A-Level Biology Specification

OCR B H422

Section 5.3.1: The principles and importance of homeostasis

Are you studying this syllabus?

You can track your progress by adding it to your account.

Add syllabus

#5.3.1a

the general principles of homeostasis in the maintenance of a stable internal environment

To include the role of receptors, effectors and negative feedback AND the concept of normal ranges for temperature, pH, blood glucose concentration and blood pressure AND contrast positive and negative feedback systems using oxytocin as an example of positive feedback.

#5.3.1b

the nervous and hormonal control of heart rate

To include the roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system and adrenaline.

#5.3.1c

the control of body temperature

To include the role of peripheral temperature receptors, the thermoregulatory centre in the hypothalamus and the responses to rising and falling temperatures (sweating, shivering, vasoconstriction and vasodilation).

#5.3.1d

the regulation of thyroxine release and the effect of thyroxine on metabolic rate

#5.3.1e

the techniques for and the importance of measuring core body temperature

To include oral, tympanic (ear), axillary (arm pit) and rectal methods and the significance of readings outside the normal range in adults and children.
PAG10

#5.3.1f

the causes, symptoms and treatment of hypothermia and hyperthermia

To include the consequences of ‘fuel poverty’ and analysis of data showing correlations between weather conditions and incidence of both hypothermia and hyperthermia with respect to climate change.