Body by Design Chapters 13-14

Question 1

Explain how the skin’s dermis demonstrates its interwoven design.

Answer 1

The dermis consists mainly of protein collagen, which builds scar tissue to mend cuts and abrasions. Hair roots, muscles, nerve endings, sensory receptors, sweat glands, blood and lymph vessels all form the interlacing tapestry. The dermis nourishes the epidermis and is the most intricate layer, or tunic, of the integumentary skin.

Question 2

Once an ___ enters our body, the defense system starts to protect us through an immune response.

Answer 2

antigen

Question 3

The ___s that extend into the body cavities are among the most important resistant factors.

Answer 3

intact skin and the mucous membrane

Question 4

Do the glands that secrete hormones need to be near the organs they control?

Answer 4

no

Question 5

What purpose do the tonsils serve?

Answer 5

protect the throat and mouth against infectious diseases

Question 6

Is the thyroid responsible for our fairly stable body temperature?

Answer 6

no

Question 7

___ are chemical messengers that enter the bloodstream and exert general control over many vital bodily activities.

Answer 7

Hormones

Question 8

What is homeostasis? How does it relate to the idea of “wisdom in the inward parts”? Be sure to also provide an example of homeostasis.

Answer 8

Homeostasis is a condition of uniformity that results from the adjustment of living things to changes in their environment and that it keeps the body in balance. Tthe idea of “wisdom in the inward parts” in relation to homeostasis reflects how the body seems to have an intuitive integration of its diverse faculties.

Examples of homeostasis: the hypothalamus and its regulation of temperature, water and electrolyte balance in the kidneys, aldosterone and its regulation of sodium/potassium ion balance, pH balance, or acid-base balance.