High School

Explain two mechanisms that help maintain the body's narrow temperature range of 36.7 °C to 37.1 °C. Describe how each mechanism affects body temperature.

Answer :

Final answer:

The human body maintains its temperature through mechanisms such as sweating and blood vessel regulation. Sweating cools the body through evaporation, while vasodilation increases heat loss by allowing more blood to flow to the skin. Together, these processes ensure the body's core temperature remains stable despite external variations.


Explanation:

Mechanisms for Maintaining Body Temperature

The human body has an internal thermostat that helps maintain a stable core temperature, usually between 36.5 °C and 37.5 °C. The mechanisms involved in this thermoregulation process are vital for keeping the body's temperature within a narrow range, even during environmental changes.

1. Sweating

When the body temperature rises above the normal range, the hypothalamus signals the sweat glands to produce sweat. This sweat evaporates from the skin surface, which cools the body as heat is dissipated into the environment. The evaporation of moisture from the skin is an effective cooling mechanism, especially during exercise or in hot weather.

2. Blood Vessel Regulation

Another key mechanism is the regulation of blood flow. When core body temperature exceeds the normal range, the hypothalamus causes blood vessels near the surface of the skin to dilate. This dilation increases blood flow to the skin, allowing for greater heat loss to the surrounding air. In contrast, when the body is too cold, the blood vessels constrict to minimize heat loss, helping to maintain a warmer core temperature.


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