Homeostasis and Feedback Loops

These flashcards cover key concepts related to homeostasis and the mechanisms of positive and negative feedback loops.

What is homeostasis?

The tendency of an organism to control its internal environment within normal limits.

What happens when an organism's internal environment is outside normal limits?

It is considered not normal, and the organism will attempt to return to equilibrium.

What is an example of an internal condition that is regulated by homeostasis?

Blood sugar levels.

What is a positive feedback loop?

A process where the product of a reaction increases that reaction.

How does a positive feedback loop affect the system?

It moves the system further away from equilibrium.

What is an example of a positive feedback loop?

Fruit ripening, where ethylene stimulates more apples to ripen.

What role does oxytocin play during childbirth?

It stimulates more contractions as the birthing process continues.

What is blood clotting an example of?

A positive feedback loop where platelets release chemicals to attract more platelets.

How does a negative feedback loop work?

The product of the reaction leads to a decrease in that reaction.

What is the primary role of negative feedback loops?

They stabilize a system, helping maintain homeostasis.

How does the body respond when it is too hot?

It sweats to cool down.

What happens when the body is too cold?

It induces shivering and may raise the surface of the skin.

What is baroreception?

The detection of blood pressure in the arteries.

How does the body regulate blood pressure?

By adjusting the heart rate based on detected pressure levels.

What is osmoregulation?

The regulation of liquid concentrations within the body.

What is an example of homeostasis involving fluid levels?

Excreting excess liquid when there is too much, and feeling thirsty when water levels are low.

What happens when more product is produced in a positive feedback loop?

It stimulates the system to continue that reaction.

What is the effect of negative feedback on change?

It reduces the amount of change occurring.

What is the difference between positive and negative feedback loops?

Positive feedback amplifies changes, while negative feedback reduces changes.

What can excessive blood pressure lead to?

More pressure on arteries and various health issues.

In terms of feedback systems, what does homeostasis strive to achieve?

A stable internal condition despite external changes.

In which process does ethylene play a crucial role?

In the ripening of fruit, promoting more fruit to ripen.

How does the body's reaction to cold enhance warmth?

By inducing shivering, which generates heat.

What feedback mechanism is primarily involved in temperature regulation?

Negative feedback.

What occurs during the process of healing a wound?

Platelets gather and release chemicals to attract more platelets until bleeding stops.

Why do scabs form over a cut?

Due to the accumulation of platelets and other factors that block the wound.