Final answer:
The elements of a physiological control system include: a receptor/sensor, a control center, and an effector. These components form a negative feedback loop which serves to maintain homeostasis by detecting changes, processing information, and effecting a corrective response.
Step-by-step explanation:
The elements of a physiological control system that are involved in maintaining homeostasis include a receptor (or sensor), a control center, and an effector.
These components work together to form a negative feedback loop. The receptor detects changes in the internal or external environment, referred to as the stimulus, and sends a signal to the control center.
The control center compares this information to the normal range or set point and determines if a response is required.
If there is a deviation, the control center will activate an effector, which enacts a response to counter the change and bring the parameter back towards the normal range, thereby maintaining homeostasis.
Using the framework provided:
- a. The receptor or sensor detects changes in the environment (stimulus).
- b. The control center processes the information and determines the appropriate response.
- c. The effector carries out the response to correct any deviations from the set point.
Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is d. All the above, as all these elements are involved in a physiological control system.