer solution above the well and gently dispense the solution. The
loading dye is denser than the buffer and will move into the well. (Do not place the tip of the pipette
into the well or your might puncture the gel).

1. Pour enough buffer gently over the gel to cover it.

2. Load 5-10 uL of undigested lambda phage DNA (control) into a well.

3. Load 5-10 uL of the HindIII digest into a second well.

4. Load 5-10 uL of the EcoRI digest into a third well.

79
C: Electrophoresis

1. Place the top on the electrophoresis chamber and carefully connect the electrical leads to
an approved power supply (black to black and red to red). Set the voltage to the
appropriate level for your apparatus. When the current is flowing, you should see bubbles
on the electrodes.

2. Allow electrophoresis to proceed until the tracking dye has moved nearly to the end of the
gel.

3. After electrophoresis is completed, turn off the power, disconnect the leads, and remove
the cover of the electrophoresis chamber.

D: Staining and Visualization

Note: Wear gloves.

1. Carefully remove the gel bed from the chamber and gently transfer the gel to a staining tray
for straining. Use the scooper provided with your kit or keep your hands under the gel
during the transfer. You may wish to remove a small piece of gel from the upper right-hand
corner to keep track of the gel’s orientation. Do not stain in the electrophoresis chamber.

2. Label the staining tray with your name and take it to your teacher for staining.

3. Examine your stained gel on a light box or overhead projector. Compare your gel with the
sample gel shown in Figure 6.3.

Figure 6.3: Sample Restriction Digest of Lambda DNA

80
E: Determining Fragment Size

1. After observing the gel, carefully wrap it in plastic wrap and smooth out all of the wrinkles.

2. Using a marking pen, trace the outlines of the sample wells and the location of the bands.

3. Remove the plastic wrap and flatten it out on a white piece of paper on the lab bench. Save
the gel in a Ziploc® plastic bag. Add several drops of buffer. Store at 4*C. You can make
your measurements directly from the marked plastic wrap.

Analysis and Results

The size of the fragments produced by a specific endonuclease (EcoRI in this exercise) can be
determined by using standard fragments of known size (fragments produced by HindIII, in this case).
When you plot the date on semilog graph paper, the size of the fragments is expressed as the log of
the number of base pairs they contain. This allows date to be plotted on a straight line. The migration
distance of the unknown fragments, plotted on the x-axis, will allow their size to be determined on the
standard curve.

Graphing

A. Standard Curve for Hind III

1. Measure the migration distance (in cm) for each Hind III band on your gel. Measure from the
bottom of the sample well to the bottom of the band. The migration distance for the largest
standard fragment (approximately 23,120 base pairs) nearest to the origin does not need to be
measured. Record these measurements in Table 6.1.

2. Plot the measured distance for each band of the standard Hind III digest against the actual base
pair (bp) fragment sizes given in Table 6.1 using the semilog graph paper of Graph 6.1. Follow
your teacher’s directions to draw the best-fit line to your points. This will serve as a standard
curve.

B. Interpolated Calculations for EcoRI

From the standard curve for Hind III, made from known fragment sizes, you can calculate fragment
sizes resulting from a digest with EcoRI. The procedure is as follows.

1. Measure the migration distances in cm for each EcoRI band. Record the date in Table 6.2.

2. Determine the sizes of the fragments of phage lambda DNA digested with EcoRI. Locate on the x-
axis of Graph 6.1 the distance migrated by the first EcoRI fragment. Using a ruler, draw a vertical
line from the intersection with the best-fit data line. Now extend a horizontal line from the
intersection point to the y-axis. This point gives the base pair size of this EcoRI fragment. Repeat
this procedure and determine the remaining EcoRI fragments. Enter your interpolated date in
Table 6.2, in the interpolated bp column.

3. Your teacher will provide you with the actual bp data. Compare your results to these actual sizes.

Note: This interpolation technique is not exact. You should expect as much as 10% to 15% error.

81
Table 6.1: Distance Hin dIII Produced Fragments Migrate in Agarose Gel (cm)

HIND III
Actual bp Measured Distance (cm)

23,130
9,416
6,557
4,361
2,322*
2,027*
570*Δ
125
* may form a single band
Δ may not be detected

Table 6.2: Distance EcoRI Produced Fragments Migrate in Agarose (cm)

EcoRI
Measured Distance Interpolated Actual bp
(cm) bp
Band 1

Band 2

Band 3

Band 4

Band 5

Band 6

82
Graph 6.1 Title: __________________________________________________________________

83
4. For which fragment sizes was your graph most accurate? For which fragment sizes was it least
accurate? What does this tell you about the resolving ability of agarose-gel electrophoresis?

Analysis
1. Discuss how each of the following factors would affect the results of electrophoresis:
a. Voltage used ______________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________

b. Running time _______________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

c. Amount of DNA used _________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

d. Reversal of polarity ___________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

2. Two small restriction fragments of nearly the same base pair size appear as a single band, even
when the sample is run to the very end of the gel. What could be done to resolve the fragments?
Why would it work?

Questions

1. What is a plasmid? How are plasmids used in genetic engineering?

2. What are restriction enzymes? How do they work? What are recognition sites?

3. What is the source of restriction enzymes? What is their function in nature?

4. Describe the function of electricity and the agarose gel in electrophoresis.

5. A certain restriction enzyme digest results in DNA fragments of the following sizes: 4,000 base
pairs, 2,500 base pairs, 2,000 base pairs, 400 base pairs. Sketch the resulting separation by
electrophoresis. Show starting point, positive and negative electrodes, and the resulting bands.

84
6. What are the functions of the loading dye in electrophoresis? How can DNA be prepared for
visualization?

7. Use the graph your prepared from your lab data to predict how far (in cm) a fragment of 8,000 bp
would migrate.

8. How can a mutation that alters a recognition site be detected by gel electrophoresis?

85
AP Biology Laboratory
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 7
GENETICS OF ORGANISMS
OVERVIEW

In this lab you will use living organism to do genetic crosse3s. You will learn how to collect and manipulate
the organisms, collect data from F1 and F2 generations, and analyze the results from a monohybrid, dihybrid
or sex-linked cross. The procedures that follow apply to fruit flies.

OBJECTIVES

Before doing this lab you should understand:

• Chi-square analysis of data, and
• the life cycle of diploid organisms useful in genetics studies.

After doing this lab you should be able to:

• investigate the independent assortment of two genes and determine whether the two genes are
autosomal or sex-linked using a multigenerational experiment, and
• analyze the data from your genetic crosses using chi-square analysis techniques.

INTRODUCTION

Drosophila melanogaster, the fruit fly, is an excellent organism for genetics studies because it has simple food
requirements, occupies little space, is hardy, completes its life cycle in about 12 days at room temperature,
produces large amounts of off spring, can be immobilized readily for examination and sorting, and has many
types of hereditary variations that can be observed with low-power magnification. Drosophila has a small
number of chromosomes (four pairs). These chromosomes are easily located in the salivary glands cells.
Drosophila exists in stock cultures that can be readily obtained from several sources. Much research about
the genetics of Drosophila during the last 50 years has resulted in a wealth of reference literature and a
knowledge about hundreds of its genes.

The Life Cycle of Drosophila

The Eggs. The eggs are small, oval shaped, and have two filaments at one end. They are usually laid on the
surface of the culture medium and, with practice, can be seen with the naked eye. The eggs hatch into larvae
after about one day.

The Larval Stage. The wormlike larvae eats almost continuously, and its black mouth parts can easily be
seen moving back and forth even when the larva itself is less distinct. Larvae tunnel through the culture
medium while eating; thus, channels are a good indication of the successful growth of a culture. The larva
sheds its skin twice as it increases in size. In the last three larval stages, the cells of the salivary glands
contain giant chromosomes, which may be seen readily under low –power magnification after proper staining.

The Pupal Stage. When a mature larva in a lab culture is about to become a pupa, it usually climbs up the
side of a culture bottle or onto the strip provided in the culture bottle. The last larval covering then becomes
harder and darker, forming the pupal case. Through this case the later stages of metamorphosis to an adult
fly can be observed. In particular, the eyes, the wings, and the legs become readily visible.

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The Adult Stage. When metamorphosis is complete, the adult flies emerge from the pupal case. They are
fragile and light in color and their wings are not fully expanded. These flies darken in a few hours and take on
the normal appearance of an adult fly. They live a month or more and then die. A female dies not mate for
about ten to twelve hours after emerging from the pupa. Once she has mated, she stores a considerable
quantity of sperm in receptacles and fertilizes her eggs as she lays them. To ensure a controlled mating, it is
necessary to use females that have not mated before (virgins).

Figure 7.1: The Life Cycle of Drosophila melanogaster

It is important to realize that a number of factors determine the length of time of each stage in the life cycle.
Of these factors, temperature is the most important. At room temperature (about 25oC), the complete cycle
takes ten to twelve days.

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Design of the Exercise
This genetics experiment will be carried on for several weeks. Drosophila with well-defined mutant traits will
be assigned to you by your teacher. You are responsible for making observations and keeping records
concerning what happens as mutant traits are passed from one generation to the next.

You will be assigned to study a certain mode of inheritance using particular genetic crosses of flies having
one or two mutations. The modes of inheritance most commonly used are:

1. Monohybrid. In these experiments the mode of inheritance is determined when a single contrasting pair
of characteristics is involved.

2. Dihybrid. In these experiments the mode of inheritance is determined when two pairs of contrasting
characteristics are considered simultaneously.

3. Sex-linked. In these experiments the mode of inheritance is determined when the mutant characteristic is
associated with the X-chromosome.

To make these experiments interesting and challenging, you will not be told the mode of inheritance, nor the
name for the particular mutation(s) you are studying. Study the wild type flies (both male and female) until
their phenotypic characteristics are familiar. Flies having one or two mutations can then be identified by
making comparisons with the wild type flies. The most commonly studied mutations are eye color or shape,
bristle number or shape, wing size or shape, or antenna size or shape. You should make up your own name
for the particular mutation(s) that you identify in your files.

Procedure
1. Obtain a vial of wild type flies. Practice immobilizing and sexing (determining the gender of) these flies.
Examine these flies and note the characteristics of their eyes, wings, bristles, and antennae.

2. To make handling easier, immobilize the flies by chilling them. Since the activity level of the flies is
dependent on environmental temperature, the following steps immobilize the flies.

a. Hold the vial containing the flies at an angle and twirl it in ice for several minutes.

b. When the flies are immobilized, dump them into a small, plastic Petri dish containing a #1 Whatman
filter paper.

c. Place the Petri dish on top of the ice in order to maintain the cool temperature necessary to keep the
flies immobilized.

d. Use the dissecting microscope to view the flies. The top of the petri dish can be on or off when
viewing.

3. Distinguish male flies from female flies by liking for the following characteristics (illustrated in Figure 7.2):

a. Males are usually smaller than females.

b. Males have dark, blunt abdomens, and females have lighter, pointed abdomens.

c. Only the males have sex combs, which are groups of black bristles on the uppermost joint of the
forelegs.

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Figure 7.2: Female and Male Drosophila

4. Obtain a vial containing pairs of experimental flies. Record the cross number of the vial. This number will
serve as a record as to which cross you have obtained. These flies are the parental generation (P) and have
already been mated. The females should have already laid eggs on the surface of the culture medium. The
eggs (or maybe larvae now) represent the first filial, F1, generation and will be emerging from their pupal
cases in about a week.

5. First week (today). Immobilize and remove the adult flies. Observe them carefully under the dissecting
microscope. Separate the males from the females and look for the mutation(s). Note whether the
mutations(s) is/are associated with the males or the females. Identify the mutation(s) and give it/them a
made-up name and symbol. Record the phenotype and symbol in Table 7.1. The findings should be
confirmed by your teacher.

6. Place the parents in the morgue, a jar containing alcohol or baby oil. Label the vial containing the eggs or
larvae with symbols for the mating. For example, if a sepia-eyed female is crossed with a wild-type male, the
label could be “sepia female X wild male “. Also be sure to label the vial with your name and the date, Place
the vial in a warm location.

7. Second Week. Begin by observing the F1 flies. Immobilize and examine all the flies. Record their sex
and the presence or absence of the mutation(s) (as observed in the parental flies) in Table 7.1. Consider the
conclusions that can be drawn from these data. Place 5 or 6 pairs of F1 flies in a fresh culture bottle and the
rest of the flies in the morgue For this cross the females need not be virgins. Label the new vial “F1 X F1”.
Also, label the vial with symbols denoting the cross, the date and your name.

8. Third Week. Remove the F1 flies from the vials and place them in the morgue. The F2 generation are the
eggs and/or the larvae in the vial. Place the vial back in the warm location.

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9. Fourth Week. Begin removing the F2 flies. Record their sex and the presence or absence of the mutant
phenotypes (as observed in the parental flies in Table 7.2). The more F2 flies collected, the more reliable the
data will be. You may have to collect flies over a 3- or 4-day period. Try to collect at least 200 flies.

10. To analyze your data, you will need to learn how to use the chi-square test. Go to the Statistical Analysis
Section to review this technique.

Table 7.1: F1 Generation Data Date: ___________

Phenotype and Symbol Females Males

Table 7.2: F2 Generation Data Date: ___________

Phenotype and Symbol Females Males

Analysis of Results

1. Describe and name the observed mutation(s).

2. Write a hypothesis that describes the mode of inheritance of the trait(s) that you studied. This is your null
hypothesis (as described in the Statistical Analysis Section).

3. Refer to the textbook and review Punnett squares. In the space below construct two Punnett squares to
predict the expected results of both the parental and F1 crosses from your null hypothesis.

Parental Cross F1 Cross

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4. Refer to the Punnett squares above. In the box below record the expected ratios for the genotypes and
phenotypes of the F1 and F2 crosses in the experiment.

Expected Genotypic Ratio Expected Phenotypic Ration

F1

F2

5. Do the actual results deviate from what was expected? If so, explain how.

6. From the results, describe your cross.

Is the mutation sex-linked or autosomal? ___________________________

Is the mutation dominant or recessive? ____________________________

Is the cross monohybrid or dihybrid? _______________________________

7. Are the deviations for the phenotypic ratio of the F2 generation with the limits expected by chance? To
answer the question, statistically analyze the data using the chi-square analysis. Calculate the chi-square
statistic for the F2 generation in the chart below. Refer to the critical values of the chi-square (Χ2) distribution
table. (Table 7.5) to determine the p (probability value) that is associated with your Χ2 statistic.

Phenotype # Observed (o) # Expected (e) (o-e) (o-e)2 (o-e)2

e

Χ2 =

a. Calculate the chi-square value for these data.

1. How many degrees of freedom are there? ________________

2. chi-square (Χ2 ) = ___________________________________

3. Referring to the critical values chart, what is the probability value for this data? _________

b. According to the probability value, can you accept or reject your null hypothesis? Explain why.

Discussion
1. Why was it necessary for the females of the parental generation to be virgins?

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2. Why was it not necessary to isolate virgin females for the F1 cross?

3. Why were the adult flies removed from the vials at week 2 and 4?

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS SECTION

Using the Chi-Square Test for Statistical Analysis of Experimental Data

Example 1

Statistics can be used to determine if differences among groups are significant, or simply the result of
predictable error. The statistical test most frequently used to determine whether data obtained experimentally
provide a good fit or approximation to the expected or theoretical data is the chi-square test. This test can be
used to determine if deviations fro the expected values are due to chance alone, or to some other
circumstance. For example, consider corn seedlings resulting from an F1 cross between parents that are
heterozygous for color.

A Punnett square of the F1 cross Gg X Gg would predict that the expected proportion of the green:albino
seedlings would be 3:1 . Use this information to fill in the Expected (e) column and the (o-e) column in Table
7.3.

Table 7.3

Phenotype Genotype # Observed (o) # Expected (e) (o-e)

Green GG or Gg 72
Albino gg 12
Total 84

There is a small difference between the observed and expected results, but are these data close enough that
the difference can be explained by random chance or variation in the sample?

To determine if the observed data fall within acceptable limits, a chi-square analysis
performed to test the validity of a null hypothesis (that there is no statistically significant
difference between the observed and expected data). If the chi-square analysis indicates that
the data vary too much from the expected 3:1 ratio, an alternative hypothesis is accepted.

The formula for chi-square is:

Χ2 = Σ(o-e)2
e
where o = observed number of individuals

e = expected number of individuals

Σ = the sum of the values (in this case, the differences, squared, divided by the number expected)

1. This statistical test will examine the null hypothesis, which predicts that the data from the experimental
cross above will be expected to fit the 3:1 ratio.

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2. Use the data from Table 7.3 to complete Table 7.4.

Table 7.4

Phenotype # Observed (o) # Expected (e) (o-e) (o-e)2 (o-e)2

e
Green 72

Albino 12

Χ2 = Σ(o-e)2
e

3. Your calculations should give you a value of Χ2 = 5.14. This value is then compared to Table 7.5.

Degrees of Freedom (df)

Probability (p) 1 2 3 4 5
0.05 3.84 5.99 7.82 9.49 11.1
0.01 6.64 9.21 11.3 13.2 15.1
0.001 10.8 13.8 16.3 18.5 20.5

How To Use the Critical Values Table

1. Determine the degrees of freedom (df) for your experiment. It is the number of phenotypic classes minus
1. Since there are two possible genotypes, for this experiment df = 1 (2 samples – 1). If the experiment has
gathered data for a dihybrid cross, there would be four possible phenotypes and therefore 3 degrees of
freedom.

2. Find the p value. Under the 1 df column, find the critical value in the probability (p) = 0.05 row: it is 3.84.
What dies this mean? If the calculated chi-square value is greater than or equal to the critical value from the
table, then the null hypothesis is rejected. Since for our example Χ2 = 5.14 and 5.14>3.84, we reject our null
hypothesis that there is no statistically significant difference between the observed and expected data. In
other words, chance alone cannot explain the deviations we observed and there is, therefore, reason to doubt
our original hypothesis (or to question our data collection accuracy). The minimum probability for rejecting a
null hypothesis in the sciences is generally 0.05, so this is the row to use in our chi-square table.

3. These results are said to be significant at a probability of p = 0.05. This means that only 5 % of the time
would you expect to see similar data if the null hypothesis was correct, thus, you are 95% sure that the data
do not fit a 3:1 ratio.

4. Since these data do not fit the expected 3:1 ratio, you must consider reasons for this variation. Additional
experimentation would be necessary. Perhaps the sample size is too small, or errors were made in data
collection. In this example, perhaps the albino seedlings are underrepresented because they died before the
counting was performed.

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Example 2

In a study of incomplete dominance in tobacco seedlings, the counts in Table 7.6 were made from a cross
between the two heterozygous (Gg) plants.

Table 7.6
Phenotype Genotype # Observed (O)
Green GG 22
Yellow Green Gg 50
Albino gg 12
Total: 84

A Punnett square for this cross indicates that the expected counts should be in a 1 green:2 yellow green:1
albino ration (Table 7.7). The expected values for a total count of 84 organisms are therefore:

1 green = 1/4 X 84 = 21

2 yellow green = 1/2 X 84 = 42

1 yellow = 1/4 X 84 = 21
84
Table 7.7

Phenotype # Observed (o) # Expected (e) (o-e) (o-e)2 (o-e)2

e
Green 22 21 1 1 0.05
Yellow Green 50 42 8 64 1.52
Albino 12 21 9 81 3.86
Χ2 = Σ(o-e)2 5.43
e

Go to the chi-square table, this time for two degrees of freedom (there are three phenotypes: 3-1 = 2 df). If
the X2 value were greater than or equal to the critical value of 5.99 we would reject our hypothesis. Since
5.43 is less than the critical value at p = 0.05, we accept the null hypothesis (this second data set does fit the
expected 1 : 2 : 1 ratio).

Practice Problem
An investigator observes that when pure-breeding, long–wing Drosophila are mated with pure-breeding, short-
wing flies, the F1 offspring have an intermediate wing length.

When several intermediate-wing-length flies are allowed to interbreed the following results are obtained:

Observed

230 long wings

510 intermediate-length wings
260 short wings

a. What is the genotype of the F1 intermediate-wing-length flies?

b. Write a hypothesis describing the mode of inheritance of wing length in Drosophila (this is your null
hypothesis).

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 c. Complete Table 7.8.

Table 7.8

Phenotype # Observed (o) # Expected (e) (o-e) (o-e)2 (o-e)2

e

Χ2 = Σ(o-e)2
e

d. Calculate the chi-square value for these data.

1. How many degrees of freedom (df) are there? ______________________

2. Χ2 (chi-square) = ________________________

3. Referring to the critical values chart, what is the probability value for these data?

e. According to the critical values of Χ2 can you accept or reject the null hypothesis? Explain why?

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AP Biology Laboratory
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 8
POPULATION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION
OVERVIEW
In this lab you will:

1. learn about the Hardy-Weinberg law of genetic equilibrium, and

2. study the relationship between evolution and changes in allele frequency by using your class to represent
a sample population.

OBJECTIVES
Before doing this lab you should understand:

• how natural selection can alter allelic frequencies in a population;

• the Hardy-Weinberg equation and its use in determining the frequency of alleles in a population; and
• the effects on allelic frequencies of selection against the homozygous recessive or other genotypes.

After doing this lab you should be able to:

• calculate the frequencies of alleles and genotypes in the gene pool of a population using the Hardy-
Weinberg formula, and
• discuss natural selection and other causes of microevolution as deviations from the conditions
required to maintain the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.

INTRODUCTION
In 1908 G.H. Hardy and W. Weinberg independently suggested a scheme whereby evolution could be viewed
as changes in the frequency of alleles in a population of organisms. In this scheme, if A and a are alleles for
a particular gene locus and each diploid individual has two such loci, then p can be designated as the
frequency of the A allele and q as the frequency of the a allele. Thus, in a population of 100 individuals (each
with two loci) in which 40% of the alleles are A, p would be 0.49. The rest of the alleles (60%) would be a,
and q would be equal for 0.60 ( i.e., p + q = 1.0). These are referred to as allele frequencies. The frequency
of the possible diploid combinations of these alleles (AA, Aa, aa) is expressed as p2 + 2pq + q2 = 1.0. Hardy
and Weinberg also argued that if five conditions are met, the population’s allele and genotype frequencies will
remain constant from generation to generation. These conditions are as follows:

1. The breeding population is large. (The effect of chance in changes in allele frequencies is
thereby greatly reduced.)

2. Mating is random. (Individuals show no mating preference for a particular phenotype.)

3. There is no mutation in the alleles. (No alteration in the DNA sequence of the alleles.)

4. No differential migration occurs. ( No immigration or emigration.)

5. There is no selection. (All genotypes have an equal chance of surviving and reproducing.)

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The Hardy-Weinberg equation describes an existing situation. If the five conditions are met, then no change
will occur in either allele or genotype frequencies in the population. Of what value is such a rule? It provides
a yardstick by which changes in allele frequency, and therefore evolution, can be measured, one can look at a
population and ask: Is evolution occurring with respect to a particular gene locus? Since evolution is difficult
(if not impossible) to observe in most natural populations, we will model the evolutionary process using the
class as a simulated population. The purpose of this simulation is to provide an opportunity to test some of
the basic tenets of population genetics and evolutionary biology.

