Homeostasis Basics

• What is homeostasis?


  The maintenance of a stable internal environment within restricted limits of organisms.
• Why is homeostasis important?

  It keeps the internal environment stable to ensure that cells function properly and avoid damage.
• Why is it important to maintain the right body temperature and blood pH?

  As temperature and blood pH affect enzyme activity, and enzymes control the rate of metabolic reactions.
• Why is it important to maintain the right concentration of glucose in the blood?

  As cells need glucose for energy.
• What does blood glucose concentration also affect?

  The water potential of blood.
• What are the control mechanisms involved in homeostasis?

  Receptors, coordinators, and effectors.
• What do receptors do?

  Detect stimuli and send signals to the brain about changes in the internal environment.
• What do coordinators do?

  Receive and interpret information from receptors and send instructions to an appropriate effector.
• What are effectors?


  Muscles or glands that act on signals from the brain and cause a response to regain equilibrium.
• What is the optimum point?

  The point at which the system works best.