Is thirst a negative feedback mechanism?

Answer 1

Thirst is part of a negative feedback mechanism. When the proper levels of water are not present in the body, a sensor detects the imbalance. The brain sent sends a signal to tell the body to obtain water/fluids to remain to a homestatic level of water. Once fluids are obtaind, the body can retain the water and levels will increase. Homeostatis is then reached as the response decreases.

Answer 2

Yes, because thirst drives a response of drinking, which REDUCES the originating condition of dehydration which occasioned the thirst, that is, the response NEGATES IT.

A positive feedback would yield a response which would INCREASE the originating condition. An example of a positive feedback would be receiving praise, which has a consequence of increasing the activity which yielded the praise, in order to attempt to receive MORE praise.

An example of a negative feedback would be getting shocked while working on live wires, and subsequently deciding to turn offthe electricity before working on the wires, that is, negating working on live wires.

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(The following is the previous answer, which I think is incorrect, but I include it because of the very real possibility that there may be some confusion between behavior and physiology? )

The thirst sensation is a positive feedback control system. Any increase in the osmotic blood pressure stimulates the osmoreceptors, neurons that are located in the hypothalamus that monitor blood osmotic pressure. The behavioural response is the sensation of thirst, which is especially enhanced when it is not quenched. Also, the ADH Regulation is trying to maintain stability since there is an imbalance in the blood osmotic pressure, making this system a negative feedback loop. Drinking water lowers the osmotic pressure of the blood. Osmoreceptors also generate the release of ADH , which allows for increased water absorption. Water reabsorption prevents the osmotic pressure of body fluids from increasing any further.

Answer 3

Negative feedback, because thirst drives you to drink, which reduces the original condition, dehydration. A positive feedback would increase the original condition, such as being praised for performing an action would result in performing the action more often, in order to get more praise (like getting points here results in persons answering more questions in order to get more points! :) ).