Physical Education 0413 | Paper 1 Mock 01 | Theory
Question 1 Report
Different physical activities carry different levels of risk for the performer and for others.
(a) Name one sport with a high level of risk to the performer. Explain why. [2]
(b) Suggest two factors related to the environment that can increase the risk of injury during outdoor activities. [2]
(c) Describe how wearing appropriate clothing and footwear can help reduce risk in sport. [2]
(d) Explain why it is important for performers to balance the benefits and risks of physical activity. [2]
(a) A sport with a high level of risk to the performer is boxing. [1] In boxing, the performer is directly struck by an opponent, leading to a high chance of cuts, bruises, concussion, or long-term head injuries. The repeated impact to the head makes it one of the most physically dangerous sports. [1]
(b) Two environmental factors that can increase the risk of injury during outdoor activities:
- Wet or icy surfaces increase the chance of slipping, falling, and sustaining impact injuries or fractures. [1]
- Poor lighting makes it difficult to see obstacles, uneven ground, or other players, increasing the likelihood of collisions or trips. [1]
(c) Appropriate footwear provides grip and ankle support, reducing the risk of sprains or slips on the playing surface. Studded boots on a grass pitch, for example, anchor the performer during changes of direction. [1] Suitable clothing protects against weather conditions (keeping the body warm in cold or cool in heat) and allows freedom of movement, helping to prevent muscle strains caused by restricted motion or temperature extremes. [1]
(d) The benefits of physical activity include improved fitness, health, and well-being, encompassing stronger muscles, better cardiovascular endurance, reduced stress, and social interaction. [1] However, performers must understand and manage the risks so they can participate safely and avoid preventable injuries that could stop them from training or competing in the future. Balancing benefits against risks ensures a sustainable, long-term involvement in physical activity. [1]
Answer Details
(a) A sport with a high level of risk to the performer is boxing. [1] In boxing, the performer is directly struck by an opponent, leading to a high chance of cuts, bruises, concussion, or long-term head injuries. The repeated impact to the head makes it one of the most physically dangerous sports. [1]
(b) Two environmental factors that can increase the risk of injury during outdoor activities:
- Wet or icy surfaces increase the chance of slipping, falling, and sustaining impact injuries or fractures. [1]
- Poor lighting makes it difficult to see obstacles, uneven ground, or other players, increasing the likelihood of collisions or trips. [1]
(c) Appropriate footwear provides grip and ankle support, reducing the risk of sprains or slips on the playing surface. Studded boots on a grass pitch, for example, anchor the performer during changes of direction. [1] Suitable clothing protects against weather conditions (keeping the body warm in cold or cool in heat) and allows freedom of movement, helping to prevent muscle strains caused by restricted motion or temperature extremes. [1]
(d) The benefits of physical activity include improved fitness, health, and well-being, encompassing stronger muscles, better cardiovascular endurance, reduced stress, and social interaction. [1] However, performers must understand and manage the risks so they can participate safely and avoid preventable injuries that could stop them from training or competing in the future. Balancing benefits against risks ensures a sustainable, long-term involvement in physical activity. [1]
Question 2 Report
Hosting a global event such as the Olympic Games can have both positive and negative effects on the host country.
