What type of feedback loop counteracts a change in the body?

• A. Positive Feedback Loop
• B. Neutral Feedback Loop
• C. Negative Feedback Loop
• D. Triple Feedback Loop

Answer: (C)

A negative feedback loop is designed to counteract changes in the body and maintain homeostasis. This mechanism works by detecting deviations from a set point or normal range and initiating processes that reverse that change. For instance, if body temperature rises above the normal range, mechanisms such as sweating are activated to cool the body down. Conversely, if temperature drops, shivering occurs to generate heat.

In contrast, positive feedback loops amplify or escalate changes rather than counteract them, such as in the case of childbirth where the release of oxytocin increases contractions until delivery occurs. There is no widely recognized concept of a neutral feedback loop or a triple feedback loop in physiological processes. Hence, the best answer that reflects the body's strategy for maintaining stability and counteracting changes is the negative feedback loop.