Coordination (SAQs)

Biology | 5. Coordination – SAQs:
Welcome to SAQs in Chapter 5: Coordination. This page contains the most Important FAQs for Short Answer Questions in this Chapter. Each answer is provided in simple English, with a Telugu explanation, and formatted according to the exam style. This will support your preparation and help you secure top marks in your exams.

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SAQ-1 : Write two voluntary functions and two involuntary functions you have observed in your body.

Introduction

In the human body, functions can be categorized into two main types: voluntary and involuntary. Voluntary functions are those that an individual consciously controls, while involuntary functions are automatic and happen without conscious thought. Here are examples of both:

Voluntary Functions:

These are actions that are performed intentionally and can be controlled consciously.

1. Reading a Book:
   Picking up a book, focusing on the words, and comprehending the text all require conscious effort and decision-making. This process involves personal control over when and what to read, as well as managing the pace and comprehension of the reading material.
2. Singing a Song:
   Singing involves the deliberate selection of a song and the use of the vocal cords to produce musical sounds. It encompasses personal control over when and what to sing, as well as the ability to regulate the pitch, volume, and expression of the song being sung.

Involuntary Functions:

These are actions that are performed without conscious control, often as natural reflexes or responses.

1. Sneezing:
   Sneezing is characterized as a sudden, forceful expulsion of air from the lungs through the nose and mouth. This reflex occurs automatically in response to irritation in the nasal passages and does not require conscious control.
2. Blinking of Eyes:
   Blinking is the rapid closing and opening of the eyelid, a process that happens regularly to keep the eyes moist and protected. This action occurs automatically, without the need for conscious thought.

Summary

Voluntary functions, such as reading a book and singing a song, require conscious control and decision-making. In contrast, involuntary functions like sneezing and blinking of eyes happen automatically, without intentional control. Understanding the distinction between these two categories helps in appreciating the complexity of the human body and its ability to perform both intentional activities and automatic processes.

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SAQ-2 : Draw the diagram of nerve cell and label it.

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SAQ-3 : Prepare the table showing tropic movements in plants in response to stimuli.

1. Phototropism: Growth towards the light (typically observed in stems).
2. Geotropism: Growth towards gravitational force (commonly seen in roots).
3. Hydrotropism: Growth towards the presence of water in the soil.
4. Thigmotropism: Growth towards support; responsive to wind (observed in tendrils and climbers).

Summary

Tropic movements in plants are responses to specific environmental stimuli, guiding the growth and orientation of various plant parts. This includes reactions to light (Phototropism), gravity (Geotropism), water (Hydrotropism), and physical contact (Thigmotropism). These movements enable plants to adapt and thrive in their surroundings by optimizing their growth patterns for better access to essential resources.

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SAQ-4 : Explain two tropic movements with suitable examples.

Introduction

Tropic movements in plants are fascinating adaptations that enable them to respond to various environmental factors. Among these, two common movements are Phototropism, the response to sunlight, and Geotropism, the response to gravity. Understanding these concepts provides insight into how plants interact with their surroundings.

Phototropism

1. Definition of Phototropism:
   Phototropism is defined as the movement of a plant towards the source of light.
2. Reason for Phototropic Behavior:
   The reason behind this behavior is that plants require sunlight for photosynthesis, leading them to grow towards the light to optimize energy absorption.
3. Example of Phototropism in Houseplants:
   For example, a common houseplant placed near a window will often bend and stretch towards the light, an adaptation that aids in capturing more sunlight, thereby facilitating more efficient energy production.

Geotropism

1. Definition of Geotropism:
   Geotropism refers to the movement of a plant in response to the direction of gravity.
2. Plant Orientation and Growth:
   This movement helps plants differentiate up from down, with stems growing upward, opposing gravity, and roots growing downwards, aligning with it.
3. Example of Geotropism in Tree Roots:
   An example of this can be seen in tree roots, which extend into the soil to access water and nutrients. Their downward growth, in alignment with gravitational force, exemplifies Geotropism.

Summary

The study of tropic movements like Phototropism and Geotropism demonstrates how plants are finely attuned to their environment. Phototropism ensures efficient light absorption, crucial for energy production, while Geotropism guides the plant in optimal growth directions for nutrient access and stable anchoring. Understanding these movements fosters a deeper appreciation of the complexity and adaptability of plant life.

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SAQ-5 : What questions you will ask a neurologist on the functions of brain?

Questions for a Neurologist:

On Paralysis:

1. Why does paralysis occur in some individuals?
2. What are the main causes of paralysis, and how can it be treated or prevented?
3. How does the brain’s communication with muscles become disrupted in cases of paralysis?

On Brain Death:

1. What exactly constitutes brain death, and how is it different from other forms of unconsciousness or coma?
2. How do medical professionals determine that a person is brain dead?
3. What implications does brain death have for organ donation and life support decisions?

On Increasing Intelligence (IQ Level):

1. Is it possible to significantly increase one’s IQ level through training or other methods?
2. How does the brain’s structure and function relate to intelligence?
3. What activities or practices are known to enhance cognitive abilities and intelligence?

On Avoiding Nerve-Related Diseases:

1. What are common nerve-related diseases, and how can they be recognized early?
2. Are there specific lifestyle choices or preventative measures that can reduce the risk of developing these diseases?
3. How do the latest treatments and therapies for nerve-related diseases work, and what new research is being conducted in this field?

