The Figure Below Shows the Relative Concentration of Polychlorinated Biphenyls

question 32

Multiple Choice

The figure below shows the relative concentration of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in several members of a lake food web.
Although the lake trout and minnow are both fish, the lake trout is more contaminated. Why?

• A) Lake trout are bigger so their bodies can store a greater quantity of PCBs.
• B) PCBs dissolve poorly in water but readily in fat; lake trout have a higher percentage of body fat than minnows.
• C) Lake trout are large and long-lived; when they respire the pass water over their gills allowing the PCBs in the lake to accumulate it their bodies.
• D) Lake trout fed on minnows while minnows fed on crustaceans.

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Definitions:

Statistical Analysis

The process of collecting, examining, and interpreting data to identify patterns and relationships.

Scientific Research

A systematic investigation and study conducted to obtain and analyze information in order to enhance knowledge in a particular field.

Observational Measurement

A method of collecting data by watching and recording behavior or phenomena as it naturally occurs.

Systems Theory

An interdisciplinary theory about the nature of complex systems in nature, society, and science, focusing on their structure, interconnections, and the principles guiding their behavior.