GCSE Biology Homeostasis and Response Review

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts related to homeostasis, the human nervous system, hormonal control, diabetes, plant hormones, and reproduction from the GCSE Biology curriculum.

What is homeostasis?

The regulation of the internal conditions of a cell or organism to maintain optimum conditions for function in response to internal and external changes.

What three internal conditions are controlled by homeostasis in the human body?

Blood glucose concentration, body temperature, and water levels.

What are the components of a control system in homeostasis?

Receptors which detect stimuli, coordination centres that process information, and effectors that bring about responses.

What triggers the release of insulin by the pancreas?

High blood glucose concentration.

What is the role of the adrenal glands in the body?

They produce adrenaline during times of fear or stress, increasing heart rate and oxygen delivery.

Which hormones regulate the menstrual cycle?

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), oestrogen, and progesterone.

What are the two primary types of diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes (where the pancreas fails to produce sufficient insulin) and Type 2 diabetes (where body cells no longer respond to insulin).

How do gibberellins affect plant growth?

They initiate seed germination, promote flowering, and increase fruit size.

What process do plants undergo in response to gravity?

Gravitropism or geotropism.

What are some uses of plant hormones in agriculture?

Auxins are used as weed killers and rooting powders; ethene is used to control fruit ripening; gibberellins are used to end seed dormancy.

What is the function of the thermoregulatory centre in the brain?

It monitors and controls body temperature.

What mechanisms are activated when body temperature is too high?

Blood vessels dilate (vasodilation) and sweat is produced.

What is IVF and what hormones are involved?

In Vitro Fertilisation involves giving FSH and LH to stimulate egg maturation, with fertilisation occurring in the lab.

What is the significance of negative feedback in hormone regulation?

It helps maintain stable internal conditions by counteracting changes in hormone levels.

Define a reflex action.

An automatic and rapid response that does not involve the conscious part of the brain.

What are the effects of adrenaline on the body?

Increases heart rate and boosts the delivery of oxygen and glucose to the brain and muscles.

What type of reproduction involves the fusion of gametes?

Sexual reproduction.

What are the two main types of cells produced by meiosis and mitosis?

Meiosis produces non-identical cells (gametes), while mitosis produces identical cells.