In terms of gas exchange, the evolution of large animals was dependent on
A) development of a gas-exchange system.
B) the ability to ventilate and so renew the external medium.
C) development of an internal circulatory system.
D) the ability of the gas to diffuse across the boundary layer of cells.
E) All of the answers are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The evolution of large animals required the development of specialized systems for gas exchange to support their larger body sizes and increased metabolic demands. This includes the development of a gas-exchange system to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, the ability to ventilate and renew the external medium to ensure a constant supply of oxygen and removal of carbon dioxide, the development of an internal circulatory system to transport gases between the gas-exchange system and the rest of the body, and the ability of gases to diffuse across the boundary layer of cells to reach every cell in the body. All these components are crucial for efficient gas exchange in large animals.

In Terms of Gas Exchange, the Evolution of Large Animals