GED Science Practice

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Which term refers to the process where an arthropod sheds its exoskeleton to replace it with a larger one?

Natural immunity
Molting
Nuclear fission
Nuclear fusion

The correct answer is: Molting

The process where an arthropod sheds its exoskeleton to replace it with a larger one is called molting. Arthropods, which include insects, arachnids, and crustaceans, cannot grow continuously due to their hard outer shell known as the exoskeleton. To grow, they must undergo molting, where they periodically shed their old exoskeleton and form a new, larger one. This process allows them to increase in size and emerge with a fresh surface that may be softer at first but eventually hardens. Natural immunity refers to the body's inherent ability to fight off infections and does not pertain to the shedding of exoskeletons. Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion are processes related to atomic nuclei and energy production, not related to arthropods or their growth behavior. Thus, the term molting is specifically linked to the growth and development of arthropods, making it the correct choice.