Homeostasis is the regulation of a constant internal environment. Some of the internal conditions we regulate include blood glucose, body temperature and water content. Before learning all about how we do that – look at some of these amazing facts about water.
Around 96.5% of all the water on Earth is found in our oceans, which cover 71% of the planet’s surface. In addition to this, about 0.001% of it is in the atmosphere above us. Scientists estimate that if all of that water fell to the Earth as rain at the same time – there would be 1 inch or rainfall across the whole planet. Of all the water on Earth, only 3.5% is freshwater. You will find it in lakes, rivers, streams and glaciers. In fact, 68% of the freshwater on Earth is trapped in ice and glaciers!
Next time you are taking a swim in the sea and swallow some seawater – remember it is not just water you are swallowing. Just one drop of seawater can contain millions of bacteria and viruses! It could also have plankton, fish eggs, and even baby crabs in it!!
Have you ever wondered where all the water came from in the first place? Scientists have long thought that water originated from outer space. At least some of the water was brought to Earth by comets and asteroids. Some research even suggests that at least half the water on Earth has originated from interplanetary dust!
GCSE scientists – if you are studying GCSE science or A’ Level Biology, you need to know all about osmo-regulation, how our body maintains the same levels of water. To help you understand osmo-regulation, check out Part 3 of our “How to” revision guide on Homeostasis.
It explains:
This guide will help if you are studying homeostasis for your GCSEs, and is also suitable for A Level students, as sections of the guide go “beyond GCSE”. It includes some example GCSE and A Level questions with answers at the end, so you can check your understanding of osmo-regulation.
Click on the picture below to view our guide.
If you found this useful and think you would benefit from some additional help please contact us.
We welcome guest bloggers.
