The Effects of Temperature on Nerve Conduction Velocity

Overview

Objectives/Goals The purpose of this experiment was to explore if there is a recognizable difference in nerve velocity and reaction rate at different temperatures. Methods/Materials · Using an electromyography machine, the nerves on my 7 subjects' wrists were tested in cold, and normal temperatures (three times for each temperature). · The nerve temperatures of the subjects were changed by having all subjects place their hands in ice-cold water for 20 seconds. · Their reaction rate was also tested, by having them catch a falling, vertical yardstick from above, and checking the point at which they caught it. Results After gathering all the data, my hypothesis was proved correct. The nerve velocity is affected, as it dropped when the subject's wrists were in a colder temperature. This was shown when the electromyography machine measured a slower velocity at a colder temperature, and the yardstick was also caught later. Thus, the nerve reaction had dropped when temperature decreased. Conclusions/Discussion In conclusion, the lower temperatures decreased nerve velocity and reaction rate. For example, Subject A's regular temperature average was 16.3 inches, and in cold temperature was 17.83 inches. Thus, subject A reacted slower in the colder environment. To expand on this experiment, one could test many different temperatures, with intervals in between. Also, instead of only testing adult males, one could also test adult females too. Compare to see if all adults velocities drop, versus only men/only women. Lastly, one could control height. Instead of saying male adults in general, set a requirement of height.

Competition history

• CSEF 2006 Mammalian Biology · Entry J1034

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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