Homeostasis
Definition
Homeostasis is the ability of an organism or cell to maintain internal stability by adjusting its physiological processes. It involves feedback mechanisms that detect changes and trigger responses to restore optimal conditions. Examples include temperature regulation, blood sugar control, and water balance.
Key Points for NEET
- 1Uses negative feedback loops primarily
- 2Involves receptor, control center, and effector
- 3Maintains stable internal environment despite external changes
- 4Controlled by nervous and endocrine systems
- 5Essential for survival of organisms
Example
Body maintaining 37°C temperature through sweating when hot or shivering when cold
Asked in NEET
Related Terms
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Antibody
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Hormone
A hormone is a chemical messenger produced by endocrine glands and transported through the bloodstream to target organs where it regulates physiological processes. Hormones can be proteins, steroids, or amino acid derivatives. They are essential for growth, metabolism, reproduction, and homeostasis.
Neuron
A neuron is a specialized cell that transmits nerve impulses (electrical signals) in the nervous system. It consists of a cell body (soma), dendrites (receive signals), and an axon (transmits signals). Neurons communicate with each other at synapses using neurotransmitters.