Homeostasis is a controlled state in which the body is able to function optimally. An equilibrium of the body’s physiological mechanisms are maintained and kept under control, if the equilibrium is lost it can be fatal for an individual. (Waugh, Grant, 2014)
In order to maintain a balanced internal environment the body is required to adjust when needed to, this is known as homeostatic regulation. A cluster of cells with the hypothalamus is known as the control centre; this sets the limits at which a physiological variable such as the body’s core temperature should be set. Receptors will then detect change in the body’s temperature, if this falls below or rises above the pre-set limits (around 37.C), the receptors will relay this information to the control centre which send signals to effectors. For example if the body temperature has decreased effectors such as skeletal muscle will be stimulated causing shivering and blood flow will be restricted caused by vasoconstriction.(Waugh, Grant, 2014) …show more content…
Although it is not used as often there is also a positive feedback mechanism which can regulate breast milk supply and controls uterine contractions during labour. Homeostasis is constantly adjusting and changing to keep many physiological variables at an optimal level for functioning and most examples such as pH levels of fluids, blood pressure and blood glucose levels are a necessity for survival. (Waugh, Grant,
In order to maintain a balanced internal environment the body is required to adjust when needed to, this is known as homeostatic regulation. A cluster of cells with the hypothalamus is known as the control centre; this sets the limits at which a physiological variable such as the body’s core temperature should be set. Receptors will then detect change in the body’s temperature, if this falls below or rises above the pre-set limits (around 37.C), the receptors will relay this information to the control centre which send signals to effectors. For example if the body temperature has decreased effectors such as skeletal muscle will be stimulated causing shivering and blood flow will be restricted caused by vasoconstriction.(Waugh, Grant, 2014) …show more content…
Although it is not used as often there is also a positive feedback mechanism which can regulate breast milk supply and controls uterine contractions during labour. Homeostasis is constantly adjusting and changing to keep many physiological variables at an optimal level for functioning and most examples such as pH levels of fluids, blood pressure and blood glucose levels are a necessity for survival. (Waugh, Grant,