In a mammal, metabolic rate is highest when the temperature is _______ the thermoneutral zone and the animal is _______.
A) within; at rest
B) below; active
C) within; active
D) above; at rest
E) below; at rest

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The thermoneutral zone (TNZ) is the range of temperatures where an animal's metabolic rate is at its lowest, i.e., the animal does not need to expend energy to regulate its body temperature. When an animal is within its TNZ, its metabolic rate is not at its highest. However, when it is outside its TNZ, either above or below, its metabolic rate increases to maintain its body temperature. Therefore, metabolic rate is highest when the temperature is within the TNZ and the animal is active, as it needs to expend energy for muscular movements. Thus, the correct answer is (C) within; active.

In a Mammal, Metabolic Rate Is Highest When the Temperature