Homeostasis and Thermoregulation Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is homeostasis?
Dynamic physiological processes that keep the body within its ideal range of physical and chemical conditions
Conditions include temperature, water levels, glucose and other nutrient concentrations, and pH.
How is homeostasis maintained?
By feedback loops
Feedback loops help determine responses to changes in the body’s internal environment.
What role does the hypothalamus play in homeostasis?
Controls many hormone and nerve signals to maintain homeostasis.
What is thermoregulation?
The maintenance of a body temperature within a set range where cells function efficiently
Humans require body temperature very close to 37°C.
What happens if the body is too warm?
1) Sweat glands are stimulated
2) Vasodilation occurs
Sweating removes heat through evaporation, and vasodilation allows more heat to leave the blood.
What is the effect of vasodilation?
Blood vessels close to the surface of the skin dilate, allowing more heat to leave the blood.
What occurs if the body is too cold?
1) Vasoconstriction
2) Piloerection
3) Muscle contraction (shivering)
These responses help reduce heat loss and produce heat.
What is vasoconstriction?
Blood vessels close to the surface of the skin constrict, redirecting blood closer to internal organs.
What is piloerection?
Hairs of the skin stick out, trapping an insulating layer of air next to the skin.
What is the purpose of muscle contraction (shivering) in thermoregulation?
Engages the body’s energy production pathways, producing heat as a by-product.
Fill in the blank: Homeostasis includes maintaining _______.
temperature, water levels, glucose and other nutrient concentrations, pH.
True or False: Homeostasis is a static process.
False
Homeostasis is dynamic, constantly adjusting to maintain balance.
