# A person moves from a warm room into very cold outdoor conditions. Explain how the body responds to maintain a stable core body temperature.

> Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0) — Topic 6 Response to Change · Explain · 5 marks

> When the body detects a drop in skin and core temperature, several physiological responses are triggered to reduce heat loss and increase heat production.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Thermoreceptors in the skin / hypothalamus detect the drop in temperature
2. Vasoconstriction occurs — blood vessels supplying the skin surface constrict / narrow
3. Vasoconstriction reduces heat loss from the skin (by reducing radiation / convection from the surface)
4. Shivering occurs — skeletal muscles contract rapidly / involuntarily
5. These responses are coordinated by negative feedback to restore / maintain normal core body temperature

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-person-moves-from-a-warm-ca417442) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.