What is meant by negative feedback in biological systems?

Negative feedback in biological systems refers to a regulatory mechanism that helps maintain homeostasis or a constant state within an organism. This process occurs when a change in a certain condition triggers a response that counteracts or reduces that change. For example, if the body temperature rises above normal, mechanisms such as sweating are activated to cool the body down, bringing the temperature back to its optimal range. Conversely, if the body temperature drops, shivering and other processes generate heat to restore the temperature to normal levels.

This continuous monitoring and adjustment help keep internal conditions stable, which is essential for optimal functioning of biological systems. The other options describe processes that either encourage change rather than maintaining stability, or relate to growth and energy storage, which do not align with the principle of negative feedback.