EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -The problem of growth is solved in arthropods by molting, or ecdysis, the periodic shedding of the old exoskeleton. The underlying cells release enzymes that digest the base of the old exoskeleton (much of the endocuticle) and then secrete a new exoskeleton beneath the old one.

Detailed explanation-2: -The soft body rapidly swells before secreting a new, stiff cuticle. The molting process limits the upper size of cuticle-bearing animals.

Detailed explanation-3: -To grow, arthropods must molt (shed) their exoskeletons periodically. During the molt, they form a larger exoskeleton to allow for expansion.

Detailed explanation-4: -This shell provides protection for the animals, and gives support for the attachment of the arthropod’s muscles. Although arthropods grow, their exoskeletons do not grow with them. So they must periodically shed, or “molt” their exoskeletons in favor of a new one.

Detailed explanation-5: -Since the exoskeleton is hard and its outer layer is non-living, it cannot grow bigger by small increments as the human skeleton does. Instead, arthropods must go through the delicate process of shedding the old exoskeleton and expanding to a larger size before the new exoskeleton hardens.