2006-08-27 22:15:35 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Other - Science
I like the answer from Olesya C but it does not give a reason why the mechanism is triggered to produce goosebumps.
The muscle associated with each hair will be triggered by cold to prevent further heat loss - it is like a cat 'fluffing-up' it's fur to keep warm. This traps air, which is a poor conductor of heat, and prevents heat loss.
In the case of fear or other severe emotional stimulus we emit Adrenalin (the fight or flight hormone) and, to get this rapidly around the body to our muscles, blood is diverted away from the surface of the skin making us sense cold. The hair follicle muscles are then triggered as before.
2006-08-28 02:41:15 · answer #1 · answered by hippoterry2005 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Every hair follicle contains a special muscle attached to each hair shaft. Low temperature or fear cause these muscles to erect therefore creating the goose-bumps. Here what the Wikipedia says about it : "Attached to the follicle is a tiny bundle of muscle fiber called the ARRECTOR PILI that is responsible for causing the follicle and hair to become more perpendicular to the surface of the skin, and causing the follicle to protrude slightly above the surrounding skin. This process results in goose bumps (or goose flesh).
2006-08-27 22:27:15 · answer #2 · answered by OC 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It shows fright or cold, it is your bodies way of trying to puff up your fur. This is just like the animals from which we have evolved.
2006-08-27 22:23:45 · answer #3 · answered by doggiebike 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
its a way for your mind to vent spooky or creepy. and to get your attention.
2006-08-27 22:19:39 · answer #4 · answered by brakedown61301 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
google it
2006-08-27 22:27:09 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