5.1 Homeostasis

These flashcards cover specification point 4.5.1 Homeostasis.

Define homeostasis.

• Regulation of internal conditions of cell/organism

• To maintain optimum conditions for function

• In response to internal and external changes

What does homeostasis maintain?

Optimal conditions for enzyme action and all cell functions

What does homeostasis control in the human body?

• Blood glucose concentration

• Body temperature

• Water levels

Give 2 things that automatic control systems may involve.

• Nervous responses

• Chemical responses

What do all control systems include?

• Receptors

• Coordination centres

• Effectors

Describe the function of receptors.

• Detect stimuli

  • changes in the environment

Describe the function of coordination centres.

Receive and process information from receptors

State the coordination centres in the body.

• Brain

• Spinal cord

• Pancreas

Describe the function of effectors.

Bring about responses which restore optimum levels

State what effectors can be.

• Muscles

• Glands