Homeostatic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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homeostatic
[ˌhōmēəˈstādik ]
Definition
biological processes
Homeostatic refers to the processes by which living organisms regulate their internal environment to maintain a stable, constant condition in response to changes in external conditions. This includes the regulation of temperature, pH, and other vital parameters essential for survival.
Synonyms
adaptive, regulatory, self-regulating.
Examples of usage
- The body employs homeostatic mechanisms to keep the temperature stable.
- Homeostatic control is crucial for maintaining electrolyte balance.
- The concept of homeostatic regulation is key in understanding how organisms adapt to their environments.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Homeostasis helps regulate temperature, pH levels, and hydration within living organisms.
- Examples of homeostatic responses include sweating to cool down or shivering to generate heat.
- The human body has mechanisms like insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar levels.
Psychology
- Psychological homeostasis refers to maintaining emotional balance, often impacted by stress or life changes.
- Creating a stable environment can help people cope better with challenges and maintain mental well-being.
Technology
- Artificial intelligence systems utilize homeostatic principles to self-regulate and maintain performance.
- Smart home technologies can adjust conditions, like temperature or lighting, to maintain comfort effectively.
Fitness
- During exercise, the body employs homeostatic processes to keep heart rate and body temperature within functional limits.
- Athletes often train to enhance their body's ability to maintain homeostasis under stress, improving overall performance.
Origin of 'homeostatic'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'homeo' from Greek meaning 'similar' and 'static' meaning 'standing still,' showing balance.
- It was first popularized in the early 20th century in the context of biology to describe how organisms maintain stability.
The term 'homeostatic' is derived from the Greek words 'homeo', meaning 'similar', and 'stasis', meaning 'standing still' or 'stability'. The concept of homeostasis was popularized by the American physiologist Walter Cannon in the early 20th century, who used it to describe the physiological processes that maintain equilibrium in living organisms. Cannon emphasized that various body systems work together to maintain a stable internal environment despite external fluctuations. Over the years, the term has been widely utilized in biology and medicine, reflecting the importance of maintaining internal balance for the health and survival of organisms. Today, homeostatic principles apply not only to physiology but also to ecology and social sciences, illustrating the broad relevance of this concept in understanding stability and regulation across various systems.