Final answer:
The dermis can release sweat and dilate blood vessels in response to core temperature changes. It also contains sensory receptors that detect temperature variations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The dermis, which is the second layer of the skin, has several functions in response to core temperature changes. When the body temperature rises, the hypothalamus signals sweat glands in the dermis to release sweat, which evaporates and cools the body. Additionally, the dermis causes dilation of blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow through the skin and release body heat to the environment.
In terms of sensing the environment, the dermis contains sensory receptors that detect temperature changes. Thermoreceptors in the dermis sense variations in temperature and send nerve signals to the brain, allowing the body to respond accordingly.
Overall, the dermis plays a crucial role in temperature regulation and sensing the environment.