Question

explain the terms "vasodilation" and "vasoconstriction" ? How do these processes contribute in temperature regulation of body?

Answer 1

Vasodilation refers to the widening of blood vessels. It results from relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls, in particular in the large veins large arteries, and smaller arterioles. The process is the opposite of vasoconstriction, which is the narrowing of blood vessels.

Answer 2

Answer:

Vasodilation: Dilation of blood vessels in the skin leading to an increase in the blood supply.

Vasoconstriction: Narrowing of blood vessels leading to reduction in the blood supply to the skin.

Temperature regulation in cold weather:

At low temperature, the blood vessels get narrowed or vasoconstricted. This reduces the blood supply to the skin.

There is less loss of heat by convection, conduction and radiation. There is less loss of heat through vapourization as reduced blood supply lowers the secretion of sweat by sweat glands.