Biological Systems MCAT Practice Exam

What is one way the body cools down when overheated?

1. Shivering

2. Sweating

3. Vasoconstriction

4. Coughing

The correct answer is: Sweating

One of the primary mechanisms the body uses to cool down when overheated is through sweating. When the body's temperature rises, sweat glands produce sweat, which is primarily composed of water and salts. As sweat evaporates from the surface of the skin, it absorbs heat from the body, effectively lowering the body temperature. This process of evaporative cooling becomes particularly effective in dry conditions, as the evaporation rate increases when humidity is low. Sweating plays a crucial role in thermoregulation, helping to maintain homeostasis in response to heat. Understanding this mechanism is important as it highlights how the body maintains a stable internal environment despite external temperature changes. Other options such as shivering, vasoconstriction, and coughing do not serve the purpose of cooling the body; rather, they are involved in other physiological processes.