What is the correct rank order for relative energetic cost (most to least)of the primary nitrogenous wastes used by different animals?
A)ammonia $\rarr$ urea $\rarr$ uric acid
B)uric acid $\rarr$ urea $\rarr$ ammonia
C)urea $\rarr$ uric acid $\rarr$ ammonia
D)ammonia $\rarr$ uric acid $\rarr$ urea
E)urea $\rarr$ ammonia $\rarr$ uric acid

Question

What is the correct rank order for relative energetic cost (most to least)of the primary nitrogenous wastes used by different animals?
A)ammonia $\rarr$  urea $\rarr$  uric acid
B)uric acid $\rarr$ urea $\rarr$ ammonia
C)urea $\rarr$  uric acid $\rarr$ ammonia
D)ammonia $\rarr$  uric acid $\rarr$ urea
E)urea $\rarr$  ammonia $\rarr$ uric acid

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Uric acid requires the most energy to produce, followed by urea, and then ammonia, which requires the least amount of energy. This is because uric acid is less toxic and more water-soluble, making it energetically costly to produce, especially for animals that need to conserve water, like birds and reptiles. Urea is less toxic than ammonia and requires some energy for its synthesis, making it a middle ground. Ammonia is highly toxic and water-soluble, allowing aquatic animals to excrete it directly into their environment with minimal energy expenditure.

What Is the Correct Rank Order for Relative Energetic Cost →\rarr→

What Is the Correct Rank Order for Relative Energetic Cost $\rarr$