EXERCISE 8A: Estimating Allele Frequencies for a Specific Trait within a Sample Population

Using the class as a sample population, the allele frequency of a gene controlling the ability to taste the
chemical PTC (phenylthiocarbamide) could be estimated. A bitter-taste reaction to PTC is evidence of the
presence of a dominant allele in either the homozygous condition (AA) or the heterozygous condition (Aa).
The inability to taste the chemical at all depends on the presence of homozygous recessive alleles (aa).
(Instead of PTC tasting, other traits such as attached earlobes, may be used). To estimate the frequency of
the PTC-tasting allele in the population, one must find p. To find p, one must first determine q (the frequency
of the nontasting PTC allele), because only the genotype of the homozygous recessive individuals is know for
sure (i.e., those that show the dominant trait could be AA or Aa).

PROCEDURE
1. Using the PTC taste-test papers provided, tear off a short strip and press it to your tongue tip, PTC tasters
will sense a bitter taste. For the purposes of this exercise these individuals are considered to be tasters.

2. A decimal number representing the frequency of tasters (p2 + 2pq) should be calculated buy dividing the
number of tasters in the class by the total number of students in the class. A decimal number representing
the frequency of nontasters (q2) can be obtained by dividing the number of nontasters by the total number
of students. You should record these numbers in Table 8.1.

3. Use the Hardy-Weinberg equation to determine the frequencies (P and q) of the two alleles. The
frequency q can be calculated by taking a square root of q2. Once q has been determined, p can be
determined because 1 – q = p. Record these values in Table 8.1 for the class and also calculate and
record values of p and q for the American population.

Table 8.1: Phenotypic Proportions of Tasters and Nontasters and Frequencies of the Determining
Alleles

Phenotypes Allele Frequency Based on the H-W

Equation
Tasters Nontasters p q
(p2 + 2pq) (q2)
Class Population # % # %

North American 0.55 0.45

Population

DISCUSSION

1. What is the percentage of heterozygous tasters? __________________

2. What percentage of the North American population is heterozygous for the taster trait? ________

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EXERCISE 8B: Case Studies

CASE 1 – A Test of an Ideal Hardy Weinberg Population

The entire class will represent a breeding population, so find a large open space for this simulation. In order
to ensure random mating, choose another student at random. In this simulation, we will assume the gender
and genotype are irrelevant to mate selection.

The class will simulate a population of randomly mating heterozygous individuals with an initial gene
frequency of 0.5 for the dominant allele A and the recessive allele a and the genotype frequencies of 0.25
AA, 0.50 Aa and 0.25 aa. Your initial genotype is Aa. Record this on the Data page. Each member of the
class will receive four cards Two cards will have A written on them and two cards will have a. The four cards
represent the products of meiosis. Each “parent” contributes a haploid set of chromosomes to the next
generation.

PROCEDURE

1. Turn the four cards over so that the letters do not show, shuffle them, and take the card on top to
contribute to the production of the first offspring. Your partner should do the same. Put the two cards
together. The two cards represent the alleles of the first offspring. One of you should record the genotype
of this offspring in the Case I section on the Data Page. Each student pair must produce two offspring, so
all four cards must be reshuffled and the process repeated to produce a second offspring.

2. The other partner should then record the genotype of the second offspring on the Data Page. The very
short reproductive career of this generation is over. You and your partner now become the next
generation by assuming the genotypes of the two offspring. That is, Student 1 assumes the genotype of
the first offspring and Student 2 assumes the genotype of the second offspring.

3. Each student should obtain, if necessary, new cards representing the alleles in his or her respective
gametes after the process of meiosis. For example, Student 1 becomes genotype Aa and obtains cards
A,A,a,a; Student 2 becomes aa and obtains cards a,a,a,a. Each participant should randomly seek out
another person with whom to mate in order to produce the offspring of the next generation. Remember,
the sex of your mate does not matter, not does the genotype. You should follow the same mating
procedure as you did for the first generation, being sure to record your new genotype after each
generation. Class data should be collected after each generation for five generations. At the end of each
generation, remember to record the genotype you have assumed. Your teacher will collect class data
after each generation by asking you to raise your hand to report your genotype.

4. Allele Frequency: The allele frequencies, p and q, should be calculated for the population after five
generations of simulated random mating.

Number of A alleles present at the fifth generation

Number of offspring with genotype AA ___________ X 2 = ___________ A alleles

Number of offspring with genotype Aa ___________ X 1 = ___________ A alleles
Total = ____________A alleles

P = TOTAL number of A alleles = ______________

TOTAL number of alleles in the population
(number of students X 2)

In this case the total number of alleles in the population is equal to the number of students in the class X 2.

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Number of a alleles present at the fifth generation

Number of offspring with genotype aa ___________ X 2 = ___________ a alleles

Number of offspring with genotype Aa ___________ X 1 = ___________ a alleles
Total = ____________Aa alleles

P = TOTAL number of a alleles = ______________

TOTAL number of alleles in the population
(number of students X 2)

QUESTIONS
1. What does the Hardy-Weinberg equation predicts for the new p and q?

2. Do the results you obtained in this simulation agree? If not, why?

3. What major assumptions were not strictly followed in this simulation?

CASE 2 – Selection
In this Case you will modify the simulation to make it more realistic. In the natural environment, not all
genotypes have the same rate of survival; that is, the environment might favor some genotypes while
selecting against others. An example is the human condition of sickle-cell anemia. This is a disease caused
by a mutation on one allele, and individuals who are homozygous recessive often do not survive to reach
reproductive maturity. For this simulation you will assume that the homozygous recessive individuals never
survive (100% selection against, and that heterozygous and homozygous dominant individuals survive 100%
of the time.

PROCEDURE
The procedure is similar to that for Case I.

1. Start again with your initial genotype and produce your “offspring” as you did in Case I. This time,
however, there is one important difference. Every time your “offspring” is aa, it does not reproduce. Since we
want to maintain a constant population size, the same two parents must try again until they produce two
surviving offspring. You may need to get new “allele” cards from the pool, allowing each individual to
complete the activity.

2. Proceed through five generations, selecting against the homozygous recessive offspring 100% of the time.
Then add up the genotype frequencies that exist in the population and calculate the new p and q frequencies
in the same way that you did for Case I.

QUESTIONS
1. How do the new frequencies of p and q compare to the initial frequencies in Case I?

2. What major assumptions were not strictly followed in this simulation?

3. Predict what would happen to the frequencies of p and q if you simulated another five generations.

99
4. In a large population would it be possible to completely eliminate a deleterious recessive allele? Explain.

CASE 3 – Heterozygous Advantage

From Case II it is easy to see what happens to the lethal recessive allele in the population. However, data
from many human populations show an unexpected high frequency of the sickle-cell allele in some
populations. Thus, our simulation does not accurately reflect the real situation; this is because individuals
who are heterozygous are slightly more resistant to a deadly form of malaria than homozygous dominant
individuals. In other words, there is a slight selection against homozygous dominant individuals as compared
to heterozygotes. This fact is easily incorporated into our simulation.

PROCEDURE
1. In this round keep everything the same as it was in Case II, except that if your offspring is AA, flip a coin. If
the coin lands heads up, the individual does not survive; if tails, the individual does not survive.

2. Simulate five generations, starting again with the initial genotype from Case I. The genotype aa never
survives, and homozygous dominant individuals only survive if the coin toss comes up tails. Since we
want to maintain a constant population size, the same two parents must try again until they produce two
surviving offspring. Get new “allele” cards from the pool as needed. Total the class genotypes and
calculate the frequencies of p and q.

3. Starting with the F5 genotype, go through five more generations, and again total the genotypes and
calculate the frequencies of p and q.

4. Calculate the information from five more generations.

QUESTIONS

1. Explain how the changes in p and q frequencies in Case II compare with Case I and Case III.

2. Do you think he recessive allele will be completely eliminated in either Case II or Case II? Explain.

3. What is the importance of the heterozygotes (the heterozygote advantage) in maintaining genetic variation
in populations?

CASE 4 – Genetic Drift

It is possible to use our simulation to look at the phenomenon of genetic drift in detail.

PROCEDURE
1. Divide the lab into several smaller populations (for example, a class of 30 could be divided into
three populations of ten each) so that individuals from one isolated population do not interact
with individuals from another population.

2. Now go through five generations as you did for Case I. Record the new genotypic frequencies
and calculate the new frequencies of p and q for each population.

QUESTIONS
1. Explain how the initial genotypic frequencies of the populations compare.

2. What do your results indicate about the importance of population size as an evolutionary force?

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HARDY-WEINBERG PROBLEMS

1. In Drosophila the allele for normal-length wings is dominant over the allele for vestigial wings (vestigial
wings are stubby little curls that cannot be used for flight). In a population of 1,000 individuals, 360 show
the recessive phenotype. How many individuals would you expect to be homozygous dominant and
heterozygous for this trait?

2. The allele for unattached earlobes is dominant over the allele for attached earlobes. In a population of 500
individuals, 25% show the recessive phenotype. How many individuals would you expect to be
homozygous dominant and heterozygous for this trait?

3. The allele for the hair pattern called “widow’s peak” is dominant over the allele for no “widow’s peak”. In a
population of 1,000 individuals, 510 show the dominant phenotype. How many individuals would you
expect of each of the possible three genotypes for this trait?

4. In the United States about 16% of the population is Rh negative. The allele for Rh negative is recessive to
the allele for Rh positive. If the student population of a high school in the U.S. is 2,000, how many
students would you expect for each of the three genotypes?

5. In certain African countries 4% of the newborn babies have sickle-cell anemia, which is a recessive trait.
Out of the random population of 1,000 newborn babies, how many would you expect for each of the thee
possible genotypes?

6. In a certain population, the dominant phenotype of a certain trait occurs 91% of the time. What is the
frequency of the dominant allele?

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Data Page
Case I: Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Case III: Heterozygous Advantage

Initial Class Frequencies: Initial Class Frequencies:

AA _____ Aa_____ aa_____ AA _____ Aa_____ aa_____

My Initial Genotype: ______ My Initial Genotype: ______

F1 Genotype _____ F1 Genotype _____ F6 Genotype _____

F2 Genotype _____ F2 Genotype _____ F7 Genotype _____

F3 Genotype _____ F3 Genotype _____ F8 Genotype _____

F4 Genotype _____ F4 Genotype _____ F9 Genotype _____

F5 Genotype _____ F5 Genotype _____ F10 Genotype ____

Final Class Frequencies: Final Class Frequencies: (after five generations)

AA _____ Aa_____ aa_____ AA _____ Aa_____ aa_____

p_______ q _______ p_______ q _______

Final Class Frequencies: (after ten generations)

AA _____ Aa_____ aa_____

p_______ q _______

Case II: Selection Case IV: Genetic Drift

Initial Class Frequencies: Initial Class Frequencies:

AA _____ Aa_____ aa_____ AA _____ Aa_____ aa_____

My Initial Genotype: ______ p_______ q _______

F1 Genotype _____
My Initial Genotype: ______
F2 Genotype _____ F1 Genotype _____

F3 Genotype _____ F2 Genotype _____

F4 Genotype _____ F3 Genotype _____

F5 Genotype _____ F4 Genotype _____

Final Class Frequencies: F5 Genotype _____

AA _____ Aa_____ aa_____ Final Class Frequencies:

p_______ q _______ AA _____ Aa_____ aa_____

p_______ q _______

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AP Biology
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 9
TRANSPIRATION
OVERVIEW
In this lab you will:

1. Apply what you know about water potential from Lab 1 (Diffusion and Osmosis) to the movement of water
within a plant.

2. Measure transpiration under different lab conditions, and

3. Study the organization of the plant stem and leaf as it relates to these processes by observing sections of
tissues.

OBJECTIVES
Before doing this lab you should understand:

• How water moves from roots to leaves in terms of physical /chemical properties of water and the
forces provided by differences in water potential.

• The role of transpiration in the transport of water within a plant; and

• The structures used by plants to transport water and regulate water movement.

After doing this lab you should be able to:

• Test the effects of environmental variables on rates of transpiration using a controlled experiment, and

• Make thin sections of stem, identify xylem and phloem cells, and relate function of these vascular
tissues to the structures of their cells.

INTRODUCTION
The amount of water needed daily by plants for the growth and maintenance of tissues is small in comparison
the amount that is lost through the process of transpiration (the evaporation of water from the plant surface)
and guttation (the loss of liquids from the ends of vascular tissues at the margins of leaves). If the water is
not replaced, the plant will wilt and may die.

The transport of water up from the roots in the xylem is governed by differences in water potential (the
potential energy of water molecules). These differences account for water movement from cell to cell and
over long distances in the plant. Gravity, pressure, and solute concentration all contribute to water potential to
an area of low water potential. The movement itself is facilitated by osmosis, root pressure, and adhesion and
cohesion of water molecules.

The Overall Process: Minerals actively transported into the root accumulate in the xylem, increasing solute
concentration and decreasing water potential. Water moves in by osmosis. As water enters the xylem, it
forces fluid up the xylem due to hydrostatic root pressure. But this pressure can only move fluid a short
distance. The most significant force moving the water and dissolved minerals in the xylem is upward pull as a
result of transpiration, which creates tension. The “pull” on the water from transpiration results from
cohesion and adhesion of water molecules.

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The Details: Transpiration begins with evaporation of water through stomates (stomata), small openings in
the leaf surface, which open into air spaces that surround mesophyll cells of the leaf. The moist air in these
spaces has a higher water potential that the outside air, and water tends to evaporate from the leaf surface
(moving from an area of high water potential to an area of lower water potential.). The moisture in the air
spaces is replaced by water from the adjacent mesophyll cells, lowering their water potential (since the
cytoplasm becomes more concentrated). Water will then move into the mesophyll cells by osmosis from
surrounding cells with higher water potentials, including the xylem. As each water molecule moves into the
mesophyll cell, it exerts a pull on the column of water molecules existing in the xylem all the way from the
leaves to the roots. This transpirational pull occurs because of (1) the cohesion of water molecules to one
another due to hydrogen bond formation, and (2) adhesion of water molecules to the walls of the xylem cells
which aids in offsetting the downward pull of gravity.

The upward transitional pull on the fluid in the xylem causes a tension (negative pressure) to form in the
xylem, pulling the walls of the xylem inward. The tension also contributes to the lowering of the water
potential in the xylem. This decrease in water potential, transmitted all the way from the leaf to the roots,
caused water to move inward from the soil, across the cortex of the root and into the xylem.

Evaporation through the open stomata is a major route of water loss in plants. However, the stomates must
open to allow the entry of CO2 used in photosynthesis. Therefore, a balance must be maintained between the
gain of CO2 and the loss of water by regulating the opening and closing of stomates on the leaf surface.
Many environmental conditions influence the opening and closing of stomates and also affect the rate of
transpiration. Temperature, light intensity, air currents, and humidity are some of these factors. Different
plants also vary in the rate of transpiration and in the regulation of stomatal opening.

EXERCISE 9A: Transpiration

In this lab you will measure transpiration under various laboratory conditions using a potometer. Four
suggested plant species are Impatiens (which is a moisture loving plant), Oleander (which is more drought
tolerant), Zebrina, and a two-week old Phaseolus vulgaris (which are bean seedlings).

PROCEDURE
Each lab group will expose one plant to one treatment.

1. Place the tip of a 0.1 ml pipette into a 16-inch piece of clear plastic tubing.

2. Submerge the tubing and pipette in a shallow tray of water. Draw water through the tubing until all the
bubbles are eliminated.

3. Carefully cut the plant stem under water. This step is very important, because no air bubbles must be
introduced into the xylem.

4. While your plant and tubing are submerged, insert the freshly cut stem into the open end of the tubing.

5. Bend the tubing upward into a “U” and use the clamp on a ring stand to hold both the pipette and the
tubing (see Figure 9.1).

6. If necessary, use petroleum jelly to make an airtight seal surrounding the stem after it has been inserted
into the tube. Make sure that the end of the stem is immersed in water. Do not put petroleum jelly on the
cut end of the stem.

7. Let the potometer equilibrate for 10 minutes before recording the time zero reading.

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Figure 9.1

Alternative Procedure for Filling Potometer

(i) Set up the potometer as shown in Figure 9.1.

(ii) Use a water bottle or pipette to fill the tubing. Add water until the water comes out of the tube and no
bubbles remain.

(iii) Quickly cut the plant stem and insert it into the potometer.

8. Expose the plant in the tubing to one of the following treatments (you will be assigned a treatment by your
teacher).
a. Room conditions
b. Floodlight (place a 100-watt bulb 1 meter from the plant and use a beaker filled with water as a
heat sink)
c. Fan (place at least one meter from the plant, on low speed, creating a gentle breeze)
d. Mist (mist the leaves with water and cover with transparent plastic bag; leave the bottom of the
bag open)

9. Read the level of water in the pipette at the beginning of your experiment (time zero) and record your
finding in Table 9.1.

10. Continue to record the water level in the pipette every 3 minutes for 30 minutes and record the data in
Table 9.1.

11. At the end of your experiment cut all the leaves off the plant and mass them. Remember to blot off all the
excess water before massing.

Mass of leaves: _________________ grams

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 Table 9.1 Potometer Readings for Plant _______________________

Time
(min) 0 3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30

Reading
(ml)

Calculation of Leaf Surface Area

The leaf surface area of all the leaves can be calculated by using the Leaf Trace Method.

Leaf Trace Method

After arranging all the cut-off leaves on the grid below, trace the edge pattern directly onto the Grid
9.1. Count all the grids that are completely within the tracing and estimate the number of grids that lie
partially within the tracing. The grid is constructed so that 4 blocks = 1 cm2. The total surface area
can then be calculated by dividing the total number of blocks covered by 4, Record this value here:
______________________= Leaf Surface Area (cm2) = _________________ m2

Grid 9.1

12. Calculate the water loss per square meter of leaf surface by dividing the water loss at each reading from
Table 9.1 by the leaf surface area you calculated. Record your results in Table 9.2.

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Table 9.2: Individual Water Loss in mL/ m2

Time
(min) 0 3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30

Water
Loss
(ml)

Water
Loss
per m2

13. Record the averages for the class data in Table 9.3.

Table 9.3: Class Average Cumulative Water Loss in mL/ m2

Time (minutes)

Treatment 0 3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30

Room 0

0
Light

Fan 0

Mist 0

14. For each treatment, graph the average of the class data for each time interval. You may need to convert
data to scientific notation. All numbers must be reported to the same power of ten for graphing purposes.

For this graph, you will need to determine the following:

a. The independent variable: ________________________

b. The dependent variable: __________________________

Make sure the graph has a title, labels, legends, numbers and number tics and units.

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Graph 9.1

ANALYSIS OF RESULTS
1. Calculate the rate (average amount of water loss per minute per square meter) for each of the treatments.

Room: _____________________________________________________________________

Fan: ______________________________________________________________________

Light: ______________________________________________________________________

Mist: _______________________________________________________________________

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 2. Explain why each of the conditions causes an increase or decrease in transpiration compared with the
control.

Condition Effect Explanation of Effect

Room

Fan

Light

Mist

3. Explain the role of water potential in the movement of water from soil through the plant and into the air.

4. What is the advantage of closed stomata to a plant when water is in short supply? What are the
disadvantages?

5. Describe several adaptations that enable plants to reduce water loss from their leaves. Include both
structural and physiological adaptations.

6. Why did you need to calculate leaf surface area in tabulating your results?

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EXERCISE 9B: Structure of the Stem
The movement of fluids and nutrients throughout the plant occurs in the vascular tissue: the xylem and
phloem of the roots, stems, and leaves. In this exercise you will study the structure of the plat stem by
preparing sections of the stem from the plant that you used in Exercise 9A. If your teacher provides you with
prepared slides, proceed to Step 15.

PROCEDURE

1. Obtain a nut-and-bolt microtome from your teacher.

2. Turn the nut until it is almost at the end of the bolt, forming a small “cup”.

3. Using a new, single edge razor blade, cut a short piece of plant stem (approximately 5 mm – slightly
longer than the depth of the “cup” in the nut) from the base of your plant. Make 2 cuts so that both ends
are freshly cur. Make sure that this portion of the stem is free of petroleum jelly if you are using the same
plant that you used for Exercise 9A.

4. Stand the stem up on its end in the opening of the nut and carefully pour-melted paraffin into the nut until it
fills the opening, completely covering the stem. Your teacher will direct you in safely melting and pouring
the paraffin. (Be careful that the paraffin is not too hot when you pour it or you will cook your stem.) This
assembly will allow you to hold your stem upright and cut thin slices.

5. Hold the head of the bolt horizontal on the table with one hand. Holding the razor blade in your other
hand, remove the excess wax on top by slicing down to the nut. This technique keeps your fingers out of
the way of the razor blade (see Figure 9.2).

Figure 9.2: Using the Nut-and Bolt Microtome

6. Twist the bolt just a little, so a thin core of paraffin and stem sticks up above the surface of the nut.

7. Using a slicing motion to cut this section down to the nut. Use as much of the edge of the razor blade as
possible by starting on one end and sliding down to the other with each slice.

8. Put the slice in a dish containing 50% ethanol.

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9. Twist the bolt a bit more to get another slice. Remember: you are trying to get the thinnest possible slice.
It is better to get part of a thin slice that is entirely round. As you cut each slice, put it in the dish of 50%
ethanol. Obtain 8 – 10 sections.

10. Leave the section in the 50% ethanol for 5 minutes. Free the plant tissue from the paraffin, if necessary.

11. Using forceps move the sections to a dish of toluidine blue O stain and leave them there for a short
period of time (between 1 and 2 minutes).