(a) Describe two economic benefits that a host country could gain from staging the Olympic Games. [4]
(b) Suggest two possible disadvantages for a host country. [2]
(a) Economic benefits of hosting the Olympic Games
Staging a global event brings significant economic activity to the host country:
Benefit 1: Increased tourism. Hundreds of thousands of international visitors attend the Games and spend money in hotels, restaurants, shops, and on transport. This boosts revenue for local businesses and generates tax income for the host city. [1+1]
Benefit 2: Job creation. The construction of stadiums, athletes' villages, and transport links creates thousands of jobs in the years leading up to the event. During the Games themselves, additional employment is generated in hospitality, security, and event management. [1+1]
Other acceptable benefits: increased investment from international businesses and sponsors; long-term economic boost from improved infrastructure. [max 4]
(b) Possible disadvantages for the host country
- High cost and overspending: Building venues and infrastructure often exceeds the original budget, leaving the host country or city with significant debt. [1]
- Underused venues: After the event, purpose-built stadiums and arenas may have no regular use, becoming costly to maintain - sometimes called 'white elephants'. [1]
Other acceptable answers: displacement of local residents during construction; increased security costs; disruption to daily life during the event. [max 2]
Answer Details
(a) Economic benefits of hosting the Olympic Games
Staging a global event brings significant economic activity to the host country:
Benefit 1: Increased tourism. Hundreds of thousands of international visitors attend the Games and spend money in hotels, restaurants, shops, and on transport. This boosts revenue for local businesses and generates tax income for the host city. [1+1]
Benefit 2: Job creation. The construction of stadiums, athletes' villages, and transport links creates thousands of jobs in the years leading up to the event. During the Games themselves, additional employment is generated in hospitality, security, and event management. [1+1]
Other acceptable benefits: increased investment from international businesses and sponsors; long-term economic boost from improved infrastructure. [max 4]
(b) Possible disadvantages for the host country
- High cost and overspending: Building venues and infrastructure often exceeds the original budget, leaving the host country or city with significant debt. [1]
- Underused venues: After the event, purpose-built stadiums and arenas may have no regular use, becoming costly to maintain - sometimes called 'white elephants'. [1]
Other acceptable answers: displacement of local residents during construction; increased security costs; disruption to daily life during the event. [max 2]
Question 3 Report
Performers use a range of different skills when taking part in physical activities.
(a) Describe the difference between a simple skill and a complex skill. Give one sporting example of each. [4]
(b) Explain why placing skills on a continuum is more useful than placing them into fixed categories. [3]
(c) A badminton player performs a serve and then returns a smash from their opponent. Classify each of these skills on the open-closed continuum. Justify your answer. [3]
(a) A simple skill is one that has few decisions to make and is straightforward to perform. It requires relatively little concentration because the movement pattern is uncomplicated. An example is a forward roll in gymnastics, where the performer follows a single, well-practised movement. [1 + 1]
A complex skill involves many decisions, consists of several linked parts, and demands a high level of concentration. The performer must process more information and coordinate multiple actions. An example is a tennis serve, which requires a ball toss, backswing, contact, and follow-through all timed precisely. [1 + 1]
(b) Placing skills on a continuum is more useful than fixed categories because very few skills are purely simple or purely complex in every situation. [1] A continuum acknowledges that most skills fall somewhere between the two extremes, giving a more accurate and nuanced picture of the skill's demands. [1] This helps coaches plan appropriate practice: a skill closer to the complex end might need more part-practice and slower build-up, while one nearer the simple end can be practised as a whole. [1]
(c) The badminton serve sits towards the closed end of the open-closed continuum because the shuttlecock is stationary on the racket and the environment is relatively stable; the performer controls when and how they execute the action. [1] Returning a smash, by contrast, sits towards the open end because the performer must react to the speed, direction, and timing of the opponent's shot, making the environment unpredictable. [1] This illustrates that even within the same sport, different skills can occupy different positions on the continuum. [1]
Answer Details
(a) A simple skill is one that has few decisions to make and is straightforward to perform. It requires relatively little concentration because the movement pattern is uncomplicated. An example is a forward roll in gymnastics, where the performer follows a single, well-practised movement. [1 + 1]
A complex skill involves many decisions, consists of several linked parts, and demands a high level of concentration. The performer must process more information and coordinate multiple actions. An example is a tennis serve, which requires a ball toss, backswing, contact, and follow-through all timed precisely. [1 + 1]
(b) Placing skills on a continuum is more useful than fixed categories because very few skills are purely simple or purely complex in every situation. [1] A continuum acknowledges that most skills fall somewhere between the two extremes, giving a more accurate and nuanced picture of the skill's demands. [1] This helps coaches plan appropriate practice: a skill closer to the complex end might need more part-practice and slower build-up, while one nearer the simple end can be practised as a whole. [1]
(c) The badminton serve sits towards the closed end of the open-closed continuum because the shuttlecock is stationary on the racket and the environment is relatively stable; the performer controls when and how they execute the action. [1] Returning a smash, by contrast, sits towards the open end because the performer must react to the speed, direction, and timing of the opponent's shot, making the environment unpredictable. [1] This illustrates that even within the same sport, different skills can occupy different positions on the continuum. [1]
Question 4 Report
During physical activity, the body makes changes to the blood to help the performer maintain their performance.
