What are the physiological effects of low temperature on infants?

Low temperatures can lead to several physiological responses in infants, primarily as mechanisms to maintain core body temperature. One important effect is the increase in oxygen consumption and metabolic rate. When exposed to cold, the body tries to generate heat through metabolic processes. This elevated metabolic activity increases oxygen consumption, as the body requires more energy to produce heat and maintain temperature.

Infants, especially preterm ones, have limited abilities to regulate their body temperature efficiently. Consequently, exposure to cold can trigger their hypothalamus to respond by increasing the metabolic rate to generate more internal heat. This response is crucial for preventing hypothermia and sustaining appropriate body functions.

The other options, while they may sound plausible in their contexts, do not correctly capture the primary physiological effect occurring in response to low temperatures.