Which statement best explains why tropical plants may lose function at temperatures as high as 10°C, while alpine plants can function at temperatures close to freezing?
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Tropical plants are adapted to warm, stable temperatures and have physiological processes that are optimized for these conditions. When temperatures rise to 10°C, which is significantly lower than their optimal range, their metabolic processes may slow down or Show more…
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Which of the following best explains why tropical plants may lose function at temperatures as high as 10°C, while alpine tundra plants can function at temperatures close to freezing? The enzymes of tropical plants become denatured at 10°C, whereas the enzymes of alpine plants do not. The metabolic coordination of alpine plants makes them able to withstand lower temperatures. The membranes of alpine plants have a higher proportion of unsaturated lipids, making them more fluid and less sensitive to lower temperatures. The alpine plants can function even when their membranes have solidified, whereas the tropical plants cannot.
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Temperature is an important factor because of its effects on metabolism. Few organisms can maintain sufficiently active metabolism at temperatures close to 0°C, and temperatures above 50°C destroy the enzymes of most organisms. Give an example of extraordinarily adapted organisms who can maintain sufficient active metabolism at temperatures above 50°C (1mark). f. List 3 important environmental factors of the soil that limit the distribution of vegetation. (1.5marks)
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