The importance of maintaining constant conditions in the body
I can explain why it is important for humans to maintain constant conditions inside the body.
The importance of maintaining constant conditions in the body
I can explain why it is important for humans to maintain constant conditions inside the body.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
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.
- Changes in body temperature can lead to hypo- or hyperthermia and death.
- Changes in water balance in the body can lead to dehydration and death.
- Use of antagonistic effects to maintain a constant environment.
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
Antagonistic - effectors and effects that work against each other
Common misconception
It is common for pupils to misunderstand the links between increased or decreased body temperature and the impact on enzyme function.
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 and explored in this lesson.
Equipment
Optional: Bunsen burner, tripod, gauze, heat proof mat, thermometer, beaker, ice cubes.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
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).
Lesson video
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