6 Questions
What is the main objective of a negative feedback mechanism?
To reduce a change in the system and maintain equilibrium
What is the result of positive feedback in a physiological process?
More of a product, such as apples or contractions
What is the primary difference between positive and negative feedback mechanisms?
The direction of the system's response
What is the purpose of a feedback mechanism in a physiological system?
To maintain a stable equilibrium in the system
In a physiological system, what is the result of a drop in temperature?
An increase in heat production
What is the term for the process of maintaining a relatively stable equilibrium between interdependent elements in a physiological system?
Homeostasis
Study Notes
Homeostasis and Feedback Mechanisms
- Homeostasis is the tendency towards a relatively stable equilibrium between interdependent elements, maintained by physiological processes.
Feedback Mechanisms
- A feedback mechanism is a loop system that responds to a change.
- The response to a change can be in the same direction (positive feedback) or in the opposite direction (negative feedback).
Positive vs. Negative Feedback
- The key difference between positive and negative feedback is their response to change:
- Positive feedback amplifies change, resulting in more of a product.
- Negative feedback reduces change, resulting in less of a product.
- Positive feedback moves away from a target point, while negative feedback moves towards a target point.
Example of Feedback Mechanism
- The body reacts to a drop in temperature through a negative feedback mechanism, which reduces the change and moves towards a target point (e.g., maintaining a stable body temperature).
Test your understanding of homeostasis, a state of balance between interdependent elements, and feedback mechanisms, which help maintain this balance. Learn about the elements involved in feedback mechanisms and how they relate to homeostasis.
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