This key facts covers Negative Feedback within Temperature Regulation for GCSE Biology. Topic 5: Temperature Regulation It is section 3 of 13 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Negative Feedback
Most homeostatic systems work by negative feedback:
- Receptor detects a change (stimulus)
- Information sent to coordination centre (brain, spinal cord, pancreas)
- Effector (muscle or gland) produces a response
- Response counteracts the original change
- Levels return to normal
It's called "negative" because the response is OPPOSITE to the change!
The Central Heating Analogy
Negative feedback works like your home thermostat. Set it to 20°C. If the room gets too cold, the heating turns ON. If it gets too hot, the heating turns OFF. The response always OPPOSES the change to bring things back to normal!
Practice questions for Temperature Regulation
What is the normal core body temperature in humans?
Explain how sweating helps to reduce body temperature.
Quick recall flashcards
What is thermoregulation?
Thermoregulation is the process of maintaining a constant core body temperature of 37°C, regardless of changes in the external environment.
How does sweating cool the body?
Sweat glands release sweat onto the skin. As sweat evaporates, it takes heat energy away from the skin, cooling the body. More sweating occurs when the body is too hot.