core temperature

Temperature in the part of the body containing the vital organs (the brain, heart, lungs, and kidneys). The core temperature is measured internally (e.g. in the rectum or oesophagus) and it usually remains within a narrow range, between 36.5 and 37.5°C. This is the temperature at which the majority of the chemical reactions in the body work most efficiently. During exercise, heat is generated and the muscle temperature may rise to 39 or even 40°C. Skeletal muscle functions best at 38.5°C. See also hyperthermia and hypothermia.

The temperature of the internal tissues of the body, this temperature stays stable, unlike the temperature of the outer body surfaces, which are affected by the environment.

Temperature in the part of the body that contains the vital organs (the brain, heart, lungs, and kidneys). The core temperature is taken internally (e.g. in the rectum or oesophagus) and it normally remains within a narrow range, usually 36.5-37.5 °C. This is the temperature at which the majority of metabolic processes work most efficiently. The temperature of the rest of the body may differ from the core. During exercise, heat is generated and muscle temperature may reach 39-40 °C. Skeletal muscle functions best at 38.5 °C. The thermoregulatory centre for core temperature lies in the hypothalamus.