Final answer:
The highest temperature that a human can survive for a prolonged period of time is 44°C (111°F). When body temperature rises well above or drops well below the normal range, certain proteins lose their structure and ability to function, disrupting metabolic reactions. Long-term exposure to extreme heat is not compatible with human survival.
Step-by-step explanation:
The highest temperature that a human can survive for a prolonged period of time is 44°C (111°F).
When the body temperature rises well above or drops well below the normal range of around 37°C (98.6°F), certain proteins called enzymes lose their structure and ability to function properly, leading to a disruption in the chemical reactions necessary for metabolism.
In extreme cases, a temperature increase greater than 3°C (5.4°F) can be fatal. Long-term exposure to extreme heat is not compatible with human survival, as the body requires precise atmospheric pressure and a narrow temperature range to facilitate respiration and maintain vital functions.