What is the process by which organisms maintain stable internal conditions?

Prepare for the Science Entrance Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question provides hints and explanations to boost your confidence. Ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the process by which organisms maintain stable internal conditions?

Explanation:
The process by which organisms maintain stable internal conditions is known as homeostasis. This is a vital biological process that enables organisms to regulate their internal environment to maintain a consistent state, despite external changes. For instance, it involves regulating factors such as temperature, pH levels, hydration, and electrolyte balance. Homeostasis is crucial for ensuring that the biological processes necessary for survival can occur efficiently. For example, human bodies maintain a core temperature around 37°C (98.6°F). If the body gets too hot, mechanisms such as sweating are activated to cool it down. Conversely, when too cold, shivering occurs to generate heat. Understanding homeostasis helps clarify why organisms need various feedback mechanisms—sensory receptors detect changes, while effectors (like muscles or glands) make necessary adjustments. This dynamic balance supports optimal functioning, allowing organisms to thrive in varying environments. The other concepts, while important in biology, do not specifically refer to the maintenance of stable internal conditions. Metabolism relates to the chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life. Respiration is focused on the process of converting glucose and oxygen into energy. Reproduction is about producing new organisms. These processes contribute to life and health, but homeostasis is specifically

The process by which organisms maintain stable internal conditions is known as homeostasis. This is a vital biological process that enables organisms to regulate their internal environment to maintain a consistent state, despite external changes. For instance, it involves regulating factors such as temperature, pH levels, hydration, and electrolyte balance.

Homeostasis is crucial for ensuring that the biological processes necessary for survival can occur efficiently. For example, human bodies maintain a core temperature around 37°C (98.6°F). If the body gets too hot, mechanisms such as sweating are activated to cool it down. Conversely, when too cold, shivering occurs to generate heat.

Understanding homeostasis helps clarify why organisms need various feedback mechanisms—sensory receptors detect changes, while effectors (like muscles or glands) make necessary adjustments. This dynamic balance supports optimal functioning, allowing organisms to thrive in varying environments.

The other concepts, while important in biology, do not specifically refer to the maintenance of stable internal conditions. Metabolism relates to the chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life. Respiration is focused on the process of converting glucose and oxygen into energy. Reproduction is about producing new organisms. These processes contribute to life and health, but homeostasis is specifically

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy