If the night temperature drops by 50 degrees, the roadrunner's internal energy-conservation permits a lowering of body temperature to

Prepare for the NLN PAX Science Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and detailed explanations to boost your confidence and exam readiness.

Multiple Choice

If the night temperature drops by 50 degrees, the roadrunner's internal energy-conservation permits a lowering of body temperature to

Explanation:
Endotherms save energy by letting body temperature drop at night when it's cold. A roadrunner normally runs a bit above 100°F in its active state, but it can enter a mild nocturnal cooling to reduce metabolic demands during a chilly night. Dropping to about 94°F provides a meaningful energy savings while still keeping bodily functions safe and functional. A much smaller drop wouldn’t cut enough energy use, and dropping to around 90°F would be risky for the bird’s physiology. So 94°F is the level that balances energy conservation with safety, making it the best fit.

Endotherms save energy by letting body temperature drop at night when it's cold. A roadrunner normally runs a bit above 100°F in its active state, but it can enter a mild nocturnal cooling to reduce metabolic demands during a chilly night. Dropping to about 94°F provides a meaningful energy savings while still keeping bodily functions safe and functional. A much smaller drop wouldn’t cut enough energy use, and dropping to around 90°F would be risky for the bird’s physiology. So 94°F is the level that balances energy conservation with safety, making it the best fit.

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