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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is an example of a positive feedback mechanism in the human body?
A
Regulation of blood glucose levels by insulin
B
Thermoregulation to maintain body temperature
C
The release of oxytocin during childbirth to intensify uterine contractions
D
Control of blood pressure by baroreceptors
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of feedback mechanisms. Feedback mechanisms are processes that help maintain homeostasis in the body. They are categorized into two types: positive feedback and negative feedback. Negative feedback works to counteract changes and return the system to its set point, while positive feedback amplifies changes and drives the system further away from its set point.
Step 2: Analyze the examples provided in the question. For each example, determine whether it represents positive or negative feedback. Positive feedback mechanisms amplify a response, while negative feedback mechanisms stabilize or reverse a response.
Step 3: Examine the example of oxytocin release during childbirth. During labor, the release of oxytocin intensifies uterine contractions, which in turn stimulates more oxytocin release. This is a classic example of positive feedback because the response (uterine contractions) is amplified.
Step 4: Compare the other examples provided. Regulation of blood glucose levels by insulin and thermoregulation to maintain body temperature are examples of negative feedback mechanisms because they work to stabilize the system. Control of blood pressure by baroreceptors is also a negative feedback mechanism as it helps maintain blood pressure within a normal range.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct example of a positive feedback mechanism in the human body is the release of oxytocin during childbirth to intensify uterine contractions, as it amplifies the response rather than stabilizing it.