What term describes the process of maintaining internal stability despite changes in the environment?

The term that accurately describes the process of maintaining internal stability despite changes in the environment is homeostasis. This concept is fundamental in biology and medicine, referring to the mechanisms and processes through which organisms regulate their internal environment to ensure optimal functioning.

Homeostasis encompasses various physiological responses that help maintain variables such as temperature, pH, hydration, and electrolyte balance within narrow ranges, even when external conditions fluctuate. For example, if the body temperature rises due to external heat, mechanisms such as sweating and increased blood flow to the skin are activated to cool the body down, illustrating how the body strives to maintain a stable internal condition.

In contrast, the other choices do not specifically refer to this regulatory process. Stasis refers generally to a state of equilibrium or inactivity but does not capture the active nature of maintaining stability against external changes. Syndrome describes a collection of signs and symptoms that occur together but does not relate to internal stability. A biopsy is a medical procedure to sample tissue for diagnostic purposes and is unrelated to the concept of maintaining internal balance.