How does diffusion help a cell maintain homeostasis?

Question

Responses

It helps maintain an equilibrium of particles inside and outside a cell.
It helps maintain an equilibrium of particles inside and outside a cell.

It helps the cell obtain and break down food for energy.
It helps the cell obtain and break down food for energy.

It helps the cell expel excess waste.
It helps the cell expel excess waste.

It lets the cell know when it needs to produce more energy.

Answer 1

Diffusion is crucial for helping a cell maintain homeostasis primarily because it helps maintain an equilibrium of particles inside and outside a cell. By allowing substances (such as nutrients, gases, and waste products) to move across the cell membrane, diffusion facilitates the balance of concentrations, which is essential for proper cellular function and overall stability within the internal environment of the cell.

While diffusion can also play roles in how a cell obtains food and expels waste, its core function in homeostasis is to regulate these concentrations, ensuring that the cell’s internal conditions are stable despite external changes.