MadSci Network: Anatomy
Query:

Re: Where does our body temperature originate?

Date: Sun Nov 7 16:11:36 1999
Posted By: Jim Bridger, Faculty, Biology, Prince Georges Community College
Area of science: Anatomy
ID: 937510594.An
Message:

Hi Mark,

   Your question is a logical one that scientists years ago 
thought about as well.  They thought that one organ such as the heart or the 
brain heated the blood, however we now know that the origin of the body's heat 
is from all cellular activities.  As every living cell does its job, chemical 
reactions are occurring.  These reactions are not 100% efficient and a 
waste product is produced in the form of heat.  Muscle contraction also 
produces heat by friction. (Shivering when you are cold is a good illustration 
of this).  When the heat from metabolism is released, it's picked up by 
interstitial fluid and this fluid which enters the blood and is distributed to 
all parts of the body.  The body has heat sensing receptors that detect when 
the body is too hot or too cold.  The body then makes whatever adjustments are 
necessary to maintain 98.6 F, which is the normal body temperature.  This is 
equilibrating process is called homeostasis. 

   I hope this answer helps. 

 J. Bridger



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