MEDIUM
Upper Secondary-IGCSE
IMPORTANT
Earn 100

In an investigation into the absorption of vitamin D from the alimentary canal, a volunteer ate a measured quantity of vitamin D on a piece of roast. Blood samples were then taken from him at intervals over a period of 72 hours, and the concentration of vitamin D in each blood sample was measured.

The results are shown in the graph in figure 7.2.

Question Image

Describe the changes in the concentration of vitamin D in the blood over the 72-hour period.

Important Questions on Human Nutrition

MEDIUM
Upper Secondary-IGCSE
IMPORTANT
Calculate the percentage change in vitamin D concentration between 12 hours and 48 hours. Show your working. Give your answer to the nearest whole number. 
MEDIUM
Upper Secondary-IGCSE
IMPORTANT
Name the part of the alimentary canal in which vitamin D is absorbed into the blood.
MEDIUM
Upper Secondary-IGCSE
IMPORTANT
Explain how this part of the alimentary canal is adapted to make absorption efficient.
MEDIUM
Upper Secondary-IGCSE
IMPORTANT
Explain why vitamin D does not need to be digested before it is absorbed.
MEDIUM
Upper Secondary-IGCSE
IMPORTANT

Vitamin D is soluble in fat, but insoluble in water. It is present in the fat component of foods that eat. 

Use this information to suggest how bile helps to absorb vitamin D from food.

MEDIUM
Upper Secondary-IGCSE
IMPORTANT

Vitamin D is soluble in fat, but insoluble in water. It is present in the fat component of foods that eat. 

Suggest into which part of the villi is absorbed. Explain your suggestion.

EASY
Upper Secondary-IGCSE
IMPORTANT
The volunteer was asked not to expose his skin to sunlight during the investigation. Suggest why this was done.