How does a whale's muscle tissue help it stay underwater without breathing?
Show answer & explanation
Answer: A protein in the muscles stores oxygen for use during a dive
A protein in the muscles stores oxygen for use during a dive ✓ — Whale muscles contain abundant myoglobin, a protein that binds and stores oxygen. That reserve can support muscle activity during a dive. Blood also carries oxygen, so muscle storage is one part of a broader diving adaptation.
The muscles make oxygen as they break down food — Breaking down food does not manufacture the oxygen needed for aerobic muscle activity. That process consumes oxygen, which is why storing it before a dive is useful.
The muscles absorb fresh oxygen directly from seawater — Whale muscles cannot absorb a useful breathing supply of oxygen directly from seawater. Whales fill their oxygen stores by breathing air at the surface, then use those stores underwater.
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