Homeostasis is essential for the proper functioning of organisms for the following reasons:
- Enzymes that control the biochiemical reactionswithin cells and other proteins, such as channel proteins are sensitibe to changes in pH and temperature. Any change to these factors reduces the efficiency of enxymes or may even prevent them working altogether, temperature ofpH can impair the ability of enzymes to carry out their roles effectively.
- Changes to water potential of the blood and tissue fluids may cause cells to shrink and expand, as a result of water leaving or entering by osmosis. In bothinstances the cellscannot operate normally. The maintenance of a constant blood glucose concentration is essential in ensuring a constant water potential. A constant blood glucose concentration also ensures a reliable source of glucose for respiration by cells.
- Organisms with the ability to maintaina constant internal environment are more independant of the external environment. they have a wider geographical range and therefore have a greater chance of finding good and shelter etc.
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