Homeostasis Flashcards
What is homeostasis?
The maintenance of a state of dynamic equilibrium in the body despite fluctuations in internal and external conditions.
Why is homeostasis important?
To ensure optimum conditions for enzymes and cellular processes in the body.
Define Negative feedback :
Self-regulatory mechanisms which return the internal environment to the optimum when there is a fluctuation.
Define Positive feedback:
A fluctuation which triggers changes that result in an even greater deviation from the normal level.
What is the set point?
A desired value or range of values determined by a coordinator.
Describe Effectors:
Muscles or glands which enable a response to a stimulus.
Describe the role of a coordinator:
Coordinates information from the receptors and sends instructions to the effectors.
What is osmoregulation?
The regulation of the water potential of body fluids (e.g blood,tissue fluid,lymph) by the kidney.
Why is osmoregulation important?
Prevents cells bursting or shrinking when water enters or leaves by osmosis.
Cellular reactions occur in aqueous solution therefore water levels affect conc and rate of reactions in cells
Define excretion?
The process of removing metabolic waste from an organism.
What is the function of the renal artery?
Supplies blood to the kidneys
What is the function of the renal vein?
Takes blood aways from the kidneys
What is the function of the ureter?
Takes urine to the bladder from the kidneys
What is the function of the urethra?
Release urine from the bladder, out of the body.
Key components of a kidney:
Bowman’s Capsule,cortex,renal pyramids,renal pelvis and medulla