Quiz on Homeostasis

What does the term 'Homeostasis' refer to?

• A psychological disorder

• A type of feedback mechanism

• A method of communication in animals

• A process to maintain stable conditions necessary for survival

Answer explanation

Homeostasis refers to the process by which living organisms maintain stable internal conditions, such as temperature and pH, necessary for survival. This is crucial for optimal functioning and overall health.

Who coined the term 'Homeostasis'?

• Norbert Wiener

• Walter Cannon

• Kelvin Rodolfo

• Garry DeLong

Answer explanation

The term 'Homeostasis' was coined by Walter Cannon in the early 20th century to describe the body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes.

What is an example of a homeostatic process in the human body?

• Sleeping

• Breathing

• Sweating

• Eating

Answer explanation

Sweating is a homeostatic process that helps regulate body temperature. When the body overheats, sweat glands produce sweat, which cools the body as it evaporates, maintaining a stable internal environment.

What is the average normal body temperature in Fahrenheit?

• 98.6

• 100.4

• 96.8

• 99.1

Answer explanation

The average normal body temperature for a healthy adult is widely accepted to be 98.6°F. This value serves as a standard reference point in medicine.

What happens to the body when it overheats?

• It sweats

• It shivers

• It increases blood pressure

• It becomes lethargic

Answer explanation

When the body overheats, it sweats to cool down through evaporation. Sweating is the primary mechanism for regulating body temperature, while shivering occurs when the body is cold, and increased blood pressure and lethargy are not direct responses to overheating.

What is negative feedback?

• A response that increases the change

• A response that opposes any change

• A method of communication

• A type of psychological feedback

Answer explanation

Negative feedback is a response that opposes any change, helping to maintain stability in a system. It counteracts deviations from a set point, unlike positive feedback, which amplifies changes.

What is positive feedback?

• A method of maintaining homeostasis

• A response that increases the departure from normal conditions

• A response that stabilizes a system

• A type of negative feedback

Answer explanation

Positive feedback amplifies changes, moving a system away from its normal state. This is why the correct choice is 'A response that increases the departure from normal conditions', as it highlights the nature of positive feedback.

What can happen if positive feedback continues unchecked?

• The system stabilizes

• It enhances homeostasis

• It can lead to death

• The system returns to equilibrium

Answer explanation

If positive feedback continues unchecked, it can disrupt normal physiological processes, potentially leading to harmful consequences, including death. This is because the system may spiral out of control without regulation.

How does a driver maintain control of a car in a skid?

• By steering in the same direction

• By applying the brakes hard

• By steering in the opposite direction

• By accelerating

Answer explanation

To regain control in a skid, a driver should steer in the opposite direction of the skid. This helps realign the vehicle's wheels with the direction of travel, allowing for better control and stability.

What is the role of oscillation in homeostatic systems?

• To increase disturbance

• To create instability

• To maintain equilibrium

• To enhance positive feedback

Answer explanation

Oscillation in homeostatic systems helps to maintain equilibrium by allowing systems to adjust and stabilize in response to changes, ensuring that internal conditions remain balanced despite external fluctuations.