How does heat affect metabolism at the cellular level?

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The rate of cellular metabolism is significantly influenced by temperature, and it is well established that an increase in temperature leads to an increase in metabolic processes. This is largely due to the fact that higher temperatures enhance enzyme activity, which is crucial for various biochemical reactions within cells.

As the tissue temperature rises, molecular motion increases, leading to a higher frequency of collisions among reactant molecules. This improved kinetics generally results in an acceleration of metabolic reactions, including cellular oxidation processes. The statement that for every 10°C increase in tissue temperature, the rate of cellular oxidation increases by 2-3 times reflects the understanding of the Q10 temperature coefficient, which suggests that, in many biochemical systems, metabolic rates can increase significantly with temperature.

In contrast, the other options present incorrect or misleading information. The idea that metabolism decreases with increasing temperature is contrary to fundamental biological principles, as is the notion that heat has no effect on metabolism. Additionally, the suggestion that metabolism remains constant with rising temperature does not account for the well-documented effects of thermal changes on enzymatic activity and metabolic rate.

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