Feedback mechanism
Feedback Mechanism
A Feedback Mechanism (pronunciation: /ˈfiːdˌbæk mɪˈkænɪzəm/) is a process that uses the conditions of one component to regulate the function of the same component in the body. This process is essential in maintaining the body's homeostasis.
Etymology
The term "Feedback Mechanism" is derived from the words "feedback" and "mechanism". "Feedback" is a term that originated from the field of engineering where it refers to the return of information about the result of a process or activity. "Mechanism", on the other hand, is derived from the Latin word "mechanismus" which means a mechanical contrivance.
Types of Feedback Mechanisms
There are two main types of feedback mechanisms: positive feedback and negative feedback.
- Positive Feedback is a process that increases the output of a system. It is often used to push levels out of normal ranges. This type of feedback amplifies system changes and drives processes to completion.
- Negative Feedback is a process that reduces the output of a system. It is used to keep systems within a certain set range. This type of feedback stabilizes the system and prevents sudden changes.
Related Terms
- Homeostasis: The state of steady internal, physical, and chemical conditions maintained by living systems.
- Hormone: Chemical messengers that are secreted directly into the blood, which carries them to organs and tissues of the body to exert their functions.
- Endocrine System: The collection of glands that produce hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood, among other things.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Feedback mechanism
- Wikipedia's article - Feedback mechanism
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski