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BIO NMDCAT Biological Importance of Water
nmdcat.online June 27, 2026

The property of water that poses a significant physiological challenge for organisms in sub-zero environments is its

A. High latent heat of vaporization, causing rapid cooling
B. Tendency to expand upon freezing, which can rupture cells and tissues
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C. High dielectric constant, which precipitates salts inside cells
D. Low viscosity, which leads to rapid freezing of cytoplasm

📝 Explanation

The formation of ice crystals and the 9% volume expansion upon freezing can physically rupture cell membranes and delicate tissue structures. This is the basis of frostbite and why cryoprotective agents are needed to preserve cells.

📖 Additional Information

  • High latent heat of vaporization, causing rapid cooling
  • Tendency to expand upon freezing, which can rupture cells and tissues
  • High dielectric constant, which precipitates salts inside cells
  • Low viscosity, which leads to rapid freezing of cytoplasm

The formation of ice crystals and the 9% volume expansion upon freezing can physically rupture cell membranes and delicate tissue structures. This is the basis of frostbite and why cryoprotective agents are needed to preserve cells.

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