A child is brought to the hospital with a fever of 107°F. Doctors immediately order an ice bath to lower the child's temperature. Which of the following statements offers the most logical explanation for this action?
A) Elevated body temperature will increase reaction rates in the child's cells and overload the limited number of enzymes found in the cell.
B) Elevated body temperatures may denature enzymes. This would interfere with the cell's abilities to catalyze various reactions.
C) Elevated body temperatures will increase the energy of activation needed to start various chemical reactions in the body. This will interfere with the ability of enzymes to catalyze vital chemical reactions.
D) Elevated body temperatures cause molecules to vibrate more quickly and prevent enzymes from easily attaching to reactants. This would slow vital body reactions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elevated body temperatures may denature enzymes, which can interfere with the cell's ability to catalyze various reactions. Lowering the temperature through an ice bath can help preserve the function of these enzymes and prevent further damage to the body's cells.

A Child Is Brought to the Hospital with a Fever