Chapter 11, Problem 9STP

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

All living things have certain characteristics that differentiate them from non- living things. An organism has or once had all these characteristics. Cells are the basic unit of structure and function in all living things. Living things display organization, grows and develops, reproduces, responds to stimuli, requires energy, maintains homeostasis and adapts to environment.

Answer to Problem 9STP

Correct answer :

The correct answer is option D. Your body maintains homeostasis

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer:

Option D. Your body maintains homeostasis − Regulation of an organism’s internal conditions to maintain life is called homeostasis. It is a feature common to all living organisms. If anything happens within or to an organism that affects its normal state, processes begin to restore the normal state. When our body feels cold, it starts to shiver so that the body temperature is raised. This is a way to maintain homeostasis. Hence this is the correct option.

Explanation for incorrect answer:

Option A. Your body adapts over time- Adaptations evolve over time. An adaptation is an inherited characteristic that results from changes to species over time. Shivering is a temporary event and the body responds by raising the temperature. This is not a longtime change but a temporary method to restore the normal state of the body. Hence this is not the correct option.

Option B. Your body grows and develops- Growth is addition of new cells to an organism which leads to formation of new structures like organs and organ system. Development is the process of natural changes that take place during the life of an organism. When the body feels cold, it shivers to raise the body temperature. This is not a growth and development phenomenon. It is an example of homeostasis. Hence this is not the correct option.

Option C. Your body has one or more cells- This is one of the features of all living organisms but shivering happens to regulate the internal conditions of the body. Raising body temperature on shivering is an example of homeostasis. Hence this is not the correct option.