Thermoregulation

Cards (23)

  • What is thermoregulation?
    Control of internal body temperature
  • Why do we need to regulate our body temperature?
    To allow our cells to function properly
  • Which part of the brain controls thermoregulation?
    The hypothalamus
  • What does homeostasis refer to?
    Maintaining a stable internal environment
  • What is the ideal temperature for enzyme function?
    37 degrees Celsius
  • What happens to enzymes below 37 degrees Celsius?
    Their activity slows down
  • What happens to enzymes above 37 degrees Celsius?
    They start to denature
  • What is the thermoregulatory sensor?
    A part of the hypothalamus acting as a thermostat
  • Where are most temperature receptors found in the body?
    In the skin and blood vessels
  • How does the brain respond if it detects the body is too hot?
    It sends signals to cool the body down
  • How does the brain respond if it detects the body is too cold?
    It brings about changes to warm the body up
  • What mechanisms does the body use to warm up?
    • Vasoconstriction of blood vessels
    • Contraction of erector muscles
    • Shivering to generate heat
  • What mechanisms does the body use to cool down?
    • Relaxation of erector muscles
    • Vasodilation of blood vessels
    • Sweating to evaporate heat
  • What is vasoconstriction?
    Constriction of blood vessels near the skin
  • What is the purpose of contracting erector muscles?
    To trap insulating air and retain heat
  • How does shivering help warm the body?
    It generates heat through muscle contraction
  • What happens to the erector muscles when cooling down?
    They relax, allowing hairs to fall flat
  • What is the role of sweat in thermoregulation?
    It cools the body through evaporation
  • Why does evaporation of sweat cool the body?
    It requires energy, taking heat away
  • What is the mixture released onto the skin's surface?
    A mixture of water and salts
  • What is the overall purpose of thermoregulation?
    To maintain a stable internal body temperature
  • What should you do if you found the video useful?
    Like and subscribe
  • What is the consequence of not regulating body temperature?
    Cells may not function properly