Thermoregulation: practice question

A Physiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Physiology · Thermoregulation

Sample item

Which response is most important for heat conservation in a cold environment?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Cutaneous vasoconstriction

Cutaneous vasoconstriction decreases blood flow to the skin and reduces heat loss. Shivering and nonshivering thermogenesis can increase heat production.

Option by option

  • A. Sweating

    Sweating increases evaporative heat loss.

  • B. Cutaneous vasoconstriction (correct)

    Correct. Reduced skin perfusion conserves core heat.

  • C. Reduced shivering

    Shivering generates heat and would not be reduced during cold exposure.

  • D. Increased skin blood flow

    Increased skin flow promotes heat loss.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More Physiology questions

Questions about this Physiology question

What is the answer to this Physiology question?

The best answer is B, Cutaneous vasoconstriction. Cutaneous vasoconstriction decreases blood flow to the skin and reduces heat loss.

Why is "Sweating" not the answer?

Sweating increases evaporative heat loss.

Why is "Reduced shivering" not the answer?

Shivering generates heat and would not be reduced during cold exposure.

Why is "Increased skin blood flow" not the answer?

Increased skin flow promotes heat loss.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Thermoregulation in Physiology. Shivering and nonshivering thermogenesis can increase heat production.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Thermoregulation?

For each system, sketch the key graph (pressure–volume loop, oxygen dissociation curve, nephron handling) and explain it aloud. Then use the flashcards and the other Physiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.