Which of the following are the three common components of a feedback loop?

• A. Sensor, enzyme, substrate
• B. Neuron, synapse, neurotransmitter
• C. Stimulus, hormone, target cell
• D. Receptor, control center, effector

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of a feedback loop in Anatomy & Physiology. Feedback loops are mechanisms used by the body to maintain homeostasis, which is the stable internal environment necessary for survival.
2. Step 2: Identify the three common components of a feedback loop. These are: the receptor, the control center, and the effector. Each plays a distinct role in detecting changes, processing information, and responding to restore balance.
3. Step 3: Define the role of the receptor. The receptor is responsible for detecting changes in the environment, such as temperature, pressure, or chemical levels, and sending this information to the control center.
4. Step 4: Define the role of the control center. The control center, often the brain or another regulatory organ, processes the information received from the receptor and determines the appropriate response to maintain homeostasis.
5. Step 5: Define the role of the effector. The effector carries out the response determined by the control center, such as contracting a muscle, secreting a hormone, or adjusting blood vessel diameter, to restore balance in the body.