The diagram shows tomato plants used by a university team studying shelf life. One group of plants has been genetically modified so that their fruits make l...
Question 1 Report
The diagram shows tomato plants used by a university team studying shelf life. One group of plants has been genetically modified so that their fruits make less of an enzyme involved in softening. Fig. 1 shows fruits from both groups after the same time at room temperature. The team wants to reduce food waste during transport, but it also tests whether the modified tomatoes still make normal amounts of vitamin C and whether insects visit the flowers. Each plant is given the same water, light and mineral fertiliser.
(a) Identify the change shown by the genetically modified tomatoes in Fig. 1. [1]
(b) Explain how reducing the amount of one enzyme can change how quickly a tomato softens. [2]
(c) Suggest three variables the team should control when comparing the two groups. [3]
Answer Details
(a) They remain firmer / soften more slowly [1] (b) Enzymes catalyse reactions involved in softening [1]; less enzyme means fewer successful reactions per second / slower breakdown of cell walls [1] (c) Any three: temperature [1]; time after picking [1]; amount of water [1]; light intensity [1]; fertiliser amount [1]; tomato variety / starting ripeness [1].
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