Question 1: Explain in your own words what stem cells are and why they are important in biological processes.

Answer: Stem cells are undifferentiated cells capable of dividing and renewing themselves, and they can differentiate into specialised cell types. They are important for growth, repair, and regeneration in organisms.

Question 1: Describe the process by which stem cells become specialised cells in the body.

Answer: Stem cells undergo a process called differentiation, where they receive specific signals that activate certain genes, leading them to develop into specialised cell types with specific functions.

Question 1: If a stem cell culture divides every 24 hours and starts with 1 million stem cells, how many cells will there be after 5 days? (Use the formula: N = N₀ × 2^n, where N₀ is initial cells and n is number of divisions).

Answer: N = 1,000,000 × 2^5 = 1,000,000 × 32 = 32,000,000 cells

Question 1: Propose a hypothetical experiment to test how stem cells could be used to repair damaged aluminium parts in vehicles. Include variables and safety considerations.

Answer: An experiment could involve culturing stem cells with aluminium alloy samples subjected to corrosion. Variables include stem cell type, alloy composition, and corrosion level. Safety considerations involve handling of biological materials and metal dust, proper sterilisation, and disposal procedures.

Question 1: A study reports that using stem cells derived from human tissue in automotive repair reduces the time for repairs by 30%. Discuss possible ethical issues associated with using human-derived stem cells in industrial applications.

Answer: Ethical issues include consent for tissue donation, potential for misuse of human tissue, concerns about cloning or genetic modification, and the moral implications of using human biological materials in non-medical industries.

Question 1: Predict how advancements in stem cell research could influence the development of self-healing car body panels. Include potential benefits and challenges.

Answer: Advancements could enable car panels embedded with stem cell-based regenerative materials that repair dents and scratches autonomously, reducing repair costs and vehicle downtime. Challenges include ensuring safety, cost of production, ethical concerns, and integrating biological materials with existing manufacturing processes.