Question

Hibernating animals have tissues containing mitochondria with a membrane protein that accelerates electron transport while blocking the synthesis of ATP. What is the consequence of this?

• A. Hibernating animals can synthesize fat instead of wasting the energy of respiration.
• B. Energy is saved because glycolysis and the citric acid cycle shuts down.
• C. Pyruvate is converted to lactic acid by anaerobic fermentation
• D. The energy of respiration is converted into heat.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Answer (D): The energy of respiration is converted into heat.
In the tissues of hibernating animals, the mitochondria have a membrane that accelerates electron transport, which blocks the synthesis of ATP. This process is known as "uncoupling.”.

•  It allows mitochondria to release energy in the form of heat instead of storing it as ATP. 
• Due to this, body temperature remains constant without consuming more stored energy.