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Homeostatic Mechanisms Homeostasis, from the Greek words for "same" and "steady," refers to any process that living things use to actively maintain fairly stable conditions necessary for survival. It is the maintenance of a constant internal environment (the immediate surroundings of cells) in response to changes in the conditions of the external and/or internal environment. The skin of an adult person has a surface area of about 2m squared and varies in thickness from 0.5mm in most body regions to 3mm on the soles of the feet. It is tough and flexible and provides mechanical protection for the underlying tissue. In addition, it is a major sensory surface, manufactures vitamin D, screens the body from harmful ultraviolet radiation, and prevents the entry of bacteria and other micro-organisms. It also plays an essential role in temperature regulation. Two distinct regions, the epidermis, and the dermis, are easily recognised in a vertical...

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