weather - What will happen to a camera if it is taken to an environment beyond its operating temperature?

I notice that most camera have operating temperature of 0 degree Celsius to 40 degree Celsius. As for weather-proof camera, they can usually operate at -10 degree Celsius to 40 degree Celsius.

So, I was wondering if the camera can be used in the following temperature:

1. Above 40 degree Celsius (maybe in a desert or a sauna room)


2. Below -10 degree Celsius (maybe in Antarctica or heavy snow)

From what I understand, most DSLR are able to withstand -10 degree Celsius. (Do correct me if I am wrong). However, I doubt any camera can withstand far beyond their temperature tolerance but would like to know if any camera experts did take their camera to their extremes.

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Also asked by Xeoncross:

I have a canon t3i and I am curious to know just how much heat they can handle. I've seen proof that they can handle short bursts of direct fire, but long-term heat is another matter. I live in Texas and it's not uncommon for +110F temps in the summer.

If I leave that camera in the trunk - will it be ruined? Will the sensor quality go down? I want to take my camera with me everywhere - but if there is no air-conditioned area to keep the camera in I am worried I'll ruin it and be left without a camera.

According to Canon, I should not be using the camera above 104F/40C - but what about the non-working range where I have it sitting somewhere?