12. Rinse the section in a dish of distilled water.

13. Mount the sections in a drop of 50% glycerin on a microscope slide.

14. Add a cover slip and observe the sections using a compound microscope.

15. Make a drawing of your sections in the space provided in Figure 9.3. Identify and label the cell and tissue
types described below.

CELL TYPES
Parenchyma. The most abundant cell type is parenchyma. Parenchyma cells are relatively unspecialized
and retain their protoplasts throughout their existence. They have primary cell walls. They make up the
mesophyll of leaves (where most of the photosynthetic activity takes place), the flesh of fruits, the pith of
stems, and the root and stem cortex. Many parenchyma cells are used for food storage (mainly starch).
Many parenchyma cells are used for food storage (mainly starch). Starch, you will recall, is a polymer of
glucose. Starch forms grains within parenchyma cells. These grains can be seen inside the cells.
Reexamine your section and label the parenchyma cells in your drawing.

Sclerenchyma. Elongated sclerenchyma cells make up fibers and have thick secondary cell walls. They are
often lignified, and the protoplasts die at maturity. Fibers may be found in leaves, stems, and fruits.
Usually fibers are in bundles, serving a support function, and often are associated with vascular tissue.
Check your stem cross section for fibers. They will be found just outside the vascular bundles, their thick
walls stained bright blue.

Collenchyma. Many young stems and leaves contain collenchyma cells for support. These cells are living at
maturity and characteristically have primary cell walls that are thickened at the corners. Locate
collenchyma cells in your cross section.

TISSUE TYPES
Xylem. Xylem is a tissue composed of several different cell types. It is the water-conducting tissue that
conveys water and minerals from the soil through the plant. The earliest xylem cells to evolve were
fiberlike with thick lignified secondary walls arranged with overlapping ends with a series of membrane-
covered “pits” for passing water from one cell to the next. These are the tracheids. The cells that actually
carry the water were misnamed “tracheary elements” in the seventeenth century (“trachea” means air
duct) and name was never corrected. Vessel elements developed later, first appearing in flowering plants,
and are larger in diameter, have holes rather than pits, and offer less resistance to water flow than
tracheids. Both vessel elements may also contain parenchyma cells and fibers. Look at your cross
sections and label the xylem in your drawing.

Phloem. Phloem is a tissue that distributes the carbohydrate products of photosynthesis throughout the
plant. This is achieved in flowering plants by the sieve tube members, which have primary cell walls and
living protoplasts at maturity but lack nuclei. Companion cells are associated with sieve tube members.
These companion cells have nuclei and play an important role in the transfer of substances from cell to
cell. Phloem may also contain parenchyma cells and fibers. Look at your cross section. The phloem is

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 located outside the xylem. This aggregation of xylem and phloem is called the vascular bundle.
Monocots and dicots have different arrangements of the xylem and phloem tissues, but the cells and
tissue type involved are the same.

Epidermis. The epidermis is the outermost layer of cells that serves as a covering for the above-ground plant
parts. Some epidermal tissues are covered with a layer of cutin, which prevents water loss. The
specialized guard cells of f the epidermis open and close the stomates. Locate the epidermis on your
stem section, and then locate guard cells on the leaf section.

Figure 9.3: Stem Cross Section

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AP Biology Laboratory
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 10
PHYSIOLOGY OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM
OVERVIEW
In this lab you will:

1. in Exercise 10A you will learn how to measure blood pressure.

2. in exercise 10B you will measure pulse rate under different conditions: standing, reclining, after the
baroreceptor reflex, and during and immediately after exercise. The blood pressure and pulse rate will be
analyzed and elated to an index of fitness.

3. in Exercise 10C you will measure the effect of temperature on the hear rate of the water flea, Daphnia
magna.

OBJECTIVES
Before doing this lab you should understand:

• the relationship between temperature and the rate of physiological processes, and

• the basic anatomy of various circulatory systems.

After doing this lab you should be able to:

• measure heart rate and blood pressure in a human volunteer;

• describe the effect of changing body position on heart rate and blood pressure;

• explain how exercise changes heart rate;

• determine a human’s fitness index;

• analyze cardiovascular data collected by the entire class; and

• discuss and explain the relationship between heart rate and temperature.

INTRODUCTION
The cardiovascular (circulatory) system functions to deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues for growth and
metabolism, and to remove metabolic wastes. The heart pumps blood through a circuit that includes arteries,
arterioles, capillaries, venules, and veins. One important circuit is the pulmonary circuit, where there is an
exchange of gases within the alveoli of the lungs. The right side of the human heart received deoxygenated
blood from body tissues and pumps it to the lungs. The left side of the heart receives oxygenated blood from
the lungs and pumps it to the tissues.

With increased exercise, several changes occur within the circulatory system, thus increasing the delivery of
oxygen to actively respiring muscle cells. These changes include increased heart rate, increased blood flow
to muscular tissue, decreased blood flow to nonmuscular tissue, increased arterial pressure, increased body
temperature, and increased breathing rate.

113
Blood Pressure
An important measurable aspect of the circulatory system is blood pressure. When the ventricles of the heart
contract, pressure is increased throughout all the arteries. Arterial blood pressure is directly dependent on the
amount of blood pumped by the heart per minute and the resistance to blood flow through the arterioles. The
arterial blood pressure is determined using a device known as a sphygmomanometer. This device consists of
an inflatable cuff connected by rubber hoses to a hand pump and to a pressure gauge graduated in
millimeters of mercury. The cuff is wrapped around the upper arm and inflated to a pressure that will shut off
the brachial artery. The examiner listens for the sounds of blood flow in the brachial artery by placing the bell
of a stethoscope I the inside of the elbow below the biceps (Figure 10.1).

Figure 10.1: The Use of a Sphygmomanometer to Measure Blood Pressure

At rest, the blood normally goes through the arteries so that the blood in the central part of the artery moves
faster than the blood in the peripheral part. Under these conditions, the artery is silent when one listens.
When the sphygmomanometer cuff is inflated to a pressure above the systolic pressure, the flow of blood is
stopped and the artery is again silent. As the pressure in the cuff gradually drops to levels between the
systolic and diastolic pressures of the artery, the blood is pushed through the compressed walls of the artery
in a turbulent flow. Under these conditions, the blood is mixed, and the turbulence sets up vibrations in the
artery that are heard as sounds in the stethoscope. These sounds are known as the heart sounds, or sounds
of Korotkoff.

The sounds are divided into five phases based on the loudness and quality of the sounds.
Phase 1. A loud, clear snapping sound is evident, which increases in intensity as the cuff is deflated.
In the example shown in Figure 10.2, this phase begins at a cuff pressure of 120 millimeters of
mercury (mm Hg) and ends at a pressure of 106 mmHg.

Phase 2. A succession of murmurs can be heard. Sometimes the sounds seem to disappear during
this time, which may be a result of inflating or deflating the cuff too slowly. In this example shown in
Figure 10.2, this phase begins at a cuff pressure of 106 mmHg and ends at a pressure of 86 mm Hg.

Phase 3. A loud thumping sound similar to that in Phase I, but a less clear, replaces the murmurs. In
the example shown in Figure 10.2, Phase 3 begins at a cuff pressure of 86 mm Hg and ends at a
pressure of 81 mm Hg.

Phase 4. A muffled sound abruptly replaces the thumping sounds of Phase 3. In the example shown
in Figure 10.2, this phase begins at a cuff pressure of 81 mm Hg and ends at a pressure of 76 mm Hg.

Phase 5. All sounds disappear.

114
Figure 10.2: The Five Phases of the Heart Sounds (Sounds of Korotkoff)

The cuff pressure at which the first sound is heard (that is, the beginning of Phase I) is taken as the systolic
pressure. The cuff pressure at which the muffled sound of Phase 4 disappears (the beginning of Phase 5) is
taken as the measurement of the diastolic pressure. In the example shown in Figure 10.2, the pressure would
be recorded in this example as 120/76. A normal blood pressure measurement for a given individual depends
on the person’s age, sex. Heredity. And environment. When these factors are taken into account, blood
pressure measurements that are chronically elevated may indicate a state deleterious to the health of the
person. This condition is called hypertension and is a major contributing factor in heart disease and stoke.
Typical blood pressure for men and women varies with age and fitness ((Table 10.1). For high school
students, the typical range is 100-120/70-90.

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Table 10.1: Typical Blood Pressure for Men and Women at Different Ages

Systolic Diastolic
Age Men Women Men Women
(in Years)
0 103 103 69 70
11 104 104 70 71
12 106 106 71 72
13 108 108 72 73
14 110 110 73 74
15 112 112 75 76
16 118 116 73 72
17 121 116 74 72
18 120 116 74 72
19 122 115 75 71
20-24 123 116 76 72
25-29 125 117 78 74
30-34 126 120 79 75
35-39 127 124 80 78
40-44 129 127 81 80
45-49 130 131 82 82
50-54 135 137 83 84
55-59 138 139 84 84
60-64 142 144 85 85
65-69 143 154 83 85
70-74 145 159 82 85

EXERCISE 10A: Measuring Blood Pressure

Note: These labs are ONLY for experimental, and not diagnostic purposes.

A sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff) is used to measure blood pressure. The cuff, designed to fit
around the upper arm, can be expanded by pumping a rubber bulb connected to the cuff. The pressure
gauge, scaled in millimeters, indicates the pressure inside the cuff. A stethoscope is used to listen to the
individual’s pulse (see Figure 10.1). The earpieces of the stethoscope should be cleaned with alcohol swabs
before and after each use.

PROCEDURE
1. Work in pairs. Those who are to have their blood pressure measured should be seated with both
shirtsleeves rolled up.

2. Attach the cuff of the sphygmomanometer snugly around the upper arm.

3. Place the stethoscope directly below the cuff in the bend of the elbow joint.

4. Close the valve of the bulb by turning it clockwise. Pump air into the cuff until the pressure gauge
reaches 180 mm Hg.

5. Turn the valve of the bulb counterclockwise and slowly release air from the cuff. Listen for the pulse.

6. When you first hear the heart sounds, not the pressure on the gauge. This is the systolic pressure.

7. Continue to slowly release air and listen until the thumping sound of the pulse becomes strong and the
n fades. When you hear the full heart beat, not the pressure, this is the diastolic pressure.

116
 8. Repeat the measurement two more times and determine the average systolic and diastolic pressure,
then record these values in the blood pressure data box.

9. Trade places with your partner. When your average systolic and diastolic pressure have been
determined, record these values in the blood pressure box.

EXERCISE 10B: A Test of Fitness

The point scores on the following tests provide an evaluation of fitness based not only on cardiac muscular
development but also on the ability of the cardiovascular system to respond to sudden changes in demand.
CAUTION: Make sure that you do not attempt this exercise if strenuous activity will aggravate a
health problem.

Work in pairs. Determine the fitness level for one member of the pair (Tests 1 to 5) and then repeat the
process for the other member.

Test 1: Standing Systolic Compared with Reclining Systolic

Use the sphygmomanometer as you did in Exercise 10A to measure the change in systolic blood pressure
from a reclining to a standing position.

Procedure
1. The subject should recline on a lab bench for at least five minutes. At the end of this time, measure the
systolic and diastolic pressure and record these values below.

reclining reclining
systolic pressure ________ mm Hg diastolic pressure ________ mm Hg

2. Remain reclining for two minutes, then stand and immediately repeat measurements the same subject
(arms down). Record these values below.

standing standing
systolic pressure ________ mm Hg diastolic pressure ________ mm Hg

3. Determine the change in systolic pressure from reclining to standing by subtracting the standing
measurement from the reclining measurement. Assign fitness points based on Table 10.2 and record in
the fitness data box.

Table 10.2: Change in Systolic Pressure from Reclining to Standing

Change (mm Hg) Fitness Points
rise of 8 or more 3
rise of 2 – 7 2
no rise 1
fall of 2 – 5 0
fall of 6 or more -1

Cardiac Rate and Physical Fitness

During physical exertion, the cardiac rate (beats per minute) increases. This increase can be measured as an
increase in pulse rate. Although the maximum cardiac rate is generally the same in people of the same age
group, those who are physically fit have a higher stroke volume (milliliters per beat) than more sedentary
individuals. A person who is in poor physical condition, therefore, reaches his or her maximum cardiac rate at
a lower work level than a person of comparable age who is in better shape. Individuals who are in good
physical condition can deliver more oxygen to their muscles (have a higher aerobic capacity) before reaching
maximum cardiac rate than those in poor condition.

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Thus, the physically fit have a slower increase in their cardiac rate with exercise and a faster return to the
resting cardiac rate after exercise. Physical fitness, therefore, involves not only muscular development but
also the ability of the cardiovascular system to respond to sudden changes in demand.

Test 2: Standing Pulse Rate

Procedure
1. The subject should stand at ease for 2 minutes after Test 1.

2. After the 2 minutes, determine the subject’s pulse.

3. Count the number of beats for 30 seconds and then multiply by 2. The pulse rate is the number of
heartbeats per minute. Record them in the fitness data box. Assign fitness points based on Table 10.3
and record them in the fitness box.

Table 10.3: Standing Pulse Rate

Pulse Rate
(beats/min) Fitness Points
61-70 3
71-80 3
81-90 3
91-100 1
101-110 1
111-120 0
121-130 0
131-140 -1

Test 3: Reclining Pulse Rate

Procedure
1. The subject should recline for 5 minutes on a lab bench.

2. Determine the subject’s resting pulse rate.

3. Count the number of beats for 30 seconds and then multiply by 2. (Note: the subject should remain
reclining for the next test.) The pulse rate is the number of heartbeats per minute. Record them in the
fitness data box. Assign fitness points based on Table 10.4 and record them in the fitness box.

Table 10.4: Standing Pulse Rate

Pulse Rate
(beats/min) Fitness Points
50-60 3
61-70 3
71-80 2
81-90 1
91-100 0
101-110 -1

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 Test 4: Baroreceptor Reflex (Pulse Rate Increase from Reclining to Standing)
Procedure
1. The reclining subject should now stand up.

2. Immediately take the subject’s pulse by counting the number of beats for 30 seconds. Multiply by 2to
determine the pulse rate in beats per minute. Record this value below. The observed increase in pulse
rate is initiated by baroreceptors (pressure receptors) in the carotid artery and in the aortic arch. When
the baroreceptors detect a drop in blood pressure they signal the medulla of the brain to increase the
heartbeat and, consequently, the heart rate.

Pulse immediately upon standing = _____beats per minute

3. Subtract the reclining pulse rate (recorded in Test 3) from the pulse rate immediately upon standing
(recorded in Test 4) to determine the pulse rate increase upon standing. Record in the fitness box.
Assign fitness points based on Table 10.5 and record in the fitness box.

Table 10.5: Pulse Rate Increase from Reclining to Standing

Reclining Pulse
(beats/min) Pulse Rate Increase on Standing (# of beats)
0-10 11-18 19-26 27-34 35-43
Fitness Points
50-60 3 3 2 1 0
61-70 3 2 1 0 -1
71-80 3 2 0 -1 -2
81-90 2 1 -1 -2 -3
91-100 1 0 -2 -3 -3
101-110 0 -1 -3 -3 -3

Test 5: Step Test - Endurance

Procedure
1. The subject should do the following: Place your right foot on an 18-inch stool. Raise your body so
that your left foot comes to rest by your right foot. Return your left foot to the original position. Repeat this
exercise 5 times, allowing 3 seconds for each step up.

2. Immediately after the completion oft his exercise, measure the subject’s pulse for 15 seconds and
record below; measure again for 15 seconds and record, continue taking the subject’s pulse and recording
the rates at 650, 90, and 120 seconds.

Number of beats in the 0-15 second interval _______ X 4 = _____beats per minute
Number of beats in the 16-30 second interval _______ X 4 = _____beats per minute
Number of beats in the 31-60 second interval _______ X 4 = _____beats per minute
Number of beats in the 61-90 second interval _______ X 4 = _____beats per minute
Number of beats in the91-120 second interval _______ X 4 = _____beats per minute

3. Observe the time that it takes the subject’s pulse to return to approximately the level that was recorded
in Test 2. Assign fitness points based on Table 10.6 and record them in the fitness data box.

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 Table 10.6: Time Required for Return of Pulse Rate to Standing Level After Exercise

Time (seconds) Fitness Points

0 – 30 4
31 – 60 3
61 - 90 2
91 - 120 1
121+ 1
1-10 beats above standing pulse rate 0
11-20 beats above standing pulse rate -1

4. Subtract the subject’s normal standing pulse rate (recorded in Test 2) from his/her pulse rate immediately
after exercise (the 0- to 15- second interval) to obtain pulse rate increase. Record this on the data sheet.
Assign fitness points based on Table 10.7 and record them in the fitness data box.

Table 10.7: Pulse Rate Increase After Exercise

Standing Pulse
(beats/min) Pulse Rate Increase Immediately after Exercise (# of
beats)
0-10 11-20 21-30 31-40 41+
Fitness Points
60-70 3 3 2 1 0
71-80 3 2 1 0 -1
81-90 3 2 1 -1 -2
91-100 2 1 0 -2 -3
101-110 1 0 -1 -3 -3
111-120 1 -1 -2 -3 -3
121-130 0 -2 -3 -3 -3
131-140 0 -3 -3 -3 -3

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DATA SHEET
Blood Pressure Data

Measurement 1 2 3 Average
Systolic
Diastolic

Fitness Data

Measurement Points
Test 1: Change in systolic
pressure from reclining mm Hg
to standing
Test 2. Standing pulse rate
beats/min
Test 3. Reclining pulse rate
beats/min
Test 4. Baroreceptor reflex
Pulse rate increase on beats/min
standing
Test 5. Step Test
Return of pulse to
standing rate after seconds
exercise

Pulse rate increase

immediately after beats/min
exercise
TOTAL SCORE

Total Score Relative Cardiac Fitness

18-17 Excellent
16-14 Good
13-8 Fair
7 or less Poor

121
DISCUSSION
1. Explain why blood pressure and heart rate differ when measured in a reclining position and in a
standing position.

2. Explain why high blood pressure is a health concern.

3. Explain why an athlete must exercise harder or longer to achieve a maximum heart rate than a person
who is not physically fit.

4. Research and explain why smoking causes a rise in blood pressure.

122
EXERCISE 10C: Heart Rate and Temperature
In ectothermic animals there is a direct relationship between the rate of many physiological activities and
environmental temperature. The rate of metabolism in these animals increases as environmental
temperatures increase from approximately 5oC to 35oC. Increasing the temperature by approximately 10oC
results in doubling of the metabolic rate. That is why a snake or lizard can hardly move when it is cold but
becomes active after warming in the sun.

Figure 10.4 Daphnia

(Note the position of the heart)

123
PROCEDURE
1. Pick up a Daphnia with a large-bore pipette or eyedropper.

2. Place the Daphnia into the large end of a Pasteur pipette and allow the culture fluid containing the
Daphnia to run down into the narrow tip of the pipette.

3. Use a paper towel to draw some of the culture fluid out of the pipette until the Daphnia no longer
moves down the tube and the fluid level is approximately 5 mm above the Daphnia.

4. Seal the narrow end of the pipette with clay or petroleum jelly.

5. Score the pipette with a file and break it off about 2 cm above the Daphnia. Seal the broken end by
keeping the pipette upright (sealed end down) and inserting the broken end into clay or petroleum jelly.

6. Place the tube containing the Daphnia into a petri dish or bowl of water that is the same temperature as
the culture fluid. Use a dissecting microscope to observe the Daphnia. Refer to Figure 10.4 to locate the
Daphnia’s heart. Count the heartbeats for 10 seconds and then multiply by 6 to obtain the heart rate in
beats per minute. Record the temperature and heart rate in Table 10.8.

7. Now place the tube into a petri dish containing water at 10 to 15oC. Note the temperature and changes
in heart rate for every 5oC change in temperature until you can no longer accurately count the beats.

8. Slowly add warm water (not greater than 35oC) to the dish. In Table 10.8 record the temperature and
changes in heart rate for every 5oC change in temperature until you can no longer accurately count the
beats.

Alternative Procedure
(i) Obtain two concave depression slides. Pull off several cotton fibers from a cotton ball and place these
in the depression of 1 slide.

(ii) Add a Daphnia to the slide. Place a second slide on top, concave side over the Daphnia, and secure
the two slides with 2 rubber bands. Leave 1 strand of rubber band between the two slides to hold them
apart for sufficient circulation (see Figure 10.3).

Figure 10.3

(iii) Use several culture dishes to set up baths of varying temperatures. Begin by placing the slide into
the coolest bath.

(iv) Use a dissecting microscope to observe the Daphnia. Refer to Figure 10.4 to locate the Daphnia’s
heart. Count the heartbeats for 10 seconds and then multiply by 6 to obtain the heart rate in beats per
minute.

(v) Now place the slides in the next warmest bath. Record the temperature and the heart rate after the
rate has stabilized.

124
 (vi) In Table 10.8 record the temperature and changes in heart rate for every change in temperature until
you can no longer accurately count the beats.
Table 10.8: Temperature and Heart Rate Data

Reading Temperature (oC) Heart Rate (beats/minute)

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

ANALYSIS OF RESULTS

Graph the temperature and heart rate data. For this graph you will need to determine the following:

a. The independent variable : ________________________

Use this to label the horizontal (x) axis.

b. The dependent variable: ___________________________

Use this to label the vertical (y) axis.

c. Make sure your graph has a title, labels, units, a legend, number tics.
Graph 10.1 Title: _______________________________________

125
DISCUSSION

1. Why does the temperature affect heart rate in ectothermic organisms?

2. Discuss what results you might obtain if you repeated this experiment using endothermic organisms.

3. Describe at least four ways an ectothermic organism’s behavior helps it regulate its temperature.

126
AP Biology Laboratory
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 11
ANIMAL BEHAVIOR
OVERVIEW
In this lab you will observe some aspects of animal behavior.

1. In Exercise 11A you will observe pillbugs and design an experiment to investigate their
responses to environmental variables.

2. In Exercise 11B you will observe and investigate mating behavior in fruit flies. Your teacher
may suggest other organisms or other types of animal behavior to study.

OBJECTIVES
Before doing this lab you should understand:
• The concept of distribution of organisms in a resource gradient, and
• The difference between kinesis and taxis.
After doing this lab you should be able to:
• Describe some aspects of animal behavior, such as orientation behavior, agnostic behavior,
dominance display, or mating behavior, and
• Understand the adaptiveness of the behaviors you studied.

