HLWB103 Glossary All

Homeostasis

Homeostasis

The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes. It involves processes like temperature regulation and pH balance.

Set point

The desired or target value of a variable that the body works to maintain within a narrow range for optimal functioning.

Positive feedback loop

Where the output enhances the initial stimulus, leading to amplification. Can result in exponential growth or instability in a system.

Negative feedback loop

A regulatory process in which the body responds to a stimulus by decreasing its effects, helping maintain stability.

Stimulus

A detectable change in the internal or external environment that triggers a response in an organism. It can be physical, chemical, or biological.

Receptor

A protein on a cell's surface or inside that binds to specific molecules, triggering a response. It plays a key role in cellular communication.

Control Center

Part of a feedback system that receives information and sends out commands to maintain homeostasis. Examples include the brain and endocrine glands.

Effector response

The action taken by the body to restore homeostasis after receiving signals from the control center.

Homeostasis stability/equilibrium

Body's ability to maintain stability and equilibrium through self-regulation processes.