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

What is a limitation of the closed loop system in the Eden Project?

1. It is a complete ecosystem without any human influence

2. External gases can enter and exit the domes

3. Dead organisms contribute positively to the system

4. It has no waste management practices in place

The correct answer is: External gases can enter and exit the domes

The closed loop system at the Eden Project is designed to recycle materials and create a sustainable environment within its biodomes. However, the presence of external gases entering and exiting the domes represents a significant limitation. In a truly closed system, there should be no exchange of gases with the outside environment. The influx of external gases can disrupt the carefully maintained balance of the internal ecosystem, affecting factors such as carbon dioxide levels, humidity, and overall plant and animal health. This exchange undermines the goal of creating a self-sustaining environment, revealing that in practice, perfect closure is difficult to achieve. The other options, such as the idea of it being a complete ecosystem without human influence, do not reflect the reality of the Eden Project, which actively involves human management and intervention. Additionally, while dead organisms may contribute nutrients, the understanding of their role does not encompass a limitation in the context of the closed loop system. Lastly, the assertion about waste management practices does not accurately represent the operational strategies in place at the Eden Project, where waste is typically recycled or repurposed.