Waec Model Questions Vol1 2020 Biology Question 8

Practice essay / theory question 8 from the 2020 Waec Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination. This question covers Coordination .

Waec Model Questions Vol1 2020 Biology Essay / Theory
Topic: Coordination
Question 8 WAEC_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1 • 2020 • BIOLOGY • essay

In a laboratory investigation a 12‑year‑old child’s knee‑jerk (patellar) reflex is elicited by a gentle tap on the patellar tendon, producing a rapid extension of the lower leg.

Question Parts

( a )
Outline the sequence of events from the tap on the tendon to the contraction of the quadriceps muscle, naming all structures involved.
( b )
Explain why the knee‑jerk reflex is classified as a monosynaptic reflex and discuss the advantage of this arrangement for the speed of response.
( c )
Compare the neural pathway of the knee‑jerk reflex with that of a voluntary movement such as raising the foot, focusing on the role of the central nervous system and the level of control.
( d )
If the afferent (sensory) neuron of the reflex arc were damaged, predict the likely outcome on the reflex response and justify your answer.

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About This Question

This is Waec Model Questions Vol1 2020 Biology Question 8. It is one of the essay questions from the 2020 Waec Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination.

The question covers Coordination .

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