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The mechanisms of homeostasis are so ubiquitous, their patterns so subtly intertwined, that we are tempted to produce a teleological question, and ask why. What is so useful to the organism about this precision? We do not have to look far, because the workings of every cell in the body depend on the maintenance of a negative potential inside the cell. In turn, this negative potential depends upon the relative concentrations of ions inside and outside the cell: a high sodium concentration in the extracellular fluid, and a high potassium concentration inside the cell, the gradients across the cell wall being maintained by ionic pumps within the cell-membrane. But these pumps could not begin to control this gradient if the ionic concentrations in blood (extracellular fluid) were not kept within narrow limits in the first place. The subject comes into sharp focus when we consider the situation in the heart, which is very dependent on a constant plasma potassium level, within the range of 3.5-5.0 mmol/litre. The elevation of this value by 1-2 mmol/litre constitutes a medical emergency: the excitable components of the heart begin to conduct nervous impulses spontaneously and, without treatment, death soon follows from uncoordinated contraction of different parts of the ventricles (ventricular fibrillation).

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What is a state of balance within the internal environment of the body within certain narrow limits via the chemical control of the endocrine system?

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. The endocrine system helps regulate this balance by releasing hormones that control various physiological processes such as metabolism, growth, and reproduction. This ensures that key variables like temperature, blood sugar levels, and hormone concentrations remain within optimal ranges for proper functioning of the body.


Homeostasis provides what kind of environment?

Homeostasis provides a stable internal environment within an organism, maintaining conditions such as body temperature, pH levels, and nutrient concentrations within a narrow range that is optimal for biological function. This balance allows cells and organisms to function properly despite changes in the external environment.


Define the term 'homeostasis'?

Homeostasis is the process by which an organism maintains a stable internal environment despite external changes. It involves regulation of various physiological processes to keep conditions within a narrow range suitable for optimal functioning.


Why is it important that the water content of blood remain within narrow limits?

The water content of blood must be kept within narrow limits to maintain proper hydration levels in the body. Any significant deviation can disrupt the balance of electrolytes, affect blood pressure regulation, impair oxygen delivery, and impact overall body functions. Maintaining the proper water content in the blood is crucial for optimal health and physiological functions.


What is the meaning of homeostasis as applied to the living organism?

homeostasis is a name (or best to say a category IMO) for processes which keeps the internal environment constant ... E.g. you get dehydrated, your body will make the urine you produce more concentrated to try and keep the body system at correct levels

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What is a state of balance within the internal environment of the body within certain narrow limits via the chemical control of the endocrine system?

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. The endocrine system helps regulate this balance by releasing hormones that control various physiological processes such as metabolism, growth, and reproduction. This ensures that key variables like temperature, blood sugar levels, and hormone concentrations remain within optimal ranges for proper functioning of the body.


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Homeostasis provides what kind of environment?

Homeostasis provides a stable internal environment within an organism, maintaining conditions such as body temperature, pH levels, and nutrient concentrations within a narrow range that is optimal for biological function. This balance allows cells and organisms to function properly despite changes in the external environment.


What is regulatory mechanisms?

Regulatory mechanisms are those that are systems of contol in keeping the internal environment relatively stable and maintained within narrow limits, despite external environment change. Mechanisms like this include the Negative Feedback system, in which change in a variable is detected (e.g. increase) and action occurs to produce a change in the opposite direction (e.g. decrease).


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