Skip to content
IGCSEBiology
Trial Class

Original practice · 5 questions · 14 marks · about 16 minutes

Alcohol and Health Practice Questions

Biology editorial review is supported by the named review panel. Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.

These questions cover the short-term and long-term effects of alcohol on the body, and why it is classified as a depressant.

Before you open the answers

  • Attempt every question without notes.
  • Show working for calculations and write complete biological statements.
  • Use the suggested time as a guide, not a strict limit on the first attempt.

These are original practice questions. They do not reproduce an official Cambridge paper or official mark scheme.

  1. Question 1

    Paper 4 Both 3 marks Difficulty 3/5

    Explain why alcohol is classified as a depressant and describe two effects on the nervous system.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. Alcohol slows down nerve impulse transmission / reduces brain activity.
    2. Slowed reaction times: impairs coordination and judgement.
    3. Loss of inhibitions: may lead to risky behaviour.

  2. Question 2

    Paper 4 Extended 3 marks Difficulty 3/5

    Describe the long-term effects of excessive alcohol consumption on the liver.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. The liver has to break down (detoxify) alcohol: chronic overloading damages liver cells.
    2. Liver cirrhosis develops: healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue.
    3. The liver becomes less able to carry out its functions (e.g. Deamination, bile production, detoxification).

  3. Question 3

    Paper 4 Both 3 marks Difficulty 3/5

    Explain why drinking alcohol impairs a person's ability to drive safely.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. Alcohol slows reaction times: takes longer to respond to hazards.
    2. Impairs judgement and decision-making.
    3. Reduces coordination: difficulty controlling the steering wheel.

  4. Question 4

    Paper 2 Core 2 marks Difficulty 1/5

    Name the organ that breaks down alcohol in the body.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. The liver.
    2. Alcohol is broken down by enzymes in the liver.

  5. Question 5

    Paper 4 Extended 3 marks Difficulty 4/5

    Explain the short-term and long-term effects of alcohol on the brain.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. Short-term: reduces inhibitions, slows reaction time, impairs memory, and in high doses can cause unconsciousness.
    2. Long-term: chronic alcohol use can damage brain cells permanently.
    3. Can lead to addiction / dependency: withdrawal causes tremors, anxiety, and other symptoms.

Mark the set consistently

Award a point only when the idea is clearly present in the written answer. Correct any missed point in a complete sentence, then test the same skill on a different question several days later.

Review the related teaching