Thermoregulation - Sweating & Shivering
Biology: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 14.4.8
Thermoregulation - 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 (in the middle layer of skin, called the dermis) 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 needs energy, which is generated through respiration.
- Respiration produces heat, which warms us up.
Test yourself on Thermoregulation - Sweating & Shivering
Which of the following are involved in sweating?
Which of the following are involved in shivering?