Temperature Control in the Skin Flashcards

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What is the normal core body temperature in humans?

About 37 °C.

Why must body temperature stay close to 37 °C?

So enzymes in the body can work properly. If the temperature is too high or too low, chemical reactions do not happen at the right speed.

How does the skin detect changes in temperature?

The skin has temperature receptors. They detect if it is too hot or too cold and send nerve impulses to the brain.

What is vasodilation and how does it help cool the body?

Vasodilation is when blood vessels near the skin get wider. More blood flows near the surface, so more heat is lost from the skin.

What is vasoconstriction and how does it help keep the body warm?

Vasoconstriction is when blood vessels near the skin get narrower. Less blood flows near the surface, so less heat is lost from the skin.

How does sweating help to cool you down?

Sweat glands in the skin release sweat. The sweat evaporates from the skin and this removes heat, so the body cools down.

What happens to sweat production when you are too cold, and why?

Sweat production slows down or stops. This reduces heat loss from the skin and helps keep you warm.

What happens to the hairs on your skin when you are too hot, and why?

The tiny muscles in the skin relax and the hairs lie flat. This stops a layer of air being trapped, so more heat can leave the body.

What happens to the hairs on your skin when you are too cold, and why?

The tiny muscles in the skin contract and the hairs stand up. This traps a layer of air next to the skin, which helps to insulate the body and reduce heat loss.