Set point — Science definition
The ideal value a feedback system works to maintain, like the target temperature on a thermostat.
Where it is taught
- Homeostasis & Feedback — Body Systems, Signals & Homeostasis, Life Science: Biology, Grade 10
In use
A stimulus knocks a condition away from its set point — its target value.
Homeostasis & Feedback
Questions using set point
Problem 1
Core temperature rises from 37.0 °C to 38.5 °C during exercise. State the deviation from the set point in degrees Celsius.
Answer and explanation
1.5 °C
38.5 − 37.0 = 1.5 °C. Sweating and increased skin blood flow act to reduce this deviation.