Chapter 7.4, Problem 2MI

Summary Introduction

To define:

The given word “homeostasis” using the book or dictionary.

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 2MI

Homeostasis refers to regulation of the internal environment of a cell or organism to maintain conditions suitable for life.

Explanation of Solution

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.

Homeostasis is achieved by cellular transport of substances which transports substances within the cell and also into and out of the cell. Regulating the movement of water across the plasma membrane is an important factor in maintaining homeostasis within the cell. Various mechanisms of cellular transport include diffusion, osmosis, and active and passive transport. Cells must maintain homeostasis in all types of solutions, including isotonic, hypertonic and hypotonic.