D3.3 Homeostasis SL Flashcards
Define homeostasis
Homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable internal environment in an organism
What does negative feedback do in homeostasis?
Negative feedback mechanisms maintain stability by counteracting changes away from normal levels
Give an example of a homeostatic variable in humans
Body temperature is an example of a homeostatic variable
What happens when a homeostatic variable is outside its normal range?
Homeostatic mechanisms are triggered to bring the variable back within its preset range
Why is homeostasis important?
It’s crucial for maintaining the conditions necessary for survival and function of cells
What role do pancreatic hormones play in blood glucose regulation?
Insulin and glucagon from the pancreas help maintain blood glucose levels
What does insulin do?
Insulin lowers blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake in cells
What is the effect of glucagon?
Glucagon raises blood glucose levels by stimulating glucose release from liver stores
Define diabetes
Diabetes is a condition of prolonged elevated blood glucose due to insulin issues
How does the body respond to high blood glucose?
The pancreas secretes insulin to reduce blood glucose levels
What is thermoregulation?
The process by which body temperature is maintained within a certain range
How does the hypothalamus contribute to thermoregulation?
It regulates body temperature using information from thermoreceptors
Name a mechanism the body uses to increase heat
Shivering in muscles generates heat to raise body temperature
How does the body cool down?
Through sweating and vasodilation to release excess heat
What is thyroxine’s role in thermoregulation?
It stimulates metabolism and heat production in the body
