What defines a negative feedback system?

A negative feedback system is characterized by its ability to return a variable to a set point, which maintains homeostasis within a system. This mechanism is crucial in various biological and physiological processes.

For example, in the human body, temperature regulation is a classic illustration of a negative feedback loop. When body temperature rises above the normal range, mechanisms such as sweating and increased blood flow to the skin are activated to dissipate heat, effectively returning the temperature to its optimal level. Conversely, if the body temperature drops, processes that generate heat, like shivering, are initiated.

The essence of a negative feedback system lies in its corrective nature. By counteracting changes and restoring equilibrium, it helps maintain stable conditions necessary for proper functioning.