lab 5 gpt

Why did we use Ascarite and Drierite in the chamber?

Ascarite absorbs CO₂ and Drierite absorbs water vapor, so only O₂ remains. This ensures any change in gas volume reflects true O₂ consumption.

Why did we want only oxygen gas in the sealed chamber?

To accurately measure oxygen consumption (metabolic rate) without interference from CO₂ production or water vapor.

What does metabolic rate tell you?

the amount of oxygen used per unit time — a measure of the animal’s energy use for cellular respiration and ATP production.

What happens to a mouse’s metabolic rate if temperature drops?

ncreases because the mouse must burn more energy (use more O₂) to maintain its body temperature.

Why do we factor in the mouse’s weight?

to calculate weight-specific metabolic rate (mL O₂/g/hr), allowing fair comparison between animals of different sizes.

What does STPD stand for and why do we use it?

standard Temperature, Pressure, Dry — we convert gas volumes to these conditions so results aren’t affected by room temperature, pressure, or humidity.

If two mice have different weight-specific metabolic rates, what does that tell you?

The mouse with the higher value is using more O₂ per gram of tissue — it has a higher metabolism.

If metabolic rate values are higher in one condition than another, what does that mean?

The mouse was consuming more O₂ and producing more energy in that condition (e.g., colder environment = higher metabolic demand).

How do you interpret metabolic rate results if given numbers?

Compare the weight-specific metabolic rates (mL O₂/g/hr). The larger the value, the higher the mouse’s metabolism and energy use in that condition.