Practice A.2.3 Energy systems with authentic IB Sports, exercise and health science (SEHS) exam questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank mirrors Paper 1A, 1B, 2 structure, covering key topics like core principles, advanced applications, and practical problem-solving. Get instant solutions, detailed explanations, and build exam confidence with questions in the style of IB examiners.
Paper
Level
Question 1
SLPaper 2
1.[2]
State two functions of potassium in exercise physiology.
2.[2]
Identify two consequences of excessive water intake without electrolyte replacement.
3.[3]
Describe the process of osmoregulation during prolonged exercise.
4.[4]
Explain how thermoregulation is influenced by hydration status.
5.[4]
Outline two adaptations in trained endurance athletes that improve fluid and electrolyte efficiency.
6.[5]
Discuss the physiological effects of chronic dehydration on athletic performance and recovery.
Question 2
SLPaper 1A
The graph shows VO₂ max (y-axis in mL/kg/min) over 12 weeks of endurance training (x-axis) for three groups. Which group demonstrates the greatest relative improvement in aerobic capacity over the 12-week training period?
Question 3
SLPaper 2
1.[2]
State one function of water in the human body and one way it is lost.
2.[2]
Identify two symptoms of mild dehydration.
3.[3]
Describe how electrolytes contribute to hydration balance.
4.[4]
Explain four ways the body responds to fluid loss during exercise.
5.[4]
Outline how dehydration affects aerobic performance.
6.[5]
Discuss the importance of maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance during prolonged physical activity.
Question 4
SLPaper 2
1.[2]
Identify two causes of fluid loss during exercise
2.[2]
State two effects of hyponatremia.
3.[3]
Describe three functions of water during physical activity.
4.[4]
Explain how fluid replacement strategies can prevent performance decline in endurance events.
5.[4]
Outline the roles of sodium and potassium in regulating hydration status.
6.[5]
Discuss how hydration needs vary depending on environmental conditions and exercise intensity.
Question 5
SLPaper 2
1.[2]
State two roles of fats in the body.
2.[2]
Identify two nutrient-dense sources of carbohydrates.
3.[3]
Describe the importance of post-exercise carbohydrate intake.
4.[4]
Explain how glycogen is stored and used during prolonged activity.
5.[4]
Explain consequences of poor macronutrient distribution for athletic performance.
6.[5]
Discuss the relationship between macronutrient timing and recovery.
Question 6
SLPaper 2
1.[2]
State two factors that influence an individual's daily energy needs.
2.[2]
Identify two types of energy-dense foods.
3.[3]
Describe how under-fueling affects performance and recovery.
4.[4]
Explain how protein and carbohydrate intake work together in post-exercise recovery.
5.[4]
Outline the benefits of a pre-exercise meal in performance sports.
6.[5]
Discuss the long-term risks of chronic energy imbalance in athletes.
Question 7
SLPaper 2
1.[2]
Identify the three macronutrients.
2.[2]
State two sources of dietary fat.
3.[3]
Describe how carbohydrates are used during high-intensity exercise.
4.[4]
Explain the role of protein in recovery after resistance training.
5.[4]
Outline the process and benefit of carbohydrate loading for athletes.
6.[5]
Discuss the energy system contributions during a 1500 m middle-distance race.
Question 8
SLPaper 2
1.[2]
Identify two energy systems used during exercise.
2.[2]
State one characteristic of the ATP-PC system and one of the aerobic system.
3.[3]
Describe how carbohydrates are utilized differently during aerobic and anaerobic exercise.
4.[4]
Explain the contribution of the lactic acid system during a 400 m sprint.
5.[4]
Outline how balanced macronutrient intake supports sports performance.
6.[5]
Discuss the interplay of energy systems during a 1500 m middle-distance race.
Question 9
SLPaper 2
1.[2]
Identify two by-products of aerobic metabolism.
2.[2]
State two reasons why carbohydrate intake is prioritized over fat during high-intensity exercise.
3.[3]
Describe how energy availability influences hormonal function in endurance athletes.
4.[4]
Explain how macronutrient needs vary between power athletes and endurance athletes.
5.[4]
Outline the role of nutrition periodization in optimizing competition performance.
6.[5]
Discuss the combined use of the aerobic and anaerobic systems in sports requiring intermittent bursts of activity, such as basketball or hockey.
Question 10
SLPaper 1A
Graph shows lactate concentration rises progressively during 30 minutes of increasing intensity exercise. What does the sharp rise in lactate levels after 15 minutes most likely represent?