Chapter 6 - Survival Through Regulation

Question 1

Define steady state

Answer 1

an unvarying condition in a physical process, especially as in the theory that the universe is eternal and maintained by constant creation of matter.

Question 2

Define negative feedback mechanisms and give examples

Answer 2

Negative feedback is a regulatory mechanism that maintains the body’s homeostasis by detecting deviations from a certain set point and acting to restore those set point conditions. Body temp, blood glucose levels and blood pressure are all controlled by negative feedback mechanisms.

Question 3

Define positive feedback mechanisms and give an example

Answer 3

Positive feedback mechanisms in biological systems amplify a response to achieve a particular outcome. Eg. Fruit ripening, blood clotting, childbirth

Question 4

Define hypothermia

Answer 4

the condition of having an abnormally (typically dangerously) low body temperature.

Question 5

Define hypothyroidism

Answer 5

abnormally low activity of the thyroid gland, resulting in retardation of growth and mental development in children and adults

Question 6

Define diabetes

Answer 6

a disorder of the metabolism causing excessive thirst and the production of large amounts of urine.

Question 7

Define hyperglycaemia

Answer 7

an excess of glucose in the bloodstream, often associated with diabetes mellitus.

Question 8

Define hypoglycaemia

Answer 8

Deficiency of glucose in the bloodstream.

Question 9

Define homeostasis

Answer 9

Homeostasis refers to the relatively constant physiological state of he body despite fluctuations in the external environment.