Homeostasis and 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 is a feedback loop?

Back

A feedback loop is a biological mechanism in which a change in a system causes an effect that influences the initial change, helping to maintain homeostasis.

Front

What is the difference between positive and negative feedback loops?

Back

Negative feedback loops counteract changes to return to a set point, while positive feedback loops amplify changes, moving the system away from its starting state.

Front

What role does the stimulus play in homeostasis?

Back

A stimulus is a change in the environment that triggers a response in the body to help maintain homeostasis.

Front

What happens when body temperature rises?

Back

When body temperature rises, the body activates cooling mechanisms like sweating to lower the temperature.

Front

What is the role of insulin in blood sugar regulation?

Back

Insulin helps lower blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells.

Front

What could happen if homeostasis is not maintained?

Back

Failure to maintain homeostasis can lead to lack of internal balance, difficulty in metabolism, and eventually death.

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 overheats, mechanisms like sweating are activated to cool it down.

Front

What is an example of a positive feedback loop?

Back

An example is childbirth: the release of oxytocin increases contractions, which leads to more oxytocin being released.

Front

How does the body respond to low blood sugar levels?

Back

The body responds by releasing glucagon, which signals the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream.