Question 1
A motor neuron has a long, thin, cable-like shape. Which statement best explains why this shape is well suited to the neuron's function?No clue? Show me the answer
Correct answerCorrect!
IncorrectStep-by-step walkthrough
Choose a solution method
Method #1Direct ApproachStep 1: Identify the function of a motor neuron
A motor neuron carries messages from the brain to a muscle. Its job requires rapid communication over a long distance.
Step 2: Apply the principle of form follows function
The form of the cell — long, thin, cable-like — directly supports its function. A long fibre allows the message to travel continuously from the brain all the way to a muscle without interruption.
Step 3: Select the correct answer
The answer is that the elongated shape allows electrical messages to travel quickly over long distances. This directly links the structure to the function of long-distance communication.
Method #2Process of EliminationStep 1: Identify what the question is asking
The question asks why the long, thin shape of a motor neuron suits its function — we need to link structure to function.
Step 2: Eliminate 'increases surface area for nutrient absorption'
Neurons are not primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients from blood — that is not their function. Eliminate this option.
Step 3: Eliminate 'reduces energy needed'
There is no direct connection between a cell being thin and it needing less energy — this does not relate to the neuron's specific function. Eliminate this option.
Step 4: Eliminate 'helps the cell divide more quickly'
Cell division is not related to the elongated shape of neurons, and neurons do not divide frequently. Eliminate this option.
Step 5: Select the correct answer
The remaining option — the elongated shape allows electrical messages to travel quickly over long distances — correctly links the neuron's structure to its function of communication.
Question 2
Which of the following is a correct example of an adaptation?No clue? Show me the answer
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Choose a solution method
Method #1Direct ApproachStep 1: Recall the definition of adaptation
An adaptation is a heritable feature passed from parent to offspring through genes that makes an organism better suited to its environment. Only traits that are inherited count as adaptations.
Step 2: Apply the heritable criterion
A rabbit born with white fur has inherited this trait from its parents through genes. This is a heritable feature that helps it survive in a snowy environment — it is a genuine adaptation.
Step 3: Select the correct answer
The correct answer is a rabbit being born with naturally white fur — it is an inherited trait that aids survival, which satisfies the definition of an adaptation.
Method #2Process of EliminationStep 1: Identify what makes something an adaptation
The key criterion: an adaptation must be heritable (passed on through genes). Non-inherited changes are not adaptations.
Step 2: Eliminate 'skin becoming darker after a summer at the beach'
A tan is a temporary, non-heritable change caused by UV exposure — it is not passed to offspring. Eliminate this option.
Step 3: Eliminate 'plant growing taller after extra fertiliser'
This is an environmental response, not an inherited trait. The extra growth is not encoded in genes and cannot be passed to offspring. Eliminate this option.
Step 4: Eliminate 'dog developing thicker fur during winter'
Seasonal fur changes are a physiological response to the environment, not an inherited feature specific to individuals. Eliminate this option.
Step 5: Select the correct answer
A rabbit being born with naturally white fur is an inherited trait that aids camouflage in snow — this is a true adaptation.
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