Question:

Which of following best describes the free-energy requirements of an organism?

Answer Choices:
During times of hibernation large amounts of free energy are required.

Free-energy demand is consistent for all heterotrophs.

The organism requires free energy in all situations, but the amount fluctuates.

The organism will not require free energy in times of oxygen deprivation.

Help!!

To determine the correct answer, let's understand the concept of free energy and its requirements in organisms.

Free energy refers to the energy available to do work in a system. In organisms, this energy is derived from various sources such as food or sunlight. It is essential for performing biological processes like growth, reproduction, and maintaining homeostasis.

Now, let's analyze each answer choice to find the most accurate description:

1. During times of hibernation, large amounts of free energy are required.
This statement is incorrect. Hibernation is a state of minimal activity and reduced metabolic rate, where the organism conserves energy. During hibernation, the requirement for free energy decreases rather than increases.

2. Free-energy demand is consistent for all heterotrophs.
This statement is also incorrect. Heterotrophs are organisms that obtain energy by consuming other organisms. Their free-energy demand may vary depending on factors like activity level, environmental conditions, and food availability. Therefore, it is not consistent for all heterotrophs.

3. The organism requires free energy in all situations, but the amount fluctuates.
This statement is the most accurate and likely the correct answer. Organisms require free energy in all situations, whether they are active or at rest. However, the amount of energy required can indeed fluctuate, depending on factors such as metabolic rate, environmental conditions, and biological activities.

4. The organism will not require free energy in times of oxygen deprivation.
This statement is incorrect. Even in situations where oxygen is not readily available, such as anaerobic conditions, organisms still require free energy to carry out other metabolic processes, albeit through alternative pathways.

Based on the analysis, the best description of the free-energy requirements of an organism is that they require free energy in all situations, but the amount fluctuates (Answer choice 3).