Homeostasis and Feedback

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 is a feedback loop?

Back

A feedback loop is a biological mechanism in which the output of a system influences its own operation, helping to maintain homeostasis.

Front

What is the difference between positive and negative feedback loops?

Back

Positive feedback loops amplify changes, leading to a greater response, while negative feedback loops counteract changes, promoting stability.

Front

What role do sensors play in homeostasis?

Back

Sensors detect changes in the internal environment and send information to the control center.

Front

What is the function of the control center in homeostasis?

Back

The control center processes information from sensors and determines the appropriate response to maintain homeostasis.

Front

What is an effector in the context of homeostasis?

Back

An effector is a component that carries out the response determined by the control center to restore balance.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Front

What is an example of a negative feedback loop in the human body?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of a positive feedback loop?

Back

An example is childbirth, where the release of oxytocin increases contractions, leading to more oxytocin release.

Front

How do feedback loops contribute to homeostasis?

Back

Feedback loops help to regulate physiological processes, ensuring that internal conditions remain stable.