Feedback — Science definition
Defined in 3 courses:
- Using the output of a system as information that changes the system's behaviour; the loop closes when the response alters what the detector senses. (Life Science & Scientific Inquiry)
- A process chain that changes the effect of an initial disturbance. (Earth & Space Science)
- An effect that returns to influence its own initiating process. (Physics & Environmental Science)
Where it is taught
- Homeostasis, Feedback & Interacting Systems — Coordination, Defense & Reproduction, Life Science & Scientific Inquiry, Grade 7
- Carbon Cycling & Earth-System Feedbacks — Oceans, Carbon & Climate, Earth & Space Science, Grade 9
- Environmental Systems, Feedback & Risk — Conservation, Systems & Environmental Design, Physics & Environmental Science, Grade 12
In use
The mechanism is feedback: the output of a system is fed back as information that changes the system's behaviour.
Homeostasis, Feedback & Interacting Systems
A feedback is a chain in which a change affects processes that then affect the original change.
Carbon Cycling & Earth-System Feedbacks
A positive feedback amplifies a change; a negative feedback counteracts it.
Environmental Systems, Feedback & Risk
Questions using feedback
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
Its effect opposes the initial deviation in the regulated condition.
Problem 2
Answer and explanation
The response opposes the rise, so it represents negative feedback. The final 21 lies within the stated working range. The units and thresholds are invented for an artificial system; they do not evaluate a learner’s body. The model illustrates a relationship while omitting the complexity of living regulation.
Identify the initial rise.
Connect the activated output with the opposing decrease.
Compare 21 with the invented range.
Response criteria
- Explain the relevant biological process accurately.
- Use the supplied evidence and show calculation steps with units where needed.
- Connect a labeled model or mechanism with the claim.
- State an assumption, evidence limitation, or useful next observation.
Problem 3
Answer and explanation
Negative describes opposition to a deviation. It does not label the process morally or medically harmful.
Response criteria
- Explain the relevant biological process accurately.
- Use the supplied evidence and show calculation steps with units where needed.
- Connect a labeled model or mechanism with the claim.
- State an assumption, evidence limitation, or useful next observation.
Problem 4
- A response counteracts the original rise
- A number is called negative
- Every signal stops
- The deviation is always amplified
Answer and explanation
A response counteracts the original rise
The defining relationship is opposition to the initial deviation.