⚡ Show all reasoning — the AI marks against the AQA mark scheme. Partial credit for correct biology even if wording differs.
1 markBiotic vs abioticAQA 8461 style
Which of the following is a BIOTIC factor affecting a population?
A Temperature
B Soil pH
C The arrival of a new predator species
D Light intensity
3 marksAdaptation exampleAQA 8461 P2 style
A polar bear has a thick layer of subcutaneous fat, a white coat, and small ears. Explain how each of these features is an adaptation to its Arctic environment. (3 marks)
Hint: One mark per adaptation. State the feature + explain how it helps survival in the cold/snowy environment.
+30 XP
1 markInterdependenceAQA 8461 style
In a stable community, what happens to the predator population when prey numbers decrease significantly?
A Predator numbers increase because they compete less with each other
B Predator numbers decrease because there is less food available
C Predator numbers stay constant because they switch to alternative food
D Predator numbers increase immediately because there is less competition
4 marksIntraspecific vs interspecific competitionAQA 8461 style
Red squirrels and grey squirrels both live in the same woodland and eat similar foods. Grey squirrels were introduced from North America and are outcompeting red squirrels. (a) Name this type of competition. (b) Explain why grey squirrels might be more successful competitors. (4 marks)
Hint: (a) Two different species competing = interspecific. (b) Think about: food range, disease resistance, aggression, reproduction rate.
+40 XP
1 markExtremophilesAQA 8461 style
Bacteria living in deep ocean hydrothermal vents at very high temperatures are examples of: