# Describe how body temperature is measured using a clinical thermometer and explain why maintaining a normal core body temperature is important for the body to function correctly.

> AQA A-Level Physics (7408) — 3.10.3 Biological Measurement · Describe and Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The thermometer is placed in contact with the body (e.g. under the tongue / in the armpit / in the ear) to measure temperature
2. The thermometer reading is compared to the normal core body temperature of approximately 37 °C
3. Enzymes in the body work best / are most active at normal body temperature (optimum temperature)
4. If temperature is too high or too low, enzyme activity is reduced / enzymes are denatured / chemical reactions in the body slow down
5. A temperature significantly above or below 37 °C can be life-threatening / indicates illness / requires medical treatment

## Key terms

- [core body temperature](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/core-body-temperature)
- [clinical thermometer](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/clinical-thermometer)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Physics (7408)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and 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/describe-how-body-temperature-is-measured-b9a30562) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.