Explain the chemical basis of why contraction of skeletal muscles produces body heat?

The contraction of skeletal muscles produces body heat primarily due to the exothermic reactions involved in ATP (adenosine triphosphate) hydrolysis, which is necessary for muscle contraction. When muscles contract, they consume ATP, and the process of breaking down ATP releases energy, some of which is lost as heat. Additionally, the increased metabolic activity during muscle contraction raises the body's overall energy expenditure, further contributing to heat production. This thermogenic effect helps maintain body temperature, especially during physical activity.