Energy Metabolism in Animals and Man

Book excerpt: Abstract: This book discusses the factors which affect the heat produced by animals and man and the ways in which the energy of the organic components of their diets are used to support growth and reproduction. The general thermodynamic principles are considered in addition to the physical principles related to heat loss by radiation, convection, conduction and evaporation of water. Major parts of the book deal with the minimal or basal production of heat, with the heat produced during muscular work and as a result of physiological reactions to the climatic environment. The test is intended for undergraduates and postgraduates who are studying energy metabolism in the context of zoology, agriculture, ecology, or medicine.