IGCSE Biology glossary
Homeostasis
Biology editorial review is supported by the named review panel. Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.
Definition
The maintenance of a constant internal environment in the body. For example, keeping core temperature and blood glucose concentration within narrow limits.
What to include in an exam answer
The paying phrase is 'constant internal environment'. Six-mark questions on temperature control want the negative feedback chain: receptor detects change → coordinator → effector responds → condition returns to set point.
Example in context
Defining it in a temperature question: 'Homeostasis is maintaining a constant internal environment, such as keeping body temperature at about 37 °C despite changes outside.'
Related syllabus topic
Coordination & responseRelated terms
- Negative feedback
- Tropism
- Reflex arc
- ADH
- Insulin
- Glucagon
- Adrenaline
- Synapse
- Neurone
- Sensory neurone
- Motor neurone
- Relay neurone
- Receptor
- Effector
- Cornea
- Iris
- Lens
- Retina
- Optic nerve
- Accommodation
- Type 1 diabetes
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hormones
- Endocrine gland
- Auxin
- Thermoregulation
- Vasoconstriction
- Vasodilation
- Sweating