Why do we need to maintain a constant internal environment?Homeostasis
Organisms can only function if their internal conditions are kept within a specific range. This is called homeostasis. The endocrine system secretes hormones for homeostasis to occur.
Greg Foot explains ADH and the regulation of water levels in the body
homeostasisThe maintenance of steady conditions. The ability of the body to maintain a constant internal environment, eg temperature and blood glucose concentration. maintains optimal conditions for enzymeA protein which catalyses or speeds up a chemical reaction. action throughout the body, as well as all cell functions. It is the maintenance of a constant internal environment despite changes in internal and external conditions.
In the human body, these include the control of:
blood glucoseA simple sugar used by cells for respiration. concentration
body temperature
water levels
The importance of homeostasis
Enzymes are proteins that catalyse (speed up) vital chemical reactions inside the body. Enzymes will only function properly under a small range of certain conditions, such as preferred pH and temperature. If any conditions are outside their specific range then the enzymes cannot function. This could cause the organism to die. Homeostasis relies on automatic control systems that include nervous responses (nervous systemBody system that includes the brain, spinal cord and nerves.) or chemical responses (endocrine system). receptorOrgan, tissue or cell that detects a stimulus. and effectorThe organ, tissue or cell that produces a response. are also needed.
Learn more about homeostasis with Dr Alex Lathbridge.