Humans maintain a nearly constant level of hemoglobin by continually synthesizing and degrading it. This is an example of a(n):
A) dynamic steady state.
B) equilibrium state.
C) exergonic change.
D) free-energy change.
E) waste of energy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A dynamic steady state refers to a system in which there is a constant flow of materials and energy, maintaining a stable overall condition. In this case, the continual synthesis and degradation of hemoglobin keeps its concentration within a certain range, but the process itself is not in equilibrium as there is a constant exchange of molecules between different states (i.e. newly synthesized hemoglobin molecules replacing degraded ones). The other choices do not accurately describe this process.

Humans Maintain a Nearly Constant Level of Hemoglobin by Continually