[Campbell Biology P.936] Which statement accurately describes nonshivering thermogenesis NST... | Practice Question

Which statement accurately describes nonshivering thermogenesis NST in mammals?

  • A: It primarily involves rapid muscle contractions to generate heat.
  • B: It involves endocrine signals causing mitochondria to produce ATP more efficiently.
  • C: It is a process where mitochondria produce heat instead of ATP, often stimulated by endocrine signals.
  • D: It is a thermoregulatory mechanism observed exclusively in hibernating adult mammals.

Explanation

The text states that nonshivering thermogenesis is a process where endocrine signals cause mitochondria to increase their metabolic activity and produce heat instead of ATP. This effectively generates warmth without muscle contractions.