Use the figure to answer the following question.

The countercurrent arrangement of blood vessels is an adaptation that allows the goose to ________.
A) minimize heat exchange between the feet and water
B) generate heat using shivering thermogenesis
C) more effectively cool off in the summer
D) conserve heat in its core when the goose is swimming in cold water

Question

Use the figure to answer the following question.

The countercurrent arrangement of blood vessels is an adaptation that allows the goose to ________.
A) minimize heat exchange between the feet and water 
B) generate heat using shivering thermogenesis 
C) more effectively cool off in the summer 
D) conserve heat in its core when the goose is swimming in cold water

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The countercurrent arrangement of blood vessels allows the goose to conserve heat in its core when swimming in cold water by maintaining a higher temperature in the vital organs and reducing heat loss through the feet. This is achieved by the warmer arterial blood flowing in the opposite direction to the cooler venous blood, which creates a gradient that allows for efficient heat exchange.

Use the Figure to Answer the Following Question