(a) Explain how red blood cells help a performer during prolonged exercise. [2]
(b) Describe one long-term effect of regular exercise on the blood that would benefit a performer in an endurance sport. [2]
(c) Give one reason why a performer needs an adequate supply of iron in their diet for their blood to function properly. [1]
(a) How red blood cells help during prolonged exercise
Red blood cells contain a protein called haemoglobin, which has the ability to bind with oxygen molecules in the lungs. [1]
This allows oxygen to be transported from the lungs to the working muscles through the bloodstream. At the muscles, the oxygen is released and used in aerobic respiration to produce energy (ATP) for sustained muscle contraction. Without sufficient red blood cells and haemoglobin, the muscles would not receive enough oxygen and the performer would fatigue rapidly. [1]
(b) Long-term effect of regular exercise on the blood
Regular endurance training causes an increase in the number of red blood cells and haemoglobin concentration in the blood. [1]
This means the blood has a greater oxygen-carrying capacity. More oxygen can be delivered to the working muscles per unit of time, which improves aerobic endurance, allows the performer to sustain higher intensities for longer, and delays the onset of fatigue. This is a key adaptation that separates trained endurance athletes from untrained individuals. [1]
(c) Why iron is needed in the diet
Iron is an essential mineral required for the production of haemoglobin in red blood cells. [1] Without adequate dietary iron, the body cannot produce enough haemoglobin, reducing the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. This can lead to iron-deficiency anaemia, characterised by tiredness, weakness, and poor exercise performance.
Answer Details
(a) How red blood cells help during prolonged exercise
Red blood cells contain a protein called haemoglobin, which has the ability to bind with oxygen molecules in the lungs. [1]
This allows oxygen to be transported from the lungs to the working muscles through the bloodstream. At the muscles, the oxygen is released and used in aerobic respiration to produce energy (ATP) for sustained muscle contraction. Without sufficient red blood cells and haemoglobin, the muscles would not receive enough oxygen and the performer would fatigue rapidly. [1]
(b) Long-term effect of regular exercise on the blood
Regular endurance training causes an increase in the number of red blood cells and haemoglobin concentration in the blood. [1]
This means the blood has a greater oxygen-carrying capacity. More oxygen can be delivered to the working muscles per unit of time, which improves aerobic endurance, allows the performer to sustain higher intensities for longer, and delays the onset of fatigue. This is a key adaptation that separates trained endurance athletes from untrained individuals. [1]
(c) Why iron is needed in the diet
Iron is an essential mineral required for the production of haemoglobin in red blood cells. [1] Without adequate dietary iron, the body cannot produce enough haemoglobin, reducing the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. This can lead to iron-deficiency anaemia, characterised by tiredness, weakness, and poor exercise performance.
Question 5 Report
Fig. 1 shows a front view of the muscular system of the human body. Some muscles are labelled with letters A, B, C and D.
