Chapter 1: Homeostasis

Question 1

What is homeostasis?

Answer 1

Ability to maintain relatively stable internal conditions. A dynamic state of equilibrium in which internal conditions change by stay within a relatively narrow range.

Question 2

What is one component of homeostasis?

Answer 2

Receptors- sensors that monitor and respond to change.

Question 3

What is a second component of homeostasis?

Answer 3

Control center- determines level at which variable is to be maintained. Determines appropriate response or course of action.

Question 4

What is a third component of homeostasis?

Answer 4

Effector- control center’s response.

Question 5

Explain what components of homeostasis work together to keep conditions within allowable range.

Answer 5

STIMULUS produces change in variable, the RECEPTORS detects change. RECEPTORS then generates information (INPUT) that is sent along AFFERENT pathways to the CONTROL CENTER. The CONTROL CENTER then generates information (OUTPUT) that is sent along EFFERENT pathways which is an EFFECTOR, which then generates a RESPONSE. RESPONSE of effector feeds back to reduce the effect of stimulus and returns variable to homeostatic level.

Question 6

Explain NEGATIVE FEEDBACK MECHANISMS.

Answer 6

Effect of a negative feedback system is to shut of the response to the stimulus and return the body to homeostatic levels. For example, a thermostat.

Question 7

Explain POSITIVE FEEDBACK MECHANISMS.

Answer 7

These are set up to enhance the effect of stimulus and push variable further from original value. For example: when a women has a baby. Or when a tree has one ripe apple that then encourages other apples to ripen.