How does the body regulate heat?

Body temperature is regulated by a thermoregulatory centre in the brain, the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus can sense the temperature of the blood via receptors. The skin also contains temperature receptors and sends nervous impulses to the hypothalamus.

If the body is too hot the blood vessels vasodilate and sweat is produced. More blood flows to the skin and the evaporation of sweat causes the skin to become colder. Blood and skin is cooled. If the body is too cold blood vessels vasoconstrict, sweating stops and muscles contract (shiver). This reduces the amount of blood that travels through the skin, prevents heat being drawn from the body, and produces heat in muscles by causes them to contract.

NC
Answered by Natasha C. Biology tutor

2556 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do I answer a long answer question so that I get all of the marks?


What is an enzyme?


How does the reflex arc work without going to the brain?


What is the difference between Dominant and Recessive alleles?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning