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Chapter 25: Problem 34

Despite what you may have read in science fiction novels or seen in horror movies, it is extremely unlikely that insects can ever grow to human size. Why?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Insects cannot grow to human size mainly because of the limitations of their respiratory system and their skeletal system. Their respiratory system relies on passive diffusion which isn't effective in larger organisms due to lower oxygen concentration. Their skeletal system, being external (exoskeleton), becomes heavier and restricts movement as the size of the insect increases. This coupled with the increased effect of gravity on a larger body makes it nearly impossible for an insect to grow to human size.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Insect Respiration System

Insects do not have lungs. Instead, they breathe through tiny tubes called tracheae that are distributed throughout their body. This method of respiration is passive, relying on diffusion to transport oxygen from the outer surface of the insect to its internal cells. This system works quite well for small organisms, but due to lower oxygen concentration in large sizes, it wouldn't serve a human-sized insect effectively since diffusion alone may not be enough to transport oxygen to all cells.
02

Understand the Insect Exoskeleton

Insects have an external skeleton, known as an exoskeleton, for body support and protection. The rigidity of the exoskeleton limits the size the insect can grow to. As insect's size increases, the weight of its body would increase at a faster rate than its exoskeleton can handle. An insect the size of a human would have an exoskeleton so heavy it wouldn't be able to move.
03

Understand the Effect of Gravity

The greater an insect's size, the greater the effect of gravity on its body - particularly on its structure and movement. A human-sized insect, considering its body structure and reliance on the exoskeleton for support, would struggle to move and support its own weight, making survival nearly impossible.

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