Biotechnology
Cambridge IGCSE Biology (0610) · Unit 21: Biotechnology and genetic modification · 11 flashcards
Biotechnology is topic 21.2 in the Cambridge IGCSE Biology (0610) syllabus , positioned in Unit 21 — Biotechnology and genetic modification , alongside Biotechnology and genetic modification and Genetic modification.
This topic is examined in Paper 1 (multiple-choice) and Papers 3/4 (theory), plus Paper 5 or Paper 6 (practical / alternative to practical).
The deck below contains 11 flashcards — 6 key concepts, 2 process cards and 3 application cards — covering the precise wording mark schemes reward.
What the Cambridge 0610 syllabus says
2026-2028 syllabus, in our wordsWhat the syllabus expects you to be able to do in this topic, in plain English. Match the command word (Describe, Explain, State, etc.) in your answer to score full marks. For the exact wording, see the official syllabus (PDF).
- Describe Describe the part played by anaerobic respiration in yeast when ethanol is made for biofuels.
- Describe Describe the part played by anaerobic respiration in yeast when bread is made.
- Describe Describe how pectinase is used in producing fruit juice.
- Investigate Investigate how biological washing powders containing enzymes are used, and describe this.
- Explain Explain how lactase is used in making lactose-free milk. Supplement
- Describe Describe how bacteria and fungi in fermenters can be used to make useful products on a large scale, including mycoprotein, insulin and penicillin. Supplement
- Describe Describe and explain which conditions in a fermenter need controlling, including pH, temperature, oxygen, waste products and the supply of nutrients. Supplement
What is the role of anaerobic respiration in yeast during ethanol production for biofuels?
Yeast uses anaerobic respiration to convert sugars into ethanol and carbon dioxide. This process generates energy for the yeast, while the ethanol is then extracted and used as a biofuel, an alternative energy source.
How does anaerobic respiration in yeast contribute to bread-making?
Yeast carries out anaerobic respiration, producing carbon dioxide gas. This gas creates bubbles in the dough, causing it to rise. Baking then solidifies the dough, resulting in the light and airy texture of bread.
What is the role of pectinase in fruit juice production?
Pectinase is an enzyme that breaks down pectin, a substance that holds plant cell walls together. By breaking down pectin, pectinase clarifies fruit juice, making it clearer and easier to filter.
How do biological washing powders containing enzymes work to remove stains?
Biological washing powders contain enzymes like proteases (break down proteins), lipases (break down fats), and amylases (break down starches). These enzymes break down complex stain molecules into smaller, water-soluble molecules that can be easily washed away.
How is lactase used to produce lactose-free milk?
Lactase is an enzyme that breaks down lactose, a sugar found in milk, into glucose and galactose. Adding lactase to milk hydrolyzes the lactose, making the milk suitable for people with lactose intolerance.
Describe the purpose of a fermenter in large-scale production.
A fermenter is a vessel used to grow microorganisms like bacteria and fungi in large quantities under controlled conditions. This allows for the large-scale production of useful products like insulin, penicillin, and mycoprotein.
Why is temperature control important in a fermenter?
Maintaining optimal temperature is crucial because enzymes in microorganisms are temperature-sensitive. Too high a temperature can denature enzymes, while too low a temperature slows down metabolic processes, both reducing product yield.
Why is pH control important in a fermenter?
pH affects enzyme activity and microbial growth. Maintaining the optimal pH ensures that enzymes function efficiently and that the microorganisms thrive, leading to maximum production of the desired product. Changes in pH can inhibit growth.
Why is oxygen supply important in a fermenter for producing penicillin?
Many industrial microorganisms like Penicillium require oxygen for aerobic respiration to produce the desired product. Adequate oxygen supply ensures that the microorganisms have sufficient energy for growth and product synthesis.
Why is nutrient supply important to control within a fermenter?
Microorganisms need a consistent supply of nutrients like sugars, amino acids, and minerals for growth and product formation. Controlled nutrient supply ensures that the microorganisms have the necessary building blocks and energy for efficient production.
Why is removal of waste products important in a fermenter?
Waste products, such as carbon dioxide and toxins, can inhibit microbial growth and enzyme activity. Removing these waste products prevents their accumulation, maintaining a healthy environment for the microorganisms and optimizing product yield.
More topics in Unit 21 — Biotechnology and genetic modification
Biotechnology sits alongside these Biology decks in the same syllabus unit. Each uses the same spaced-repetition system, so progress in one informs the next.
Related Biology guides
Long-read articles that go beyond the deck — cover the whole subject's common mistakes, high-yield content and revision pacing.
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