A-level Applied Science/Energy Transfer Systems

About this Unit

From the AQA Specification:

In this unit you will learn about:

• the structure and function of the circulatory and respiratory systems including the processes involved in respiration;
• some methods of taking physiological measurements related to the circulatory and respiratory systems, and the uses of these in monitoring health and for diagnosis of illness;
• examples of imaging methods used in monitoring health and in diagnosis, the advantages and disadvantages of using these methods, and which are best suited to particular situations;
• ethical issues relating to the monitoring, diagnosis and treatment of the circulatory and respiratory systems;
• relating information from measurements or monitoring to what is happening in the organs and systems involved;
• some applications of energy transfer both in the body and in wider contexts;
• the meaning of the term efficiency, how to calculate the efficiency of a system and know that there is a fundamental limit to efficiency.

How you will be assessed

In this unit you will be required to complete an external examination of 1½ hours duration. The examination will consist of a series of compulsory short answer questions and will be marked out of 80. The examination may also contain a comprehension exercise.

You will be assessed on your knowledge, understanding and skills relating to choosing and using materials.

What you need to know

1. The structure and function of the circulatory and respiratory systems
2. How to find out about physiological status through monitoring
3. How the body regulates and responds to temperature
4. The process of respiration
5. Ethical issues relating to the monitoring, diagnosis and treatment of the circulatory and respiratory systems
6. Imaging methods used in monitoring and diagnosis
7. Applications of energy transfer