integumentary system

• What is one function of the skin?

  Protection of internal structures
• How does the acidic pH of skin help prevent infection?

  It inhibits the growth of microorganisms
• What role does sensory perception play in skin function?

  It helps identify potential dangers and avoid injury
• What does the skin excrete through sweat?

  Water and body waste
• Why is vitamin D important for metabolism?

  It is essential for calcium metabolism
• What is the surface area of the skin?

  20 square feet
• How much does the skin weigh?

  8-10 lbs
• Where is the skin thinnest?

  Over the eyelids
• Where is the skin thickest?

  Over palms and soles of the feet
• What are the two main layers of skin?

  Epidermis and dermis
• What is the role of collagen and elastin in the dermis?

  They provide strength and elasticity to skin
• What is located below the dermis?

  Hypodermis
• What is the function of melanocytes in the epidermis?

  They produce melanin for skin pigmentation
• What do sweat glands do?

  They help regulate body temperature and excrete waste
• What are the two types of sweat glands?

  Eccrine and apocrine glands
• Where are apocrine glands commonly found?

  In the groin and armpit area
• What do sebaceous glands produce?

  They produce and secrete sebum
• What is the function of nails?

  They protect fingers and enhance sensations
• How does hair protect the skin?

  It protects from mechanical damage and sun rays
• What is thermoregulation?

  It is the process of regulating body temperature
• How does the body respond when too hot?

  Hair lies flat, sweat is released
• What happens when a person is too cold?

  Hairs stand up, warm air is trapped
• What role do enzymes play in thermoregulation?

  They control chemical reactions sensitive to temperature
• What are the functions of the integumentary system?

  • Protection of internal structures
  • Sensory perception
  • Excretion of waste
  • Metabolism of vitamin D
  • Absorption of substances
• What are the layers of the skin and their characteristics?

  • Epidermis: thin layer, contains melanocytes and keratinocytes
  • Dermis: thicker layer, contains collagen and elastin
  • Hypodermis: below dermis, provides support and stores fat
• What are the roles of sweat and sebaceous glands?

  • Sweat glands: regulate temperature, excrete waste
  • Sebaceous glands: produce sebum for skin protection and moisture
• What are the protective functions of hair and nails?

  • Hair: protects from damage and sun, regulates temperature
  • Nails: protect fingers and toes, enhance sensations
• How does the body regulate temperature when hot or cold?

  • Hot: hair lies flat, sweat released
  • Cold: hairs stand up, warm air trapped