Flashcards on Biological Systems and Regulation
Biological Systems and Regulation: A Student's Guide
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Homeostasis
31 cards
Card 1
Question: What is homeostasis?
Answer: The maintenance of a constant internal environment for cells to function efficiently.
Card 2
Question: Name three internal variables maintained by homeostasis.
Answer: Body temperature, water content, and blood glucose concentration.
Card 3
Question: What is the normal body temperature range according to the content?
Answer: 36.5 - 38.5 °C.
Card 4
Question: Why is it important to maintain a constant body temperature?
Answer: So that enzymes and bodily processes work correctly; extreme temperatures can cause hypothermia or heatstroke.
Card 5
Question: Define thermoregulation.
Answer: The process by which organisms maintain a stable internal temperature despite changes in the environment.
Card 6
Question: Name two bodily responses when it's too hot.
Answer: Sweating occurs (evaporation cools the skin) and blood vessels dilate (vasodilation) to lose more heat.
Card 7
Question: Name three bodily responses when it's too cold.
Answer: Shivering (muscles generate heat), constriction of blood vessels (vasoconstriction), and seeking warmth or movement.
Card 8
Question: What role does the hypothalamus play in temperature homeostasis?
Answer: It acts as a thermostat: it monitors blood temperature, receives information from skin receptors, and coordinates responses to maintain temperature.
Card 9
Question: How do hair and the erector pili muscle help conserve heat?
Answer: When the muscle contracts, the hair stands erect and traps a layer of air that insulates the body; in humans, the effect is small.
Card 10
Question: What functions does the layer of fat under the skin have in homeostasis?
Answer: It acts as thermal insulation, reduces heat loss, and serves as an energy reserve.