What water temperature defines cold water for triggering the extreme Cold Shock Reaction?
Answer
Below $15^{\circ}\text{C}$ ($60^{\circ}\text{F}$)
The extreme physiological reaction known as the Cold Shock Response is specifically triggered by immersion in water that is defined as cold. This threshold is generally established as water colder than $15^{\circ} ext{C}$, which is equivalent to $60^{\circ} ext{F}$. Immersion below this specific temperature initiates the rapid drop in skin temperature that causes the nervous system to trigger the immediate cascade of uncontrolled breathing and cardiovascular stress. Water temperatures above this mark, while still dangerous over longer periods due to heat loss, do not typically induce this violent initial shock reaction.
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