INTRODUCTION
Ethology is the study of animal behavior. Behavior is an animal’s response to sensory input and
falls into two basic categories: learned and innate (inherited).

Orientation behaviors place the animal in its most favorable environment. In taxis the animal
moves toward or away from a stimulus. Taxis is often exhibited when the stimulus is light, heat,
moisture, sound, or chemicals. Kinesis is a movement that is random and does not result in
orientation with respect to a stimulus. If an organism responds to bright light by moving away, that is
taxis. If an animal responds to bright light by random movements in all directions, that is kinesis.

Agonistic behavior is exhibited when animals respond to each other by aggressive or submissive
responses. Often the agonistic behavior is simply a display that makes the organism look big or
threatening. It is sometimes studied in the laboratory with Bettas (Siamese Fighting Fish).

Mating behaviors may involve a complex series of activities that facilitate finding, courting, and
mating with a member of the same species.

127
EXERCISE 11A: General Observation of Behaviors
In this lab you will be working with terrestrial isopods commonly known as pillbugs, sowbugs, or roly-
polies. These organisms are members of the Phylum Arthropoda, Class Crustacea, which also
includes shrimp and crabs. Most members of this group respire through gills.

PROCEDURE
1. Place 10 pillbugs and a small amount of bedding material in a Petri dish. Pillbugs generally do
not climb, but if they do, you may cover the dish with plastic wrap or the Petri dish cover.

2. Observe the pillbugs for 10 minutes. Make notes on their general appearance, movements
about the dish, and interactions with each other. Notice if they seem to prefer one ara over
another, if they keep moving, settle down, or move sporadically. Note any behaviors that
involve 2 or more pillbugs. Try to make your observations without disturbing the animals in
any way. Do not prod or poke or shake the dish, make loud sounds, or subject them to bright
lights. You want to observe their behavior, not influence it or interfere with it.

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

3. Make a detailed sketch of a pillbug.

128
 Kinesis in Pillbugs
1. Prepare a choice chamber as illustrated in Figure 11.1. The choice chamber consists of two
large, plastic petri dishes taped together with an opening cut between them. Cut the opening
with scissors and use tae to hold the dishes together. Line one chamber with a moist piece of
filter paper and the other with a dry piece of filter paper.

2. Use a soft brush to transfer ten pillbugs from the stock culture into the choice chamber. Place
5 pillbugs in each side of the choice chamber. Cover the chambers.

3. Count how many pillbugs are on each side of the choice chamber every 30 seconds for 10
minutes and then record your data in Table 11.1 (page). Continue to record even if they all
move to one side or stop moving.

4. Return your pillbugs to the stock culture.

5. Graph both the number of pillbugs in the wet chamber and the number in the dry chamber
using Graph 11.1 on page.

Figure 11.1 Choice Chamber

129
Table 11.1
Time Number in Number in Other Notes
(mins.) Wet Dry
Chamber Chamber
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
50
5,5
6,0
6.5
7.0
7.5
8.0
8.5
9.0
9.5
10.0

130
For this graph you will need to determine the following:

a. The independent variable: _____________________________________. Use this to

label the x-axis.

b. The dependent variable: ______________________________. Use this to label the

vertical (y) axis.

Graph 11.1 Title: __________________________________________________________

131
ANALYSIS

1. What conclusions do you draw from your data? Explain the physiological reasons for the
behavior observed in this activity.

2. Obtain results from all of the lab groups in your class. With respect to humidity, light,
temperature, and other environmental conditions, which type of environment do isopods prefer?
How do the data support these conclusions? Give specific examples.

3. How do isopods locate appropriate environments?

4. If you suddenly turned a rock over and found isopods under it, what would you expect them to be
doing? If you watched the isopods for a few minutes, how would you expect to see their behavior
change?

5. Is the isopod’s response to moisture best classfied as kenesis r taxis? Explain your response.

Student-Designed Experiment to Investigate Pillbug’s Response to Temperature, pH,

Background Color, Light or other Variable

1. Select one of the variable factors listed above and develop a hypothesis concerning the pillbug’s
response to the factor.

2. Use the materials available in your classroom to design an experiment. Remember that heat is
generated by lamps.

a. State the objective of your experiment.

b. List the materials you will use.

c. Outline your procedure in detail.

d. Decide what data you will collect and design your data sheet.

3. Run your experiment.

4. Make any graphical representation of your data that will help to visualize or interpret the data.

5. Write a conclusion based on your experimental results.

6. Return your isopods to the stock culture.

132
Exercise 11B: Reproductive Behavior in Fruit Flies

INTRODUCTION
In this experiment you will place 3 or 4 virgin female Drosophila melanogaster flies In The same viaL
with 3 or 4 male flies, and using a dissecting microscope or hand lens, observe the behavior of each
sex. Mating in Drosophila melanogaster follows a strict behavioral pattern. Five phases can be
distinguished (see Figure 11.2):

A. Orientation
B. Male song (wing vibration)
C. Licking of female genitalia
D. Attempted copulation
E. Copulation
F. Rejection (extrusion of ovipositer)

Figure 11.2 Courtship Behavior in Drosophila melanogaster

Figure 11.2 A-F. Courtship behavior in D. melanogaster. A. Orientation of the male towards the female. B. Wing
vibration by the male. C. The male licks the female’s genitalia with is proboscis. D. Mounting by he male with genital
contact. E. Flies in copulation. F. A rejection response by the female. The female turns her abdomen towards the
male and extends her ovipositer (see arrow).

At least 14 different behaviors have been described. Listed below are 10 of the most easily
recognized of thee behaviors. Six of the behaviors are seen in males, 4 in females.

Male Behaviors
1. Wing vibration. The male extends one or both wings from the resting position an moves
them rapidly up and down.
2. Waving. The wing is extended and held 90o from the body, then relaxed without vibration.
3. Tapping. The forelegs are extended to strike or tap the female.
4. Licking. The male licks the female’s genitalia (on the rear of her abdomen).
5. Circling. The male postures and hen circles the female, usually when she is nonreceptive.
6. Stamping. The male stamps forefeet as in tapping but does not strike the female.

133
Female Behaviors
1. Extruding. A temporary tubelike structure is extended from the female’s genitalia (Figure
11.2 F).
2. Decamping. A nonreceptive female runs, jumps, or flies away from the courting male.
3. Depressing. A nonreceptive female prevents access to her genitalia by depressing her wings
and curling the tip of her abdomen down.
4. Ignoring. A nonreceptive female ignores the male.

PROCEDURE
1. Set up the stereomicroscope.

2. Have a paper and pencil handy. The behaviors may happen very rapidly. One person should
call out observations while the other person records.

3. Obtain one vial containing virgin females and one vial containing males, and gently tap the
male flies into the female vial.

4. Observe first with the naked eye, and once the flies have encountered each other, use the
stereomicroscope to make observations.

5. As you identify the various behaviors, record their sequence and duration. Quantify
your observations. To do this you many consider counting the number of times a behavior takes
place and timing the duration of the behaviors.

6. Discuss possible original experiments investigating reproductive behavior in flies.

RESULTS
Prepare a detailed account of the behaviors you have observed. Include sketches and quantitative
analysis as appropriate.

Student Designed Experiment to Investigate Reproductive Behavior in Fruit Flies

Design a simple experiment to investigate none of the following questions or any other that you
devise.
a. Will males placed in a vial with only males demonstrate courtship behavior?
b. Will males respond to dead females?
c. Do males compete?
d. How will males respond to already mated females?
1. Develop a hypothesis concerning the fruit fly behavior.
2. State your objective.
3. List the materials you will use.
4. Outline your procedure in detail.
5. Decide what data you will collect and design your data sheet.
6. Run your experiment.
7. Make any graphical representation of your data that will help to visualize or interpret the data.
8. Write a conclusion based on your experimental results.

134
AP Biology Laboratory
Date: ___________________ Name and Period: ______________________________________________

AP Biology Lab 12
DISSOLVED OXYGEN AND AQUATIC PRIMARY
PRODUCTIVITY
OVERVIEW
1. In exercise 12A you will measure and analyze the dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration in water
samples at varying temperatures;
2. In Exercise 12B you will measure and analyze the primary productivity of natural waters or lab cultures
using screens to simulate the attenuation (decrease) of light with increasing depth.

OBJECTIVES
Before doing the lab you should understand:
• The biological importance of carbon and oxygen cycling in ecosystems,
• How primary productivity relates to the metabolism of organisms in an ecosystem,
• The physical and biological factors that affect the solubility of gases in aquatic ecosystems, and
• The relationship between dissolved oxygen and the processes of photosynthesis and respiration and
how these processes affect primary productivity.
After doing this lab you should be able to:
• Measure primary productivity based on changes in dissolved oxygen in a controlled experiment, and
• Investigate the effects of changing light intensity on primary productivity in a controlled experiment.

INTRODUCTION
In the aquatic environment, oxygen must be in solution in a free state (O2) before it is available for use by
organisms. Its concentration and distribution in the aquatic environment are directly dependent on chemical
and physical factors and are greatly affected by biological processes. In the atmosphere there is an
abundance of oxygen, with about 200 milliliters of oxygen for every liter of air. Conversely, in the aquatic
environment there are only about 5 to 10 milliliters of dissolved oxygen in a liter of water. The concentration of
the oxygen in aquatic environments is a very important component of water quality.

At 20C oxygen diffuses 300,000 times faster in air than in water, making the distribution of oxygen in air
relatively uniform. Spatial distribution of oxygen in water, on the other hand, can be highly variable, especially
in the absence of mixing by currents, winds, or tides.

Other chemical and physical factors, such as salinity, pH, and especially temperature, can affect the DO
concentration and distribution. Salinity, usually expressed in parts per thousand (ppt), is the content of
dissolved salts in water. Generally, as temperature and salinity increase, the solubility of oxygen in water
decreases (Figure 12.1).

135
Figure 12.1: Solubility of Oxygen in Water

The partial pressure of oxygen in the air above the water affects the amount of DO in the water. Less oxygen
is present at higher elevations since the air itself is less dense; therefore, water at higher elevations contains
less oxygen. At 4,000 meters in elevation, (about 13,000 feet), the amount of dissolved oxygen in water is
less than two-thirds what it is at sea level. All of these factors work together to increase diversity in aquatic
habitats with regard to oxygen availability.

Biological processes, such as photosynthesis and respiration, can also significantly affect DO concentration.
Photosynthesis usually increases the DO concentration in water. Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and will
usually decrease DO concentration. The measurement if the DO concentration of a body of water is often
used to determine whether the biological activities requiring oxygen are occurring; consequently, it is an
important indicator of pollution.

EXERCISE 12A: Dissolved Oxygen and Temperature

There are several brands of test kits available to determine the dissolved oxygen content of a water sample.
Follow your teacher’s instruction for their use.

Depending on the testing procedure you use, the dissolved oxygen may be measured in parts per million
(ppm), or milligrams per liter (mg/L), or milliliters per liter (mL/L). You should be able to make conversions
between each of these with the following information:

ppm O2 = O2/L

mg O2/L x 0.698 = mL O2/L

From this you can also calculate the amount of carbon fixed in photosynthesis as follows:

mL O2/L x 0.536 = mg carbon fixed/L

136
PROCEDURE
1. Fill 3 of the water sampling bottles with water of the 3 different temperatures provided.
2. Determine the DO of each sample using the technique given to you. Record these values in Table
12.1.
3. On the monogram of oxygen saturation on page 4, use a straightedge or ruler to estimate the percent
saturation of DO in your samples and record this value in Table 12.1. Line up the edge of a ruler with
the temperature of the water on the top scale and the Do on the bottom scale, then read the percent
saturation from the middle scale
4. Record your values on the class blackboard and then enter class means in Table 12.1.

Table 12.1: Temperature/DO Data

Temperature Lab Group DO Class Mean DO Lab Group % DO Class Mean % DO
Saturation Saturation
(from nomogram) (from nomogram)

5. Graph both the lab group data and class means percent saturation as a function of temperature. For
this graph you will need to determine the following:
a. The independent variable: _____________________________
Use this to label the horizontal (x) axis.
b. The dependent variable: ______________________________
Use this to label the vertical (y) axis.
Graph 12.1 Title: ____________________________________________

137
Figure 12.2: Nomogram of Oxygen Saturation

Productivity
The primary productivity of an ecosystem is defined as the rate at which organic materials (carbon-
containing compounds) are stored. Only those organisms possessing photosynthetic pigments can utilize
sunlight to create new organic compounds from simple inorganic substances. Green plants obtain carbon for
carbohydrate synthesis from the carbon dioxide in the water of the air according to the basic equation for
photosynthesis:

6CO2 + 6H2O -> C6H12O6 + 6O2

The rate of carbon dioxide utilization, the rate of formation of organic compounds, or the rate of oxygen
production can be used as a basis for measuring primary productivity. A measure of oxygen production over
time provides a means of calculating the amount of carbon that has been bound in organic compounds over a
period of time. For each milliliter of oxygen produced, approximately 0.536 milligrams of carbon has been
assimilated.

One method of measuring the rate of oxygen production is the light and dark bottle method. In this method,
the DO concentrations of samples of oceans, lake, or river water, or samples of laboratory algal cultures, are
measured and compared before and after incubation in light and darkness. The difference between the
measurements of DO in the initial and dark bottles is an indication of the amount of oxygen that is being
consumed in respiration by the organisms in the bottle. In the bottles exposed to light, the biological
processes of photosynthesis and respiration are occurring; therefore, the change over time in DO
concentration from the initial concentrations is a measure of net productivity.

The difference over time between the DO concentration in the light bottle and the dark bottle is the total
oxygen production and therefore an estimate of gross productivity (see Figure 12.3).

138
 Figure 12.3: Light-Dark Bottle Method to Determine Gross Productivity

EXERCISE 12B: A Model of Productivity as a Function of Depth in a Lake

Day One
1. Obtain 7 water sampling bottles (these are also called BOD bottles, for "biological oxygen demand"). Fill all
the bottles with the lake water or algal sample provided. (You may be asked to add a specific weight of
aquatic plants to each bottle.) Be careful not to leave any air bubbles at the tops of the bottles.

2. Use masking tape to label the cap of each bottle. Mark the labels as follows: I (for "initial"), D (for "dark"),
100%, 65%, 25%, 10%, and 2%.

3. Determine the DO for the "Initial" bottle now. Record this DO value in Table 12.2 and in the data table on
the blackboard. Record the class "Initial" bottle mean in Table 12.2. This is the amount of DO that the water
has to start with (a base line).

4. Cover the "Dark" bottle with aluminum foil so that no light can enter. In this bottle no photosynthesis can
occur, so the only thing that will change DO will be the process of respiration by all of the organisms
present.

5. The attenuation of natural light that occurs due to depth in a body of water will be simulated by using plastic
window screens. Wrap screen layers around the bottles in the following pattern: 100% light — no screens;
65% light — 1 screen layer; 25% light — 3 screen layers; 10% light — 5 screen layers; and 2% light — 8
screen layers. The bottles will lie on their sides under the lights, so remember to cover the bottoms of the
bottles to prevent light from entering there. Use rubber bands or clothespins to keep the screens in place.

6. Place the bottles on their sides under the bank of lights in the classroom. Be sure to turn the bottles so that
their labels are down and do not prevent the light from getting to the contents. Leave overnight under
constant illumination.

7. (Optional Exercise.) If time permits, make a wet mount slide of a sample of the lake water used for this
experiment and draw some of the organisms you observe. Can you identify them?

139
Table 12.2: Respiration

Individual Data Class Mean

Initial DO
Dark Bottle DO
Respiration Rate
(Initial-Dark)

Day Two
8. Determine the DO in all the bottles that have been under the lights. Record the "Dark" bottle DO in Table
12.2. Calculate the respiration rate using the formula in the table. Record the values for the other bottles in
Table 12.3. Complete the calculations in Table 12.4 to determine the gross and net productivity in each
bottle. The calculations will be based on a time period of 1 day. Enter your respiration rate and gross and
net productivities in the data table on the class blackboard. Determine the class means. Enter these means
in Table 12.2 and Table 12.4.

Table 12.3: Individual Data—Productivity of Screen-Wrapped Samples

#of % Light DO Gross Productivity Net Productivity
Screens [Light Bottle - Dark Bottle] [Light Bottle - Initial Bottle]

0 100%

1 65%

3 25%

5 10%

8 2%

Table 12.4: Class Data—Mean Productivity

#of % Light DO Gross Productivity Net Productivity
Screens
0 100%

1 65%

3 25%

5 10%

8 2%

140
9. Graph both net and gross productivities as a function of light intensity (class means). The two kinds of
productivity may be plotted on the same graph. For this graph you will need to determine the following:

a. The independent variable: ____________________________

Use this to label the horizontal (x) axis.

b. The dependent variable:________

Use this to label the vertical (y) axis.

Graph 12.
Title:___________________________________________________________________________

141
QUESTIONS
1. What are three ways primary productivity can be measured?

2. What is the relationship between oxygen production and assimilation of carbon?

3. From your graph of the temperature data, what is the effect of temperature on the amount of oxygen that
water at different temperatures can hold?

4. Refer to your graph of productivity and light intensity. At what light intensity do you expect there to be:

No gross productivity?______ No net productivity? ____

5. A mammal uses only 1 to 2 percent of its energy in ventilation (breathing air in and out) while a fish must
spend about 15 percent of its energy to move water over its gills. Explain this huge difference in their
efforts to collect oxygen.

6. Would you expect the DO in water taken from a stream entering a lake to be higher or lower than the DO
taken from the lake itself? Explain.

7. Would you expect the DO concentration of water samples taken from a lake at 7:00 a.m. to be higher or
lower than samples taken at 5:00 p.m.? Explain.

8. In the following drawings of identical containers with identical fish but with different volumes o! water, which
one, A or B, would have more oxygen available to the fish. Explain.

9. What is eutrophication? Research and explain why allowing nitrogen or phosphorous fertilizers to run into a
body of water can negatively affect life in it.

142
THE AP BIOLOGY EXAM

143
History of Testing the Laboratories on the AP Biology Exam

Year Lab # Lab Name

1988 2 Enzyme Catalysis
1989 8 Population Genetics and Evolution
1990 5 Cell Respiration
1991 9 Transpiration
1992 1 Diffusion and Osmosis
1993 10 Physiology of the Circulatory System
1994 2 Enzyme Catalysis (2nd)
1995 6 Molecular Biology
(DNA Electrophoresis)
1996 3 Mitosis and Meiosis
1997 11 Behavior
1998 6 Molecular Biology
(Bacterial Transformation)
1999 4 Plant Pigments and Photosynthesis
2000 2 Enzyme Catalysis (3rd)
2001 12 Dissolved Oxygen and Primary
Productivity
2002 1 Diffusion and Osmosis (2nd)
2003 7 Genetics of Organisms (Drosophila)
2004 4 Plant Pigments and Photosynthesis
(2nd)
2005 5 Cell Respiration (2nd)

144
Overview of AP Labs for Take Home Exam
Lab 1 (Diffusion and Osmosis)
Some potato cores are placed in different molar solutions. Create a graph of the expected change in
mass of the cores of the different concentrations.

List the two components affecting the water potential of a system?

1.__________________________

2.__________________________

A cell placed into a hypertonic solution will shrink, swell, or stay the same? _________
A cell placed into a hypotonic solution will shrink, swell, or stay the same? _________
A cell placed into a isotonic solution will shrink, swell, or stay the same? _________

What is plasmolysis? ___________________________________

Lab 2 (Enzyme Catalysis)

What do enzymes do? _________________________________________________________
What was the substrate in this experiment? ________________________________________
What was the purpose of the H2SO4 and how did it work ?_____________________________
Is the consumption of substrate linear? Yes or no? __________________________________
Generally, raising the temperature causes the reaction rate to increase or decrease? _______
Create a Graph of the amount of product formed over time as a result of an enzymatic reaction.

Lab 3 (Mitosis and Meiosis)

List the cell cycle and list what happens to the chromosomal material in each.
a. ________________ - __________________________________________________
b. ________________ - __________________________________________________
c. ________________ - __________________________________________________
d. ________________ - __________________________________________________
e. ________________ - __________________________________________________

145
In what phase do cells spend most of their time?_____________________________________

What is crossing over ?________________________________________________________

Under a microscope it is noticed that about 33% of the asci show crossover, what are the mapping
units? ______________________
Draw a pair of chromosomes in MI and MII, and show how you would get a 2:2:2:2 arrangement of
ascospores by crossing over.

Lab 4 (Plant Pigments and Photosynthesis)

How does chromatography work? _______________________________________________.
Using the table below calculate the Rf values for the pigments. (The solvent front moved 100 mm).

Band # Distance (mm) Rf value

1 19
2 35
3 42
4 66

Some chloroplasts are collected. One half of them are boiled and the other half are left unboiled. One
half of each of these collections are then placed into either dark or light situations. They are allowed to
incubate and grow and then place into a spectrophotometer to measure the absorbance. Using the
table below, estimate absorbance numbers that may go into the empty cells.

Cuvette 0 10 20 30
Unboiled/dark

Unboiled/light

Boiled/light

Boiled/Dark

No chloroplasts
(Control)

Plot the percent transmittance of your projected results.

