What is the primary physiological response of the body when exposed to cold temperatures?

The primary physiological response of the body when exposed to cold temperatures is vasoconstriction of peripheral blood vessels. This process is essential for maintaining core body temperature and conserving heat. When the body senses a drop in temperature, it responds by narrowing the blood vessels in the skin and extremities, which reduces blood flow to these areas. By doing so, the body minimizes heat loss from the surface and helps to preserve warmth in vital organs.

In contrast, increased heart rate could occur during various stress responses, but it is not the primary response specifically associated with cold exposure. Increased blood flow to the skin would happen in hot environments to facilitate heat loss, contrary to what the body does when it’s cold. Increased sweating is a response to heat exposure, not to cold; sweating helps cool the body down, which is counterproductive in a cold environment.