Which of the following is NOT one of the three components of homeostatic control systems?

• A. the effector
• B. the receptor (senses the change)
• C. positive feedback
• D. the control center

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of homeostasis: Homeostasis is the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.
2. Identify the components of a homeostatic control system: Typically, these systems consist of three main components: the receptor, the control center, and the effector.
3. Define each component: The receptor senses changes in the environment and sends information to the control center. The control center processes this information and determines the appropriate response. The effector carries out the response to restore balance.
4. Recognize the role of feedback mechanisms: Homeostatic control systems often use negative feedback to counteract changes, bringing the system back to its set point. Positive feedback, on the other hand, amplifies changes and is not typically a component of homeostatic control systems.
5. Determine which option is not a component: Given the options, 'positive feedback' is not one of the three main components of a homeostatic control system, as it does not contribute to maintaining stability in the same way as the receptor, control center, and effector do.