Control of Energy Balance, Metabolic Rate, and Body Temperature

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to energy balance, metabolic rate, and body temperature regulation.

Metabolism

All bodily activities and chemical reactions that maintain life.

Metabolic Rate

The rate at which an organism uses energy to power bodily reactions.

Absorptive Phase

Phase when ingested nutrients enter the bloodstream from the alimentary canal.

Postabsorptive Phase

Phase when the alimentary canal is empty and the body's stores are used for energy.

Glycogenolysis

The process of breaking down glycogen to glucose in the liver.

Gluconeogenesis

The process of converting non-carbohydrates into glucose in the liver.

Lipolysis

The hydrolysis of triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose concentration.

Leptin

A hormone produced in adipose tissue that regulates appetite and energy balance.

Homeotherms

Animals that maintain a stable internal body temperature regardless of external conditions.

Heterotherms

Animals whose body temperature fluctuates with environmental temperatures.

Endotherms

Animals that generate their own heat and maintain a relatively constant body temperature.

Ectotherms

Animals that rely on environmental heat sources to regulate body temperature.

Caloric Restriction

Reducing calorie intake to control weight and impact health.

Countercurrent Heat Exchange

A mechanism where heat is transferred between fluids flowing in opposite directions, helping to retain heat within the body.

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

The metabolic cost of living; the rate of energy expenditure at rest.

Energy Balance

The state in which the amount of energy consumed equals the amount expended.

What is condensation?

Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the air is changed into liquid water.

What is precipitation?

Precipitation is any form of water, liquid or solid, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.