Lab 5 (Cell Respiration)

146
Estimate the amount of oxygen consumed in the conditions listed in the table.

Conditions mL Oxygen Consumed per MInute

Germinating Peas @ 5 degrees C.
Germinating Peas @ Room Temperature
Dry Peas @ 5 degrees C.
Dry Peas @ 5 Room Temperature

What was the purpose of the glass beads? _______________________________________________

What happens to the temperature of a gas when the pressure increases (assuming volume remains
constant)?
_________________________________________________________________________
What happens to the volume of a gas when the temperature decreases (assuming volume remains
constant)?
_________________________________________________________________________

Lab 6 (Molecular Biology)

How does a restriction enzyme work? _______________________________________________.
At what location in the cell do endonucleases work?_____________________________________
What is a plasmid? ______________________________________________________________
How was the plasmid opened in this experiment? ______________________________________
Which fragments of DNA migrate further along a gel electrophoresis plate, long or short fragments?
_________________________________________________________________________
What happened to each of the colonies below and why?
LB with plasmid? ___________________________________________________________
LB without plasmid? _________________________________________________________
LB with plasmid and ampicillin? ________________________________________________
LB with ampicillin but without plasmid? __________________________________________

Lab 7 (Genetics and Chi Square)

What does Chi square measure? _______________________________________________.
What are the chances of getting the following from a cross of AaBbCC x AaBBCc genotype of
AaBBCC? _______________

Compete the following table for the following incomplete dominance monohybrid cross:
Bb x Bb where BB = black fur; Bb = auburn fur; bb = albino

Observed phenotype Expected Phenotype Chi square

30 black
40 brown
30 albino

At the 0.05 probability level, are the results significantly different from what was expected? ________

Lab 8 (Population Genetics)

What are the five assumptions for the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?
a. ___________________________________
b. ___________________________________
c. ___________________________________
d. ___________________________________
e. ___________________________________

147
What do the following stand for:
a. p2 = ___________________________________
b. q2 = ___________________________________
c. p2+2pq = ___________________________________

Solve the following:

a. In a Hardy-Weinberg population, the frequency of the a allele is 0.4. What is the frequency
of the individuals with the Aa genotype? ___________________________________
b. In a population with two alleles A and a, the frequency of a is 0.6. What would be the
frequency of heterozygotes if the population is in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium? ____________
c. Why was the heterozygous condition for sickle cell favorable against malaria
___________________________________________________________________________

Lab 9 (Transpiration)
Using the following conditions, create a graph showing the relationship between the amount of
transpiration and time. Then in the blank write a short explanation of the physiological responses
because of the environmental conditions.
a. a plant at room temperature___________________________________
b. a plant in humid conditions___________________________________
c. a plant in high light conditions___________________________________
d. a plant in very dry conditions___________________________________

Lab 10(Physiology)
What is systolic pressure?
_____________________________________________________________
What is diastolic pressure?____________________________________________________________
What does it mean to have high blood pressure? __________________________________________
Why does your heart rate go up when you exercise?
________________________________________
Why does your heart rate go up when you are vertical vs. horizontal?
___________________________
What is Q10?
_______________________________________________________________________
Calculate the Q10 for the following conditions: heart rate at a lower temperature = 76; heart rate at a
higher temperature = 145
________________________________________________________
Create a graph showing the relationship between temperature and heart rate.

148
Lab 12 (Dissolved Oxygen and Primary Productivity)
Create a graph showing the relationship between temperature and the percent saturation of dissolved
oxygen.

Create a graph showing the relationship between the amount of light received and the amount of
productivity.

Create a graph showing the relationship between the amount of oxygen consumed by photosynthetic
organisms and the amount of carbon fixed.

Using the following conditions, create a graph showing the relationship between the amount of
transpiration and time. Then in the blank write a short explanation of the physiological responses
because of the environmental conditions.
a. a plant at room temperature___________________________________
b. a plant in humid conditions___________________________________
c. a plant in high light conditions___________________________________
d. a plant in very dry conditions___________________________________

149
 Points of Emphasis for AP Biology Experimental Design Essays

1. State a hypothesis. This is usually stated as an expectation of the results based on the effects of the
independent variable.

2. Design and identify a control group for comparison.

3. Indicate the independent variable. How will it be varied?

4. Describe how the dependent variable will be measured quantitatively. If you are going to derive a rate,
indicate the time frame of the measurements.

5. If the dependent variable will be measured indirectly, explain how the method works to measure the
dependent variable.

6. Indicate at least two factors that will be held constant.

7. Verify your results through multiple trials or repitition of the same procedure (this step is most frequently
left out of the essay).

8. Analyze your results statistically – means etc.

9. If a rate is derived, indicate how it is calculated (equation, slope of the curve, etc.)

10. Explain why you are doing the various procedural steps. This is more important than how many milliliters,
milligrams of a solution you are using.

11. If expressing expected results from your experiment, it is a good idea to describe expected results across
the range of biological activity (0-1000 C, dark to bright light, red to violet light, quiet to loud).

150
Tips For Writing AP Biology Exam Essays
(Free Response Questions)

DO’s
1. The first thing that you should do is to carefully read the question. Before writing an answer, the second
thing you should do is read the question, and the third thing you should do is read the question. This will
be a lot easier this year (2004) because there has been a 10 minute reading period included during
which you can read the questions and start to plan your answers before you will be allowed to write in
the essay booklet. Be sure that you answer the question that is asked and only that question, and that you
answer all parts of it. If you are given a choice of parts to answer, choose carefully. Don’t answer all parts in
that case.

2. Briefly outline the answer to avoid confusion and disorganization. Pay close attention to the verbs used
in the directions (such as “describe”, “explain”, compare”, “give evidence for”, “graph”, “calculate”, etc.) and be
sure to follow those directions. Thinking ahead helps to avoid scratch outs, astrices, skipping around, and
rambling.

3. Write an essay. Outlines and diagrams, no matter how elaborate and accurate, are not essays and will
not get you much, if any, credit by themselves. Exceptions: If you are asked as a part of an essay on a lab to
calculate a number, this part does not require an essay, but be sure to show how you got your answer by
showing the formulas you are using, the values you have inserted into those formulas and display the proper
units on the answer; or, if you are asked to draw a diagram in the answer, do so, but be sure to annotate it
carefully and thoroughly.

4. Define and/or explain the terms you use. Say something about each of the important terms you use. The
AP Exam will not ask for a list of buzzwords. Use high-level vocabulary but use it in context.

5. Answer the question parts in the order called for, and use the question’s labels (“a”, “b”, etc.) to identify
the different parts of your answer just like they are labeled in the question. It is best not to skip around within
the question. The essays appear on separate green paper and will be reprinted in the essay book for you.
Answer the questions right below where they are reprinted in the booklet. There will be several pages
of lined paper allotted for each question, so when you finish writing an answer, keep turning pages until you
find the next question printed in the pink booklet.

6. Write clearly and neatly. It is foolhardy to antagonize or confuse the reader with lousy penmanship.

7. Go into detail that is on the subject and to the point. Be sure to include the obvious. Most points are
given for the basics anyway (for example, "light is necessary for photosynthesis”). Answer the question
thoroughly.

8. If you cannot remember a word exactly, take a shot at it--get as close as you can. Even if you don't
remember the name for a concept, describe the concept.

9. Use a ball point pen with dark black ink. If your ink “bleeds” through to the other side of the paper, don’t
write on the back of that page--go to the next page. That will make it make it easier for the reader.

10. If you use a diagram, carefully label it (it will get no points otherwise) and place it in the text at the
appropriate place--not detached at the end. Be sure to refer to the diagram in your essay. Also, it is ok to
widen your margins a little. This will make the essay easier for most folks to read.

151
11. Bring a watch to the exam so that you can pace yourself. You have four essays with about 22 minutes
for each answer. The proctor will not give you time cues. You should have enough time, but keep an eye on
the clock just in case.

12. Understand that this exam is written to be hard. Over the last five years, the national average for the
essay section will be less than 15 points out of a possible 40. That is an average of less than 4 points out of a
possible 10 on each essay. It is very likely that you will not know everything. This is expected, but you will
know something about each essay. So relax and do the best you can. Write thorough answers.

13. If you are asked to design or describe an experiment, you should consider including these things:
• hypothesis and/or predictions--call attention to it by calling it by name (“my hypothesis is…) or using
an “ if .....then” structure.
· identify the independent variable(s)--what treatments will you apply?
· identify dependent variable(s)--what will you measure to see if the independent variable had an effect?
· describe how you will measure the dependent variable, AND why it will work in this case
· identify several experimental variables to be held constant, and how you will keep them constant.
· describe the organism/materials/apparatus to be used--why are each of the parts important?
· describe what you will actually do (how will you apply the treatment)
describe how the data will be graphed and analyzed--how will a rate be determined, how will you
compare the experimental and control groups—compare the means, chi square, etc.. Expect to have
to make a prediction of results based on your experimental design.
Your experimental design needs to be at least theoretically possible and scientifically plausible and it
is very important that your conclusions/predictions be consistent with (1) the principles involved in the
question, and (2) with the way you set up your experiment. Make sure the experiment is internally
consistent.
· Do not hesitate to use the experimental designs that we used in our AP labs this year.

14. If you are asked to draw a graph, include these things:

· set up the graph with the independent variable (manipulated variable) along the x-axis and
dependent variable (responding variable) along the y-axis.
· mark off axes in equal (proportional) increments and label with proper units
· label each axis with the variable name and include the units in which it is measured (Co, min)
plot points and attempt to sketch in the curve (line). Any curve line that extends beyond the given
data points (extrapolation) must be a dashed line. Remember that a data point of 0,0 may be
implied by the given experimental design—but consider carefully before plotting this point.
· if more than one curve is plotted, write a label on each curve (preferred) or make a legend.
give your graph an appropriate title. Tell what the graph is showing? You might try wording it in the
form of, “Y” as a function of “X." Include a title somewhere even it there is no room for one on the
given graph paper.

DON'Ts
1. Don't waste time on background information or a long introduction unless the question calls for historical
development or historical significance. Answer the question.--don’t rewrite it!!

2. Don't ramble--get to the point, and don't shoot the bull--say what you know and go on to the next
question. You can always come back if you remember something.

3. Don't use a pencil, and don't use a pen with an ink color other than black. Don't use a felt-tip pen
because the ink seeps through the page and makes both sides of the paper hard to read. Don't scratch out
excessively. One or two lines through the unwanted word(s) should be sufficient, and don't write more than a
very few words in the margin.

152
4. Don't panic or get angry because you are unfamiliar with the question. You probably have read or heard
something about the subject--be calm and think. Write on other questions and come back. If a question has
several parts and you have no clue about one or two parts, don’t quit!! Write whatever you know about the
other parts of the question. Every single essay point helps your grade.

5. Don't worry about spelling every word perfectly or using exact grammar. These are not a part of the
standards the graders use. It is important for you to know, however, very poor spelling, lousy grammar, and
unreadable handwriting can hurt your chances.

6. If you are given a choice of several topics to write about (“describe 3 of the following 5 topics”),
understand that only the first ones you mention will count. You must make choices and stick with them. If
you decide that one of your first choices was a bad, then cross out that part of the answer so the reader can
easily tell which part(s) you wish for him/her to read for points.

7. Don't leave questions blank. The mean for the Free Response questions last year (2003) was only about
11.4 points out of 40 points possible . You can do better than that!!! Remember that each point you earn on
an essay question is the equivalent of about 1.6 correct multiple choice questions, and there is no penalty for
a wrong guess, bad spelling; or bad grammar. Make an effort on every question!
Don't Quit!

153
Past AP Biology Essay Questions
Biochemistry
1965:
Biologists and biochemists have made outstanding progress within the past quarter century in elucidating
principles and structures which govern the activities of living matter.

These areas of progress include:

A. The structure and code of the DNA molecule
B. The use of radioactive isotopes as tracers in biological processes
C. The citric acid cycle and its relationship to mitochondria
D. The use of electron microscopy in revealing the structure of the cell

Discuss any one of these developments and its impact on biological thought and progress. Your answer
should include:
a. a brief account of the development
b. the names of the most prominent investigators involved
c. the nature of its impact on biology

1968:
Suppose that you have isolated an extract from a tissue and you have found that the extract speeds up the
rate of a particular reaction. What kind of information would you need to demonstrate that the substance
responsible for increasing the rate of this reaction is an enzyme? Explain how this information would indicate
that the catalytic effect is due to an enzyme.

1969:
Proteins functioning as enzymes exhibit precise specifications.
Discuss the levels of structural organization within proteins which are responsible for specific molecular
interaction.

1972:
A class of biology students performed an experiment on the digestion of starch by salivary amylase.
Each student determined the length of time required for different dilutions of his saliva to digest
completely a standard concentration of starch. Iodine was used to test for the presence of starch.
The results obtained by some of the class are summarized in the table below.

TIME REQUIRED FOR THE DISAPPEARANCE OF STARCH WITH VARIOUS SALIVA DILUTIONS
Dilutions (saliva: H2O)
Student 1:9 (10%) 1:19 (5%) 1:49 (2%) 1:99 (1%)
A 45 seconds 50 seconds 100 seconds 135 seconds
B no end point --------------- -------------- --------------
C 90 seconds 100 seconds 200 seconds 270 seconds
D 260 seconds 300 seconds 600 seconds 800 seconds
a. Present the data for Student A in graphic form.
b. Carefully examine the data collected by the four students above and state as many conclusions
as you can that are supported by these data.
c. Assuming there have been no errors in techniques, form as many hypotheses as you can explain
the differences observed.
d. Design one experiment to test the validity of one hypothesis.
e. Clearly state what data you would want to collect in this experiment to test your hypothesis.

154
1973:
Hypotheses derived from laboratory experiments and field observations have been advanced to explain the
origin of life on Earth. Starting with a probable prelife environment, describe the formation and evolution of
the various trophic forms (nutrition types) up to and including unicelluar organisms.

Describe at least one experiment whose results support one of these scientific hypotheses.

1980:
Discuss the lock-and-key theory of enzyme-substrate interaction giving a specific example to illustrate the
theory. Include in your discussion the effects of each of the following:
a. Substrate concentration
b. pH shifts
c. Temperature shifts
d. Competitive inhibition

1981:
Discuss the biological importance of each of the following organi compounds in relation to cellular structure
and function in plants and animals.
a. Carbohydrates
b. Proteins
c. Lipids
d. Nucleic acids

1985:
Describe the chemical compositions and configuration of enzymes and discuss the factors that modify
enzyme structure and/or function.

1988:
After an enzyme is mixed with its substrate, the amount of product formed is determined at 10-second
intervals for 1 minute. Data from this experiment are shown below.

Time (sec) 0 19 20 30 40 50 60
Product 0.0 0.25 0.50 0.70 0.80 0.85 0.85
formed
(mg)

Draw a graph of these data and answer the following questions.

a. What is the initial rate of this enzymatic reaction?

b. What is the rate after 50 seconds? Why is it different from the initial rate?
c. What would be the effect on product formation if the enzyme were heated to a temperature of 100 oC
for 10 minutes before repeating the experiment? Why?
d. How might altering the substrate concentration affect the rate of the reaction? Why?
e. How might altering the pH affect the rate of reaction? Why?

1994:
Enzymes are biological catalysts.
a. Relate the chemical structure of an enzyme to its specificity and catalytic activity.
b. Design a quantitative experiment to investigate the influence of pH or temperature on the activity of
an enzyme.
c. Describe what information concerning the structure of an enzyme could be inferred from your
experiment.

155
1996:
The unique properties (characteristics) of water make life possible on Earth. Select three properties of water
and:
a) for each property, identify and define the property and explain it in terms of the physical/chemical
nature of water.
b) for each property, describe one example of how the property affects the functioning of living
organisms.

2000:
The effects of pH and temperature were studied for an enzyme-catalyzed reaction. The following results were
obtained.

a) How do (1) temperature and (2) pH affect the activity of the enzyme? In your answer, include a discussion
of the relationship between the structure and the function of this enzyme, as well as a discussion of how
structure and function of enzymes are affected by temperature and pH.
b) Describe a controlled experiment that could have produced the data shown for either temperature or pH.
Be sure to state the hypothesis that was tested here.

2002:
The following experiment was designed to test whether different concentration gradients affect the rate of
diffusion. In this experiment, four solutions (0% NaCl, 1% NaCl, 5% NaCl and 10% NaCl) were tested under
identical conditions. Fifteen milliliters (mL) of 0% NaCl were put into a bag formed of idalysis tubing that is
permeable to Na+, Cl- and water. The same was done for each NaCl solution. Each bag was submerged in a
separate beaker containing 300 ml of distilled water. The concentration of NaCl in mg/L in the water outside
each bag was measured at 40 second intervals. The results from the 5% bag are shown in the table below.

CONCENTRATION IN mg/L OF NaCl OUTSIDE THE 5% NaCl BAG

Time NaCl
(seconds) (mg/L)
0 0
40 130
80 220
120 320
160 400

(a) Graph the data for the 5% NaCl solution.

(b) Using the same set of axes, draw and label three additional lines representing the results that you
would predict for the 0% NaCl, 1% NaCl, and 10% NaCl solutions. Explain your predictions.
(c) Farmlands located near coastal regions are being threatened by encroaching seawater creeping
into the soil. In terms of water movement into or out of plant cells, explain why seawater could
decrease crop production. Include a discussion of water potential in y our answer.

156
2003:
Water is important for all living organisms. The functions of water are directly related to its physical
properties.
(a) Describe how the properties of water contribute to TWO of the following:
 transpiration
 thermoregulaton in endotherms
 plasma membrane structure

(b) Water serves as a reactant and a product in the carbon cycle. Discuss the role of water in the
carbon cycle.
(c) Discuss on impact of one of human activity on the water cycle.

Cells
1959
Some of the differentiated structures of plant and animal cells are cell walls, plasma
membranes, chromosomes, chloroplasts, mitochondria, and spindle fibers. Discuss
four of these with respect to:
1) function
2) physico-chemical nature
1960
Discuss each of the following, writing a paragraph or two for each one:
a) the structure and role of the cell membrane
b) the formation of cell walls in plant cells
c) the structure and role of chloroplasts
d) the structure and role of mitochondria

1963
a. Make a schematic diagram of a generalized plant or animal cell, showing the
structure of its parts as revealed by electronmicroscopy. Make a diagram the size of a full
page and label it completely, indicating whether the cell is from a plant or an animal.
b. List the parts included in your diagram and describe briefly the activities or
functions thought to be performed by each one.

1964
a. Describe the structure of the cell membrane as revealed by electron microscopy
and biochemical studies.
b. Explain how the passage of substances through the cell membrane is regulated by
the physical and chemical properties of the substances involved.
c. Explain how the concentration of a solute on either side of a semi-permeable
membrane affects osmosis.

157
1965
Biologists and biochemists have made outstanding progress within the past quarter
century in elucidating principles and structures which govern the activities of living
matter. These areas of progress include:
A. The structure and code of the DNA molecule
B. The use of radioactive isotopes as tracers in biological processes
C. The citric acid cycle and its relationship to mitochondria
D. The use of electron microscopy in revealing the structure of the cell
Discuss any one of these developments and its impact on biological thought and
progress.
Your answer should include:
a. a brief account of the development
b. the names of the most prominent investigators involved
c. the nature of its impact on biology
1969
Suppose a team of scientists is examining the cells of a newly discovered species. They
observe under the light microscope an organelle that appears to be different from any
that has been described before. Assume that you are director of the research team.
Describe the methods that you would have the team use to determine whether the struc-
ture is a mitochondrion, ribosome, lysosome, nucleolus, or indeed a new organelle.
Discuss the advantages and limitations of each method in revealing the role of the
unknown organelle in the living cell.

1970:
Electronmicroscope studies have revealed the probable structure of plasma membranes
and the membranes of various cell components
a. Describe the kinds of observations and experiments that are used to study the basic structure and
molecular components of these membranes.
b. Discuss mechanisms by which materials are thought to move across membranes.
c. Discuss the significance of membranes in the biochemical events which occur in mitochondria and
chloroplasts.

1975
All living cells exploit their environment for energy and for molecular components in
order to maintain their internal environments. Describe the roles of several different
membrane systems in these activities.

1978
Describe a model of the cell membrane of a eukaryotic cell and discuss different ways
in which substances move across the membrane.

1981
Describe the structural arrangement and function of the membranes associated with
each of the following eukaryotic organelles:
a. Mitochondrion
b. Endoplasmic Reticulum
c. Chloroplast
d. Golgi Apparatus

158
1983
Describe the fluid-mosaic model of a plasma membrane. Discuss the role of the membrane
in the movement of materials through by each of the following processes.
a. Active Transport
b. Passive Transport

1984
Describe the structure of a generalized eukaryotic plant cell. Indicate the ways in which
a nonphotosynthetic prokaryotic cell would differ in structure from this generalized
eukaryotic plant cell.

1987
Discuss the process of cell division in animals. Include a description of mitosis and
cytokinesis, and of the other phases of the cell cycle. Do not include meiosis.

1992
A laboratory assistant prepared solutions of 0.8 M, 0.6 M, 0.4 M, and 0.2 M sucrose,
but forgot to label them. After realizing the error, the assistant randomly labeled the
flasks containing these four unknown solutions as flask A, flask B, flask C, and flask D.

Design an experiment, based on the principles of diffusion and osmosis, that the assistant
could use to determine which of the flasks contains each of the four unknown solutions.
Include in your answer (a) a description of how you would set up and perform the
experiment; (b) the results you would expect from your experiment; and (c) an
explanation of those results based on the principles involved. (Be sure to clearly
state the principles addressed in your discussion.)

1993
Membranes are important structural features of cells.
(a) Describe how membrane structure is related to the transport of materials across a membrane.
(b) Describe the role of membranes in the synthesis of ATP in either cellular respiration or photosynthesis.

1994
Discuss how cellular structures, including the plasma membrane, specialized endoplasmic
reticulum, cytoskeletal elements, and mitochondria, function together in the contraction of
skeletal muscle cells.

2001
Proteins-large complex molecules-are major building blocks of all living organisms. Discuss the following in
relation to proteins.
a. The chemical composition and levels of structure of proteins
b. The roles of DNA and RNA in protein synthesis
c. The roles of proteins in membrane structure and transport of molecules across the
membrane

159
2002
The following experiment was designed to test whether different concentration gradients affect the rate of
diffusion. In this experiment , four solutions (0% NaCl, 1% NaCl, 5% NaCl, and 10% NaCl) were tested under
identical conditions. Fifteen milliliters (ml) of 0% NaCl were put into a bag formed of dialysis tubing that is
permeable to Na+, Cl- and water. The same was done for each NaCl solution. Each bag was submerged in
a separate beaker containing 300 ml of distilled water. The concentration of NaCl in mg/L in the water outside
the bag was measured at 40 sec intervals. The results from the 5% bag are shown in the table below.

CONCENTRATION IN mg/L OF NaCl OUTSIDE THE 5% NaCl BAG

Time NaCl
(seconds) mg/L
0 0
40 130
80 220
120 320
160 400

a. On the axes provided, graph the data for the 5% NaCl solution.
b. Using the same set of axes, draw and label three additional lines representing the results
that you would predict for the 0% NaCl, 1% NaCl, and 10% NaCl . Explain your predictions.
c. Farmlands located near coastal regions are being threatened by encroaching seawater
seeping into the soil. In terms of water movement into or out of plant cells, explain why
seawater could decrease crop production. Include a discussion of water potential in your
answer.

