Clinical Medical Assistant Exam Practice Question

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Physical exercise leads to increased metabolic activity, generating heat and temporarily raising body temperature. This physiological response is a natural consequence of muscle exertion and energy expenditure.

In contrast, sleeping (A) typically results in a slight decrease in body temperature as the body enters a state of rest and repair. Eating a meal (B) can cause a mild increase in temperature due to the thermic effect of food, but it is usually less significant than the rise from exercise. Drinking a cold beverage (C) lowers body temperature as it cools the body from within, counteracting any heat. Thus, physical exercise is the primary activity that significantly elevates temperature in healthy adults.