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IB Biology HL A1.1 Water Questions

Practise IB Biology HL A1.1 with evidence-led questions on water polarity, hydrogen bonding, thermal properties, origins and the search for life beyond Earth.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Biology HL
Level
HL

Exam analysis

HL · 2010–2025
Papers with this topic14 / 117in the analysed sample
Latest appearanceNovember 2025
Tagged question parts15
Paper types5

Most tested objectives

  1. A1.1.2—Hydrogen bonds in water7 papers
  2. A1.1.5—Solvent properties of water2 papers
  3. A1.1.6—Physical properties of water for aquatic animals2 papers
  4. A1.1.3—Cohesion of water molecules1 paper
  5. A1.1.7 (HL)—Extraplanetary origin of water on Earth1 paper

Common question formats

  • Definition or recall
  • Diagram interpretation
  • Process explanation
  • Comparison
  • Data analysis
  • Structured response

Recent exam appearances

November 2025Paper 1A HL · TZ3Q2[ 1 ]
May 2025Paper 2 HL · TZ2Q2(a)[ 2 ]
May 2025Paper 2 HL · TZ1Q8(a)[ 4 ]

117 papers analysed · Tagging incomplete

Exam points

  • Explain water polarity and hydrogen bonding, linking them to cohesion, adhesion and solvent action in biological contexts.
  • Analyse thermal and physical properties of water, including heat capacity, conductivity, viscosity, surface tension and buoyancy, in aquatic or cooling contexts.
  • Evaluate atmospheric and planetary data as evidence for Earth's surface water and potential extraterrestrial habitability.

Covered syllabus points

A1.1.1—Water as the medium for lifeA1.1.2—Hydrogen bonds in waterA1.1.3—Cohesion of water moleculesA1.1.4—Adhesion of waterA1.1.5—Solvent properties of waterA1.1.6—Physical properties of water for aquatic animalsA1.1.7 (HL)—Extraplanetary origin of water on EarthA1.1.8 (HL)—Search for extraterrestrial life and water

Question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

The figure represents a water molecule.

Draw a second water molecule to show how bonds can form between water molecules, including the name of the bond.

Question 2

[Maximum number: 4]

Water has unique properties and is needed by all living organisms to survive. Without water, life on Earth as we know it would not exist.

Outline how the cohesive properties of water benefit living organisms.

Question 3

[Maximum number: 2]

Outline the properties of water molecules that permit them to move upwards in plants.

Question 4

[Maximum number: 1]

Which properties explain the ability of water to dissolve solutes?

I. Polarity of water molecules
II. High specific heat capacity of water
III. Hydrogen bonding

A

I and II only

B

I and III only

C

II and III only

D

I, II and III

Question 5

[Maximum number: 2]

Water is the medium in which most processes of life occur.

Distinguish between the physical properties of water and air.