(a) Name the muscles labelled A, B, C and D in Fig. 1. [4]
(a) Identifying muscles from the front view diagram
Based on their positions on a front view of the muscular system:
- A = Deltoid - the cap-shaped muscle covering the shoulder joint, responsible for raising and rotating the arm. [1]
- B = Pectorals (pectoralis major) - the large fan-shaped muscle across the chest, used to move the arm across the body and in pushing actions. [1]
- C = Abdominals (rectus abdominis) - the muscles running down the front of the torso, responsible for flexing the trunk and maintaining core stability. [1]
- D = Quadriceps (rectus femoris / quadriceps femoris) - the large muscle group at the front of the thigh, responsible for extending the knee. [1]
Answer Details
(a) Identifying muscles from the front view diagram
Based on their positions on a front view of the muscular system:
- A = Deltoid - the cap-shaped muscle covering the shoulder joint, responsible for raising and rotating the arm. [1]
- B = Pectorals (pectoralis major) - the large fan-shaped muscle across the chest, used to move the arm across the body and in pushing actions. [1]
- C = Abdominals (rectus abdominis) - the muscles running down the front of the torso, responsible for flexing the trunk and maintaining core stability. [1]
- D = Quadriceps (rectus femoris / quadriceps femoris) - the large muscle group at the front of the thigh, responsible for extending the knee. [1]
Question 6 Report
Identify the type of movement allowed at a hinge joint. [1]
A hinge joint allows flexion and extension. [1] These are movements in one plane only: flexion decreases the angle at the joint (bending), while extension increases the angle (straightening). Examples of hinge joints include the knee and the elbow. Either flexion or extension alone is sufficient for the mark.
Answer Details
A hinge joint allows flexion and extension. [1] These are movements in one plane only: flexion decreases the angle at the joint (bending), while extension increases the angle (straightening). Examples of hinge joints include the knee and the elbow. Either flexion or extension alone is sufficient for the mark.
Question 7 Report
(a) Explain why blood cell production is an important function of the skeleton for a performer who takes part in endurance activities. [3]
(b) Describe how the skeleton protects two different organs in the body. Give a named example for each. [4]
(a) Blood cell production is a vital skeletal function for endurance performers because red blood cells are manufactured inside the bone marrow of certain bones such as the femur, pelvis and sternum. [1] Red blood cells contain haemoglobin, which binds to oxygen and transports it from the lungs to the working muscles. [1] An endurance athlete, such as a marathon runner, depends on a continuous and high supply of oxygen to sustain aerobic energy production over an extended period, so efficient red blood cell production directly supports their capacity to perform. [1]
(b) The skeleton protects internal organs by encasing them within hard, bony structures:
- The skull (cranium) forms a rigid casing around the brain, shielding it from blows and impacts that could occur during sport. [1+1]
- The ribcage surrounds and protects the heart and lungs from external forces, such as collisions in contact sports. [1+1]
Other acceptable examples include the vertebral column protecting the spinal cord.
Answer Details
(a) Blood cell production is a vital skeletal function for endurance performers because red blood cells are manufactured inside the bone marrow of certain bones such as the femur, pelvis and sternum. [1] Red blood cells contain haemoglobin, which binds to oxygen and transports it from the lungs to the working muscles. [1] An endurance athlete, such as a marathon runner, depends on a continuous and high supply of oxygen to sustain aerobic energy production over an extended period, so efficient red blood cell production directly supports their capacity to perform. [1]
(b) The skeleton protects internal organs by encasing them within hard, bony structures:
- The skull (cranium) forms a rigid casing around the brain, shielding it from blows and impacts that could occur during sport. [1+1]
- The ribcage surrounds and protects the heart and lungs from external forces, such as collisions in contact sports. [1+1]
Other acceptable examples include the vertebral column protecting the spinal cord.
