How do polar bears maintain homeostasis in freezing cold weather?
Responses
Their thick skin insulates the internal organs against the cold.
Their thick skin insulates the internal organs against the cold. - no response given
Their thick fur retains heat.
Their thick fur retains heat. - not selected, this is the correct answer
Their metabolism speeds up to produce heat.
Their metabolism speeds up to produce heat. - no response given
Their metabolism slows down to preserve heat. Explain anwer
Polar bears maintain homeostasis in freezing cold weather by slowing down their metabolism to preserve heat. This means their body processes slow down, reducing the amount of heat their body produces and conserving energy. By doing so, they are able to maintain a stable body temperature and survive in extremely cold conditions.
The correct answer is that polar bears maintain homeostasis in freezing cold weather by slowing down their metabolism to preserve heat. This adaptive response allows them to conserve energy and stay warm in their icy habitat. By lowering their metabolic rate, polar bears can reduce heat loss and maintain a stable body temperature, even in extremely cold conditions. This mechanism helps them survive and thrive in their freezing environment.
To explain how polar bears maintain homeostasis in freezing cold weather by slowing down their metabolism to preserve heat, we can look at the physiological adaptations of these animals. When exposed to extremely low temperatures, the polar bear's body undergoes a series of changes to help them survive.
Firstly, polar bears have a thick layer of subcutaneous fat called blubber, which acts as excellent insulation against cold temperatures. It helps to prevent heat loss from their bodies and keeps them warm. This layer of blubber is also important for buoyancy when swimming and provides energy reserves when food is scarce.
Secondly, polar bears have a dense fur coat that helps retain body heat. Their fur consists of a combination of long, guard hairs and short, dense underfur. The guard hairs provide a waterproof barrier that prevents the underlying fur and skin from getting wet, as water conducts heat away from the body. The underfur acts as a thermal insulator, trapping air close to the body and creating a layer of insulation that reduces heat loss.
Lastly, polar bears have the ability to regulate their metabolism. In extreme cold conditions, their metabolic rate can slow down, reducing the amount of energy they need to produce and conserving heat. By conserving energy and maintaining a lower metabolic rate, polar bears can survive for extended periods without consuming large amounts of food.
In summary, polar bears maintain homeostasis in freezing cold weather by slowing down their metabolism, which helps them conserve energy and preserve heat. Additionally, their thick layer of blubber and dense fur coat act as effective insulators, preventing heat loss from their bodies. These adaptations help polar bears survive in their harsh Arctic habitat.