Homeostasis: Key Terms

Question 1

define excretion

Answer 1

• the removal from the body of the wastes of metabolism through various processes
• i.e. ​sweating, expiration, urination

Question 2

define a steady state system/control mechanisms

Answer 2

• any body process responsible for the maintenance of homeostatic balance in the body
• i.e. sweating/shivering helps maintain body temp.’s homeostatic balance.

Question 3

what is negative feedback

Answer 3

• when the response to a stimulus brings about a change that is opposite to, or greatly reduces the effect of, the original stimulus
• i.e. heat stimulates a response of the body to cool, participating in opposing the stimulus through its actions.

Question 4

define metabolism

Answer 4

all the chemical reactions occurring in the body or cell

Question 5

what is positive feedback

Answer 5

• feedback which reinforces and strengthens the effect of a stimulus
• i.e. oxytocin is released as more and more pressure is applied to the cervix of the uterus.

Question 6

define homeostasis

Answer 6

the maintenance of a relatively constant internal environment despite fluctuations in the external environment

Question 7

define tolerance limits

Answer 7

a tolerance limit is the upper and lower threshold in which the body can still continue to function normally