A Level Biology Practice Exam

What characterizes the process of inflammation?

1. Painless swelling and heat

2. Reduction of blood flow to the area

3. Vasodilation and increased permeability of blood vessels

4. Activation of T-cells only

The correct answer is: Vasodilation and increased permeability of blood vessels

The process of inflammation is characterized by vasodilation and increased permeability of blood vessels. During an inflammatory response, the body responds to injury or infection by expanding blood vessels in the affected area (vasodilation). This expansion allows more blood to flow to the site, resulting in redness and warmth. Additionally, increased permeability of the blood vessels permits proteins, fluids, and immune cells to move more easily from the bloodstream into the tissues, which contributes to swelling and aids in the healing process. This cascade of events helps to isolate and eliminate the cause of injury or infection, ultimately promoting recovery. The other options do not accurately reflect the typical features of inflammation. For instance, painless swelling is not characteristic since inflammation usually involves pain as a symptom due to the release of inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, reduction of blood flow contradicts the nature of inflammation which seeks to increase flow to affected areas. Lastly, while T-cells play a crucial role in the immune response, inflammation also involves various innate immune responses and cell types, making the focus solely on T-cells incomplete.