The diagram illustrates thermoregulation in mammals following a decrease in body temperature - Scottish Highers Biology - Question 1 - 2018
Question 1
The diagram illustrates thermoregulation in mammals following a decrease in body temperature.
a) (i) Name the type of control used in thermoregulation as shown in t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram illustrates thermoregulation in mammals following a decrease in body temperature - Scottish Highers Biology - Question 1 - 2018
Step 1
Name the type of control used in thermoregulation as shown in the diagram.
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Answer
The type of control used in thermoregulation is negative feedback, which is a mechanism that counters a change to maintain homeostasis.
Step 2
Name the part of the brain in which thermoreceptors are found.
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Answer
Thermoreceptors are found in the hypothalamus, which plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature.
Step 3
State how information travels to the effectors in the skin.
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Answer
Information travels to the effectors in the skin via nerves or nerve impulses, which transmit signals from the hypothalamus to the appropriate effectors.
Step 4
Describe the response of these effectors to a decrease in body temperature.
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Answer
In response to a decrease in body temperature, the effectors in the skin, specifically the smooth muscles around blood vessels, will constrict. This process is known as vasoconstriction, which reduces blood flow to the skin.
Step 5
Explain how this response would help return body temperature to normal.
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By narrowing the blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the skin, less heat is lost to the environment, helping to conserve body heat and return the body temperature to normal levels.
Step 6
Explain why it is important for a mammal to regulate its body temperature.
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Regulating body temperature is crucial for mammals because maintaining an optimal temperature ensures that enzymatic reactions and physiological processes function efficiently, which is vital for survival.
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