Pathways School Gurgaon

END OF SEMESTER ASSESSMENT – NOVEMBER 2024

TO BE FILLED IN BY THE EXAMINER Time duration- 125Min

GRADE: MYP5 SUBJECT: CHEMISTRY PAPER: EOSA – November 2024

TO BE FILLED IN BY THE CANDIDATE

Candidate Name: ………………………………………………………………….

Subject Teacher: ………………….....................................................

Instructions to Candidates

Calculator is not allowed

Additional Material

None

This question paper consists of printed pages : 21 pages

EXAMINER’S COMMENT:
For Examiner’s Use

CRITERIA A (25) B (25) C (25) D (25)

Levels Obtained

SIGNATURE

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
1
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 Figure –1 Source: https://media.geeksforgeeks.org/wp-content/uploads/20220830111346/
Periodictableofelements.png

Criterion A: Knowing and understanding

Portable heaters are compact, easy-to-move devices designed to provide targeted warmth, especially in colder months.
They're ideal for supplementing central heating, heating small spaces, and reducing energy costs by allowing selective
heating in occupied rooms. Their convenience and effectiveness make them essential for those seeking quick warmth in
areas without built-in heating or for added comfort during chilly winters.

Q1. There are different types of fuel used in these portable heaters as source of energy to produce heating effect.
Butane and ethanol are some organic compounds used for the same purpose.

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
2
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
Figure-2 Source: https://encryptedtbn0.gstatic.com

(a) Identify the correct set of structural formula of the Butane and Ethanol. A(i) [ 1M]

(1) Butane: CH3-CH2-OH, Ethanol: CH3-CH3

(2) Butane: CH3-CH2-CH2-CH3, Ethanol: CH3-CH2-OH

(3) Butane: CH3-OH, Ethanol: CH3-CH2-CH2-CH3

(4) Butane: CH3-CH2-CH2-CH3, Ethanol: CH3-CH2-CH2-OH

Correct Formula: 2

[1M]

(b) Write down the name of the class of compound of butane and ethanol. (Aii)[2M]

Butane - Alkane
Ethanol - Alcohol

1+1 = [2M].

(c) Butane burns in presence of oxygen as per the following chemical equation.

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
3
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
2C4H10 + 13O2→ 8CO2 + 10H2O

(atomic mass of C= 12, H=1, O=16)

Calculate the volume of carbon dioxide gas produced when 25 dm3 of butane is burnt in presence of sufficient amount
of oxygen. (Aiii) [3M]

Moles of C4H10= Molar Volume of C4H10 =25 dm3/ 22.7 dm3/mol=1.101 moles

2 moles of C₄H₁₀ produce 8 moles of CO₂

Moles of CO2=Moles of C4H10×8/2 =1.101X4 =4.405 moles of CO2

Volume of CO2 = 4.405 moles X 22.7 dm3 =99.993dm3

1= Correct no of moles of butane

1=Correct no of moles of CO2
1 = Correct conversion moles to molar volume in dm3 [3M]

(d)Burning of fuel produces carbon dioxide and water. Figure given below shows the Lewis dot formula of carbon
dioxide.

Choose the correct dot and cross diagram in picture given below to show the bonding in carbon dioxide. Only outer
shell electrons are shown. A(i) [1M]

Source: IB past paper

Correct option is B [1M]

(e)Crude oil is a mixture of some gases and many other carbon containing organic compounds. Refinery gases also
known as bottled gas are used as fuel. Being one of the components of crude oil it is separated by a method as shown in
the setup given below:

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
4
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 Figure –3 Source: https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?

(i)Identify the separation technique used to separate butane from mixture of crude oil. A(i) [1M]

Fractional distillation
Correct identification [1M]

(ii) Analyse the picture ( Figure -3) to suggest which of the components of the crude oil mixtures has lowest boiling
point. Justify your answer based on scientific reason.

A(iii) [2M]

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
5
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
Refinery gases
Correct identification [1M]
As the crude oil mixture enters the column and is heated, the different components vaporize at their respective
boiling points.
As the temperature is higher at the bottom higher boiling point components condense at the bottom and lower one
condenses at the top where temperature is low.
Refinery gases (Bottled gas) which has lowest boiling reaches at the top of the column, where it is cooler, the
vapours begin to condense.
Justification any two points –[1M]
Total=[3M]

Q2. Understanding isotopes and the exothermic nature of reactions in fireworks brings awareness of chemical reactions’
role in emissions and pollution. As many parts of the world celebrations are marked with bursting of firecrackers where
main component used to produce dazzling white light is Magnesium. Magnesium exists as three isotopes with atomic
mass 24, 25,26.

