Homeostasis & Feedback Loops

Kidney Function Kidney video in pic

Homeostasis Relatively constant internal physical and chemical conditions that organisms maintain

Feedback Loops A biological occurrence where the output of a system either amplifies or inhibits the system Two types: Positive feedbacks Negative feedbacks

Positive Feedback Loops A feedback loop in which the effector of a process encourages the stimulus, which increases the production of the product. The variable changed works to intensify the response. Graphic: As the endocrine tissue creates more of a certain hormone that enhances a gland to produce a second hormone that enhances the original endocrine tissue to create more of the first hormone and the cycle continues.

Negative Feedback Loops A regulatory mechanism in which a 'stimulus' causes an opposite 'output' in order to maintain an ideal level of whatever is being regulated. The variable changed works to counteract the response. As body temp decreases, the body shivers to cause the body temp to increase. OR As body temp increases, the sweat glands activate to cool the body causing temp to decrease.

Homeostasis & Feedback Loops Video link in picture & worksheet is available to give students.

Have students research their own feedback loop.