key term - Evaporation

Definition

In the context of anatomy and physiology, evaporation refers to the process by which water changes from a liquid to a vapor state through the skin or respiratory surfaces, aiding in thermoregulation and removal of excess heat from the body. It is a passive process that does not require energy expenditure by the body.

Related terms

Sweating: The production of fluids secreted by the sweat glands in the skin, primarily composed of water with various salts and substances, which aids in cooling the body through evaporation.

Thermoregulation:

The ability of an organism to keep its body temperature within certain boundaries, even when the surrounding temperature is very different.

Homeostasis:

The regulation of internal conditions, such as temperature and metabolism, within certain limits to maintain a stable internal environment