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True or False:

Positive and negative feedback mechanisms are named for the direction of the response relative to the initial stimulus.

User Kranthi
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Final answer:

The statement is false because positive feedback amplifies a stimulus while negative feedback diminishes it to maintain homeostasis or a stable state. Negative feedback systems are common in biological processes like temperature regulation, while positive feedback systems include processes like childbirth in humans.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement is False. Positive feedback mechanisms are named for their effect of amplifying or reinforcing the initial stimulus whereas negative feedback mechanisms work to counteract or diminish the initial stimulus. Positive feedback drives a system away from its equilibrium, often leading to a rapid change. On the other hand, negative feedback is essential for maintaining homeostasis because it helps to restore the system back to a stable state. For instance, the regulation of body temperature is a classic example of a negative feedback loop. If your body is too warm, mechanisms kick in to cool you down, and conversely, if you're too cold, your body works to warm up. This is in contrast to positive feedback loops, which might be seen during childbirth when the release of oxytocin intensifies contractions. Another example lies within plants, which also utilize both positive and negative feedback mechanisms to maintain their internal environments and adapt to external environmental changes.

User Apgsov
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