Human Homeostasis Simulation
Human homeostasis keeps internal conditions within useful ranges even when the surroundings, food intake or activity change. The simulation shows sensors, control centers and effectors working through negative feedback.
Learning objectives
- Identify a stimulus, sensor, control center and effector.
- Explain negative feedback using body temperature.
- Compare insulin and glucagon in glucose regulation.
- Explain how ADH and kidneys conserve water.
- Predict linked responses during exercise.
Key concepts
A set point is a regulated target, not an unchanging number. Receptors detect change, control centers compare it with the desired range, and effectors oppose the disturbance.
Suggested experiments
- Set outside temperature to 45 °C and observe sweating and skin blood flow.
- Add a large meal and follow insulin and liver storage.
- Lower water intake while increasing activity and watch ADH rise.
- Compare rest with intense exercise.
Questions for exploration
- Why does heart rate rise before core temperature changes greatly?
- Why can sweating protect temperature but reduce hydration?
Real-world applications
Diabetes disrupts glucose regulation. Dehydration changes hormone signals and kidney output. Fever changes the temperature set point rather than simply defeating homeostasis.
Common misconceptions
Homeostasis is dynamic, not perfectly constant. Negative feedback does not mean harmful feedback; it means the response opposes the original change.