(a) Outline the meaning of the term isotope. A(i) [1M]

(b) Calculate the number of neutrons in Magnesium atom 25 if it has 12 protons. A(i) [1M]

(c) State the reaction taking place when fireworks are burnt is endothermic or exothermic. Justify your answer. (Aii)
[2M]

(d) Write down the formula of Magnesium carbonate. (remember carbonate is polyatomic ion). A(i) [1M]

(a) Isotopes are atoms of the same element and have different number of neutrons/mass numbers
or
Isotopes are atoms that have the same number of protons and have different number of neutrons/mass
numbers
[1M]

(b) No neutrons in Mg 25 =13

[1M]

(c) The reaction in fireworks is exothermic.

[1M]

Justification
energy/heat is released

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
6
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 or release (much) more energy/heat than they absorb (so) the reaction is exothermic
[1M]

Award one mark of justification if first mark is awarded

(d) MgCO3 [1M]

Total =[5M]

Q3. The principles of gas behaviour and chemistry of gases serve as a foundation for understanding material choices and
their environmental sustainability, particularly concerning limited resources. Though Helium is found, in nature is very
limited but based on its property it is filled in Party balloons. Balloons filled with Helium float easily but deflate
faster than balloons filled with air. Composition of air is given below:

Figure –4 Source: https://www.learnersplanet.com/sites/default/files/images

(a)Use the diagram and knowledge of characteristics of gases to explain why the balloons filled with Helium float
easily but deflate faster than balloons filled with air. ( Molar mass of N 2= 14 g/mol, O 2 = 32 g/mol , He =4 g/mol)
[2M] (Aiii)

air is mostly a combination of N2 and O2

or
air is a mixture of gases and mostly N2 (and N2 and O2/molecules in air) are bigger
or have a greater mass than He atoms

Justification
N2 and O2/molecules in air move at a slower speed than He molecules. So, Helium gas will diffuse through
the balloon's membrane faster at the same temperature.

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
7
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 Identification – [1M]
Justification – [1M]
Total – [ 2M]

(b). Hot air balloons are the first successful human flight. Hot air balloons have a basket attached to it at the bottom with
a burner fitted inside it. The pilot heats the air inside the balloon by lighting up the burner which runs on refinery gases
to float the balloon in air.

Use the knowledge of kinetic theory to explain that why hot air balloon float in the air. A (ii)[ 2M]

Why: hot air rises as the density of warm air is less than the density of colder air

Justification: the kinetic energy of the molecules is greater in warm air (so) the same mass of gas has a bigger
volume it is the lower density of the warm air inside the balloon that will make it float up in the sky

Why: [1M]
Explanation based on kinetic theory – [1M]

Total – [ 2M]

(c) Imagine you are carrying an unopened packet of candy on your Hot air balloon ride, and you observe that packet
of candy inflates as the balloon rises to higher altitude. Justify that packet of candy will inflate only. A(Iii)
[2M]

the size of the bag increases/inflates

(because) the external pressure decreases as the balloon rises to higher altitude and the internal pressure is
unchanged

[2M]

Q4. Different metals affect battery function and corrosion, emphasizing the need for sustainable energy storage
solutions. The materials used in batteries impact their longevity, safety, and environmental impact. This also help in
developing sustainable technologies that reduce waste and energy consumption. The first ever battery was invented by

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
8
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
Alessandro Volta, the battery contains zinc and copper disc separated by filter paper soaked in an electrolyte ( Brine-
Solution of NaCl). Working of the battery can be observed in the given video and the composition in the picture given
below.