2003
A difference between eukaryotes and prokaryotes is seen in the organization of their genetic material.
a. Discuss the organization of the genetic material in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
b. Contrast the following activities in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
• Replication of DNA
• Transcription or translation
• Gene regulation
• Cell division

2004
Meiosis reduces chromosome number and rearranges genetic information.
a. Explain how the reduction and rearrangement are accomplished in meiosis.
b. Several human disorders occur as a result of defects in the meiotic process. Identify ONE such
chromosomal abnormality: what effects does it have on phenotype of people with the disorder?
Describe how this abnormality could result from a defect in meiosis.

c. Production of offspring by parthenogenesis or cloning bypasses the typical meiosis process.

Describe either parthenogenesis or cloning and compare the genomes of the offspring with those of
the parents.

2004
Prokaryotes are found throughout the biosphere. Answer two of the following.
a. Provide three examples of adaptations found in various prokaryotes. Explain how these three
adaptations have ensured the success of prokaryotes.
b. Discuss how prokaryotes early in Earth’s history altered environments on Earth.
c. Discuss three ways in which prokaryotes continue to have ecological impact today.

160
CELLULAR ENERGETICS
1962
Discuss two experiments in which the use of isotopes as tracers has contributed
to present knowledge of the photosynthetic process. One experiment should deal
with the light phase and the other with the dark phase.

1963
Compare the intermediate steps in the fermentation of a molecule of sugar by yeast with
respiration in a muscle tissue cell. Include in your answer the role of ATP formed in each
of these two processes.

1965
Discuss the effect of each of the following factors on the rate of photosynthesis
in a living plant:
a. carbon dioxide
b. light intensity
c. temperature
d. mineral nutrition
e. water conservation
1967
When a cell is metabolizing in the absence of oxygen and it is then exposed to an environment containing
oxygen, a series of oxidation-reduction reactions is initiated which enables the cell to increase its activities.
a. Outline the oxidation-reduction reactions that are initiated under these conditions and indicate the
point at which molecular oxygen interacts with the oxidative system.
b. Explain how the cell derives additional energy by switching from non-oxidative to oxidative
metabolism.

1971
The process of photosynthesis consists of two phases, the light reactions and the dark reactions.
Discuss each of these groups of reactions and their interrelationships.

1974
The overall equation for aerobic respiration is usually written as the reverse of the overall equation for
photosynthesis. What features of the biochemical pathways involved in the processes are the reverse of one
another and what features are not?

1977
Explain how the molecular reactions of cellular respiration transform the chemical bond energy of Krebs cycle
substrates into the more readily available bond energy of ATP. Include in your discussion the structure of the
mitochondrion and show how it is important to the reactions of the Krebs cycle and the electron transport
chain.

1978
Explain how the molecular reactions of photosynthesis transform light energy into chemical bond energy.
Include in your discussion the relationship between chloroplast structure and light and dark reactions.

1979
In relation to plants, describe in detail one way of:
a. measuring the rate of transpiration
b. measuring the rate of photosynthesis
c. separating pigments

161
1982
Describe the similarities and differences between the biochemical pathways of aerobic respiration and
photosynthesis in eukaryotic cells. Include in your discussion the major reactions, the end products, and
energy transfers.

1983
Relate the structure of an angiosperm leaf to each of the following.
a. Adaptations for photosynthesis and food storage.
b. Adaptations for food translocation and water transport.
c. Specialized adaptations to a desert environment.

1986
Describe the light reactions of photosynthesis and, for both a C3 and a C4 plant, trace the path of a carbon
dioxide molecule from the point at which it enters a plant to its incorporation into a glucose molecule. Include
leaf anatomy and biochemical pathways in your discussion of each type of plant.

1989
Explain what occurs during the Krebs (citric acid) cycle and electron transport by describing the following:
a. The location of the Krebs cycle and electron transport chain in the mitochondria.
b. The cyclic nature of the reactions in the Krebs cycle.
c. The production of ATP and reduced coenzymes during the cycle.
d. The chemiosmotic production of ATP during electron transport.

1990
The results below are measurements of cumulative oxygen consumption by germinating and dry seeds. Gas
volume measurements were corrected for changes in temperature and pressure.

Cumulative Oxygen Consumed (mL)

Time (minutes) 0 10 20 30 40
22o C 0.0 8.8 16.0 23.7 32.0
Germinating Seeds
22o C 0.0 0.2 0.1 0.0 0.1
Dry Seeds
10 o C Germinating 0.0 2.9 6.2 9.4 12.5
Seeds
10 o C 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.1 0.2
Dry Seeds

a. Using graph paper, plot the results for the germinating seeds at 22 o C and 0 o C.
b. Calculate the rate of oxygen consumption for the germinating seeds at 22 o C, using the time
interval between 10 and 20 minutes.
c. Account for the differences in oxygen consumption observed between:
1) germinating seeds at 22 o C and at 10 o C;
2) germinating seeds and dry seeds.
d. Describe the essential features of an experimental apparatus that could be used to measure
oxygen consumption by a small organism. Explain why each of these features is necessary.

1993
Membranes are important structural features of cells.
(a) Describe how membrane structure is related to the transport of materials across a membrane.
(b) Describe the role of membranes in the synthesis of ATP in either cellular respiration or
photosynthesis.

162
1995
Energy transfer occurs in all cellular activities. For 3 of the following 5 processes involving energy transfer,
explain how each functions in the cell and give an example. Explain how ATP is involved in each example you
choose.
Cellular movement
Active transport
Synthesis of molecules
Chemiosmosis
Fermentation

1999
The rate of photosynthesis may vary with changes that occur in environmental temperature, wavelength of
light, and light intensity. Using a photosynthetic organism or your choice, choose only ONE of the three
variables (temperature, wavelength of light or light intensity) and for this variable
• design a scientific experiment to determine the effect of the variable on the rate of photosynthesis for
the organism;
• explain how you would measure the rate of photosynthesis in your experiment;
• describe the results you would expect. Explain why you would expect these results.

2004
A controlled experiment was conducted to analyze the effects if darkness and boiling on the photosynthetic
rate of incubated chloroplast suspensions. The dye reduction technique was used. Each chloroplast
suspension was mixed with DPIP, an electron acceptor that changes from blue to clear when it is reduced.
Each sample was placed individually in a spectrophotometer and the percent transmittance was recorded.
The three samples used were prepared as follows.

• Sample 1 – chloroplast suspension + DPIP

• Sample 2 – chloroplast suspension surrounded by aluminum foil wrap to provided a dark environment
+ DPIP
• Sample 3 – chloroplast suspension that has been boiled + DPIP

Percent Transmittance in Three Samples

Tim Light, Unboiled Dark, Unboiled Light, Boiled
(min) % Transmittance % Transmittance % Transmittance

Sample 1 Sample 2 Sample 3

0 28.8 29.2 28.8
5 48.7 30.1 29.2
10 57.8 31.2 29.4
15 62.5 32.4 28.7
20 66.7 31.8 28.5

(a) On the axes provided, construct and label a graph showing the results for the three samples.
(b) Identify and explain the control or controls for this experiment.
(c) The differences in the curves of the graphed data indicate that there were differences in the
number of electrons produced in the three samples during the experiment. Discuss how
electrons are generated in photosynthesis and why the three samples gave different
transmittance results.

163
2005:
Yeast cells are placed in an apparatus with a solution of sugar (a major nutrient for yeast metabolism). The
apparatus detects bubbles of gas released by the yeast cells. The rate of respiration varies with the
surrounding temperatures as indicated by the data below.

Temperature (oC) 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
Number of bubbles 0 3 7 12 7 4 1 0
produced per minute
a. Graph the results on the axes provided. Determine the optimum temperature for respiration in
yeast.
b. Respiration is a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions. Using your knowledge of enzymes and the
data above, analyze and explain the results of this experiment.
c. Design an experiment to test the effect of varying the pH of the sugar solution on the rate of
respiration. Include a prediction of the expected results.

HEREDITY
1961
A major concept of the gene theory of inheritance is that the genes are located in chromosomes. Explain how
each of the following helps to establish this idea:
a. A genotypic ratio of 1:2:1 in offspring of heterozygotes.
b. The phenomenon of crossing over.
c. Other chromosomal aberrations.
d. The phenomenon of sex determination, as in man.

164
1963
a) In corn, a gene for colored (C) kernels is dominant over one for colorless (c) kernels and a gene for
smooth (S) kernels is dominant over one for shrunken (s) kernels. Describe a controlled genetic
experiment to demonstrate that those genes are linked.
b) Genetic evidence indicates that these genes are linked and that their cross value is approximately
4%. Describe the process of crossing over and explain how its percentage is determined. (Labeled
diagrams may be used as aids in explanation.)

1966
The gene was first thought to be a discrete factor or particle that controls a gross character of an organism
specific relationships between genes, enzymes, and proteins, this concept has changed radically. Cite three
specific experiments that illustrate these changes and explain our present concept of the gene.

1967
a) Describe in a brief paragraph the characteristics of mutation.
b) List the various alterations in the hereditary material that result in mutations. Illustrate with a simple
diagram.
c) Discuss the ways in which one of the alterations that you list in part b) causes hereditary changes.

1970
In most organisms, there are characteristic sets of chromosomes within cell nuclei. Describe ways in which
the kinds or numbers of chromosomes in the following cells differ from the usual situation and discuss the
possible significance of these differences:
a) children whose cells have an extra autosome
b) cells from different members of a hive of honeybees
c) red blood cells in mammals
d) salivary gland cells in Drosophila
e) cells in tetraploid strains of wheat
f) gametes in humans containing extra sex chromosomes

1972
Several kinds of organisms have been important in genetics research. How have studies of microorganisms,
peas, Drosophila , and man each made a different contribution to our knowledge of genetics?

1976
Each year a number of children are born with biological defects that impair normal function. For THREE of the
following conditions, discuss such aspects as the biological cause, the methods of treatment and possible
means of detection and/or prevention.
a. Phenylketonuria (PKU)
b. Sickle cell anemia
c. Down syndrome
d. Cretinism
e. Erythroblastosis fetalis
f. Blue-baby condition
g. Tay-Sachs

165
1977
Discuss three of the following phenomena in which sex chromosomes are involved with particular reference to
their significance or consequences in humans.
a. Sex determination
b. Sex-linked inheritance
c. Formation of Barr bodies (sex chromatin)
d. Variation in kinds and numbers of sex chromosomes

1980
Describe in detail the process of meiosis as it occurs in an organism with a diploid chromosome number of 4
(2n = 4). Include labeled diagrams in your discussion. Indicate when and how each of the following occurs in
meiosis:
a. Crossing over
b. Nondisjunction

1983
State the conclusions reached by Mendel in his work on the inheritance of characteristics. Explain how each
of the following deviates from these conclusions:
a. Autosomal linkage
b. Sex-linked (X-linked) inheritance
c. Polygenic (multiple-gene) inheritance

1988
Discuss Mendel's laws of segregation and independent assortment. Explain how the events of meiosis I
account for the observations that led Mendel to formulate these laws.

1993
Assume that a particular genetic condition in a mammalian species causes an inability to digest starch. this
disorder occurs with equal frequency in males and females. In most cases, neither parent of affected offspring
has the condition.
(a) Describe the most probable pattern of inheritance for this condition. Explain
your reasoning. Include in your discussion a sample cross(es) sufficient to
verify your proposed pattern.
(b) Explain how mutation could cause this inability to digest starch.
(c) Describe how modern techniques of molecular biology could be used to
determine whether the mutant allele is present in a given individual.

1996
An organism is heterozygous at two genetic loci on different chromosomes.

a) Explain how these alleles are transmitted by the process of mitosis to daughter cells.
b) Explain how these alleles are distributed by the process of meiosis to gametes.

c) Explain how the behavior of these two pairs of homologous chromosomes during meiosis provides
the physical basis for Mendel's two laws of inheritance. Labeled diagrams that are explained in your
answer may be useful.

166
1997
In a laboratory population of diploid, sexually reproducing organisms a certain trait is studied. This trait is
determined by a single autosomal gene and is expressed as two phenotypes. A new population was created
by crossing 51 pure-breeding (homozygous) dominant individuals with 49 percent pure breeding
(homozygous) recessive individuals. After four generations, the following results were obtained.
NUMBER OF INDIVIDUALS
Generation Dominant Recessive Total
1 51 49 100
2 280 0 280
3 240 80 320
4 300 100 400
5 360 120 480
a. Identify an organism that might have been used to perform this experiment, and explain why this
organism is a good choice for conducting this experiment.
b. On the basis of the data, propose a hypothesis that explains the change in the phenotypic
frequency between generation 1 and generation 3.
c. Is there evidence indicating whether or not this population is in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?
Explain.

2003
In fruit flies, the phenotype for eye color is determined by a certain locus. E indicates the dominant allele and
e indicates the recessive allele. The cross between a male wild-type fruit fly and a female white-eyed fruit fly
produced the following offspring.

Wild Type Wild Type White Eyed White Eyed Brown Eyed
Male Female Male Female Female
F1 0 45 55 0 1

The wild-type and white-eyed individuals from the F1 generation were then crossed to produce the following
offspring.
F2 23 31 22 24 0

a. Determine the genotypes of the original parents (the P generation) and explain you reasoning.
You may use a Punnett square to enhance your description, but the results from the Punnett squares
must be discussed in your answer.
b. Use a Chi-squared test on the F2 generation data to analyze your prediction of the parental
genotypes. Show all your work and explain the importance of your final answer.
c. The brown-eyed female in the F1 generation resulted from a mutational change. Explain what a
mutation is, and discuss two types of mutations that might have produced the brown-eyed female in
the F1 generation.

Critical Values of the Chi-Squared Distribution

Degrees of Freedom (df)
Probability (p) 1 2 3 4 5
0.05 3.84 5.99 7.82 9.49 11.1
The formula for Chi-squared is:
Χ = ∑(o – e)2
e
where: o – observed number of individuals
e = expected number of individuals
∑ = the sum of the values (in this case, the differences, squared, divided b uy the number
expected.

167
2004:
Meiosis reduces chromosome number and rearranges genetic information.
a. Explain how the reduction and rearranges genetic information.
b. Several human disorders occur as a result in the meiotic process. Identify one such chromosomal
abnormality; what effects does it have on the phenotype of people with the disorder? Describe how
this abnormality could result from a defect in meiosis.
c. Production of offspring by parthenogenesis or cloning by passes the typical meiotic process.
Describe either parthenogenesis or cloning and compare the genomes of the offspring with those of
the parents.

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
1960
Discuss the gene, with regard to structure, duplication, mutation, and nature of action.

1962
Deoxyribonucleic acid or DNA has been described as the chemical basis of heredity. Discuss present-day
concepts regarding its:
a. chemical nature and physical structure
b. mode of duplication
c. relationship to protein synthesis

1965
Biologists and biochemists have made outstanding progress within the past quarter century in elucidating
principles and structures which govern the activities of living matter. These areas of progress include the
structure and code of the DNA molecule. Discuss this development and its impact on biological thought and
progress. Your answer should include:
a. a brief account of the development
b. the names of the most prominent investigators involved
c. the nature of its impact on biology

1965
Discuss the role of each of the following in protein synthesis:
a. soluble or transfer RNA
b. messenger RNA
c. ribosomes
d. ATP

1967
The formation of Watson-Crick complementary base pairs between single strands of molecules of nucleic
acids occurs in at least three separate reactions. Discuss each of these reactions from the following points of
view:
a. the type of nucleic acids involved
b. the role of each nucleic acid in the duplication of cellular constituents

1969
Proteins and nucleic acids are fundamental molecules of the living state.
a. Write word equations for the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, using appropriate subunits.
b. A wide variety of macromolecules exists in proteins and nucleic acids. For each group, explain
how it is possible to have such great variety of structure with a relatively small number of different
subunits.
c. Proteins functioning as enzymes exhibit precise specifications. Discuss the levels of structural
organization within proteins which are responsible for specific molecular interaction.

168
1974
Describe protein synthesis in terms of molecular structures of the nucleic acids and using a specific example,
explain how a new phenotypic characteristic may result from a change in DNA.

1977
Proteins are composed of amino acid subunits which form stable three-dimensional structures.
a. Describe how the genetic instructions coded in DNA are translated into the primary structure
(sequence of amino acid subunits) of a protein molecule.
b. Explain how interactions among the individual amino acid subunits influence the transformation of
the molecule into its three-dimensional structure and how they stabilize it.

1979
In relation to the chemical nature of the gene, describe:
a. the chemical structure of the gene
b. the replication (self-copying) of the gene
c. gene mutations, including chromosomal aberrations

1982
A portion of a specific DNA molecule consists of the following sequence of nucleotide triplets:

TAC GAA CTT CGG TCC

This DNA sequence codes for the following short polypeptide:

methionine - leucine - glutamic acid - proline - arginine

Describe the steps in the synthesis of this polypeptide. What would be the effect of a deletion or an addition in
one of the DNA nucleotides? What would be the effect of a substitution in one of the nucleotides?

1984
Experiments by the following scientists provided critical information concerning
DNA. Describe each classical experiment and indicate how it provided evidence
for the chemical nature of the gene.
a. Hershey and Chase - bacteriophage replication
b. Griffith and Avery - bacterial transformation
c. Meselson and Stahl - DNA replication in bacteria

1985
Describe the operon hypothesis and discuss how it explains the control of messenger RNA production and
the regulation of protein synthesis in bacterial cells.

1986
Describe the biochemical composition, structure, and replication of DNA. Discuss how recombinant DNA
techniques may be used to correct a point mutation.

1987
Describe the production and processing of a protein that will be exported from a eukaryotic cell. Begin with the
separation of the messenger RNA from the DNA template and end with the release of the protein at the
plasma membrane.

1990
Describe the steps of protein synthesis, beginning with the attachments of a messenger RNA molecule to
the small subunit of a ribosome and ending with the release of the polypeptide from the ribosome. Include in
your answer a discussion of how the different types of RNA function in this process.

169
1992
Biological recognition is important in many processes at the molecular, cellular,and organismal levels. Select
three of the following, and for each of the three that you have chosen, explain how the process of recognition
occurs and give an example.
a. Organisms recognize others as members of their own species.
b. Neurotransmitters are recognized in the synapse.
c. Antigens trigger antibody responses.
d. Nucleic acids are complementary.
e. Target cells respond to specific hormones.

1995
The diagram below shows a segment of DNA with a total length of 4,900 base pairs. The arrows indicate
reaction sites for restriction enzymes (enzyme X and enzyme Y).

(A) Explain how the principles of gel electrophoresis allow for the separation of DNA fragments.
(B) Describe the results you would expect from the electrophoretic separation of fragments from the
following treatments of the DNA segment above. Assume that the digestions occurred under
appropriate conditions and went to completion.
I DNA digested with only enzyme X
II. DNA digested with only enzyme Y
III. DNA digested with enzyme X and enzyme Y combined
IV. Undigested DNA
(C) Explain both of the following.
(1) The mechanism of action of restriction enzymes.
(2) The different results you would expect if a mutation occurred at the recognition site for
enzyme Y.

1998
By using techniques of genetic engineering, scientists are able to modify genetic materials so that a particular
gene of interest from one cell can be incorporated into a different cell.
• Describe a procedure by which this can be done.
• Explain the purpose of each step of your procedure.
• Describe how you could determine whether the gene was successfully incorporated.
• Describe an example of how gene transfer and incorporation have been used in a biomedical or
commercial application.

1999
Scientists seeking to determine which molecule is responsible for the transmission of characteristics from one
generation to the next knew that the molecule must (1) copy itself precisely, (2) be stable but able to be
changed and (3) be complex enough to determine the organism’s phenotype.
• Explain how DNA meets each of the three criteria stated above.
• Select one of the criteria stated above and describe experimental evidence used to determine that
DNA is the hereditary material.

170
2002
The human genome illustrates both continuity and change:
(a) Describe the essential features of two of the procedures/techniques below. For each of the
procedures/techniques you describe, explain how its application contributes to understanding genetics.
• The use of bacterial plasmid to clone and sequence a human gene
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
• Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis
(b) All humans are nearly identical genetically in coding sequences and have many proteins that appear
identical in structure and function. Nevertheless, each human has a unique DNA fingerprint. Explain this
apparent contradiction.

2005:
The unit of genetic organization is all living organisms is the chromosome.
a. Describe the structure and function of the parts of a eukaryotic chromosome. You may wish to
include a diagram as part of your description.
b. Describe the adaptive (evolutionary) significance of organizing genes into chromosomes.
c. How does the function and structure of the chromosome differ in prokaryotes.

EVOLUTION
1959
Discuss how each of the following contributes evidence that evolution has occurred:
a. Paleontology
b. Geographical distribution
c. Biochemical studies

1959
Each group of organisms has a specific set of adaptations (either in the parent animals or in the eggs they
produce) which helps to insure the survival of sufficient young to maintain the population. Briefly summarize
and compare the structures or other adaptations bearing on this problem as found in an amphibian, a reptile,
a marsupial, and a placental mammal. What generalizations can be made from these comparisons?

1960
Although the arthropods began as aquatic animals, the majority have become terrestrial.
Discuss the adaptive modifications in the arthropods for terrestrial existence with
reference to locomotion, reproduction, and development, respiration, and water balance.

1960
The factors of mutation and isolation are believed to play significant roles in speciation.
For each of these factors discuss:
a. how it may occur
b. the role it plays in speciation

1963
Discuss the evolution of both land animals and land plants from aquatic ancestors with
respect to their adaptations for:
a. water conservation
b. support
c. embryo protection

171
1964
On the archipelago of the Galapagos Islands, which most geologists believe to be of volcanic origin without
ever having had any land connection with the west coast of South America, Darwin discovered a group of
small finches. These birds have since been classified into more than a dozen species. These birds have
differences, particularly in their adaptations for food-getting. It is believed that all these species are
descendants of a single species which migrated from the mainland. On the mainland there has never been
more than a single species even though the rate of mutations is thought to be the same in both locations.

Explain how each of the following could have played a role in the development of the many species of
Galapagos finches:
a. polyploidy
b. genetic drift
c. geographic isolation
d. unoccupied ecologic niches
e. Explain why the mainland species has not differentiated into more than one species.

1966
In the vertebrates, changes in mechanisms of fertilization and embryonic development have been of adaptive
value. Compare these mechanisms and indicate their contribution to the evolutionary success of the following
animals:
a. fish
b. amphibian
c. bird
d. mammal

1966
The theory of organic evolution is based on interpretations of observations from diverseareas. Describe the
observations from each of the following areas and explain how they support the theory:
a. paleontology
b. comparative anatomy or embryology
c. biochemistry or genetics

1970
An interbreeding population sometimes gives rise to two populations. Discuss the possible roles of each of the
following factors in the formation of two distinct species.
a. isolation
b. selection
c. mutation
d. genetic drift (Sewall Wright phenomenon)

1972
Cite evidence from biochemistry, paleontology, and population genetics that has led biologists to accept the
theory of evolution.

