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In an endotherm, which of the following homeostatic responses would be produced by a sudden and prolonged decrease in ambient temperature? (A) Decreased uptake of oxygen (B) Decreased muscular activity (C) Decreased blood flow to the skin surface (D) Decreased rate of internal metabolic processes - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 2 - 2002 - Paper 1
Question 2
In an endotherm, which of the following homeostatic responses would be produced by a sudden and prolonged decrease in ambient temperature? (A) Decreased uptake of o... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In an endotherm, which of the following homeostatic responses would be produced by a sudden and prolonged decrease in ambient temperature? (A) Decreased uptake of oxygen (B) Decreased muscular activity (C) Decreased blood flow to the skin surface (D) Decreased rate of internal metabolic processes - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 2 - 2002 - Paper 1
Step 1
Decreased blood flow to the skin surface
Answer
In response to a decrease in ambient temperature, endotherms will prioritize core body temperature to maintain homeostasis. Thus, the body will decrease blood flow to the skin surface to minimize heat loss. This process, known as vasoconstriction, allows the body to conserve heat and maintain the temperature of vital organs.