Figure –5 Source: https://www.aydemperakende.com.tr/storage/blog/640b3be72502d-what-is-a-volta-battery.jpg

Resource : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgB-Qa0izf0

(a) When the circuit is complete charged particle moved through the filter paper which is soaked in an electrolyte
solution of the sodium chloride. Identify the type of particles that move through electrolyte. [1M]

(b) Describe what would happen if the filter paper is not soaked in electrolyte solution of sodium chlorde. [1M]

(c) Write down the reaction taking place at positive and negative terminal of the battery. [2M]

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
9
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 (a) Ions [1M]

(b)ions cannot move through the filter paper (salt Bridge) [1M]
or electrons cannot flow as circuit is now broken / incomplete
or no more charge exchange possible as the circuit is broken / incomplete
(C)
Anode: (-ve): oxidation or electrons are lost so oxidation. [1M]

at the anode, Zinc ions are oxidised by losing electrons

Zn→Zn2++2e−

Cathode (+ve): Reduction or electrons are gained. [1M]

at the cathode, copper ions are reduced by gaining electrons:

Cu2++2e−→Cu
Total = [4M]

Criterion A- Total =[25M]

Criterion B: Inquiring and designing

Q5. The metal case of a battery must be durable, corrosion-resistant, and safe to contain the electrochemical reactions
that happen within the battery. Since the case could potentially come into contact with acidic electrolytes, the metal
chosen should be resistant to corrosion by acid. Metals react with acids to different extents, a behaviour largely
determined by their position on the reactivity series, especially when exposed to acidic environments. You need to
choose a metal to design the battery cover. You are provided with metals like Magnesium, Zinc, Iron, copper along with
normal lab glass ware (Given in pic below) and sulphuric acid. Remember any metal reacts with acid by displacing
hydrogen based on reactivity.

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
10
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
Source: Shutter stock images

Design an experiment to find out that which metal would be suitable for battery cover. You must answer the following
parts to design an experiment.

(a) Identify the variables and explain how you would manipulate them. [8M] B(iii)

IV Different given metals Mg, Zn, Fe, Cu Explanation of how same mass of different metal
samples be measured/equipment mentioned. Values
may be included as well.
DV Volume of H2 gas formed/ Loss of mass of Explain how changing the IV affects the DV and how
metal this change will be measured. Name the device.
CV Volume of acid solution. Explain why and how each is controlled. Name the
Mass of metal device/equipment where applicable.
Concentration of acid
Time of reaction

IV 1 + 1 Correct identification and Manipulation

DV 1 + 1 Correct identification and Manipulation
CV 2 + 2 Correct identification and Manipulation of 2 CV

[8M]

Vigya Chauhan:
Students have given DV as time when H2 starts coming out which is tested with popping sound. Conceptually it is

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
11
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 correct, but collection of data would not be reliable so full marks can't be given so out of allocated 2 marks only
mark–1

(b). Design a logical, complete, method to carry out the scientific investigation and collect relevant data. In your
response you must include

 List of equipment needed including devices to do quantitative measurements.

 Logical steps
 Data table
 Safety precautions. [8M] B (iv)

Details of apparatus and quantitative measurement apparatus mentioned.

Detailed stepwise method in a flow.
Details of measuring mass of substances including name of the apparatus
Details of measuring volume of gas including name of the apparatus
Details of measuring the time of reaction is mentioned.
Data table with appropriate heading and column with unit.
At least 2 safety measures/ Ethical concerns with explanation.

1 mark for each of the points mentioned.

Total – [8M]

(c). Explain how you will use the collected data to decide which metal to be used for battery cover

[3M] B(iv)

Volume of H2 gas formed/ Loss of mass of metal in fixed time is greater

Metal will corrode faster
Metal would not be suitable for battery cover.

1 mark for each of the points mentioned.

Total – [3M]

Q6. To understand impact of reactivity of metals used as cathode and anode on voltage of electrochemical cell a student
used a simulation where he could use different combination of metals and recorded the voltage generated which is
given below in the table.

Metal as Anode (Oxidation) Metal as cathode ( reduction) Voltage (volts)

Magnesium Copper 2.707

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
12
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 Magnesium Lead 2.202
Magnesium Silver 3.315
Magnesium Zinc 1.076
Magnesium Magnesium 0.0

Figure-6 Source : https://cdn.britannica.com/00/174100-004-AE0F760C/reactivity-series-group-metals.jpg

Using the given data in the table and reactivity series (Figure-6) above Suggest a hypothesis for the experiment.
[4M] B(ii)

If the metal used as cathode has large difference in reactivity than magnesium
Then voltage of the cell would be greater
Because with greater difference in reactivity of the metal with magnesium
Metal would be easily reduced at cathode.
This leads to production of more voltage or vice versa.

