Why Different Surface Area to Volume Ratios and Masses are Important and How They Relate to Thermoregulation.

Abstract

This study is comparing the differences in heat loss of different shaped clay models in an effort to relate thermoregulation in animals. We focused on different surface area to volume ratios (SA:V) and different masses to compare the animals’ temperature sustainability. This hasn’t been efficiently done before because it is difficult to test animals in their natural environments. We formed clay models that we believe are adequate examples of SA:V and mass. Using temperature probes and ice, we were able to measure the heat loss over a period of time. From our research, we hope to show how temperature affects animals in different climates.