#2: Thermoregulation

Question 1

Thermoregulation

Answer 1

Maintenance of body temperature within a range that enables cells to function efficiently
Heat and cold receptors adapted to signal changes in environmental
Failure to maintain temperature control will result in proteins denaturing and losing their function, or freeze intracellular fluid and organelles.
Thermal energy exchange occurs at the surface where the body comes in contact with the external environment

Question 2

Conduction

Answer 2

Flow of energy through direct contact

Question 3

Convection

Answer 3

Transfer of energy within a fluid

Question 4

Radiation

Answer 4

Transfer of energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation

Occurs at all times, increases with temperature

Question 5

Evaporation

Answer 5

Transfer of energy through a liquid

Ex. Sweat

Question 6

Ectotherms

Answer 6

invertebrates, most fish, amphibians and reptiles (cold - blooded animals)

depend on air temperature to regulate metabolic rates, activity

Question 7

Endotherms

Answer 7

warm blooded (Mammals, birds)

• constant body temperature regardless of environment
• increase rate of cellular respiration to generate heat
• body temp varies slightly from peripheral to core of body
• maintain activity levels over a wide range of temperatures

Question 8

Feedback Loop

Answer 8

• use thermoreceptors (sensors) on the skin and within the body to alert the nervous system
• hypothalamus (integrators) integrates information and initiates appropriate response

Question 9

Temp drop

Answer 9

• Vasoconstriction (constricting arteries) to the skin
• Shivering and “goosebumps” (muscle contractions generate heat)
• Raised hairs trap air to maintain warmth

Question 10

Temp increase

Answer 10

• Vasodilation (relaxes arteries) to increase blood flow to the skin
• Secrete sweat, removes thermal energy as it evaporates