Homeostasis and Body Systems

Flashcards covering the key concepts of homeostasis, its components, and related body systems and processes.

Homeostasis

The self-regulating process by which biological systems maintain internal stability while adjusting to changing external conditions.

Dynamic Equilibrium

A state of balance where internal levels fluctuate within a narrow, healthy range rather than being static.

Receptor (Sensor)

The component of a homeostatic feedback loop that monitors the environment and detects changes.

Control Center (Integrator)

The part of a homeostatic feedback loop that compares data to an ideal 'set point', usually in the brain.

Effector

The component of a homeostatic feedback loop that carries out instructions to correct an imbalance.

Hypothalamus

The organ that acts as the body's primary thermostat for temperature regulation.

Vasoconstriction

The tightening of blood vessels in the hands and feet, used by the circulatory system to conserve heat.

Alkaline Blood

A condition where the blood is too basic due to loss of CO2, which the respiratory system balances with the kidneys.

Sweat Glands

Components of the integumentary system that release water to cool the body by evaporation.

Hypoxia

A condition of low oxygen availability that causes increased heart rate to circulate limited oxygen quickly.

Erythropoietin

A hormone that stimulates the production of more red blood cells in response to low oxygen at high altitudes.

Adaptive Homeostasis

The way homeostatic responses adjust with age, becoming less efficient over time.

Reserve Capacity

The body's backup ability to maintain functions; reduced in elderly individuals, increasing their risk for heat stroke or hypothermia.