Question 8 Report
Describe the role of white blood cells in the body. Explain why a performer who is unwell with an infection may notice a change in their physical performance. [3]
White blood cells and infection
Role of white blood cells: White blood cells (leucocytes) are a key part of the immune system. They identify, attack, and destroy harmful pathogens such as bacteria and viruses that enter the body. Some white blood cells engulf and digest invaders (phagocytosis), while others produce antibodies that target specific pathogens. [1]
Impact on performance when ill: When a performer has an infection, the body diverts significant energy and resources toward fighting the illness. The immune response itself consumes energy (the body may raise its temperature to create a fever, for example), and the infection may cause inflammation or tissue damage. [1]
As a result, less energy is available for physical activity. The performer may experience fatigue more quickly, feel weak, have reduced concentration, and find that their cardiovascular system cannot deliver oxygen as efficiently. Performance in both endurance and power activities will typically decline until the infection is cleared. [1]
Answer Details
White blood cells and infection
Role of white blood cells: White blood cells (leucocytes) are a key part of the immune system. They identify, attack, and destroy harmful pathogens such as bacteria and viruses that enter the body. Some white blood cells engulf and digest invaders (phagocytosis), while others produce antibodies that target specific pathogens. [1]
Impact on performance when ill: When a performer has an infection, the body diverts significant energy and resources toward fighting the illness. The immune response itself consumes energy (the body may raise its temperature to create a fever, for example), and the infection may cause inflammation or tissue damage. [1]
As a result, less energy is available for physical activity. The performer may experience fatigue more quickly, feel weak, have reduced concentration, and find that their cardiovascular system cannot deliver oxygen as efficiently. Performance in both endurance and power activities will typically decline until the infection is cleared. [1]
Question 9 Report
Fig. 1 shows a model used to explain how a performer processes information during a physical activity.
(a) Identify the four stages of the information processing model shown in Fig. 1. [2]
(b) Explain the role of the decision-making stage for a goalkeeper facing a penalty kick in football. [2]
(c) Describe how feedback helps a performer improve their skill level when learning a new activity. [2]
(a) The four stages of the information processing model are:
- Input [0.5]
- Decision-making [0.5]
- Output [0.5]
- Feedback [0.5]
[2 marks for all four correct; 1 mark for three correct]
This model describes how a performer receives information from their environment, processes it, selects a response, and then uses feedback to refine future actions. It operates as a continuous loop during physical activity.
(b) The role of the decision-making stage for a goalkeeper facing a penalty kick:
- The goalkeeper receives information (input) from the environment, such as the kicker's body position, angle of approach, direction of their eyes, and the position of the ball. [1]
- During the decision-making stage, the goalkeeper selects a response from the available options, for example deciding which way to dive based on the cues observed from the kicker's run-up and body language. [1]
This stage must happen extremely quickly in a penalty situation because the ball travels at high speed, leaving the goalkeeper very little reaction time. Experience and practice help goalkeepers recognise patterns faster, improving the quality of their decisions.
(c) Feedback helps a performer improve their skill level in the following ways:
- Feedback provides information about what the performer did well and what needs improving, allowing them to understand the gap between their current performance and the desired outcome. [1]
- The performer can then correct errors and adjust their technique, or repeat successful movements with greater confidence. [1]
Feedback can be extrinsic (from an external source such as a coach pointing out a technical fault) or intrinsic (from the performer's own senses, such as the feel of a well-timed tennis serve). Both types are valuable, especially during the early stages of learning a new skill when the performer may not yet recognise errors independently.
Answer Details
(a) The four stages of the information processing model are:
- Input [0.5]
- Decision-making [0.5]
- Output [0.5]
- Feedback [0.5]
[2 marks for all four correct; 1 mark for three correct]
This model describes how a performer receives information from their environment, processes it, selects a response, and then uses feedback to refine future actions. It operates as a continuous loop during physical activity.
(b) The role of the decision-making stage for a goalkeeper facing a penalty kick:
- The goalkeeper receives information (input) from the environment, such as the kicker's body position, angle of approach, direction of their eyes, and the position of the ball. [1]
- During the decision-making stage, the goalkeeper selects a response from the available options, for example deciding which way to dive based on the cues observed from the kicker's run-up and body language. [1]
This stage must happen extremely quickly in a penalty situation because the ball travels at high speed, leaving the goalkeeper very little reaction time. Experience and practice help goalkeepers recognise patterns faster, improving the quality of their decisions.
