Animal Structures and Functions

Which of the following is an example of an external structure?

• Heart

• Brain

• Fur

• Stomach

Answer explanation

Fur is an external structure that covers the body of certain animals, providing insulation and protection. In contrast, the heart, brain, and stomach are internal organs, making fur the correct choice as an external structure.

How does fur help animals?

• It helps them fly

• It helps them stay warm

• It helps them swim

• It helps them climb

Answer explanation

Fur helps animals stay warm by providing insulation against cold temperatures. It traps heat close to their bodies, which is essential for survival in colder climates.

Why do animals in snowy regions often have white fur?

• To attract mates

• To hide in their surroundings

• To scare predators

• To find food easily

Answer explanation

Animals in snowy regions often have white fur to blend in with their surroundings, providing camouflage against predators and helping them avoid detection. This adaptation enhances their survival in harsh environments.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-4

What is the function of a giraffe's long neck?

• To help it run faster

• To help it reach high leaves

• To help it swim

• To help it dig

Answer explanation

A giraffe's long neck primarily helps it reach high leaves in trees, allowing it to access food that other herbivores cannot, which is essential for its survival in the wild.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

What does the term "function" refer to in biology?

• The color of an animal

• What something does

• The size of an animal

• The speed of an animal

Answer explanation

In biology, the term "function" refers to what something does, such as the role of an organ or a behavior in an ecosystem. This distinguishes it from attributes like color, size, or speed, which describe characteristics rather than roles.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

How do webbed feet help animals?

• They help animals fly

• They help animals swim

• They help animals climb

• They help animals dig

Answer explanation

Webbed feet are adaptations that enhance swimming ability by providing a larger surface area for propulsion in water, making it easier for animals like ducks and frogs to move efficiently through their aquatic environments.

Which animals are known for having webbed feet?

• Lions and tigers

• Ducks and frogs

• Elephants and rhinos

• Snakes and lizards

Answer explanation

Ducks and frogs are known for having webbed feet, which help them swim efficiently. In contrast, lions, tigers, elephants, rhinos, snakes, and lizards do not possess webbed feet.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

What is biomimicry?

• The study of animal diets

• The imitation of natural structures in inventions

• The process of animal migration

• The study of animal habitats

Answer explanation

Biomimicry is the imitation of natural structures in inventions, drawing inspiration from nature to solve human challenges. This distinguishes it from the study of diets, migration, or habitats.

How do webbed feet help frogs?

• They help frogs fly

• They help frogs hop without slipping

• They help frogs dig

• They help frogs climb trees

Answer explanation

Webbed feet help frogs hop without slipping by providing better traction on wet surfaces, allowing them to move efficiently in their aquatic and terrestrial environments.

What inspired the design of swim fins?

• Bird wings

• Webbed feet

• Fish scales

• Elephant trunks

Answer explanation

Swim fins were inspired by webbed feet, which allow animals like ducks and frogs to swim efficiently. This design mimics the natural propulsion provided by webbing, enhancing human swimming performance.

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