1+1+2

Total= [4M]

Q7. Understanding reaction rates is key to controlling emissions, making processes more energy-efficient, and
minimizing environmental impact. In an experiment, you aim to investigate the impact of temperature on the rate of a
chemical reaction. You designed an experiment to react calcium carbonate with hydrochloric acid by systematically

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
13
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
altering the temperature of the acid while keeping other factors constant. Volume of carbon dioxide gas collected will
determine the rate of chemical reaction. Chemical equation for the reaction is as follows.

CaCO3 + 2HCl  CaCl2 +H2O + CO2

State and explain the research question which this experiment would investigate. [2M] B(i)

How does the temperature of hydrochloric acid affect the volume of carbon dioxide gas evolved during the reaction
in given time.

Any daily life application: Storage of acidic substance in nonmetallic containers , keeping marble articles away from
acidic substances

1 mark for each point

Total =[2M]

Criterion B - Total – [25 M]

Criterion C: Processing and evaluation

Q8: To study the impact of temperature on rate of reaction you have setup the following apparatus and followed the
instructions as given below.

Figure –7 Source:https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uCaD4-tVR7E/hq720.jpg

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
14
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 Measure a fixed amount of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) and a set volume of hydrochloric acid (HCl) at a chosen
concentration. Assemble the apparatus as shown in the diagram. Place an inverted measuring cylinder filled with water
in a water trough to collect the gas. Place the reaction flask in a water bath set to the desired temperature to ensure
consistent temperature conditions. Add the CaCO₃ to the HCl in the reaction flask, quickly seal the flask. Observe and
record the volume of gas collected in the measuring cylinder at regular time intervals until the reaction slows
significantly or stops. Repeat the experiment at different temperatures to compare reaction rates.

(a) Evaluate the validity of the method followed to study the impact of temperature on rate of reaction [5M] C(iv)

Comment on
does the method include the following –
Helps to verify the hypothesis.
5 variants of IV
Controlled variables
3 trials and average
Safety measures
Ethical concerns

Total [5M] – Any 5 of the above points identified as strengths or limitations

(b): Explain at least two improvements and one extension to the method given in Q 8(a) that would benefit the scientific
investigation. [5M] C(v)

Improvements - Limitations in the previous question become points of improvements.

Extension - Change IV/DV/CV such that the aim of the experiment does not change. For example – repeat this
experiment with change of concentration of HCl on reaction with CaCO3. New RQ: How does the concentration of
HCl affect the volume of CO2 formed on reaction with fixed mass of CaCO3 at constant temperature.

1 +1 marks each for two improvements – improvement and explanation=[4M]

1 mark for one extension – extension and explanation
Total – [5M]

(c) Temperature impacts the chemical reactions, and this can be observed in daily life. This investigation highlights the
importance of optimal storage and usage conditions to extend battery life, reducing waste and the demand for raw

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
15
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
materials. Many portable devices use lithium-ion batteries, and it is recommended that the batteries should be stored at
low temperature. To study the impact of temperature on discharging of the batteries you wrote a hypothesis that
“lower the temperature of storage of battery longer is the life of charge of the battery” and after conducting the
experiment you collected the following data.

Evaluate the validity of the hypothesis written by you for scientific investigation based on outcome of the experiment
and the data given in table. [4M] C(iii)

S.No. Temperature (0C) % charge of battery

1 0 98
2 30 94
3 15 96
4 45 82
5 50 75
6 60 60

Your hypothesis stated that hypothesis “lower the temperature of storage of battery longer is the life of charge of
the battery”
This hypothesis is valid.
as it is in accordance with the experimental data as seen in the table.
Clear Correlation between IV and DV
High and low temperature of storage relating to percentage charge of the battery
Range of variants of IV is given.
Limitation – No scientific reasoning/NO CVs mentioned.
Give one set of values from graph to support the same.

1M for mention of valid/partially valid/invalid

1M for mentioning Clear Correlation between IV and DV
1M for appropriate mention of data from the graph
1M for limitation

Total – [4M]

Q9. The data collected for the study of impact of varied concentration of the electrolyte and voltage produced in an
electrochemical cell is given below.

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
16
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 Figure -8 Graph 1

(a)Suggest a suitable title for the above graph and label for the X- axis and Y- Axis. [3M] C(i)

Suitable title – title includes IV and DV as – concentration of electrolyte Vs Voltage

Label X axis- concentration Mol/dm3
Label Y axis – Voltage (volts)

1 M for each [3M]

(b) Present the data from graph in form of table with appropriate column heading and units. [3M] C(i)

Concentration Voltage ( Volts)

Mol/dm3

Column of IV and correct names of IV– [1M]

Column of DV and the unit of DV – [1M]
5 correct values put for DV – [1M]

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
17
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 Total= [3M]

(c) Interpret the data shown in the graph and explain results using scientific reasoning which should be supported by
data and trend observed. [5M]
C(ii)

Interpretation of the data in terms of

As the concentration of electrolyte is increased, Voltage is increased—Linear trend

Because the concentration increases there are greater number of ions in given volume
More number of ions lead to higher rate of redox reaction at different electrodes.
More electrons are released and increasing the voltage.

1 M for mentioning the relation of concentration and voltage.

2M for appropriate mention of data values from the graph – at least 3 values mentioned.
2M for scientific justification (mentioning more ions due to increase in concentration and more electrons being
released)

Total – [5M]

Criterion C – Total – [25M]

Criterion D: Reflecting on the impacts of science.

Adaptation of environment and its product based on need

Q10.

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
18
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
Source : https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images? Source:https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons

BIOPLSTICS OIL BASED PLASTICS

Most plastics are derived from chemicals based on oil. Scientists are now exploring innovative ways to create more
sustainable plastics that minimize environmental impact. One approach is to develop plastics made from algae
(Bioplastics).

Oil-based plastics originate from fossil fuels and are extremely versatile. However, producing them emits greenhouse
gases, and although they are durable and reusable, these plastics can take up to 450 years to decompose.

While oil-based plastics can be recycled, they often end up in water systems and eventually the ocean, forming large
patches of waste that threaten wildlife. Fish, turtles, and birds risk ingesting or becoming entangled in these plastics.

When recycled, plastics are broken down and repurposed into new products, which can be sold as household items,
especially in economically disadvantaged regions where this income can be crucial. In some areas, repurposing plastics is
a vital income source.

Algae-based plastics present a sustainable alternative. Large amounts of water, either seawater or freshwater, are
needed to cultivate algae, which absorbs dissolved carbon dioxide as it grows. The production of algae-based plastics is
also creating new job opportunities globally.

Currently, algae-based plastics are limited to certain applications like bags and wrappers. These plastics are sensitive to
environmental conditions and may degrade quickly. They are biodegradable and do not leave harmful pollutants behind,
but they can only be used once due to their short lifespan, requiring frequent production to meet demand.

(a) Identify and explain the ways in which science is applied and used to solve the environmental implication of using
plastics. [2M] (Di)

Brief description of environmental implication of using plastics and solutions provided in form of algae-based
plastics.

1 M each for mentioning name and description of algae-based plastics=[2M]

Total= [2M]

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
19
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
(b). The resource above gives the information about possible solution to reduce the implications of oil-based plastic a
synthetic organic compound. Using the information from source and your wider MYP studies discuss and evaluate the
usage of algae-based plastic in place of oil-based plastics. [17M] (D ii and
iii)
.
In your answer you should include following points for both:

 Economic and social impacts of production and end use of both type of plastics
 Environmental impacts of production and end use of both type of plastics
 Sustainability of production of both types of plastics.
 Concluding appraisal for replacing oil-based plastics with algae based plastics.

Following points and any other relevant points discussed and evaluated.

Economic and Social Impacts:

Oil-Based Plastics:
 Economic Impact:
o Established industry with cost-effective, high production rates.
o Supports a variety of sectors, generating significant economic value and jobs.
 Social Impact:
o Improves convenience due to durability and versatility.
o Affordable for developing countries, but waste management is problematic.
Algae-Based Plastics:
 Economic Impact:
o Requires significant resources, especially water, and has higher production costs.
o Emerging industry creating new jobs, particularly in regions suited for algae farming.
 Social Impact:
o Promotes environmental awareness and sustainable livelihoods.
o Limited use and high costs may restrict immediate market impact compared to oil-based
plastics.
Environmental Impacts:
Oil-Based Plastics:
 Production Impact:
o Relies on fossil fuels, causing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to climate change.
o Extraction and refinement damage ecosystems, and plastics take centuries to degrade.
 End-Use Impact:
o Often ends up in oceans and landfills, harming wildlife and forming large waste patches.
o Recycling is limited and does not fully mitigate environmental harm.
Algae-Based Plastics:
 Production Impact:
o More eco-friendly, as algae absorb CO₂ during growth, reducing carbon emissions.
o Large water requirement could be problematic in water-scarce areas.
 End-Use Impact:
o Biodegradable and decomposes faster, reducing long-term waste and environmental impact.
o Less likely to harm wildlife compared to oil-based plastics.
Sustainability of Production:

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
20
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 Oil-Based Plastics:
 Production is unsustainable due to dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels.
 Recycling options are limited and do not offset environmental damage.
Algae-Based Plastics:
 More sustainable with renewable algae that helps sequester CO₂.
 Challenges include high water use and production costs.
 If these challenges are addressed, algae-based plastics could become a viable eco-friendly option.

Concluding appraisal –

 Algae-based plastics offer significant environmental benefits and are more sustainable than oil-based
plastics.
 Economic challenges and limited applications restrict widespread adoption currently.
 Future research could make algae-based plastics a more viable replacement by reducing costs and
increasing durability.
 Although not a complete substitute yet, algae-based plastics represent an important step toward
reducing plastic pollution and supporting environmental health..

2M for 1 point on economic impact of each type of plastics+ Explanation – 2 + 2 = 4M

2M for 1 point on social impact of each type of plastics+ Explanation – 2 + 2 = 4M

2M for 1 point on environmental impact of each type of plastics + Explanation – 2 + 2 = 4M

2M for 1 point on sustainability of each type of plastics + Explanation – 2 + 2 = 4M

1M for on Concluding Appraisal

Total – [19 M]

Q11.

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
21
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 .

Figure –9 Source: https://marvel-b1-cdn.bc0a.com/f00000000170758/www.ysi.com

Key: PAR = Photosynthetically Active Radiation dO2 = Dissolved oxygen

The image given above illustrates the conditions that contribute to algal blooms in freshwater bodies which is toxic.
Factors such as sunlight (PAR), carbon dioxide, nutrient runoff (mainly phosphorus), and low wind conditions are
supportive to algal bloom. In these settings, cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, multiply rapidly, forming dense blooms
that release toxins and disrupt ecosystems. The lack of water mixing and sediment buildup further intensifies these
blooms, leading to oxygen depletion and potential harm to aquatic life. While algae are being considered as a
sustainable alternative for producing biodegradable plastics, these harmful blooms are also a consequence of excessive
nutrient pollution, raising questions about the environmental trade-offs and management challenges associated with
large-scale algae cultivation.

Based on the information given above and from your wider MYP studies, suggest three impacts of algal bloom on the
communities and water bodies and justify your answer.
[6M] (D ii and iii)

Any three points discussed with appropriate justification.

Decreased Water Quality and Oxygen Levels:

 Justification: Algal blooms, particularly those involving cyanobacteria, consume large amounts of
oxygen when they decompose. This process leads to oxygen depletion (hypoxia), creating "dead
zones" where fish and other aquatic organisms cannot survive. This not only disrupts local ecosystems

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
22
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024
 but also impacts communities relying on these water bodies for fishing and biodiversity.
Health Risks to Humans and Wildlife:
 Justification: Certain algal blooms produce harmful toxins that can contaminate water supplies. These
toxins, known as cyanotoxins, can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and gastrointestinal
problems in humans. Wildlife, including fish, birds, and even pets, are at risk of poisoning, affecting the
food chain and biodiversity in the region. Communities using affected water for drinking or recreation
face significant health hazards.
Economic Losses in Fishing and Tourism Industries:
 Justification: Algal blooms can lead to fish kills and make waters unsafe for recreational activities,
causing economic losses for industries dependent on healthy water bodies. The fishing industry may
suffer from reduced fish stocks and contaminated seafood, while tourism can decline due to poor
water quality and unsightly, foul-smelling blooms, directly impacting local businesses and economies.
Water Treatment Challenges and Increased Costs:
 Justification: Removing toxins and restoring water quality after an algal bloom requires advanced
water treatment methods, which are costly and resource intensive. Communities relying on these
water bodies for drinking water face increased treatment costs to ensure safety. This puts financial
strain on local governments and can increase water bills for residents, impacting public resources and
infrastructure.

1 mark for each suggestion +1 Mark for justification= 6 M

Total = [6 M]

Total =[25 M]

PSG/MYP/YEAR-5
23
/CHEMISTRY/EOSA/VC/GS/DA/DB/RM/Nov – 2024