Which of the following statements best describes homeostasis? A. Keeping the body in a fixed and in altered state B. Dynamic equilibrium C. Maintaining a near constant internal environment D. Altering the external environment to accommodate its body’s need
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. Maintaining a near constant internal environment.
Explanation:
Homeostasis is the process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions. This stability is essential for the proper functioning of cells, tissues, and organs. The goal of homeostasis is to regulate various internal factors such as temperature, pH, hydration, and the concentrations of different ions, nutrients, and gases within the body.
Here’s a breakdown of why the other options are incorrect:
- A. Keeping the body in a fixed and in altered state: Homeostasis is not about keeping the body in a completely fixed state; rather, it involves dynamic regulation. The body constantly adjusts its internal processes to adapt to changing conditions, such as when you exercise and your body adjusts to increase temperature or when you encounter stress and your hormones adjust.
- B. Dynamic equilibrium: While homeostasis involves maintaining stability, it is not exactly the same as dynamic equilibrium. In dynamic equilibrium, opposing processes balance each other exactly. Homeostasis, however, involves constant adjustments to maintain a stable range, not a fixed equilibrium.
- D. Altering the external environment to accommodate its body’s need: This would imply that organisms change their external environment rather than maintaining internal conditions. Homeostasis focuses on how organisms adapt internally to keep their internal conditions stable, not by altering the outside world.
For example, when you exercise, your body heats up. To maintain homeostasis, it activates mechanisms like sweating to cool down the body and adjusting blood flow to help regulate temperature. This dynamic response to environmental changes is central to homeostasis.
