(2.93) Role of skin in temperature regulation

What is thermoregulation?

The ability of an organism to keep its body temp within certain boundaries.

What is vasodilation and what does it do?

Blood vessels (arterioles) rise up and widen near the surface of skin to maximise heat loss

What is vasoconstriction and what does it do?

Blood vessels narrow and draw in, reducing heat loss from surface of skin.

How does body hair impact thermoregulation?

Increase heat by rising: traps hot air, creates a convection current

How do sweat glands impact thermoregulation?

Decrease temp by producing sweat: loss of water and heat through evaporation, body cools down

Increase temp by not producing sweat: combats heat loss

How does shivering impact thermoregulation?

Increase in temp:

• muscle contractions = kinetic energy

• increased rate of respiration

• energy generated produces heat as waste product