Here's why oxygen is essential for polar bears:
* Cellular Respiration: Oxygen is crucial for cellular respiration, the process by which cells convert food into energy. This energy powers all bodily functions, from movement to brain activity.
* Energy Production: Oxygen is a key component in the breakdown of food, releasing energy that the polar bear's body needs.
* Maintaining Body Temperature: Polar bears live in extremely cold environments. Their bodies need a lot of energy to maintain their core temperature, and this energy comes from the process of cellular respiration, which requires oxygen.
So, while polar bears live in icy environments, their need for oxygen is just as important as for any other animal.