7.1 Homeostasis and Control Systems

Deffinitions:

• Homeostasis - Process by which a constant internal enviornment is maintained dispite changes in the external enviornment. For example, sweating to maintain the bodies functional temperature range while excercising.
• Dynamic Equilibrium - Condition that remains stable within fluctuating limits.
  
• Negative Feedback - Process by which a mechanism is activated to restore conditions to original state.
• Positive Feedback - Process by which a small affect is amplified.

Homeostatic Control Systems

Have 3 functional components:

1. A Monitor - Sensors in the organs of the body signal a coordinating center when an organ is functioning outside its normal limits.
   
2. A Coordinating Center - Relays information to the regulator.
   
3. A Regulator - Restores limit to normal range.

Homeostasis and Feedback

Negative

• Mechanisms that bring the body back to normal ranges are Negative Feedback Systems.
• Prevent small changes from becoming too large.

Example, Thermostat in a house controlling temperature of the house.


Positive

• Less common in the body.
• Allows an event to happen quickly and once the event occurs, the feedback system stops.
• A good example is the birth process where different hormones are produced.
• Something in this case is amplified to happen even more in your body.
  

-Brandon