ANP 1105 Chapter Notes - Chapter 3: Autonomic Nervous System, Peripheral Nervous System, Sympathetic Nervous System
Document Summary
Homeostasis: ability of the body to maintain stable internal conditions even though there is continuous change in external environment. Indicates dynamic state of equilibrium/balance where internal conditions vary but within narrow limits. Adequate blood levels of vital nutrients; constantly monitoring and adjusting blood pressure/heart activity; controls blood temperature; prevents accumulation of waste. Variety of chemical, thermal, and neural factors influence it. Endocrine and nervous systems use neural electrical impulses or blood borne hormones as info carriers = communication within body; essential. Receptor: sensor that monitors environment and responds to stimuli by sending input from the receptors to the second component, control center, along afferent pathway. Control center: determines set point; level/range how variable will be maintained; analyzes received input and determines appropriate response; output flows to third component, the effector, along the efferent pathway. Effector: provides output to the stimulus; results of output feedback to influence stimulus effect by reducing (negative) or enhancing (positive).