Inquiry Into Life (16th Edition)
Inquiry Into Life (16th Edition)
16th Edition
ISBN: 9781260231700
Author: Sylvia S. Mader, Michael Windelspecht
Publisher: McGraw Hill Education
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Chapter 11, Problem S1.1BYB
Summary Introduction

To explain:

Why is homeostasis a characteristic of life?

Introduction:

Homeostasis is the ability of our body to maintain equilibrium and ensure that all body processes can take place at their required conditions.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

Homeostasis is considered as an important characteristic of life as all body functions take place because of the equilibrium condition of the body. It allows all reactions to happen in their required conditions and ensures that the body survives by avoiding extreme conditions which can cause death. Our body needs various chemical reactions and enzymes to work.

These enzymes being temperature sensitive only work at a certain temperature. So homeostasis is essential to ensure that the body temperature stays within the required limit. The blood and other fluids stay at the reasonable pressure and work properly because of homeostasis.

Any imbalance in the homeostasis or the equilibrium condition leads to a disruption in the body systems. The body processes work in harmony, assisting each other. Even if one of these systems breaks, it affects the working of all the systems. Severe problems in homeostasis may lead to death.

Conclusion

Homeostasis is essential as it ensures that all other body functions can take place without problems.

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