Questions: In one or two paragraphs, introduce your chosen object. Then explain its function in a way that is understandable to someone unfamiliar with the object. Use analogies at key points in your essay to clarify potentially unfamiliar ideas and make your explanation easier to follow.

The object I have chosen is a "thermostat." A thermostat is a device used to regulate the temperature of a system so that the system's temperature is maintained near a desired setpoint. It is commonly found in homes, offices, and various industrial settings to control heating and cooling systems.

To understand how a thermostat functions, think of it as the brain of your heating and cooling system. Just as your brain monitors and adjusts your body temperature, a thermostat monitors the temperature of a room and adjusts the heating or cooling system to maintain the desired temperature. When the room temperature deviates from the setpoint, the thermostat sends a signal to the heating or cooling system to turn on or off, much like how your brain signals your body to shiver when you're cold or sweat when you're hot. This ensures that the environment remains comfortable and energy-efficient.