In the context of metabolism and homeostasis, which statement best defines homeostasis?

• A. The conversion of light energy into chemical energy during photosynthesis.
• B. The movement of water across a membrane from lower solute concentration to higher solute concentration.
• C. The maintenance of a relatively stable internal environment despite changes in the external environment.
• D. The breakdown of complex molecules into simpler molecules with a net gain of energy stored as ATP.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of homeostasis in biology. Homeostasis refers to the ability of an organism or cell to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.
2. Step 2: Review each statement and identify which one aligns with the definition of homeostasis:
3. - The conversion of light energy into chemical energy during photosynthesis relates to energy transformation, not homeostasis.
4. - The movement of water across a membrane from lower to higher solute concentration describes osmosis, a specific process but not the overall concept of homeostasis.
5. - The breakdown of complex molecules into simpler molecules with energy release describes catabolism, part of metabolism but not homeostasis.
6. Step 3: Recognize that the statement 'The maintenance of a relatively stable internal environment despite changes in the external environment' directly defines homeostasis.
7. Step 4: Conclude that the correct definition of homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable internal environment despite external changes.