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Question #46887
The Question
A novel chemical agent specifically rigidifies the lipid bilayer, completely abolishing the quasi-fluid nature of the plasma membrane without creating pores. If this agent simultaneously acts on the glandular cells of Malpighian tubules in Periplaneta americana and the microbial flocs in an aeration tank, which of the following represents the most accurate physiological consequence?
Options
- A.
Active transport of potassium ions into the tubule lumen halts; aerobic microbes fail to reduce the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) of the effluent.
- B.
Passive diffusion of uric acid into the hemolymph increases; anaerobic methanogens in the aeration tank are immediately inhibited.
- C.
Secretion of nitrogenous wastes is unaffected as it relies on simple diffusion; primary treatment efficiency in the sewage plant drops.
- D.
The formation of intercellular junctions in the tubules accelerates; the microbial flocs rapidly consume organic matter to compensate for the stress.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Cockroach Excretory Malpighian Tubules|Plasma Membrane Fluidity|Primary vs Secondary Sewage Treatment
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: This question tests the functional synthesis of the 'Fluid Mosaic Model' across different physiological systems.
Students often memorize that the membrane is 'quasi-fluid' but fail to connect this fluidity to the mechanical conformational changes required by integral carrier proteins (ATPases).
The secondary trap relies on precise spatial mapping of NCERT facts: confusing the aerobic aeration tank (where flocs reduce BOD) with the anaerobic sludge digester (where methanogens produce biogas).
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Structural Organisation in Animals - Class 11 |
| Concept | Cockroach Excretory Malpighian Tubules |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |