Which condition is primarily responsible for cold-induced injuries?

Extreme cold temperatures are primarily responsible for cold-induced injuries because they lead to physiological responses in the body that can have harmful effects. When exposed to extremely low temperatures, the body begins to lose heat more rapidly than it can produce it, which can result in conditions such as frostbite and hypothermia.

Frostbite occurs when skin and other tissues freeze, usually affecting areas that are less insulated and more susceptible to cold, such as fingers, toes, and ears. Hypothermia, on the other hand, is a serious condition where the body temperature drops below the normal range, impairing the body’s ability to function properly and potentially leading to life-threatening situations.

Other factors can contribute to the severity and speed of cold-induced injuries, such as wind and moisture, but the underlying cause remains the actual cold temperatures that necessitate the body's response to maintain warmth and function.