AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -All arthropods have a hard exoskeleton made of chiton, a type of protein. This shell provides protection for the animals, and gives support for the attachment of the arthropod’s muscles.

Detailed explanation-2: -The exoskeleton provides a large surface area for the attachment of muscles and, in addition to functioning in support and movement, also provides protection from the external environment.

Detailed explanation-3: -The exoskeleton (shared with other arthropods) provides protection against predation and desiccation or waterlogging (necessary for small organisms) and innumerable points of muscle attachment (for flexibility). However, the exoskeleton also limits the size attainable by arthropods.

Detailed explanation-4: -Arthropods are covered with a tough, resilient integument or exoskeleton of chitin. Generally the exoskeleton will have thickened areas in which the chitin is reinforced or stiffened by materials such as minerals or hardened proteins.

Detailed explanation-5: -Arthropods all possess a rigid exoskeleton which provides support and protection, and acts as a buffer between the external environment and internal body processes. The exoskeleton of arthropods is composed of a carbohydrate polymer called chitin.