1973
On the basis of reliable sampling studies made during a 5-year period, the following observations were made
about the turtle populations of two lakes, one 300 miles north of the other. Indicate and discuss factors that
might account for this unequal distribution.
a. Turtles of species A are abundant in the northern lake where turtles of species B are rare.
b. Turtles of species B are abundant in the southern lake where turtles of species A are rare.

172
1974
Hereditary variations are essential to the evolution of populations.
a. Describe the different types of hereditary variability
b. Explain how this variability can lead to the origin and maintenance of species.

1975
Most mammals live on land. Describe and discuss the evolutionary adaptations that make mammals better
adapted to life on land than amphibians.

1977
Two geographically isolated populations usually will diverge over a long period of time.
a. Describe how the two populations may become different, including factors
that can account for these differences.
b. Discuss factors that may prevent interbreeding if the two populations ever
again occupy the same area.

1978
Describe the nature of each of the following and discuss the role of natural selection in each situation:
a. Industrial melanism
b. DDT resistance in insects
c. Sickle cell anemia and malaria

1979
Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection had a significant influence on the understanding of the evolution
of organism. Discuss each of the following:
a. the importance of Darwin's voyage on the H.M.S. Beagle to the development
of his theory;
b. the major points proposed by Darwin in his theory;
c. two major refinements in Darwin's theory that stem from modern findings;

1980
Discuss the significance of each of the events listed below in the evolution of living things.
a. Primordial reducing atmosphere
b. Origin of photosynthesis
c. Increase in atmospheric oxygen and the development of the ozone layer
d. Origin of eukaryotes

1981
Define, discuss, and give an example of how each of the following isolating mechanisms contributes to
speciation in organisms.
a. Geographical barriers
b. Ecological (including seasonal) isolation
c. Behavioral isolation
d. Polyploidy

1981
Describe the special relationship between the two terms in each of the following pairs.
a. Convergent evolution of organisms and Australia
b. Blood groups and genetic drift
c. Birds of prey and DDT

173
1984
Describe the modern theory of evolution and discuss how it is supported by evidence from two of the following
three areas:
a. Population genetics
b. Molecular biology
c. Comparative anatomy and embryology

1984
Describe how the following adaptations have increased the evolutionary success of the organisms that
possess them. Include in your discussion the structure and function related to each adaptation.
a. C4 metabolism
b. Amniotic egg
c. Four-chambered heart
d. Pollen

1986
Describe the process of speciation. Include in your discussion the factors that may contribute to the
maintenance of genetic isolation.

1989
Do the following with reference to the Hardy-Weinberg model.
a. Indicate the conditions under which allele frequencies (p and Q) remain constant from one
generation to the next.
b. Calculate, showing all work, the frequencies of the alleles and frequencies of the genotypes in a
population of 100,000 rabbits of which 25,000 are white and 75,000 are agouti. (In rabbits the white
color is due to a recessive allele, w, and agouti is due to a dominant allele, W.)
c. If the homozygous dominant condition were to become lethal, what would happen to the allelic and
genotypic frequencies in the rabbit population after two generations?

1990
A. Describe the differences between the terms in each of the following pairs.
(1) Coelomate versus acoelomate body plan
(2) Protostome versus deuterostome development
(3) Radial versus bilateral symmetry
B. Explain how each of these pairs of features was important in constructing the phylogenetic tree shown
below. Use specific examples from the tree in your discussion.
Chordata

Arthropoda
Annelida

Echinodermata Mollusca

Nematoda

Rotifera

Platyhelminthes

Cnidaria

174
 Porifera

1991
Discuss how each of the following has contributed to the evolutionary success of the organisms in which they
are found.
a. Seeds
b. Mammalian placenta
c. Diploidy

1992
Evolution is one of the unifying concepts of modern biology. Explain the mechanisms that
lead to evolutionary change. Describe how scientists use each of the following as evidence for evolution:
1) Bacterial resistance to antibiotics
2) Comparative biochemistry
3) The fossil record

1994
Genetic variation is the raw material for evolution.
a. Explain three cellular and/or molecular mechanisms that introduce variation into the gene pool
of a plant or animal population.
b. Explain the evolutionary mechanisms that can change the composition of the gene pool.

1994
Select two of the following three pairs and discuss the evolutionary relationships between the two members of
each pair you have chosen. In your discussion include structural adaptations and their functional significance.

PAIR A:
green algae
vascular plants

PAIR B:
prokaryotes
eukaryotes

PAIR C:
amphibians
reptiles

1995
The problems of survival of animals on land are very different from those of survival of animals in
an aquatic environment. Describe four problems associated with animal survival in terrestrial
environments but not in aquatic environments. For each problem, explain an evolutionary solution.

175
1999
Scientists recently have proposed a reorganization of the phylogenetic system of classification to include the
new domain, a new taxonomic category higher (more inclusive) than the Kingdom category, as shown in the
following diagram.

Universal Ancestor

Domain Bacteria Domain Archaea Domain Eukarya

(Eubacteria) (Archaebacteria) (Eukaryotes)

• Describe how this classification scheme presents different conclusions about the relationships among
living organisms that those presented by the previous five-kingdom system of classification.
• Describe three kinds of evidence that were used to develop the taxonomic scheme above, and explain
how this evidence was used. The evidence may be structural, physiological, molecular and/or genetic.
• Describe four of the characteristics of the universal ancestor.

2000
To survive. organisms must be capable of avoiding, annd/or defending against, various types of
environmental threats. Respond to each of the following.
a. Describe how protective coloration, mimicry or behavior function as animal defenses
against predation. Include two examples in your answer.
b. Describe how bacteria or plants protect themselves against environmental threats. Include two
examples in your answer.
c. Compare the humane primary immune response with the secondary immune response to the same
antigen.

2001
Charles Darwin proposed that evolution by natural selection was the basis for the differences that he saw in
similar organisms as he traveled and collected specimens in South America and the Galapagos Islands.
a. Explain the theory of evolution by natural selection as presented by Darwin.
b. Each of the following relates to an aspect of evolution by natural selection. Explain three of the
following.
(i) Convergent evolution and the similarity among species (ecological equivalents) in a
particular biome (e.g., tundra, taiga, etc.)
(ii) Natural selection and the formation of insecticide-resistant insects or antibiotic-resistant
bacteria.
(iii) Speciation and isolation
(iv) Natural selection and behavior such as kinesis, fixed-action-pattern, dominance hierarchy,
etc.
(v) Natural selection and heterozygote advantage

176
2003
Biologists are interested in preserving the diversity of living organisms on the planet.
(a) Explain three of the following processes or phenomena, using an appropriate example for each.
 mutation
 adaptive radiation
 polyploidy
 population bottlenecks
 growth of the human population
(b) For each process or phenomenon you selected in (a), discuss its impact on the diversity of life on
Earth.

2004
Darwin is considered the “father of evolutionary biology”. Four of his contributions to the field of evolutionary
biology are listed below:
• the nonconstancy of species
• branching evolution, which implies the common descent of all species
• occurrence of gradual changes in species
• natural selection as the mechanism for evolution

a. For each of the four contributions listed above, discuss one example of supporting evidence.
b, Darwin’s ideas have been enhanced and modified as new knowledge and technologies have
become available. Discuss how TWO of the following have modified biologists interpretation of Darwin’s
original contributions.
• Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium
• Punctuated equilibrium
• Genetic engineering

Ecology
1959:
Starting with an open pond of water or with a bare sand beach, discuss the natural succession from a pioneer
community to a climax community with respect to:
1) physiographic factors
2) biotic factors
3) the order of some of the successional stages which might be expected to occur

1961:
Describe the complete cyclic movement of nitrogen within a balanced biotic community.

1963:
From an ecological standpoint, discuss briefly the interaction of organisms in:
a) the carbon-oxygen cycle
b) a specific food chain

1966:
The retreat of a glacier leaves barren rock and soil that may be low or lacking in organic material.
Characterize the changes that might occur over a long period of time following the retreat of the glacier. Your
answer should
include:
a) physical and chemical changes
b) changes in flora
c) changes in fauna

177
1966:
A small, upland, temperate-zone lake of 100 acres surface area and a maximum depth of 10 meters at the
middle is created behind an earthfill dam. High land surrounding the lake is covered with deciduous forest.
Springs and a permanent stream flowing into the lake from a pasture grassland provide a constant supply of
water. For the next five years, the lake and stream remain undisturbed. At the end of the five-year period:
a) what organism could be expected in samples taken from the middle of the lake?
b) what organisms could be collected from shallow water at the end of the stream entrance?
c) how, during the five-year period, did the organisms come to the lake, and why did they thrive there?

1971:
A mature forest community is completely destroyed by fire. Describe the stages of succession by which this
community is restored.

1972:
A very long-term trip into deep space, lasting at least a decade, is being planned. You have been assigned
the responsibility of designing a balanced ecosystem that will meet the needs of you and several others in the
spaceship . Cite the specific types of organisms that you would take and include the role that each would play
in the ecosystem. (Assume that the problem of temperature control in the spaceship has been solved.)

1976:
Discuss the web of life in a biological community. Your essay should focus on energy flow, conversion, and
loss in food chains, including the concepts of trophic levels and pyramids.

1978:
Human beings have altered the environment in a variety of ways. Discuss the beneficial and harmful
modifications of the environment brought about by the use of the following:
a) Nuclear energy
b) Fertilizers and pesticides
c) Fossil fuels and metals

1979:
Explain and illustrate with one specific example each of the following concepts:
a) competitive exclusion (Gause's principle)
b) ecological succession
c) nutrient (biogeochemical) cycles

1980:
Many areas of North America that were once covered with many small lakes and ponds have undergone
succession and are now continuously covered with forests. Give a detailed description of the events (biotic
and abiotic factors) that lead to the establishment of a climax forest.

1981:
Define, discuss, and give an example of each of the following close interactions of species.
a) Predator-prey relationships
b) Commensalism
c) Mutualism

1983:
Describe the trophic levels in a typical ecosystem. Discuss the flow of energy through the ecosystem, the
relationship between the different trophic levels, and the factors that limit the number of trophic levels.

178
1985:
Describe the process of ecological succession from a pioneer community to a climax community. Include in
your answer a discussion of species diversity and interactions, accumulation of biomass, and energy flow.

1986:
Describe the biogeochemical cycles of carbon and nitrogen. Trace these elements from the point of their
release from a decaying animal to their incorporation into a living animal.

1989:
Using an example for each, discuss the following ecological concepts.
a) Succession
b) Energy flow between trophic levels
c) Limiting factors
d) Carrying capacity

1993:
Living organisms play an important role in the recycling of many elements within an ecosystem. Discuss how
various types of organisms and their biochemical reactions contribute to the recycling of either carbon or
nitrogen in an ecosystem. Include in your answer one way in which human activity has an impact on the
nutrient cycle you have chosen.

1998:
Interdependence in nature is illustrated by the transfer of energy through trophic levels. The diagram below
depicts the transfer of energy in a food web of an Artic lake located in Alaska.
a. Choosing organisms from four different trophic levels of this food web as examples, explain how
energy is obtained at each trophic level.
b. Describe the efficiency of energy transfer between trophic levels and discuss how the amount fo
energy available at each trophic level affects the structure of the ecosystem.
c. If in the cells in the dead terrestrial plant material that washed into the lake contained a
commercially produced toxin, what would be the likely effects of this toxin on this food web? Explain.

179
2001:
A biologist measured dissolved oxygen in the top 30 centimeters of a moderately eutrophic (mesotrophic) lake
in the temperate zone. The day was bright and sunny, and the wind was calm. The results of the
observations are represented below.
Hour Dissolved
Oxygen
mg/L
6.00 A.M. 0,9
8:00 A.M. 1.7
10:00 A.M. 3.1
12:00 A.M. 4.9
2:00 P.M. 6.8
4:00 P.M. 8.1
6:00 P.M. 7.9
8:00 P.M. 6.2
10.00 P.M. 4.0
12:00 midnight 2.4
a. Using graph paper, plot the results that were obtained. Then, using the same set of axes, draw
and label an additional line/curve representing the results that you would predict had the day been
heavily overcast.
b. Explain the biological processes that are operating in the lake to produce the observed data.
Explain also how these processes would account for your predictions of results for a heavily overcast
day.
c. Describe how the introduction of high levels of nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates into the
lake would affect subsequent observations. Explain your prediction.

2003:
Many populations exhibit the following growth curve:

a. Describe what is occurring in the population during phase A.

b. Discuss three factors that ought cause the fluctuations shown in phase B.
c. Organisms demonstrate exponential (r0 or logistic (K) reproductive strategies. Explain these two
strategies and discuss how they affect population size over time.

2004:
Death is a natural and necessary part of life cycles at all levels of organization.
a. Discuss two examples of how cell death affects the development and functioning of a multicellular
organism.
b. Discuss one example of how substances are degraded and reused in cells.
c. Discuss the evolutionary significance of death.

180
2004:
In most aquatic environments, primary production is affected by the light available to the community of
organisms.

Using measurement of dissolved oxygen concentration to determine primary productivity, design a controlled
experiment to test the hypothesis that primary productivity is affected by either the intensity or the wavelength
of light. In your answer be sure to include the following:
• a statement of the specific hypothesis that you are testing
• a description of your experimental design (Be sure to include a description of what data you would
collect and how you would present and analyze the data using a graph.)
• a description of results that would support your hypothesis.

Embryology
1961:
A. Name and describe the origin, function, and mechanism of operation of the four extraembryonic
membranes of a bird. (Labeled diagrams may be used as aids in explanation.)
B. For three of these membranes of a bird briefly describe one variation in either development or function
in a mammal, such as a human.

1966:
In vertebrates, changes in the mechanisms of fertilization and embryonic development have been of adaptive
value. Compare these mechanisms and indicate their contribution to the evolutionary success of the following
animals:
A. fish
B. amphibian
C. bird
D. mammal

1976:
During development in multicellular organisms, the cells become different from one another, even though they
possess a common genetic heritage. Describe experiments in several organisms which explore the problem
of differentiation at the gene level, the cell level, or the tissue level, and discuss how these experiments have
aided our understanding of development.

1988:
Discuss the processes of cleavage, gastrulation, and neurulation in the frog embryo; tell what each process
accomplishes. Describe an experiment that illustrates the importance of induction in development.

Humans
1961:
A. Name and describe the origin, function, and mechanism of operation of the four extraembryonic
membranes of a bird. (Labeled diagrams may be used as aids in explanation.)
B. For three of these membranes of a bird briefly describe one variation in either development or function
in a mammal, such as a human.

181
1966:
In vertebrates, changes in the mechanisms of fertilization and embryonic development have been of adaptive
value. Compare these mechanisms and indicate their contribution to the evolutionary success of the following
animals:
A. fish
B. amphibian
C. bird
D. mammal

1974:
Compare and contrast the origin and maturation of the male and female gametes in a flowering plant and in a
mammal.

1979:
Describe the role of the hypothalamus, the pituitary hormones, and the ovarian hormones in the regulation of
the human menstrual cycle. Include in your discussion the concept of feedback control and the way in which
fertilization of the egg alters the menstrual cycle.

1989:
Describe negative and positive feedback loops, and discuss how feedback mechanisms regulate each of the
following:
A. The menstrual cycle in a nonpregnant human female
B. Blood glucose levels in humans

1959:
The blood, lymph, and other internal fluids have often been referred to as the "internal environment" of the
cells. Many parts of the body are involved in maintaining the constancy of this internal environment. Discuss
how 1) the kidneys and 2) the endocrine glands help to maintain the constancy of the internal environment.

1961:
Describe and compare the excretory system of a flatworm (Platyhelminthes), an earthworm (Annelida), and a
grasshopper (Arthropoda). Include labeled diagrams with your answer.

1961:
Discuss the structure and function of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system of a mammal.
What neurohumors are associated with each system? Labeled diagrams may be included with your answer.

1962:
a. Compare the digestive system of a planarian with that of an earthworm.
b. Compare the body wall of a hydra with that of a tapeworm.
c. Compare the circulatory system of a crayfish with that of an earthworm.

1964:
a. Make a schematic diagram of a typical myelinated motor neuron. Make the
diagram the size of a full page and label it completely.
b. List the part included in your diagram and describe briefly the function
performed by each one.
c. Discuss the mechanism of synaptic transmission.

182
1964:
In normal metabolism, the glucose concentration of the blood tends to remain constant (within a range of 80
to 120 milligrams per hundred milliliters). Discuss the role of each of the following in maintaining this
homeostatic condition:
a. the kidneys
b. the islands of Langerhans
c. the pituitary gland

1964:
Describe the structure and the mechanism of operation of each of the following:
a. a pseudopodium
b. a flagellum
c. a striated muscle cell

1965:
Discuss each of the following as it relates to the functioning of the heartbeat in a mammal:
a. the autonomic nervous system
b. the structure of cardiac muscle
c. the sinus node, the auriculoventricular bundle (bundle of His)

1966:
Irritability of responsiveness to stimuli is a common characteristic of living organisms. Among many others
these responses include:
a. Geotropic responses in plants
b. Simple reflex responses in animals
Discuss each of these responses. Your answer should include a description of:
a. the responses
b. an experiments which will demonstrate the responses
c. the mechanisms involved in the responses

1967:
Nitrogenous waste products are excreted by animals in various forms. Many aquatic animals excrete
ammonia, birds and reptiles excrete uric acid, and man excretes urea. Describe the formation of two of these
waste products and discuss the adaptive value of these three methods of nitrogenous excretion.

1968:
Self-regulatory or homeostatic feedback mechanisms are present in the endocrine, vascular, and respiratory
systems of vertebrates. Describe one such feedback system, discussing the evidence which indicates that
feedback occurs.

1971:
Describe the anatomy and physiology of the autonomic nervous system of vertebrates. How does this system
help a vertebrate to survive?

1971:
The transmission of an impulse from a nerve to the surface of a resting muscle initiates a contraction in that
muscle. Biochemical and biophysical studies of muscle tissue have resulted in an explanation for muscle
contraction known as the sliding filament theory.
a. Describe the chemical changes that occur when a nerve impulse is transmitted to the surface of a
resting muscle cell.
b. Describe the internal structure of a muscle fiber as revealed by electron microscopy.
c. On the basis of this structure, explain the sliding-filament theory.

183
1973:
The action of organs and organ systems must be coordinated. Discuss the interaction of factors involved in
controlling heart rate and breathing rate in mammals during periods of relaxation and periods of stress.

1974:
Individual organisms make short-term adjustments to temporary environmental changes in temperature,
moisture, light, or the chemical environment. Chooseany one of these environmental factors and describe
mechanisms by which
a) animals, and
b)plants may adjust to changes in that factor.

1975:
Regulation of biological systems is commonly achieved by means of feedback control. In each of the
following systems, describe how feedback control is used for regulation, and give a specific example for each
system.
a. the size of a population
b. the rate of physiological process
c. the rate of an enzyme reaction

1975:
The immune response of organisms involve antigens, antibodies, and other factors. Describe the immune
response and discuss its role in three of the following phenomena:
a. blood transfusions
b. Rh incompatibility
c. tissue transplants

1976:
Discuss the intake, transport, exchange, and release of gases in mammals.

1978:
Discuss the mechanism by which a muscle cell contracts or a nerve cell transmits an impulse. Include in your
discussion the relationship between cell structure and function.

1979:
Describe the structure and function of the stomach, pancreas, and small intestine as digestive and endocrine
organs in the human. (For each organ, include the relevant cell types and their functions.)

1980:
In humans, discuss the transport of gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide) by the blood and exchange of these
gases between the blood and cells of the body. Include in your discussion the cellular and fluid composition of
the blood.

1981:
Describe the structure and function of the mammalian kidney. Include a discussion of the regulation of water
balance by kidney and hormonal interaction.

1981:
Describe the structure and function of the reflex arc in higher vertebrates. Include a description of the cell
types and a discussion of the mechanism of transmission of the impulse.

1982:
Describe the following mechanisms of response to foreign materials in the human body.
a. The antigen-antibody response to a skin graft from another person.
b. The reactions of the body leading to inflammation of a wound infected by bacteria.

184
1983:
Describe the structure of a mammalian respiratory system. Include in your discussion the mechanisms of
inspiration and expiration.

1984:
Discuss the sources and actions of each of the following pairs of hormones in humans and describe the
feedback mechanisms that control their release.
a. Insulin..glucagon
b. Parthyroid hormone..calcitonin
c. Thyrotropin (TSH) ..thyroxine (T4)

1985:
Describe the anatomical and functional similarities and differences within each of the following pairs of
structures.
a. Artery..vein
b. Small intestine..colon
c. Skeletal muscle..cardiac muscle
d. Anterior pituitary..posterior pituitary

1986:
Beginning at the presynaptic membrane of the neuromuscular junction, describe the physical and biochemical
events involved in the contraction of a skeletal muscle fiber. Include the structure of the fiber in your
discussion.

1986:
Describe the processes of fat and protein digestion and product absorption as they occur in the human
stomach and small intestine. Include a discussion of the enzymatic reactions involved.

1987:
Discuss the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide that occur at the alveoli and muscle cells of mammals.
Include in your answer a description of the transport of these gases in the blood.

1989:
Describe negative and positive feedback loops, and discuss how feedback mechanisms regulate each of the
following:
a. The menstrual cycle in a nonpregnant human female.
b. Blood glucose levels in humans.

1991:
The graph below shows the response of the human immune system to exposure to an antigen. Use this graph
to answer part a and part b of this question.

a. Describe the events that occur during period I as the immune system responds to the initial exposure to
the antigen.
b. Describe the events that occur during period II following a second exposure to the same antigen.
c. Explain how infection by the AIDS virus (HIV) affects the function of both T and B lymphocytes.

185
1992:
Biological recognition is important in many processes at the molecular, cellular,and organismal levels. Select
three of the following, and for each of the three that you have chosen, explain how the process of recognition
occurs and give an example.
a. Organisms recognize others as members of their own species.
b. Neurotransmitters are recognized in the synapse.
c. Antigens trigger antibody responses.
d. Nucleic acids are complementary.
e. Target cells respond to specific hormones.

