What is acclimatization?

• A. A series of physiological adjustments that occur when an individual is exposed to a hot climate.
• B. A timetable for daily exercise.
• C. A process of removing workers from hot environments.
• D. A method to reduce ambient humidity.

Answer: (A)

Acclimatization is the body's gradual adjustment to hot conditions through physiological changes that occur with repeated exposure. When you spend time in a hot environment, the body adapts by increasing plasma volume, which helps maintain blood flow to muscles and the skin; sweating begins earlier, can be more effective, and may become more efficient at cooling with less salt loss. As these adaptations develop over days to weeks, heart rate during activity tends to be lower and core temperature stays more stable, making heat exposure more tolerable and reducing the risk of heat-related illness. This is different from simply following an exercise timetable, removing workers from heat, or lowering humidity, which do not describe how the body biologically adjusts to heat.