Thermoregulation - Sweating & Shivering
Biology: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 5.2.17
Sweating and Shivering
When our body temperature becomes too high, we sweat. When our body temperature becomes too low, we shiver. Here's how sweating and shivering work:
Sweating
- Sweat glands release water, which covers the skin.
- Heat energy from the body is transferred to this water and, when it has enough energy, it evaporates.
- As it evaporates, it takes the heat energy with it. This lowers the average temperature of the body.
Shivering
- When we are too cold, muscles start to contract automatically. This makes us shiver.
- This process requires energy, which is generated through respiration.
- Respiration produces heat, which warms us up.
Test yourself on Thermoregulation - Sweating & Shivering
Which statement correctly explains how sweating cools the body?
Which statement correctly compares sweating and shivering?
Why does shivering warm the body up?
Why does sweating cool the body down?
Which statement correctly describes how the body controls its temperature?