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Multiple Choice
What is the relationship between carbon dioxide (CO$_2$) and oxygen (O$_2$) in the respiration of an orca?
A
Orcas inhale CO$_2$ and exhale O$_2$ during cellular respiration.
B
Orcas use both CO$_2$ and O$_2$ equally for energy production.
C
Orcas inhale O$_2$ and exhale CO$_2$ during cellular respiration.
D
Orcas do not exchange CO$_2$ or O$_2$ with their environment.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of cellular respiration: Cellular respiration is a biological process in which cells convert glucose (C$_6$H$_{12}$O$_6$) and oxygen (O$_2$) into energy (in the form of ATP), carbon dioxide (CO$_2$), and water (H$_2$O). This process occurs in the mitochondria of cells.
Identify the gases involved: Oxygen (O$_2$) is required for the process of cellular respiration to occur, as it acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain. Carbon dioxide (CO$_2$) is a byproduct of this process and is released as waste.
Relate this to the orca: Orcas, like all aerobic organisms, inhale oxygen (O$_2$) from their environment to support cellular respiration. During this process, carbon dioxide (CO$_2$) is produced as a waste product and is exhaled back into the environment.
Clarify the incorrect statements: Orcas do not inhale CO$_2$ or use it for energy production. They also do not use CO$_2$ and O$_2$ equally, as O$_2$ is consumed while CO$_2$ is produced. Additionally, orcas do exchange gases (O$_2$ and CO$_2$) with their environment through their respiratory system.
Conclude with the correct relationship: The correct relationship is that orcas inhale oxygen (O$_2$) to support cellular respiration and exhale carbon dioxide (CO$_2$) as a byproduct of this process.