Study Notes
Homeostasis is the maintenance of a constant internal environment, ensuring that conditions like temperature and glucose levels remain stable for proper body function.
- Homeostasis — the maintenance of a constant internal environment Example: Keeping body temperature around 37°C.
- Insulin — a hormone that decreases blood glucose concentration Example: Converts glucose into glycogen in the liver.
- Glucagon — a hormone that increases blood glucose concentration Example: Breaks down glycogen into glucose in the liver.
- Negative Feedback — a process that returns conditions to a set point Example: Insulin and glucagon regulate blood glucose levels.
- Type 1 Diabetes — a condition where the pancreas cannot produce insulin Example: Treated by injecting insulin to manage blood glucose levels.
- Vasodilation — widening of blood vessels to increase heat loss Example: Blood vessels near the skin surface widen when hot.
- Vasoconstriction — narrowing of blood vessels to reduce heat loss Example: Blood vessels constrict to retain heat when cold.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Homeostasis
- Insulin
- Glucagon
- Negative Feedback
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Vasodilation
- Vasoconstriction
Common Confusions
- Glucagon vs Glycogen
- Insulin's role in glucose regulation
Typical Exam Questions
- What is homeostasis? The maintenance of a constant internal environment.
- How does insulin affect blood glucose levels? It decreases blood glucose levels by converting glucose to glycogen.
- What happens during vasodilation? Blood vessels widen to increase heat loss.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of negative feedback mechanisms
- Differences between insulin and glucagon
- How the body regulates temperature through vasodilation and vasoconstriction