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Multiple Choice
Dehydration in animals __________.
A
is always lethal
B
that are exceptionally small, such as the tardigrade, is not usually fatal because of their large surface area-to-volume ratio
C
is, on a cellular level, the opposite of freezing
D
is a problem because fluid-mosaic cell membranes fall apart when deprived of water
E
may be less damaging in the presence of sugar
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that dehydration refers to the loss of water from an organism, which can affect cellular processes and structures.
Recognize that cell membranes are composed of a fluid-mosaic model, which relies on water to maintain its structure and function.
Consider the role of sugars, such as trehalose, which can stabilize cell membranes and proteins during dehydration by replacing water molecules and forming hydrogen bonds.
Acknowledge that some organisms, like tardigrades, can survive extreme dehydration by entering a state called cryptobiosis, where metabolic processes are halted.
Conclude that the presence of sugar can mitigate the damaging effects of dehydration by stabilizing cellular structures, making dehydration less harmful.