Name the gas released by grass-eating animals as their waste product.a...
Grass-eating animals release methane gas as their waste product.
Methane gas is released by grass-eating animals as their waste product. Methane is a greenhouse gas that is produced during the digestion process of these animals. Let's explore this in more detail:
1. The Digestive Process
Grass-eating animals, such as cows, sheep, and goats, have a specialized digestive system called a rumen. The rumen is a large fermentation chamber where the food is broken down by bacteria and other microorganisms.
2. Methanogens
Within the rumen, there are specific microorganisms called methanogens that produce methane gas as a byproduct of their metabolism. Methanogens are anaerobic bacteria that thrive in oxygen-depleted environments.
3. Enteric Fermentation
The process of methane production in the digestive system of grass-eating animals is known as enteric fermentation. During this process, the methanogens break down the complex carbohydrates found in grass and other plant materials into simpler compounds, such as volatile fatty acids.
4. Methane Production
As the methanogens metabolize the volatile fatty acids, methane gas is released as a waste product. This methane gas is then expelled from the animal's body through belching or flatulence.
5. Environmental Impact
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and climate change. It has a much higher warming potential compared to carbon dioxide. The methane released by grass-eating animals, particularly livestock, significantly contributes to the greenhouse gas emissions of the agricultural sector.
Conclusion
Grass-eating animals release methane gas as their waste product due to the presence of methanogens in their digestive system. The production of methane during enteric fermentation contributes to the overall greenhouse gas emissions and has a significant impact on climate change.
Name the gas released by grass-eating animals as their waste product.a...
Gas released by grass-eating animals:
Grass-eating animals, such as cows, goats, and sheep, produce a specific gas as a waste product. The gas released by these animals is:
Methane
Explanation:
- Methane is a greenhouse gas that is produced during the process of enteric fermentation in the digestive system of grass-eating animals.
- Enteric fermentation refers to the breakdown of food in the rumen, a specialized digestive chamber in the stomach of these animals.
- The rumen contains bacteria and other microorganisms that help in the digestion of plant material, including grass.
- During this digestion process, methane is produced as a byproduct and is released through belching or flatulence.
- Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change and global warming.
- The agricultural sector, particularly livestock production, is a significant source of methane emissions.
In summary, grass-eating animals release methane gas as their waste product through the process of enteric fermentation. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 5 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 5.