Chapter 16 - Homeostasis

Question 1

What is homeostasis

Answer 1

The maintenance of a constant internal environment within an organism

Question 2

Why is homeostasis important

Answer 2

• Enzymes - It keeps the internal environment constant for metabolic reactions (which is controlled by enzymes)
• Water potential - maintenance of blood glucose level is essential for the maintenance of water potential which ensures cells function properly and avoid damage as they don’t shrink or burst
• Independence - if you can control your internal environment you are more independent of the changes in your external environment so organisms can have a wider geographical range
• It helps organisms respond and adapt to external changes.