Question

Which of the following statements best summarizes the relationship between respiratory rate and body size in related animals?

• A. Size and respiratory rate are not related in any orderly fashion.
• B. Smaller the animal, lower the respiratory rate.
• C. Smaller the animal, higher the respiratory rate.
• D. None of the above.

Answer 1

The correct option is C Smaller the animal, higher the respiratory rate.

Smaller animals have a higher rate of respiration because they have a higher metabolism. Smaller animals need to generate more heat because their heat loss is greater for their mass. A higher metabolism requires more oxygen and a higher rate of respiration.