Final answer:
The statement is true; hyperthermia, caused by excessive exposure to hot conditions, can disrupt critical enzymatic reactions in the body and can be fatal if internal temperatures deviate significantly from the normal range.
Step-by-step explanation:
Spending too much time in the hot sun can indeed cause hyperthermia, which can be fatal, so the statement is true. Our bodies maintain a narrow range of internal temperatures to support critical enzymatic reactions, typically around 37°C (98.6°F). When the body's temperature deviates significantly from this range, it can no longer sustain the necessary biochemical processes. Excessive heat can cause essential proteins to lose their structure and function, leading to metabolic breakdown and potentially death. Sweating and increased blood circulation help to cool down the body, but they become less effective in hot and humid conditions, which can result in a dangerous rise in internal body temperature. Chronic exposure to moderate high temperatures can also be lethal depending on the duration of the exposure.