Homeostasis Flashcard

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

Passive transport is a kind of cell transport that does not require energy, involving the movement of molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.

Front

What is homeostasis?

Back

Homeostasis is the body's ability to keep its internal environment stable despite changes in the external environment.

Front

What is the role of the controller in a feedback mechanism?

Back

The controller is the component of a feedback mechanism that determines the best response to return the variable to the setpoint.

Front

What are hormones?

Back

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands that travel through the bloodstream to target cells, initiating specific responses.

Front

What is the immune system?

Back

The immune system defends the body against infections and diseases while maintaining tolerance to self-antigens to prevent autoimmunity.

Front

What is the difference between active and passive transport?

Back

Active transport requires energy to move molecules against their concentration gradient, while passive transport does not require energy and moves molecules down their concentration gradient.

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 setpoint in homeostasis?

Back

The setpoint is the ideal value or range that a variable (like temperature or pH) should maintain for optimal functioning.

Front

What role do receptors play in homeostasis?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of the endocrine system in homeostasis?

Back

The endocrine system regulates various bodily functions through hormones, helping to maintain homeostasis.