(c) Feedback helps a performer improve their skill level in the following ways:
- Feedback provides information about what the performer did well and what needs improving, allowing them to understand the gap between their current performance and the desired outcome. [1]
- The performer can then correct errors and adjust their technique, or repeat successful movements with greater confidence. [1]
Feedback can be extrinsic (from an external source such as a coach pointing out a technical fault) or intrinsic (from the performer's own senses, such as the feel of a well-timed tennis serve). Both types are valuable, especially during the early stages of learning a new skill when the performer may not yet recognise errors independently.
Question 10 Report
(a) Identify two functions of cartilage found at a synovial joint. [2]
(b) Explain why the joint capsule is important for a performer during physical activity. [2]
(a) Two functions of cartilage at a synovial joint:
- Absorbs shock and cushions the bones. During activities such as running or jumping, cartilage acts as a buffer between the bone ends, preventing jarring and protecting the joint from impact damage. [1]
- Reduces friction between bones. The smooth surface of articular cartilage allows the bone ends to glide over each other during movement, enabling pain-free and efficient motion. [1]
(b) The joint capsule is important during physical activity because it surrounds and encloses the entire joint, forming a sealed space that holds the synovial fluid in position. [1] This keeps the joint stable during vigorous movements such as twisting, jumping, or rapid changes of direction, preventing the bones from dislocating while still permitting a full range of motion. [1]
Answer Details
(a) Two functions of cartilage at a synovial joint:
- Absorbs shock and cushions the bones. During activities such as running or jumping, cartilage acts as a buffer between the bone ends, preventing jarring and protecting the joint from impact damage. [1]
- Reduces friction between bones. The smooth surface of articular cartilage allows the bone ends to glide over each other during movement, enabling pain-free and efficient motion. [1]
(b) The joint capsule is important during physical activity because it surrounds and encloses the entire joint, forming a sealed space that holds the synovial fluid in position. [1] This keeps the joint stable during vigorous movements such as twisting, jumping, or rapid changes of direction, preventing the bones from dislocating while still permitting a full range of motion. [1]
Question 11 Report
A group of students are planning to go on a mountain hike as part of their physical education course.
(a) Identify two risks associated with hiking in mountainous terrain. [2]
(b) Describe two ways the students could prepare to reduce these risks. [2]
(c) Explain why challenging outdoor activities can be beneficial for young people, despite the risks involved. [2]
(a) Two risks associated with hiking in mountainous terrain:
- Changing weather conditions such as sudden rain, fog, or strong winds can reduce visibility and make paths dangerously slippery. [1]
- Uneven or rocky ground increases the chance of falls, twisted ankles, or other lower-limb injuries. [1]
(b) Two ways the students could prepare to reduce these risks:
- Check the weather forecast in advance and take appropriate clothing, including waterproof layers, warm clothing, and sturdy walking boots with good grip. [1]
- Carry a map and compass (or GPS device) and make sure at least one person in the group knows how to use them. They should also inform someone of their planned route and expected return time. [1]
(c) Challenging outdoor activities can be beneficial for young people because they build confidence and self-esteem by pushing individuals beyond their comfort zone and giving a real sense of achievement. [1] They also develop teamwork, decision-making, and problem-solving skills in a real-world setting, which supports personal development and can carry over into other areas of life, including sport and education. [1]
Answer Details
(a) Two risks associated with hiking in mountainous terrain:
- Changing weather conditions such as sudden rain, fog, or strong winds can reduce visibility and make paths dangerously slippery. [1]
- Uneven or rocky ground increases the chance of falls, twisted ankles, or other lower-limb injuries. [1]
(b) Two ways the students could prepare to reduce these risks:
- Check the weather forecast in advance and take appropriate clothing, including waterproof layers, warm clothing, and sturdy walking boots with good grip. [1]
- Carry a map and compass (or GPS device) and make sure at least one person in the group knows how to use them. They should also inform someone of their planned route and expected return time. [1]
(c) Challenging outdoor activities can be beneficial for young people because they build confidence and self-esteem by pushing individuals beyond their comfort zone and giving a real sense of achievement. [1] They also develop teamwork, decision-making, and problem-solving skills in a real-world setting, which supports personal development and can carry over into other areas of life, including sport and education. [1]
Question 12 Report
| Condition | Heart rate (bpm) | Stroke volume (ml) | Cardiac output (l/min) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rest | 72 | 70 | 5.04 |
| Light exercise | 110 | 90 | 9.90 |
| Vigorous exercise | 170 | 120 | ? |
The table below shows data collected from a performer at rest, during light exercise, and during vigorous exercise.
