Why Isn't Life Immortal? - Lesson Plan

The video explores the fascinating aspects of life, focusing on metabolism and aging. It explains the processes of anabolism and catabolism, and how metabolism is the sum of these processes. The video discusses theories of aging, such as the rate of living hypothesis and oxidative stress hypothesis, and their limitations. It also highlights species with long lifespans and the concept of immortality in nature, including sponges and the immortal jellyfish. The relationships between metabolism and aging are complex, with ongoing research adding to our understanding.

What is the process called where larger molecules are broken down into smaller ones, releasing energy?

• Anabolism

• Photosynthesis

• Catabolism

• Metabolism

Which hypothesis suggests that organisms have a fixed amount of energy, and using it faster leads to a shorter lifespan?

• Biological clock hypothesis

• Telomere attrition hypothesis

• Rate of living hypothesis

• Oxidative stress hypothesis

What are free radicals, according to the oxidative stress hypothesis?

• Antioxidants that prevent aging

• Proteins that repair DNA

• Destructive versions of oxygen atoms

• Stable molecules that support cell growth

What is telomere attrition?

• The process of cell division

• The shortening of a specific chromosomal region

• The increase in metabolic rate with age

• The lengthening of chromosomes over time

Which species is known for its ability to revert between adult and juvenile stages, potentially indefinitely?

• Hydrozoan Teratopsis nutricula

• Giant tortoise

• Ocean quahog

• Greenland shark

What is a common feature of species that are considered potentially immortal?

• They can regenerate or reorganize their cells

• They age rapidly

• They have no stem cells

• They have a fixed lifespan

Which of the following is NOT a species known for its long lifespan?

• House cat

• Hydra

• Giant tortoise

• Bowhead whale