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Question #46150
The Question
A researcher exposes a flying insect to a metabolic poison that specifically inhibits Cytochrome c oxidase. Despite the spiracles remaining open and the tracheal system functioning normally, the insect's flight muscles rapidly exhaust due to the accumulation of anaerobic byproducts. Which of the following statements accurately explains the physiological mechanism behind this crisis?
Options
- A.
The poison blocks electron transfer to the terminal electron acceptor, halting oxidative phosphorylation despite adequate direct oxygen delivery via tracheoles.
- B.
The poison competitively binds to the respiratory pigment in the hemolymph, preventing oxygen transport to the metabolically active flight muscles.
- C.
The poison degrades the chitinous taenidia of the tracheal system, causing tube collapse and a localized drop in oxygen tension.
- D.
The poison directly inhibits anaerobic glycolysis, preventing the flight muscles from generating compensatory ATP during metabolic stress.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Tracheal_System|Cytochrome_c_Oxidase|Oxygen_Deprivation
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Integrating anatomical constraints (insects lack hemoglobin and rely on direct tracheal diffusion) with biochemical principles (oxygen's role as the terminal electron acceptor).
The primary trap is Option B, which preys on the common misconception that all animals use blood/hemolymph to transport oxygen to tissues.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Animal Kingdom - Class 11 |
| Concept | Arthropoda Respiratory Diversity |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |