4.5.2 - Nervous System: 4.5.2.4 - Control of body temperature Flashcards
Students should be able to explain how these mechanisms lower or raise body temperature in a given context.
How is body temperature monitored?
Body temperature is monitored & controlled by the thermoregulatory centre of the brain.
What does the thermoregulatory centre contain?
The thermoregulatory centre contains receptors sensitive to the temperature of the blood.
What does the skin contain?
The skin contains temperature receptors & sends nervous impulses to the thermoregulatory centre.
What happens when the body temperature is too high?
When body temperature is too high, sensory nerve endings are stimulated, the hypothalamus sends impulses to the muscles & skin, vasodilation occurs, you sweat, body temperature decreases.
What happens when the body temperature is too low?
When body temperature is too low, sensory nerve endings are stimulated, the hypothalamus sends impulses to the muscles & skin, vasoconstriction occurs, you shiver, body temperature rises.
How does sweating reduce body temperature?
When the water gets to the surface of the skin as sweat, the body uses its excess heat energy and the water evaporates, cooling the body down.
How does shivering increase body temperature?
Shivering causes your muscles to contract & relax rapidly, which generates heat & helps to raise body temperature.
