Chapter 45, Problem 1TY

Summary Introduction

Introduction: A skeleton is a structure that provides support and protection. It plays an important role in locomotion. Exoskeleton and endoskeleton are the two major types of skeletons found in animals.

Answer to Problem 1TY

Correct answer: A disadvantage of an exoskeleton is that it must be periodically shed. This leave the animal in a vulnerable state. Hence, the correct answer is option b.

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct answer:

Exoskeletons provide support for the body and protection from the external environment and predators. It plays an important role in the protection of internal organs. They must be periodically shed and replaced in order to allow the growth of the animal. However, the new exoskeleton formed is soft, making the animal more vulnerable to predators and the environment.

Option b. is given as “must be periodically shed, leaving the animal in a vulnerable state”.

The periodic shedding of exoskeleton makes the animal more vulnerable to predators and the environment. This is because, the new exoskeleton formed is soft. Hence, the correct answer is option b.

Reasons for incorrect answer:

Option a. is given as, “cannot protect an animal’s internal organs”.

Exoskeleton plays an important role in the protection of internal organs. It is not a disadvantage of an exoskeleton. Hence, option a. is incorrect.

Option c. is given as, “does not provide any flexibility for the ease of movement of an animal”.

Exoskeletons are tough, durable, and segmented to provide flexibility and to allow movement. Hence, option c. is incorrect.

Option d. is given as, “is a soft, easily damaged structure”.

Exoskeletons are tough and durable. The new exoskeleton formed after molting is soft. Hence, option d. is incorrect.

Option e. is given as, “cannot protect the outside of the body surface”.

Exoskeleton surrounds and protects most of the body surface. It is not a disadvantage of exoskeleton in animals. Hence, option e. is incorrect.

Hence, the options a., c., d., and e. are incorrect.

Conclusion

Thus, a disadvantage of an exoskeleton is that it must be shed periodically. This leave the animal in a vulnerable state.