Summary

The above questions encompass various aspects of brain function and neurological health. They prompt an exploration of complex topics like paralysis, brain death, intelligence, and nerve-related disorders. Engaging with these questions can provide profound insights into the human brain’s complexities and the ongoing efforts to understand, treat, and prevent neurological conditions. Whether for a student studying neuroscience or someone curious about the brain’s marvels, these questions offer a pathway to deeper understanding and knowledge.

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SAQ-6 : Write the difference between hormone and enzyme.

Introduction

Hormones and enzymes play vital roles in the body but function differently. Hormones act as messengers to trigger specific body functions, while enzymes act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions. Let’s delve into the details to understand their differences.

Differences Between Hormones and Enzymes

Function:

1. Hormones: Serve as messengers that trigger specific body functions.
2. Enzymes: Act as catalysts that increase the rate of chemical reactions.

Secretion:

1. Hormones: Secreted by ductless or endocrine glands.
2. Enzymes: Secreted by exocrine glands.

Site of Action:

1. Hormones: Act at different sites, often far from where they were produced.
2. Enzymes: Usually act at the site of production or very close to it.

Examples:

1. Hormones: Insulin, melatonin, and other regulatory chemicals.
2. Enzymes: Lipase, amylase, and other catalysts involved in digestion and metabolism.

Summary

While both hormones and enzymes are essential to the functioning of living organisms, they have distinct roles and characteristics. Hormones are like messages sent by the body to coordinate various functions and may travel far from their origin. Enzymes, on the other hand, work more locally, often at their production site, to speed up chemical reactions. Understanding these differences helps in appreciating the complexity and elegance of biological systems, reflecting how life orchestrates a multitude of processes for growth, response, and maintenance.

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SAQ-7 : What is the significance of the adrenal gland in the human body?

Introduction

The adrenal glands are small but powerful glands responsible for producing several essential hormones. They are involved in various physiological processes that maintain the body’s homeostasis and response to stress. Let’s look into their specific functions.

Significance of Adrenal Glands

1. Regulation of Metabolism:
   The adrenal glands produce hormones like cortisol that are crucial in regulating metabolism. They play a key role in controlling how the body utilizes fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, significantly influencing energy production.
2. Control of Heartbeat:
   The adrenal glands assist in regulating the heartbeat through the production of adrenaline, a hormone that can increase the heart rate, particularly during stressful situations. This increase ensures that sufficient oxygen and nutrients are delivered to vital parts of the body.
3. Stress Response:
   The adrenal glands are crucial to the body’s “fight or flight” response to stress. In stressful situations, they produce hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body to react effectively. This hormonal response impacts heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels, enabling the body to handle the stressor.
4. Dilation of Coronary Arteries and Pupils:
   By releasing adrenaline, the adrenal glands cause the dilation (widening) of coronary arteries, enhancing blood flow to the heart. Additionally, the dilation of pupils is another effect of adrenaline, which allows more light to enter the eyes, thereby improving vision during stressful events.

Summary

The adrenal glands play a vital role in maintaining the body’s overall balance and ability to respond to various situations. From regulating metabolism to controlling the heartbeat and enabling the body to react to stress, these glands have broad-reaching effects. Their function exemplifies the complexity of the endocrine system and its significance in ensuring the body’s smooth operation. Whether in calm or stressful circumstances, the adrenal glands work diligently to keep the body in a state of equilibrium.

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SAQ-8 : Observe the following table and answer the questions.

Hormones	Uses
Thyroxine	Normal growth rate, effect on metabolism
Auxins	Cell elongation and differentiation of shoots and roots

1. Auxin, listed in the table, is a crucial phytohormone involved in plant growth and development. Its primary roles include regulating cell elongation and the differentiation of shoots and roots. Auxin plays a vital part in phototropism, directing plant growth towards light, and gravitropism, guiding roots downward and shoots upward in response to gravity. Additionally, it influences the formation of lateral and adventitious roots, and is used in agriculture to promote fruit development. Auxin’s diverse functions make it essential for the plant’s ability to adapt to its environment and ensure healthy growth.
2. Thyroxine is a key hormone that significantly influences the growth rate in humans. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, impacting overall physical development and health.

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SAQ-9 : What would happen if insulin production stops?

Introduction

Insulin’s primary function is to help cells in the body absorb glucose from the bloodstream for energy. Without insulin, glucose cannot enter the cells and remains in the blood. The absence of insulin production has far-reaching effects on the body.

Effects of Stopping Insulin Production

1. High Blood Sugar Levels:
   Without insulin, glucose remains in the blood, resulting in high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). This condition can lead to immediate symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.
2. Development of Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1):
   Type 1 diabetes is characterized by a lack of insulin production. Individuals with this condition require insulin injections to regulate their blood sugar levels.
3. Long-term Complications:
   Prolonged high blood sugar levels can lead to complications affecting the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. This may result in serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, vision problems, and nerve damage, especially in the extremities.
4. Ketoacidosis:
   Without insulin, the body begins to break down fat for energy instead of glucose. This leads to the production of ketones, which can accumulate in the blood, causing a condition known as ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis is a severe medical emergency that can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and confusion, and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Summary

The cessation of insulin production is a serious medical condition that leads to Type 1 diabetes and other health problems. It requires immediate medical intervention and ongoing treatment, typically in the form of insulin injections and careful monitoring of blood sugar levels. The importance of insulin in regulating blood glucose levels underlines the complex balance maintained by the body’s endocrine system. Without insulin, this balance is disrupted, and it can have life-threatening consequences if not managed properly.