How do the thyroid and parathyroid form a feedback loop?
The thyroid and parathyroid form a feedback loop by regulating calcium levels in the blood, with the parathyroid hormone increasing calcium levels and calcitonin from the thyroid decreasing them.
Which of the following typically takes place in the analyze phase of a feedback loop? a) Identifying the problem b) Implementing solutions c) Evaluating outcomes d) Collecting data
d) Collecting data
Which of the following is the central premise of the stages of change model? a) Change is a linear process b) Change occurs in distinct stages c) Change is unpredictable d) Change is solely based on external factors
b) Change occurs in distinct stages
Which of the following best explains the feedback mechanism that regulates blood glucose levels? a) Positive feedback loop b) Negative feedback loop c) Neutral feedback loop d) Cyclical feedback loop
b) Negative feedback loop
What is a feedback loop in the context of physiology, and why is it important for homeostasis?
A feedback loop is a process where a change in the internal environment triggers a response that alters that environment, forming a loop. It is important for homeostasis because it helps the body maintain stable internal conditions.
What is the main difference between negative and positive feedback loops?
Negative feedback loops move the system toward the set point by opposing the initial stimulus, while positive feedback loops amplify the initial change, moving the system further from the set point.
Describe a real-life analogy that helps explain how negative feedback works in the body.
Negative feedback is like balancing on one leg; if you lean in one direction, your body moves in the opposite direction to return to balance, similar to how the body returns to its set point.
In feedback loops, what do the terms 'negative' and 'positive' refer to?
The terms 'negative' and 'positive' refer to the direction of the response relative to the initial stimulus—'negative' means opposite direction, 'positive' means same direction—not to the value or quality of the change.
Why is positive feedback less common in the body compared to negative feedback?
Positive feedback is less common because it moves the system away from homeostatic set points, which can be destabilizing and potentially dangerous if not controlled.
Can negative feedback ever increase a variable in the body? Explain your answer.
Yes, negative feedback can increase or decrease a variable depending on the initial stimulus; it always acts to oppose the change and return to the set point, regardless of direction.