Homeostasis and Feedback Mechanisms

This set of flashcards covers the fundamental vocabulary of homeostasis, including temperature regulation, feedback loops, and their physiological components.

Homeostasis

The process of maintaining a stable system through the continuous monitoring of the body's internal conditions.

Set point

The specific physiological value around which the normal range fluctuates, such as approximately $37^{\circ}C$ ($98.6^{\circ}F$) for human body temperature.

Receptors

Sensors located in key places of the body that detect changes from a set point and relay information to control centers.

Control centers

Brain-based centers that monitor sensory information and send instructions to effector organs to manage the body's response.

Effector organs

Organs that receive signals from control centers and act to regulate the body's response to a stimulus.

Negative feedback

A regulatory mechanism in which the system's effectors reverse the original condition to maintain stability.

Positive feedback loops

A regulatory mechanism that intensifies the body's response until a specific end point is reached.

Feedback system components

The four required elements for both negative and positive feedback: stimulus, sensor, control center, and effector.