# Explain why homeostasis is important for the body to function normally.

> Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) — 7.2 Homeostasis · Explain · 4 marks

> A patient with a severe infection develops a very high body temperature and their blood glucose concentration drops well below the normal range. Doctors work to restore both values to normal levels.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable internal environment despite fluctuations in internal and external conditions
2. Enzymes in the body work best / have an optimum at normal body conditions (temperature / pH / glucose levels), so deviations reduce enzyme activity
3. If blood glucose concentration falls too low, cells cannot carry out respiration efficiently / lack energy for metabolic processes
4. Restoring normal conditions allows effectors / organs to function correctly and body processes to return to the normal range

## Key terms

- [homeostasis](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/homeostasis)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-homeostasis-is-important-for-151a5084) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.