1992:
Survival depends on the ability of an organism to respond to changes in its environment. Some plants flower
in response to changes in day length. Some mammals may run or fight when frightened. For both of these
examples, describe the physiological mechanism involved in the response.

1993:
Many physiological changes occur during exercise.
(a) Design a controlled experiment to test the hypothesis that an exercise session causes short-term
increases in heart rate and breathing rate in humans.
(b) Explain how at least three organ systems are affected by this increased physical activity and discuss
interactions among these systems.

1994:
Discuss how cellular structures, including the plasma membrane, specialized endoplasmic reticulum,
cytoskeletal elements, and mitochondria, function together in the contraction of skeletal muscle cells.

1996:
Structure and function are related in the various organ systems of animals.
Select two of the following four organ systems in vertebrates:
* respiratory
* digestive
* excretory
* nervous

For each of the two systems you choose, discuss the structure and function of two adaptations that aid in the
transport or exchange of molecules (or ions). Be sure to related structure to function in each example.

186
2002:
The activities of organisms change at regular time intervals. These changes are called biological rhythms.
The graph depicts the activity cycle over a 48-hour period for a fictional groups of mammals called pointy-
eared bombats, found on an isolated island in the temperate zone.

a. Describe the cycle of activity for bombats. Discuss how three of the following factors might affect
the physiology and/or behavior of the bombats to result in this pattern of activity.
• temperature
• food availability
• presence of predators
• social behavior
b. Propose a hypothesis regarding the effect of light on the cycle of activity in bombats. Describe a
controlled experiment that could be performed to test this hypothesis and the results you would
expect.

2002:
In mammals, heart rate during period of exercise is linked to the intensity of exercise.
a.. Discuss the interactions of the respiratory, circulatory and nerbous systems during exercise.
b. Design a controlled experiment to determine the relationship between intensity aof exercise and
heart rate.
c. Graph the results uou expect for both the control and the experimental groups for the controlled
experiment you described in part B. Remember to label the axes.

2004:
Homeostasis, maintaining a steady state internal environment, is a characteristic of all living organisms.
Choose three of the following physiological parameters and for each, describe how homeostasis is
maintained in an organism of your choice. Be sure to indicate which animal you have chosen for each
parameter. You may use the same animal or different animals for your three descriptions.
• blood glucose levels
• body temperature
• pH of blood
• osmotic concentration of blood
• neuron resting membrane potential

2005:
An important defense against diseases in vertebrate animals is the ability to elinate, inactivate, or destroy
substances and organisms. Explain how the immune system achieves three of the following:
• Provides an immediate nonspecific immune response
• Activates T and B cells in response to an infection
• Responds to a later exposure to the same infectious agent
• Distinguishes itself from nonself

187
Plants
1960:
The seed is the organ having great survival value. Discuss:
a) the structure of seeds from this point of view;
b) the phenomenon and biological importance of dormancy of seeds.

1961:
Trace the evolutionary trends shown by the gametophyte generation in a bryophyte (a liverwort or moss), a
fern, and a pine with respect to:
a) origin and structure
b) mode of nutrition
c) structure and mode of transport of the sperm
d) relative size and longevity compared to the sporophyte generation

1962:
A. Compare the nutrition of bread mold (Rhizopus) with that of the gametophyte generation of a fern.
B. Compare the conduction of food materials, water, and salts in the sporophyte generation of a fern.
C. Compare sexual reproduction in an alga (such as Spirogyra or Oedogonium) with that in a moss.

1964:
During its development from zygote to maturity, a bean plant forms the following structures:
1. stem
2. secondary roots
3. vascular cambium
4. embryo sac
5. cotyledons
A. Describe briefly the development origin of each of the five.
B. Describe briefly the functions of each of the five.

1965:
Discuss trends in the evolution of the sporophytes and gametophytes, using a moss, fern, and a flowering
plant, as examples emphasizing:
a. structure or morphology
b. mode of nutrition

1965:
The diagram below represents a longitudinal section of a complete flower. This is one of the most highly
evolved structures in the plant kingdom and is at least partially responsible for the degree of success that
these organisms have achieved in our present environment.
a. Name the numbered parts and give the function of each in the life cycle of the plant.
b. Tell in what way each of these parts has improved the chances of survival of this plant compared
with a fern.

1967:
Asexual reproduction is common among plants, including the fungi. Explain four methods of asexual
reproduction (either natural or artificial) and give an example of each.

1968:
Flowering plants have become the predominant, widespread plants of the land whereas ferns are more
restricted in their distribution. Explain the features of flowering plants that have made them more successful
than the ferns.

188
1969:
For plants, adaptations to a land environment are different from adaptations to a fresh water environment.
Using your knowledge about anatomy, development, and physiology of angiosperms, discuss the problems in
a land existence and adaptations of angiosperms that have evolved as solutions to these problems.

1973:
Seeds that are randomly positioned when planted in a pot of soil placed on a window sill produce seedlings
with downward growing roots and upward growing shoots. Above ground, the shoots are oriented toward light.
Describe the physiological mechanisms that occur to produce:
a) the downward growth of the roots
b) the upward growth of the shoots
c) the bending of the shoots toward light

1975:
Most flowering plants live on land. Describe and discuss the evolutionary adaptations that make flowering
plants better adapted to life on land than mosses.

1977:
Discuss the reproduction of a flowering plant, including pollination, fertilization, fruit formation, and seed
development.

1982:
In the life cycles of a fern and a flowering plant, compare and contrast each of the following:
a. The gametophyte generation
b. Sperm transport and fertilization
c. Embryo protection

1984:
Define the following plant responses and explain the mechanism of control for each. Cite experimental
evidence as part of your discussion.
a) phototropism
b) photoperiodism

1985:
Describe the structure of a bean seed and discuss its germination to the seedling
stage. Include in your essay hormonal controls, structural changes, and tissue differentiation.

1990:
Discuss the adaptations that have enabled flowering plants to overcome the following problems associated
with life on land.
a. The absence of an aquatic environment for reproduction
b. The absence of an aquatic environment to support the plant body
c. Dehydration of the plant

1992:
Survival depends on the ability of an organism to respond to changes in its environment. Some plants flower
in response to changes in day length. Some mammals may run or fight when frightened. For both of these
examples, describe the physiological mechanism involved in the response.

1959:
Considering the respective foles played by the root, stem, and leaf in the life of a dicotyledonous plant,
contrast the organization of these three organs.

189
1960:
With regard to photoperiodism in plants discuss:
a) one type of plant phenomenon affected;
b) the mechanism of the operation of photoperiodism;
c) the relative importance of intensity and duration of light;

1961:
Discuss the movement of water from the soil through a vascular plant during transpiration with regard to:
a) tissues traversed
b) processes and forces involved
c) environmental factors which are conducive to a high rate of transpiration
d) the effects of this process upon the plant

1962:
The opening and closing of the stomata are, in part, associated with the changing osmotic relationships
existing between the guard cells and the surrounding epidermis and mesophyll.
a) Describe the structure of a guard cell and discuss the osmotic relationships that tend to result in
stomatal opening. Labeled diagrams may be used as aids in explanation.
b) Stomata are usually closed in the dark but tend to open in the light. Describe two possible causes of
change in the guard cells or in their environment which result in stomatal opening.

1964:
Each of the five leaf structures indicated in the diagram below is related to either the raw materials of, or by-
products of, or regulation of the rate of leaf photosynthesis.
a) Name the five structures in order.
b) Discuss how each may regulate or in some way affect the rate of photosynthesis.

1969:
For plants, adaptations to a land environment are different from adaptations to a fresh water environment.
Using your knowledge about anatomy, development, and physiology of angiosperms, discuss the problems in
a land existence and adaptations of angiosperms that have evolved as solutions to these problems.

1970:
Since the days when Charles Darwin and his son Francis initiated an investigation of the phototropic response
of stems and of grass coleoptiles, subsequent investigators have added much to our knowledge of this
response. Describe the mechanism now proposed to explain phototropism in stems or coleoptiles and one
crucial experiment that provided evidence for this mechanism.

1973:
Seeds that are randomly positioned when planted in a pot of soil placed on a window sill produce seedlings
with downward growing roots and upward growing shoots. Above ground, the shoots are oriented toward light.
Describe the physiological mechanisms that occur to produce:
a) the downward growth of the roots
b) the upward growth of the shoots
c) the bending of the shoots toward the light

1974:
Individual organisms make short-term adjustments to temporary environmental changes in temperature,
moisture, light, or the chemical environment. Choose any one of these environmental factors and describe
mechanisms by which plants may adjust to changes in that factor.

1976:
Discuss the manner in which water, minerals, and organic compounds are transported in flowering plants.

190
1978:
Discuss the structural and functional adaptations found in higher plants that enable them to conserve water
under different environmental conditions.

1979:
In relation to plants, describe in detail one way of:
a) measuring the rate of transpiration
b) measuring the rate of photosynthesis
c) separating pigments

1980:
In flowering plants, describe in detail the transport of water, carbohydrates, and inorganic solutes (nitrates, for
example). Discuss the theories that have been proposed to explain how these substances are transported.

1983:
Relate the structure of an angiosperm leaf to each of the following:
a) Adaptations for photosynthesis and food storage
b) Adaptations for food translocation and water transport
c) Specialized adaptations to a desert environment

1984:
Define the following plant responses and explain the mechanism of control for each. Cite experimental
evidence as part of your discussion.
a) Phototropism
b) Photoperiodism

1985:
Describe the structure of a bean seed and discuss its germination to the seedling stage. Include in your essay
hormonal controls, structural changes, and tissue differentiation.

1987:
Describe the effects of plant hormones on plant growth and development. Design an experiment to
demonstrate the effect of one of these plant hormones on plant growth and development.

1988:
Trace the pathway in a flowering plant as the water moves from the soil through the tissues of the root, stem,
and leaves to the atmosphere. Explain the mechanisms involved in conducting water through these tissues.

1990:
Discuss the adaptations that have enabled flowering plants to overcome the following problems associated
with life on land.
a) The absence of an aquatic environment for reproduction.
b) The absence of an aquatic environment to support the plant body
c) Dehydration of the plant

191
1991:
A group of students designed an experiment to measure transpiration rates in a particular species of
herbaceous plant. Plants were divided into groups and were exposed to the following conditions.

Group I - Room conditions (light, low humidity, 200 C, and little air movement)

Group II - Room conditions with increased humidity

Group III - Room conditions with increased air movement (fan)

Group IV - Room conditions with additional light

The cumulative water loss due to transpiration of water from each plant was measured at 10-minute intervals
for 30 minutes. Water loss was expressed as milliliters of water per square centimeter of leaf surface area.
The data for all plants in Group I (room conditions) were averaged. The average cumulative water loss by the
plants in Group I is presented in the table below.

Average Cumulative Water Loss by the Plants in Group I

Time Average Cumulative Water Loss

(minutes) (milliliters H2/centimeter2)
10 3.5 x 10-4
20 7.7 x 10-4
30 10.6 x 10-4

a. Construct and label a graph using the data for Group I. Using the same set of axes, draw and label
three additional lines representing the results that you would predict for Groups II, III, and IV.
b. Explain how biological and physical processes are responsible for the differences between each of your
predictions and the data for Group I.
c. Explain how the concept of water potential is used to account for the movement of water from the plant
stem to the atmosphere during transpiration.

1995:
Angiosperms (flowering plants) and vertebrates obtain nutrients from their
environment in different ways:

(A) Discuss the type of nutrition and the nutritional requirements of angiosperms and
vertebrates.

(B) Describe 2 structural adaptations in angiosperms for obtaining nutrients from the
environment. Relate structure to function.

(C) Interdependence in nature is evident in symbiosis. Explain two symbiotic relationships

that aid in nutrient uptake, using examples from angiosperms and/or vertebrates.
(Both examples may be angiosperms, both may be vertebrates, or one may be from
each group.

192
1996:
Numerous environmental variables influence plant growth. Three students each planted a seedling of the
same genetic variety in the same type of container with equal amounts of soil from the same source. Their
goal was to maximize their seedling's growth by manipulating environmental conditions. Their data are shown
below.

Plant Seedling Mass

(grams)
Day 1 Day 30
Student A 4 24
Student B 5 35
Student C 4 64

a) Identify three different environmental variables that could account for differences in the mass of the
seedlings at day 30. Then choose one of these variables and design an experiment to test the
hypothesis that your variable affects growth of these seedlings.
b) Discuss the results you would expect if your hypothesis is correct. Then provide a physiological
explanation for the effect of your variable on plant growth.

2004
Organisms rarely exist alone in the natural environment. The following are five examples of symbiotic
relationships.
• plant root nodules
• digestion of cellulose
• epiphytic plants
• AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome)
• Anthrax
Choose FOUR of the above and for each example chosen,
a. identify the participants involved in the symbiosis and describe the symbiotic relationship, and
b. discuss the specific benefit or detriment, if any, that each participant receives from the relationship.

2005:
Angiosperms )flowering plants) have a wide distribution in the biosphere and the largest number of species in
the plant kingdom.
a. Discuss the function of four structures for reproduction found in angiosperms and the adaptive
(evolutionary) significance of each.
b. Mosses (bryophytes{ have not achieved the widespread terrestrial success of angiosperms.
Discuss how the anatomy and reproductive strategies of mosses limit their distribution.
c. Explain alteration of generations in either angiosperms or mosses.

193
Diversity of Life
2003
Regulatory (control) mechanisms in organisms are necessary for survival. Choose three of the
following examples and explain how eachis regulated.
a. Flowering in plants
b. water balance in plants
c. Water balance In terrestrial vertebrates
d. body temperature in terrestrial vertebrates.

2004
Organisms differ from one another and yet share common characteristics.
a. Select two kingdoms and briefly describe three characteristics used to distinguish between
members of one kingdom and members of the other.
b. Describe three characteristics (at least one molecular and one cellular) that members of these two
kingdoms share.
c. Propose an explanation for the existence of similarities and differences between the two kingdoms.

194
 AP Biology Review Section
(all pages refer to Campbell and Reece, 7th edition)

I. Molecules and Cells

A. Chemistry of Life
1. Water (this should be an easy review) (Chapter 3) but be sure to go over the properties like
cohesion, heat of vaporization, etc. Look at the chapter review on page 56. and tie the properties to
why they are important to life in general. At the end of the chapter is a good discussion of pH and
buffers if you are still uncertain about this.

2. Organic Molecules (from carbon to DNA) (Chapter 4 and 5) This is really a big area, but you
know a lot. Review the summary pages at the ends of the chapters, especially page 90. Look over
functional groups on page 64-65. You should be able to recognize major classes of molecules from a
structural formula.

3. Free Energy Change (definitions of pg 145 and graphs on [g 151 –152) ATP (pg 148)

4. Enzymes. Review the outline on page 158. Review inhibitors and allosteric sites (pg 155-156)

B. Cells
1. Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic. Review the diagram of a prokaryotic cell on pg. 98. Remember that
they are in the domain Eubacteria. Eukaryotic cell parts (Chapter 6). Review key concepts on pg.
122. Be able to describe the Archea.

2. Membranes. Review structure diagram on pg. 127. but also remember the functional aspects like
diffusion, active transport, osmosis etc. Look at the function of proteins on page 128, the Na/K ATPase
pump on pg. 135, endocytosis diagrams on page 138.

3. Subcellular Organization (These are the cell parts in chapter 6). Remember structure relates to
function….cells have what they need to use. Review page 122.

4. Cell Cycle and Regulation. This is a big area. Mitosis is Chapter 12. Look at the pie chart on pg
221 and review the stages of mitosis on pg 222-223. Try to tie this to DNA replication. This cycle is
regulated by factors (pg 229-230). Remember that cancer doesn’t follow the rules.

C. Cellular Energetics
1. Coupled Reactions - Don’t worry too much. Just remember free energy change and that some
reactions are easier to run than others and they are coupled with the hard ones.

2. Fermentation and Cellular Respiration (Chapter 9). This is a big area. glycolysis, Kreb’s
electron transport and ATP production. Look at the overall diagrams of comparison like on pg 164,
172, 174. Do NOT try to memorize all the details, but focus on the end products like NADH, FADH,
and ATP. Which is more efficient. How is each stp regulated? (remember phosphofructokinase??)
Where is oxygen used? Where is CO2 produced? Which has the redox reactions? How do you get
the 36 ATP? Why is fermentation less efficient? Review page 179. The diagrams in your book are all
color-coded: green is glycolysis, orange is Krebs and purple is hydrogen transport.

3. Photosynthesis (Chapter 10). Do the same kind of review as for Chapter 9. Start with the
diagrams on page 185, 190, 193, 194 (Light reactions and the Calvin Cycle). Look at the end products
of the light reaction (ATP, NADPH) as they drive the Calvin Cycle. Why is this a redox reaction? How
is this regulated? Where is the carbon dioxide used? Where is the oxygen produced? Why are
plants green? This is all for C3 plants, review the exceptions for the Calvin Cycle in C4 and CAM

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 plants on page 197. Why does photorespiration happen? (Page 195) Look at the C4 diagram on
page 196.

II. Heredity and Evolution

A. Heredity
1. Meiosis (pg 238-246)(this should be an easy review) Tie meiosis to crossing over (pg 248 and the
Sordaria experiment. Compare to mitosis (pg 247).

2. Gametogenesis (egg and sperm production) (pg 974-975) and plants (597-600). Gametes are
haploid and involve meiosis in their production.

3. Eukaryotic chromosomes (pg 219 and 359).

4. Inheritance patterns (monohybrid, dihybrid crosses, sex linkage) Patterns such as 3:1 and
9:3:3:1. All problems will be simple and not require a calculator.

B. Molecular Genetics
1. RNA and DNA structure and function (this is the whole central dogma) Review replication,
transcription, translation, but do it generally. Individual enzymes are very unlikely to be asked 0 with
the excetpion of ligase (glue), restriction endonuclease (specific cuts) and polymerase (RNA poly does
transcription; DNA poly does replication). Be sure to list the differences in DNA and RNA (see page
for a food summary of RNA).

2. Gene Regulation (everything from operons to methylation to pre m-RNA to introns to inactive
proteins. This covers a lot of territory. Think feedback here and look at the diagrams on pg 362 and
372.

3. Mutation – Know the basics of deletion, duplication, inversion, insertion and translocation. Those
mutations can happen at the nucleotide level, the gene level, or the chromosomal level (pg 328-329).

4. Viral Structure and Replication Know the relationship between nucleic acid, protein, lytic and
lysogenic cycles. Review Chapter 18 in general and pages 338-336 for specific diagrams. Be sure to
understand HIV as a virus (pg 342).

5. Nucleic Acid Technology and Applications This is where the objectives of your transformation
and restriction digest lab go.. Review these labs. How can you tell how big a piece of DNA is? Know
about transposons , sequencing, PCR, DNA fingerprints, and cloning.

C. Evolutionary Biology
1. Early Evolution of Life (Chapter 26). Know the origin of life, Miller’s experiment and the Oparin
hypothesis (page 213). What is the significance of the four gases: methane, ammonia, water and
hydrogen? Skim this chapter and read the last section on the Tree of Life and study the tChapter
Review on page 532.

2. Evidence for Evolution – Think about molecular biology (chimps and us differ by 1% in our DNA,
fossils, homology ( similar structures) and embryology (similar development) . Why is a tunicate
considered a chordate?

3. Mechanisms of Evolution- This is chapters 22,23,24. We have concentrated on the mechanisms

in a population (Hardy-Weinberg) and the factors that cause change such as mutation, natural
selection, immigration, emigration and a small population, speciation and adaptation. There are lots of
examples in this chapter. You should know an example for each. Look over the chapters, especially

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 the diagrams and summaries of key concepts at the end of the chapters. Try some of the multiple
choice questions to see how you do (Answers are in Appendix A).

III. Organisms and Populations

A. Taxonomy
1. There are 6 kingdoms: Monera, Archea, Protists, Fungi, Animalia, Plantae. (page 495-497).

2. Each kingdom is divided into subgroups (the phylum classification).

These groups are illustrated for animals on page 635 and for plants on pages 578-579.
**Pay attention to the notion of Alteration of Generations in Plants (page 576) While animals
also alternate between diploid and haploid, plants often live a great portion of their time in the
haploid. For example, moss is haploid. Only the tall spikes that come out of the fuzzy stuff are
diploid.

3. The different classes of chordates are listed and described on page 672. The orders of
mammals are on page 699. Read the Chapter Review Section on page 707-708.

B. Plants – Read the review outline for each of these chapters 35,36,37,38,39,40.
1. Review tissues and general functions such as the transport of wter and food and the
functioning of the stomata. (page 717-719, 750).

2. Review the structure of tissues: stems, leaf, root (pages 721, 725, 726, 727). These often
occur as multiple choice questions.

3. Look at the chart for plant hormones (page 794) and review the short-day, long-day and
flowering plants (page 807). Remember this is the “nervous system” of the plant. Many
movements are regulated by the presence of hormones.

C. Animals (Chapters 40-49) Read the end of the chapter reviews for each of these chapters.
1. Review tissues, organs and general functions of each system (RUN MRS LIDEC). Relate
each organ to the problem it solves for the organism and how it differs in different environments
(structure is related to function!)

2. Look at the diagrams of the heart (page 872), the eye (page 1059), the brain (page 1032),
the kidney (pages 932-933) to prepare for the multiple choice questions.

3. Review each of the sensory organs such as the eye (page 1059) and the ear (pages 1052-
1053).

4. Review movement. Check the diagram on pages 1067-1068. Look at the diagrams and
read the text about how a muscle works (pages 1066-1072).

5. Review development (Chapter 21). Know the follwing terms: morula, blastula, gastrula,
neurala, ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm, endoderm, grey crescent, animal pole, vegetal pole,
blastopore.

D. Ecology
1. Tie adaptation to the environment (page 1081).

2. Review ecosystems (Chapter 54). Tis is easy material, but look through the chapter and
look at terms such as producer, consumer, productivity, food and energy pyramids and the
carbon, nitrogen and phosphorous cycles.

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 3. Review the key concepts for population ecology (Chapter 52). Know terms like limiting
factors, carrying capacity, exponential curves and steady growth. Review the key concepts for
behavioral biology (Chapter 51). Know key terms such as learning, cognition and sociobiology.

E. Animal Behavior
Look through the pictures in Chapter 51/ Check the Chapter Review on page 1133. It is filled with
vocabulary, but the most important is probably the learning and behavior section.

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