Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield)
Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) Topic 3: Cell Structure and Organisation Exam Questions
Free Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) exam questions on Topic 3: Cell Structure and Organisation, with mark schemes. Covers eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, organelles, the role of the RER and Golgi, and tissues and organs.
Topic 3: Cell Structure and Organisation exam questions
These packs of real past exam questions cover the whole of Topic 3: Voice of the Genome, including Topic 3: Cell Structure and Organisation. Work through every question on this sub-topic, then mark your answers against the mark scheme.
StemUp mark scheme flashcards
Edexcel A Level Biology A (SNAB) 9BN0 Flashcards (Anki & Quizlet)
Every answer is written in mark scheme wording, so you learn exactly what examiners give marks for. Use them on Anki or Quizlet, then test yourself with the questions on this page.
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About Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) Topic 3: Cell Structure and Organisation
This part of Topic 3 covers what cells are made of and how they are organised. Expect labelled diagrams and questions on protein secretion.
What you need to know
- Eukaryotic cells Nucleus, nucleolus, ribosomes, RER, SER, Golgi apparatus, mitochondria, lysosomes, centrioles and the cell membrane.
- Prokaryotic cells No nucleus, circular DNA, plasmids, 70S ribosomes, cell wall, sometimes capsule and flagellum.
- Protein secretion Proteins made on the RER, modified in the Golgi apparatus and packaged into vesicles for exocytosis.
- Organisation Cells form tissues, tissues form organs and organs form organ systems.
Common mistakes in Topic 3: Cell Structure and Organisation
- Saying prokaryotes have no DNA.
- Confusing the RER and SER functions.
- Mixing up magnification and resolution.
Try three Topic 3: Cell Structure and Organisation exam-style questions
1. Describe the role of the Golgi apparatus. (2 marks)
Show the mark scheme answer
It modifies proteins, for example adding carbohydrates (1), and packages them into vesicles for transport or secretion (1).
2. Give two differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. (2 marks)
Show the mark scheme answer
Any two: prokaryotes have no nucleus, no membrane-bound organelles, smaller 70S ribosomes, circular DNA (1 each).
3. Calculate the actual size of a cell that measures 30 mm in a micrograph at x1500 magnification. (2 marks)
Show the mark scheme answer
Actual size = 30 / 1500 = 0.02 mm (1) = 20 µm (1).
Topic 3: Cell Structure and Organisation FAQs
What does this part of SNAB Topic 3 cover?
Eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structure, protein secretion and levels of organisation.
Do I need magnification calculations?
Yes. Actual size = image size / magnification.
Which paper tests Topic 3?
Papers 1 and 3.
Revise this topic with flashcards: Edexcel A Level Biology A (SNAB) 9BN0 Flashcards, with mark scheme answers for Anki and Quizlet.
