the integumentary system

Question 1

define the integumentary system

Answer 1

the integumentary system works with other systems in the body (eg immune) to keep it in balance, as is the first line of defence against bacteria and infections. It is composed of the skin, hair, glands and nails.

Question 2

What are the 3 layers of the skin?

Answer 2

1. Epidermis - top layer that can be seen and touched, and provides a waterproof barrier and creates skin tone.
2. Dermis - middle layer that is the thickest, containing sweat and oil glands, and the hair follicles.
3. Hypodermis - The bottom layer, a fatty layer that insulates the body.

Question 3

What is the skin and its functions?

Answer 3

The skin is the largest organ of the body and covers the outer surface of the body, providing a barrier to infections and bacteria. Its functions are:
- continually renewing lost cells (healing)
- thermoregulation
- protection against ultra violet radiation
- contains the sensory receptors for pain, pressure, heat and touch.

Question 4

What is the function of the nail?

Answer 4

to protect the ends of fingers and toes.

Question 5

Describe the hair.

Answer 5

The hair helps keep heat in your body, as well as eyebrows keeping dust and dirt away from the eyes. It is made of a protein called Keratin, and is consisted of 3 parts; Hair shaft, Hair follicle, and Hair bulb.

Question 6

Describe glands and what the 4 main glands of the integumentary system are.

Answer 6

Glands are found throughout the skin and release materials such as water, oil and salt from under the skin to the surface.
The glands in the system are:
- Sudoriferous glands - secrete sweat
- Sebaceous glands - produce oil
- Ceruminous glands - secrete ear wax
- Mammary Glands - produce milk after giving birth.