Biology 107

Study Guide: Thermo- and Osmoregulation.

Chapter 44

1. What are the physical processes by which we can gain or lose heat to our surroundings?

2. Differentiate between ectotherms and endotherms. Which strategy requires more energy? Why?

3. What are the mechanisms by which an animal regulates the rate of heat exchange with its environment? How does controlling the location of blood flow aid in regulating body temperature? What role does the brain play in controlling body temperature?

4. Describe a countercurrent heat exchanger. How does this arrangement of veins and arteries preserve body heat? What animals employ this heat exchanger? Which of their body structures include the countercurrent system?

5. What is non-shivering thermogenesis?

6. The metabolism of which molecules produces ammonia?

7. Why don’t terrestrial animals secrete nitrogenous wastes in the form of ammonia?

8. What is osmosis? Define hypoosmotic, hyperosmotic, and isoosmotic. Would water flow into or out of a hypoosmotic solution?