OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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What does the term 'deterioration' refer to in the context of heart valves?

Improvement of valve strength
Wear and weakness of the valves
Valve regeneration over time
Increased efficiency in blood flow

The correct answer is: Wear and weakness of the valves

In the context of heart valves, the term 'deterioration' refers to wear and weakness of the valves. This process can occur due to various factors, including age, wear and tear, or disease processes that affect the heart's structure and function. As heart valves deteriorate, they may become less effective at closing properly, which can lead to conditions such as regurgitation (where blood leaks backward) or stenosis (where the valve narrows). The incorrect options highlight processes that are opposite to the concept of deterioration. Improvement of valve strength and increased efficiency in blood flow imply enhancements in function and structure, while valve regeneration over time suggests a process of healing or restoring the valves, which does not align with the definition of deterioration. Hence, the selection correctly aligns with the meaning of the term in this specific medical context.