A student investigated the energy released by respiring seeds. The student set up two vacuum flasks as shown in the figure. Flask A contained germinating seeds. Flask B contained seeds that had been boiled and then cooled. Both flasks were left in the same room for 4 days.
Figure: The two vacuum flasks used in the student's investigation

Give the independent variable in this investigation.
Both sets of seeds were washed in disinfectant before the investigation started. Suggest why.
After 4 days the temperature in flask A had risen by 8.5 °C. The temperature in flask B had not changed.
Explain these results.
Explain why a vacuum flask was used instead of a glass beaker.
The student repeated the investigation using twice the mass of germinating seeds in flask A. Suggest the effect this would have on the temperature reached in flask A after 4 days. Give a reason for your answer.
51 exam-style questions on AQA GCSE Biology 4.2 Respiration, covering 4.2.1 Aerobic and anaerobic respiration, 4.2.2 Response to exercise, and 4.2.3 Metabolism. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.