Homeostasis and Feedback Mechanisms

Flashcards covering key concepts related to homeostasis, feedback mechanisms, and their physiological significance.

Homeostasis

A state of balance in the body where internal conditions remain stable.

Ectotherm

An animal whose body temperature fluctuates with the environment; also known as cold-blooded.

Endotherm

An animal that maintains a constant internal body temperature regardless of external conditions; also known as warm-blooded.

Negative Feedback

A mechanism that counteracts a variable to return to a set point, thus maintaining homeostasis.

Positive Feedback

A process that intensifies a variable instead of counteracting it, often leading to an eventual outcome.

Insulin

A hormone released by the pancreas to help cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream.

Glucagon

A hormone that raises blood glucose levels by signaling the liver to release glucose into the blood.

Type One Diabetes

A disorder where the pancreas produces little or no insulin, affecting the regulation of blood sugar.

Feedback System

A biological mechanism that regulates processes in the body through positive or negative feedback.

ATP

Adenosine triphosphate, the primary energy carrier in living cells.