Organisms maintain homeostasis by keeping the concentration of most metabolites at
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is a constant level.
Homeostasis is the process by which organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. One crucial aspect of homeostasis is the regulation of metabolite concentrations, such as glucose, electrolytes, and oxygen, to remain within a narrow and constant range. Maintaining these concentrations at constant levels ensures that the biochemical processes within the body can function efficiently and sustain life.
Metabolites are molecules that are produced or consumed during metabolic reactions, such as sugars, fats, and amino acids. The body controls the levels of these metabolites using various feedback mechanisms. For example, glucose levels are regulated by hormones like insulin and glucagon, which help increase or decrease glucose concentration as needed. When blood glucose rises after eating, insulin helps cells absorb glucose and lowers blood sugar levels. Conversely, when blood sugar drops, glucagon triggers the release of glucose from stored glycogen in the liver.
Similarly, the body regulates electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium, through mechanisms involving the kidneys and hormones like aldosterone. These ions are essential for cellular functions, nerve transmission, and muscle contractions, so their levels must be carefully maintained.
The regulation of metabolites is vital because even slight deviations from the normal concentration range can lead to harmful conditions. For instance, high blood glucose over time can lead to diabetes, while low glucose levels can result in hypoglycemia, both of which disrupt normal cellular function. Thus, organisms rely on homeostatic processes to ensure the internal environment remains stable, optimizing conditions for metabolic processes to continue efficiently and promoting overall health.