AP Psychology Practice Test

What is homeostasis?

1. The process of aging

2. A tendency to maintain a balanced or constant internal state

3. A type of cellular reproduction

4. A state of deep sleep

The correct answer is: A tendency to maintain a balanced or constant internal state

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable and balanced internal environment despite external changes. This concept is crucial in various physiological processes, including temperature regulation, pH balance, hydration, and other vital conditions necessary for survival. For instance, when you exercise and your body temperature rises, mechanisms like sweating are triggered to cool you down and restore balance. This constant adjustment and regulation are key components of homeostasis, reflecting the body’s efforts to achieve equilibrium and optimal functioning. The other options do not capture the essence of homeostasis. Aging does not directly pertain to the maintenance of internal balance; instead, it describes the gradual changes that occur in an organism over time. Cellular reproduction involves processes like mitosis or meiosis, which are unrelated to the concept of maintaining internal balance. Deep sleep, while it plays a role in overall health, is a specific state of altered consciousness rather than a mechanism for regulation of internal environments.