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A study was carried out comparing camels, cattle and sheep - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2005 - Paper 1
Question 8
A study was carried out comparing camels, cattle and sheep. The average amount of body water lost per day when the temperature was 42°C was calculated. The results a... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A study was carried out comparing camels, cattle and sheep - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2005 - Paper 1
Step 1
Using the information given, explain which animal will survive for the longest time in a hot dry environment.
Answer
Based on the data provided, the camel loses only 1–2% of its body water each day, while cattle lose 7–8% and sheep lose 4–6%. This means that the camel will be able to conserve more water over time, making it better suited to survive in hot, dry environments. Because of its lower rate of water loss, the camel can withstand dehydration longer than the other animals.
Step 2
Explain how evaporative cooling leads to a reduction in body temperature.
Answer
Evaporative cooling occurs when water evaporates from the surface of the skin. When sweat evaporates, it absorbs heat from the body, thus cooling the skin and lowering the overall body temperature. This process is essential for thermoregulation, especially in high-temperature environments.
Step 3
Step 4
Describe one advantage to a mammal of panting rather than sweating.
Answer
One advantage of panting over sweating is that panting increases the airflow over the moist surfaces of the respiratory tract, which enhances evaporative cooling more efficiently. This can be particularly advantageous in situations where a mammal is unable to produce enough sweat due to limited water availability.
Step 5
Describe one of these adaptations.
Answer
One physiological adaptation found in mammals living in hot, dry environments is the ability to reabsorb increased amounts of water from urine. For example, the kidney may produce more concentrated urine, allowing the animal to retain water more effectively and reduce overall water loss.