Different marine mammals have evolved distinct physical dimensions, resulting in different surface area to volume ratios that influence their rate of heat loss.
The table below shows the estimated outer surface areas and body volumes for four genera of marine mammals:
| Marine mammal genus | Surface area (m2m^2m2) | Volume (m3m^3m3) |
|---|---|---|
| Enhydra | 1.8 × 10-1 | 6.0 × 10-3 |
| Phoca | 8.8 × 10-1 | 4.0 × 10-2 |
| Delphinus | 1.2 | 8.0 × 10-2 |
| Balaenoptera | 1.2 × 102 | 4.0 × 101 |
Which of the options, A to D, is the correct order of surface area to volume ratios for these marine mammals, arranged from the smallest to the largest?
Balaenoptera, Phoca, Delphinus, Enhydra
Balaenoptera, Delphinus, Phoca, Enhydra
Enhydra, Phoca, Delphinus, Balaenoptera
Enhydra, Delphinus, Phoca, Balaenoptera
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