Homeostasis: Feedback Loops

Front

What is homeostasis?

Back

Homeostasis is the process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Front

What are feedback loops?

Back

Feedback loops are processes in which the output of a system influences its own operation, often used to maintain homeostasis.

Front

What is a negative feedback loop?

Back

A negative feedback loop is a control mechanism that counteracts changes in a system, helping to return it to its set point.

Front

What is a positive feedback loop?

Back

A positive feedback loop is a process that amplifies changes in a system, leading to an increase in the output.

Front

Give an example of a negative feedback loop in the human body.

Back

An example is the regulation of body temperature: when the body temperature rises, mechanisms like sweating are activated to cool it down.

Front

Give an example of a positive feedback loop in nature.

Back

An example is the melting of permafrost: as it melts, it releases methane, which enhances the greenhouse effect and leads to more warming.

Front

What role do receptors play in feedback systems?

Back

Receptors detect changes in the environment and send signals to effectors to initiate a response.

Front

What role do effectors play in feedback systems?

Back

Effectors are organs or cells that carry out responses to restore balance in the body based on signals from receptors.

Front

How do positive feedback loops differ from negative feedback loops?

Back

Positive feedback loops amplify changes, while negative feedback loops counteract changes to maintain stability.

Front

What is an example of a positive feedback loop in human behavior?

Back

An example is the cycle of poverty: lack of education leads to poverty, which in turn leads to more lack of education.