Describe how blood vessels help to control body temperature?

In hot environments, blood vessels under the surface of the skin dilate to allow more blood to flow through them. This causes more heat to be lost from the blood to the environment so body temperature decreases to a normal level.
In cold environments, the opposite occurs and the blood vessels under the surface of the skin constrict. This makes it harder for blood to flow through them and less heat is lost from the blood to the environment. Body temperature is able to increase back to a normal level.

AC
Answered by Annabel C. Biology tutor

3781 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why do cells divide and how do they do this?


Describe the roles of the nervous system in homeostasis.


Describe the different forms of active transport across a biological membrane


What is homeostasis? Can you use a couple of examples to explain the difference between positive vs negative feedback?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning