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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a primary way that single-celled organisms maintain homeostasis?
A
By regulating the movement of substances across their plasma membrane
B
By relying on hormonal signaling between different cell types
C
By producing multicellular tissues
D
By forming complex organ systems
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of homeostasis: Homeostasis refers to the ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions. For single-celled organisms, this involves regulating processes at the cellular level.
Identify the unique characteristics of single-celled organisms: Single-celled organisms do not have multicellular tissues, complex organ systems, or hormonal signaling between different cell types. Their mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis are limited to cellular structures and processes.
Focus on the plasma membrane: The plasma membrane plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis for single-celled organisms. It regulates the movement of substances such as ions, nutrients, and waste products in and out of the cell.
Consider the mechanisms of substance movement: Processes like diffusion, osmosis, and active transport allow single-celled organisms to control the internal concentration of substances, ensuring a stable environment for cellular functions.
Eliminate incorrect options: Hormonal signaling, multicellular tissues, and complex organ systems are features of multicellular organisms, not single-celled ones. The correct answer is related to the plasma membrane's role in regulating substance movement.