(a) State the formula used to calculate cardiac output. [1]
(b) Calculate the cardiac output during vigorous exercise. Show your working. [2]
(c) Explain why stroke volume increases during physical activity. [2]
(a) The formula used to calculate cardiac output is:
Cardiac output = heart rate x stroke volume [1]
Cardiac output measures the total volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute, combining how fast the heart beats (heart rate) with how much blood is ejected per beat (stroke volume).
(b) Calculating cardiac output during vigorous exercise:
Cardiac output = heart rate x stroke volume [1]
= 170 bpm x 120 ml
= 20,400 ml/min, which equals 20.4 litres per minute. [1]
This is approximately four times the resting cardiac output (5.04 l/min), demonstrating the enormous increase in blood delivery the body requires during intense physical activity.
(c) Stroke volume increases during physical activity because:
- The heart muscle contracts more forcefully during exercise due to increased stimulation by the sympathetic nervous system and the release of adrenaline. [1]
- This stronger contraction means more blood is pushed out of the ventricles with each beat, increasing the volume of blood delivered to the working muscles per heartbeat. [1] Additionally, increased venous return (more blood flowing back to the heart from the working muscles) stretches the ventricles, triggering a stronger contraction through the Frank-Starling mechanism.
Answer Details
(a) The formula used to calculate cardiac output is:
Cardiac output = heart rate x stroke volume [1]
Cardiac output measures the total volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute, combining how fast the heart beats (heart rate) with how much blood is ejected per beat (stroke volume).
(b) Calculating cardiac output during vigorous exercise:
Cardiac output = heart rate x stroke volume [1]
= 170 bpm x 120 ml
= 20,400 ml/min, which equals 20.4 litres per minute. [1]
This is approximately four times the resting cardiac output (5.04 l/min), demonstrating the enormous increase in blood delivery the body requires during intense physical activity.
(c) Stroke volume increases during physical activity because:
- The heart muscle contracts more forcefully during exercise due to increased stimulation by the sympathetic nervous system and the release of adrenaline. [1]
- This stronger contraction means more blood is pushed out of the ventricles with each beat, increasing the volume of blood delivered to the working muscles per heartbeat. [1] Additionally, increased venous return (more blood flowing back to the heart from the working muscles) stretches the ventricles, triggering a stronger contraction through the Frank-Starling mechanism.
Question 13 Report
| Characteristic | Slow-twitch (Type I) | Fast-twitch (Type IIb) |
|---|---|---|
| Speed of contraction | ||
| Resistance to fatigue | ||
| Main energy source | ||
| Example sport |
The table below compares two types of muscle fibre found in the human body.
(a) Complete the table by filling in the missing information about each fibre type. [4]
(a) The completed table comparing slow-twitch and fast-twitch muscle fibres:
| Characteristic | Slow-twitch (Type I) | Fast-twitch (Type IIb) |
|---|---|---|
| Speed of contraction | Slow | Fast / Rapid |
| Resistance to fatigue | High | Low |
| Main energy source | Aerobic (using oxygen) | Anaerobic (without oxygen) |
| Example sport | Marathon running / long-distance cycling | 100 m sprint / shot put / weightlifting |
[1 mark per correct cell, 4 marks total]
Why these differences matter:
- Slow-twitch fibres are designed for sustained, low-intensity activity. They have a rich blood supply and many mitochondria, allowing them to produce energy aerobically for long periods without fatiguing. This makes them ideal for endurance events.
