Which of These Potential Results of Applying a Metabolic Poison

question 71

Multiple Choice

Which of these potential results of applying a metabolic poison to the rhizoids of Polytrichum should interfere the least with the ability to draw valid conclusions from this experiment?

• A) If, upon dying, the rhizoids leak nitrogenous compounds into the soil before final nitrogen content is measured.
• B) If, upon dying, decomposition of the rhizoids introduces nitrogenous compounds to the soil before final nitrogen content is measured.
• C) If the metabolic poison is hydrogen cyanide (HCN) or sodium azide (NaN₃), and much of the poison remains in the soil.
• D) If the metabolic poison acts against the mitochondria of the rhizoid cells.
• E) If the metabolic poison absorbs nitrogen and strongly adheres to soil particles, acting as a sort of glue.

---

Definitions:

Competitive Industry

A market scenario where multiple firms produce similar products, leading to high levels of competition.

Short-Run Industry Supply

The total quantity of goods that firms in a particular industry are willing and able to sell at different prices in a short period, with some factors held constant.

Total Cost Function

The total cost function is a mathematical representation that shows how total costs of production vary with changes in output level.

Fixed Cost

Expenses that do not change with the level of production or sales, such as rent, salaries, and insurance.