Question

Hibernating animals have tissues containing mitochondria with a membrane protein that accelerates electron transport while blocking synthesis of ATP. What is the consequence of this?

• A. The energy of respiration is converted into heat
• B. Pyruvate is converted to lactic acid by anaerobic fermentation
• C. Energy is saved because glycolysis and citric acid cycle are shut down
• D. Hibernating animals can synthesize fat instead of wasting energy on respiration

Answer 1

The correct option is A The energy of respiration is converted into heat

Some compounds, known as uncouplers like 2,4-dinitrophenol allow the oxidation of substrate without the formation of ATP. Due to this, oxidation is uncoupled from phosphorylation. This causes liberation of heat when fat is oxidized in the brown adipose tissue.

So, the correct option is 'The energy of respiration is converted into heat'.