Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Homeostasis

Anatomy & Physiology

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Homeostasis

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Problem 16c

Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
Positive feedback loops are triggered by a deviation from the set point of a regulated variable and are shut down when conditions return to the set point.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of positive feedback loops: Positive feedback loops amplify a change in a regulated variable rather than reversing it. They are typically not involved in maintaining homeostasis but rather in processes that need a rapid or self-perpetuating response, such as blood clotting or childbirth.

Analyze the statement: The statement claims that positive feedback loops are triggered by a deviation from the set point and are shut down when conditions return to the set point. This description aligns more closely with negative feedback loops, which work to restore a variable to its set point.

Identify the error: Positive feedback loops are not shut down when conditions return to the set point. Instead, they are typically terminated by an external event or process, not by the return to the set point.

Correct the false statement: A corrected version of the statement would be: 'Positive feedback loops are triggered by a deviation from the set point of a regulated variable and are shut down by an external event or process, not by the return to the set point.'

Review the corrected statement: Ensure the corrected statement accurately reflects the nature of positive feedback loops and distinguishes them from negative feedback loops, which are responsible for maintaining homeostasis.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Positive Feedback Loops

Positive feedback loops are processes that amplify changes or deviations from a set point in a system. Unlike negative feedback, which aims to stabilize a system by counteracting deviations, positive feedback enhances the direction of the change, often leading to a more significant response. An example is the process of childbirth, where the release of oxytocin increases contractions, further stimulating its release.

Set Point

The set point is the desired or optimal level of a regulated variable in a biological system, such as body temperature or blood glucose levels. It serves as a reference point for homeostasis, where the body strives to maintain stability. Deviations from this set point trigger feedback mechanisms to restore balance, but in the case of positive feedback, the system moves away from the set point instead.

Homeostasis

Homeostasis is the process by which biological systems maintain stability while adjusting to changing external conditions. It involves various feedback mechanisms, primarily negative feedback, which counteract deviations from the set point to keep internal conditions within a narrow range. Understanding homeostasis is crucial for grasping how organisms regulate vital functions and respond to environmental changes.

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Related Practice

Textbook Question

Compare and contrast the operation of negative and positive feedback mechanisms in maintaining homeostasis. Provide two examples of variables controlled by negative feedback mechanisms and one example of a process regulated by a positive feedback mechanism.

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Textbook Question

Calcium levels in Mr. Gallariani's blood are dropping to dangerously low levels. The hormone PTH is released and soon blood calcium levels begin to rise. Shortly after, PTH release slows. Is this an example of a positive or negative feedback mechanism? What is the initial stimulus? What is the result?

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

Living organisms react to changes in their environment known as stimuli.

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Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

Homeostasis is the condition of having a dynamic equilibrium of the internal environment.

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Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

Cell-cell communication is required to coordinate the activities of the whole body.

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Textbook Question

The baroreceptor reflex causes blood pressure to drop when it rises dangerously high. Predict whether this is a positive or negative feedback loop. Explain your reasoning.

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Textbook Question

A gradient exists:

a. When heat is concentrated in one area of the body

b. When more of a substance is located in one place than in another

c. When there is higher pressure in one place than in another

d. All of the above are correct

e. None of the above are correct

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Multiple Choice