Samantha Diaz

Performance Task No.1

Earth and Life

Science
1.Explain how the process of homeostasis is
related to the characteristics of living things.

2.Discuss the importance of adaptation in

the survival of living organisms. Provide
specific examples of adaptation in different
environments.

3.Why is responsiveness to the environment

considered a crucial characteristic of living
things? Provide examples to illustarte this
concept.
Samantha Diaz Performance Task No.1

Answers:
1. The delicate balance that living things keep within themselves is known as homeostasis, and it is a vital quality that is
necessary for both their survival and optimal operation. We will examine how homeostasis is closely related to the
distinguishing traits of living things, highlighting the amazing ways in which it conducts the symphony of life. This
complex dance of internal stability and adaptability to external changes is a cornerstone of life.

Internal Consistency:
Living things are intricate systems that converse constantly with their environment. One of homeostasis's most notable
qualities is its ability to maintain a steady internal environment in the face of an ever-changing external environment. This
internal consistency serves as the cornerstone for all other biological functions.

Control of Temperature:
Homeostatic mechanisms are used by organisms, especially those with warm blood, to control their internal temperature.
The dynamic reaction to changes in external temperature is exemplified by shivering to produce heat or sweating to cool
down. This control makes sure that cellular enzymatic reactions happen as best they can.

Water Equilibrium:
Metabolism depends on the proper balance of water and electrolytes in cells. Water intake, absorption, and excretion are
carefully regulated by homeostasis to avoid the negative consequences of dehydration or overhydration. Terrestrial
organisms depend on these mechanisms to survive in the face of fluctuating water availability.

Energy Balance and Metabolism:

Homeostasis also affects how metabolic processes are regulated. Organisms exhibit remarkable adaptability to changes in
nutrient availability by skillfully balancing energy intake and expenditure. Because of this fine tuning, organisms can
flourish in a variety of environmental settings.

pH Control:
Since cells have a limited pH range, maintaining homeostasis is essential for controlling hydrogen ion concentrations. For
enzymes and other biomolecules to remain stable and function properly, this exacting control is essential.
2.Living things depend on adaptation to survive because it enables them to flourish in a variety of harsh
and varied settings. Effective adapters are better able to react to environmental changes and ensure the
survival of their species. Here are some particular instances of adapting to various environments:

-Desert and Arctic Tundra Biomes:

For instance, camels in the desert have specialized nostrils and effective water storage systems to
withstand high temperatures, while Arctic foxes in the tundra have evolved with thick fur and a compact
body to conserve heat.

-Environments at Depths:
Example: To attract prey in the dark, deep-sea creatures, such as anglerfish, have created
bioluminescent lures. Enzymes from certain species are suited to work under severe pressure.

-Coral reefs and forests:

For instance, in forests, leaf-tailed geckos have adapted to resemble dead leaves, which helps them
blend in with their surroundings and evade predators. Leaf scorpionfish in coral reefs use their
appearance to blend in with the surrounding coral, providing cover from predators and prey.

-Dry Areas:
For instance, cacti and other desert-adapted plants have evolved spines on their leaves to reduce the
amount of water they lose through transpiration. They are able to endure dry spells because of their
capacity to store water in specific tissues.

-Evolutionary traits and behavioral patterns are examples of adaptations that improve an organism's
capacity to deal with environmental stressors and secure its survival in a variety of environments.
 3.Responsiveness to the environment is a vital characteristic of living
organisms, ensuring their adaptability and survival. This trait allows organisms
to detect and react to changes in their surroundings. Examples include a
gazelle's alertness to predators, plants growing towards light, animals
regulating body temperature, and social animals communicating for collective
well-being. Responsiveness aids in resource acquisition, reproductive success,
and adaptation to environmental changes, showcasing its crucial role in the
dynamic interactions of living organisms.

Link references:
-https://steamism.com/science/characteristics-of-living-things/

-https://homework.study.com/explanation/how-are-energy-and-homeostasis-related-in-living-
organisms.html#:~:text=Living%20organisms%20are%20able%20to,stable%2C%20this%20is%20calle
d%20homeostasis.

-https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailymail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Farticle-
2071125%2FMasters-disguise-The-gecko-resembles-leaf-natures-camouflage-
experts.html&psig=AOvVaw1zG8Avj0skGBfvgsoC8UAR&ust=1700762746798000&source=images&cd=
vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjhxqFwoTCOC85o6Z2IIDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

-https://missionblue.org/2012/04/bringing-bioluminescence-into-the-light/

-https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/homeostasis

-https://www.oneearth.org/species-of-the-week-arctic-fox/

-https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/camel-fact-sheet/