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

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Why is a higher blood pressure beneficial for mammals?

It increases water absorption
It enhances oxygen delivery to cells
It helps cool the body
It aids in digestion

The correct answer is: It enhances oxygen delivery to cells

A higher blood pressure is beneficial for mammals primarily because it enhances oxygen delivery to cells. Blood pressure refers to the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels, and this pressure is crucial for maintaining adequate blood flow throughout the body. When blood pressure is higher, it allows for a more efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs, which is essential for cellular respiration and energy production. Cells require a constant supply of oxygen to efficiently produce energy through aerobic respiration, and having optimal blood pressure ensures that oxygen-rich blood reaches those cells promptly. Adequate oxygen delivery is particularly important during exercise or periods of increased metabolic activity, as tissues have a heightened demand for oxygen. Thus, higher blood pressure can facilitate the necessary adjustments in blood flow to meet these demands, supporting overall health and functionality in mammals.