**Core Concept**
Succinylcholine is a depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent used for rapid sequence intubation and muscle relaxation during surgical procedures. Its short duration of action is attributed to a unique pharmacokinetic property.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Succinylcholine is metabolized by plasma cholinesterase, an enzyme that rapidly breaks down the drug, leading to its short duration of action. This process is known as hydrolysis, where the enzyme cleaves the ester bond between the succinyl group and the choline molecule. The resulting succinyl monocholine is then rapidly inactivated. The rapid metabolism of succinylcholine by plasma cholinesterase is responsible for its short duration of action, typically lasting around 4-6 minutes.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately explain the pharmacokinetic property responsible for the short duration of action of succinylcholine.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is a distractor and does not relate to the metabolism of succinylcholine.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it mentions an incorrect enzyme responsible for the metabolism of succinylcholine.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Succinylcholine is contraindicated in patients with a known history of malignant hyperthermia, as it can trigger this life-threatening condition.

**Correct Answer: D. Rapid metabolism by plasma cholinesterase.**