What is homeostasis?

Homeostasis refers to the processes that organisms use to maintain a stable internal environment, despite external changes. This involves regulating various physiological parameters such as temperature, pH, hydration, and electrolyte levels, ensuring that conditions remain optimal for cellular functions and overall health.

For example, in humans, homeostasis is evident in how the body regulates temperature through mechanisms like sweating or shivering to either cool down or heat up, respectively. Maintaining such balance is crucial for survival, enabling organisms to thrive in varying environments.

The other options address different biological concepts but do not encompass the definition of homeostasis. The ability to reproduce pertains to a species' continuation, cellular respiration focuses on energy production from nutrients, and the production of ATP specifically highlights energy metabolism without encompassing the broader concept of maintaining internal stability.