A Level Biology Practice Exam

What does transmission refer to in a biological context?

1. The spread of nutrients in the body

2. The communication between nerve cells

3. Passing a pathogen from one individual to another

4. The transfer of energy between organisms

The correct answer is: Passing a pathogen from one individual to another

In a biological context, transmission generally refers to the process of passing a pathogen from one individual to another. This encompasses the various ways that infectious agents, such as bacteria or viruses, can be transferred, whether through direct contact, airborne routes, or vector organisms. Understanding transmission is crucial in fields such as epidemiology, as it helps track the spread of diseases and develop appropriate public health responses. Other options, while related to biological processes, do not define transmission in the same context. The spread of nutrients in the body pertains more to absorption and distribution processes, while communication between nerve cells relates to synaptic transmission and neurobiology. The transfer of energy between organisms involves concepts like trophic levels and ecological interactions but does not specifically address the idea of transmission as it pertains to pathogens.