GED Science Practice

What is a marsupial?

1. mammals of which the females have a pouch

2. an infective disease caused by sporozoan parasites

3. molten rock in the earth's crust

4. an animal that has fur and is fed milk

The correct answer is: mammals of which the females have a pouch

A marsupial is defined as a type of mammal in which females possess a pouch. This pouch serves a critical purpose during the reproductive process. After giving birth, the underdeveloped young (known as joeys) crawl into the mother's pouch, where they continue to grow and develop while being fed with the mother's milk. The unique reproductive strategy employed by marsupials distinguishes them from other mammals that carry their young in the womb for a longer period before birth. Examples of marsupials include kangaroos, koalas, and possums. This adaptation allows marsupials to thrive in various environments, utilizing the pouch for both protection and nourishment of their young during early development stages. The other choices describe different concepts unrelated to marsupials. For instance, one refers to a disease caused by parasites, and another describes the geological process related to molten rock, which are not connected to the definition of marsupials. A final option mentions animals with fur and milk-feeding, but does not specifically mention the characteristic pouch that defines marsupials.