OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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What is the ideal constant body temperature humans need to maintain?

  1. 37 degrees Celsius

  2. 37 degrees Fahrenheit

  3. 30 degrees Celsius

  4. 40 degrees Celsius

The correct answer is: 37 degrees Celsius

The ideal constant body temperature that humans need to maintain is approximately 37 degrees Celsius. This temperature is crucial for optimal physiological processes and metabolic functions. Enzymes, which facilitate biochemical reactions in the body, work best at this temperature. If the body temperature deviates significantly from this range, it can lead to various health issues. For instance, a lower temperature can slow down metabolism and reduce enzyme efficiency, while a higher temperature can lead to denaturation of proteins and potential organ failure. In contrast, 37 degrees Fahrenheit is far too low for human body temperature, equating to about 3 degrees Celsius, which would be incompatible with life. The temperature of 30 degrees Celsius is also below the average required for normal physiological function, leading to hypothermia in humans. A body temperature of 40 degrees Celsius is dangerously high and may indicate severe hyperthermia, potentially causing serious health complications or death. Thus, the maintenance of a body temperature around 37 degrees Celsius is essential for proper bodily function and overall health.