The importance of maintaining constant conditions in the body, including osmosis
I can explain why it is important for living organisms to maintain a constant internal environment.
The importance of maintaining constant conditions in the body, including osmosis
I can explain why it is important for living organisms to maintain a constant internal environment.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- If conditions in the body change too much, this can be dangerous to our health.
- Changes in body temperature affect the rate of chemical reactions and can impact enzyme activity.
- Extreme changes in body temperature can lead to hypothermia or hyperthermia and death.
- Changes in water content of the fluid around cells can lead to cells shrinking or bursting due to osmosis.
- Use of antagonistic effects to maintain a constant environment.
Common misconception
It is common for pupils to misunderstand the links between increased or decreased body temperature and the impact on enzyme function, and changes in water concentration and cell structure.
Explanations of the effect of temperature on enzyme activity, the link between body temperature and enzyme function, and conditions such as hyper- and hypo-thermia are made. The link between water balance, osmosis and cell shapes are also explored.
Keywords
Enzyme - a protein which acts as a biological catalyst
Internal body temperature - the optimal internal temperature of our body, which is about 37°C
Homeostasis - the regulation of the internal conditions to maintain optimum conditions for enzyme action and all cell functions
Osmosis - the net movement of water molecules through a selectively-permeable membrane from high to low concentration of water molecules
Antagonistic - effectors and effects that work against each other
Equipment
Optional: Bunsen burner, tripod, gauze, heat proof mat, thermometer, beaker, ice cubes.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
water will leave cells by osmosis and they will shrivel.
water will enter cells and they will swell and may burst.