The ability of an organism to sense and react to changes in its body illustrates

Correct Answer: C.

Rationale: The correct answer is 'responsiveness.' Responsiveness refers to the ability of an organism to detect and respond to stimuli in its environment. In this context, it specifically relates to an organism's ability to sense and react to changes within its body. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Circulation refers to the movement of fluids within an organism, respiration is the process of exchanging gases, and absorption is the uptake of substances by cells or tissues.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Metabolism refers to all the chemical reactions that take place within an organism to sustain life, including processes such as breaking down molecules, building new molecules, and energy production. Choice A is incorrect because it describes excretion rather than metabolism. Choice B is incorrect as it specifically refers to the breakdown of substances, not encompassing the entirety of metabolic processes. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses solely on nutrient intake, which is just one aspect of metabolism.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Reproduction is the correct answer because it is not essential for maintaining the life of an individual organism. While reproduction is crucial for the continuation of a species, it is not directly related to the survival or maintenance of an individual organism. Responsiveness allows an organism to react to stimuli, movement helps in obtaining resources and avoiding danger, and respiration provides the necessary energy for life processes. Therefore, reproduction is the process that does not directly contribute to maintaining the life of an individual organism.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Reproduction is the most important process for the continuation of the human species as it involves the creation of new individuals. Without reproduction, the human species would cease to exist. Responsiveness and movement are essential for individual survival and functioning but do not directly impact the continuation of the species. Respiration is crucial for obtaining energy but is not directly linked to the continuation of the species.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Homeostatic mechanisms aim to maintain internal stability within the body. Choices A, B, and D all represent examples of homeostatic mechanisms. Shivering helps generate heat to raise body temperature back to normal levels. Increasing heart rate and force of contraction work to restore blood pressure. Insulin secretion after a meal helps regulate blood sugar levels. On the other hand, retaining fluid excessively can lead to fluid imbalance rather than maintaining internal stability, making it the incorrect choice.