U2 KA4 Metabolism In Conformers And Regulators Flashcards
What external factors affect an organism’s ability to maintain its metabolic rate?
External abiotic factors.
What is the key characteristic of conformers in terms of their internal environment?
The internal environment of conformers depends on the external environment.
How do conformers maintain their metabolic rate?
Conformers use behavioral responses to maintain an optimum metabolic rate.
What is the metabolic cost and ecological niche range for conformers?
Conformers have low metabolic costs and a narrow range of ecological niches.
What is the key characteristic of regulators in terms of their internal environment?
Regulators maintain their internal environment regardless of the external environment.
How do regulators control their internal environment?
Regulators use metabolism to control their internal environment, allowing for a wider range of ecological niches.
What is the energy requirement for regulators to maintain homeostasis?
Regulators require energy to maintain homeostasis, which increases their metabolic costs.
What is thermoregulation?
Thermoregulation is the process of maintaining body temperature within a certain range using negative feedback mechanisms.
What role does the hypothalamus play in thermoregulation?
The hypothalamus helps regulate body temperature by initiating corrective responses to temperature changes.
What corrective responses occur when body temperature increases?
Sweating, vasodilation of blood vessels, and a decreased metabolic rate.
What corrective responses occur when body temperature decreases?
Shivering, vasoconstriction of blood vessels, contraction of hair erector muscles, and an increased metabolic rate.
Why is regulating temperature important for metabolism?
It ensures optimal enzyme activity and high diffusion rates, both of which are crucial for maintaining metabolism.
