Vasodilation
the relaxation of smooth muscles in the arteriole walls.
hypothalamus
The organ which is stimulated to send out nerve impulses to arterioles in the skin, stimulating vasoconstriction.
Thermoregulation
the maintenance of body temperature within a range that will allow cells to function effectively.
epidermis
the outermost layer which forms a waterproof and protective covering in the skin
Negative feedback
a corrective mechanism in which the bodys response is to restore the normal conditions of the internal environment.
sweat
The fluid which evaporates so that heat can be removed through evaporation
thermoreceptors
Structures in the skin send signals to the hypothalamus.
Homeostasis
the maintenance of a constant internal environment.
Stimulus
a change in internal environment
adipose tissue
the always-present layer beneath the skin which acts as insulation.
Osmoregulation
the maintenance of a constant water potential and pH
Dermis
layer containing hair follicles, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, blood vessels and thermoreceptors.
sweat glands
coiled tubes that secrete sweat through a sweat duct.
Hair erector muscles
muscles which relax so that hair follicles lie flat.