Thermoregulation
Biology: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 5.2.15
Thermoregulation (Control of Body Temperature)
Our body temperature needs to be kept as close to 37°C as possible. Receptors detect temperature changes and relay the information to the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS then allows effectors (muscles or glands) to respond:
Receptors on the skin
- Receptors on the surface of the skin monitor the temperature at the surface of the body.
Receptors in the brain
- Receptors in the thermoregulatory centre of our brain (called the hypothalamus) monitor the internal body temperature as blood flows through the brain.
Test yourself on Thermoregulation
What is the difference between what skin receptors and brain receptors monitor in thermoregulation?
What is the difference between the role of receptors and the role of the central nervous system in thermoregulation?
What is the difference between the role of the central nervous system and the role of effectors in thermoregulation?
What is the difference between the role of receptors and the role of effectors in thermoregulation?