Question

practice_ls5_07_2
students are studying cacti that live in different environments. table 1 compares two different species of cactus found in different areas of the united states.
table 1. characteristics of different cactus types
which type of cactus is better adapted for areas that have cold winters, and why?
a. type 1, because many spines help protect the plant from sun damage
b. type 1, because growing close to the ground helps keep the plant warm
c. type 2, because branching arms help absorb more water
d. type 2, because water in the stem freezes when the temperatures drop

Explanation:

Cold winters require adaptations that help the cactus retain heat. Type 1 grows close to the ground, which is warmer than higher air levels in cold conditions. Option A's reasoning is about sun damage, not cold adaptation. Options C and D relate to water handling, not cold tolerance, and D describes a harmful effect, not an adaptation.

Answer:

B. Type 1, because growing close to the ground helps keep the plant warm