- Fast-twitch (Type IIb) fibres contract rapidly and generate high force, but they rely on anaerobic energy systems and fatigue quickly. They are suited to explosive, short-duration activities where maximum power is needed.
Most people have a roughly equal mix of both fibre types, but the proportion can vary. Elite sprinters tend to have a higher percentage of fast-twitch fibres, while elite endurance athletes tend to have more slow-twitch fibres.
Answer Details
(a) The completed table comparing slow-twitch and fast-twitch muscle fibres:
| Characteristic | Slow-twitch (Type I) | Fast-twitch (Type IIb) |
|---|---|---|
| Speed of contraction | Slow | Fast / Rapid |
| Resistance to fatigue | High | Low |
| Main energy source | Aerobic (using oxygen) | Anaerobic (without oxygen) |
| Example sport | Marathon running / long-distance cycling | 100 m sprint / shot put / weightlifting |
[1 mark per correct cell, 4 marks total]
Why these differences matter:
- Slow-twitch fibres are designed for sustained, low-intensity activity. They have a rich blood supply and many mitochondria, allowing them to produce energy aerobically for long periods without fatiguing. This makes them ideal for endurance events.
- Fast-twitch (Type IIb) fibres contract rapidly and generate high force, but they rely on anaerobic energy systems and fatigue quickly. They are suited to explosive, short-duration activities where maximum power is needed.
Most people have a roughly equal mix of both fibre types, but the proportion can vary. Elite sprinters tend to have a higher percentage of fast-twitch fibres, while elite endurance athletes tend to have more slow-twitch fibres.
Question 14 Report
The table below shows four types of performance-enhancing drugs and four effects on the body.
| Type of PED | Effect on the body |
|---|---|
| Anabolic steroids | .............. |
| Stimulants | .............. |
| Narcotic analgesics | .............. |
| Diuretics | .............. |
(a) Complete the table by stating one effect on the body of each type of PED. [4]
(b) Suggest why some performers choose to use PEDs despite the risk of being banned from their sport. [2]
(a) Completed table of PED effects:
| Type of PED | Effect on the body |
|---|---|
| Anabolic steroids | Increase muscle mass and promote faster recovery from training, allowing more frequent, intense sessions. [1] |
| Stimulants | Increase alertness and reduce reaction time. They can also increase aggression and mask fatigue. [1] |
| Narcotic analgesics | Mask pain and reduce the sensation of injury, allowing the performer to continue competing despite damage to the body. [1] |
| Diuretics | Increase urine production, causing rapid weight loss. They can also be used to dilute urine samples to mask the presence of other banned substances. [1] |
(b) Two reasons why some performers choose to use PEDs despite the risk of being banned:
- The financial rewards of winning are very high, and the performer may feel intense pressure from sponsors, coaches, or national expectations to succeed at all costs. [1]
- They may believe they will not be caught, perhaps because testing is not always effective or because they know of methods to avoid detection; or they want to keep up with competitors they believe are also using PEDs. [1]
Answer Details
(a) Completed table of PED effects:
| Type of PED | Effect on the body |
|---|---|
| Anabolic steroids | Increase muscle mass and promote faster recovery from training, allowing more frequent, intense sessions. [1] |
| Stimulants | Increase alertness and reduce reaction time. They can also increase aggression and mask fatigue. [1] |
| Narcotic analgesics | Mask pain and reduce the sensation of injury, allowing the performer to continue competing despite damage to the body. [1] |
| Diuretics | Increase urine production, causing rapid weight loss. They can also be used to dilute urine samples to mask the presence of other banned substances. [1] |
(b) Two reasons why some performers choose to use PEDs despite the risk of being banned:
- The financial rewards of winning are very high, and the performer may feel intense pressure from sponsors, coaches, or national expectations to succeed at all costs. [1]
- They may believe they will not be caught, perhaps because testing is not always effective or because they know of methods to avoid detection; or they want to keep up with competitors they believe are also using PEDs. [1]
