Which of the following terms best describe the trends observed in negative and positive feedback mechanisms?

• A. Amplification and stabilization
• B. Stabilization and amplification
• C. Activation and deactivation
• D. Suppression and inhibition

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of feedback mechanisms: Feedback mechanisms are processes that help maintain homeostasis in biological systems. They can be categorized as negative feedback or positive feedback.
2. Clarify negative feedback: Negative feedback mechanisms work to stabilize a system by reducing the effect of a stimulus. For example, when body temperature rises, mechanisms like sweating are activated to bring the temperature back to normal.
3. Clarify positive feedback: Positive feedback mechanisms amplify a response to a stimulus, driving the system further away from its starting point. For example, during childbirth, the release of oxytocin intensifies uterine contractions, amplifying the process until delivery occurs.
4. Relate the terms to the feedback mechanisms: Stabilization is associated with negative feedback because it helps maintain equilibrium, while amplification is associated with positive feedback because it enhances the response to a stimulus.
5. Choose the correct answer: Based on the definitions, the terms 'Stabilization and amplification' best describe the trends observed in negative and positive feedback mechanisms.