REVIEW PAPER 2026 ANSWERS GRADED
A+
⩥ What is a physiological system? Answer: A collection of parts that
interact to form an integrated whole and perform a function, such as the
digestive system.
⩥ What are the two key points common to all physiological systems?
Answer: 1. Systems are studied from individual molecules to the whole
body, requiring concepts from physics, chemistry, and biology. 2. They
are the result of thousands/millions of years of evolution, representing
adaptations for survival.
⩥ What is proximate causation in physiology? Answer: The focus on the
physical and chemical mechanisms responsible for physiological
functions, referring to the most immediate causes of observations.
⩥ What is ultimate causation in physiology? Answer: The focus on how
physiological systems evolved and how they impact fitness, referring to
a final end-point in terms of causation.
⩥ How are proximate and ultimate levels of causation related? Answer:
They are complementary and reinforcing in understanding physiological
processes.