How do exoskeletons affect insect growth?

Insects possess exoskeletons, which are hard, outer structures that provide protection and support. However, this rigid exterior poses a significant limitation when it comes to growth. An exoskeleton does not allow for continuous, gradual expansion of the insect's body; instead, it restricts growth. As a result, insects undergo a process known as molting, whereby they shed their old exoskeleton to allow for the development of a new, larger one underneath.

This molting process is crucial for their growth, as it enables the insect to increase in size after being constrained by the old, rigid exoskeleton. After molting, the new exoskeleton is initially soft and allows for further expansion until it hardens. This characteristic of insect anatomy emphasizes the necessity of molting in facilitating growth, making it clear why the choice that states exoskeletons limit growth and require molting to expand is accurate.