A Simple Explanation of Homeostasis

The Essential Mechanism to The Survival of Any Organism

Homeostasis is the quality or ability of an organism to regulate itself such that internal conditions remain stable and relatively constant. An example of this can be seen in humans in the way that the body regulates itself to deal with adverse conditions. In extreme cold, the body, in particular, the hypothalamus will increase body temperature by causing vasoconstriction, increased metabolic rate, and shivering. These actions create a rise in internal body temperature which is necessary for maintaining the function of organs and life. Homeostasis is extremely important to any organism because it is the ability of the organism to adapt to different environments and conditions.

Without the ability to maintain homeostasis most organisms would die when their environments changed. This problem can be seen in creatures such as unicellular creatures. These creatures are often dependent on liquid environments and specific temperatures or they will die. For instance, when bacteria invade the body a fever is caused by white blood cells which raise the body temperature in an effort to kill the bacteria.

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