Final answer:
The gestation period of horses is 52.73 percent longer than that of bears, with the calculation based on subtraction, division, and conversion into a percentage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gestation period of horses (336 days) is 52.73 percent longer than the gestation period of bears (220 days). To calculate this, you need to find the difference in gestation periods between horses and bears, then divide that difference by the gestation period of bears, and finally multiply by 100 to convert it into a percentage.
First, subtract the gestation period of bears from that of horses: 336 days - 220 days = 116 days. Next, divide this difference by the gestation period of bears: 116 days / 220 days = 0.5273. To get the percentage, you multiply by 100: 0.5273 * 100 = 52.73%.
Therefore, horses have a significantly longer gestation period compared to bears, and studying the different gestation periods of various animals offers insights into their reproductive and developmental life history traits, which is essential for disciplines such as zoology and veterinary science.