Which Challenge of Life is demonstrated when human skin heals after it has been cut?
Question 9 options:
acquiring energy
homeostasis
reproducing
camouflage
homeostasis
The Challenge of Life demonstrated when human skin heals after it has been cut is homeostasis.
The Challenge of Life demonstrated when human skin heals after it has been cut is "homeostasis". Homeostasis refers to the ability of an organism to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes. In the case of a cut on the skin, the body responds by initiating a series of processes to repair the damaged tissue and restore homeostasis.
To understand how homeostasis is involved in healing a cut on the skin, we can break down the steps involved:
1. Injury: When the skin is cut, it disrupts the protective outer layer, exposing the underlying tissue.
2. Initial response: The body's immediate response is to constrict blood vessels in the area, which helps to control bleeding. Platelets in the blood also form a clot to further prevent excessive bleeding.
3. Inflammatory response: The damaged cells release chemical signals that trigger an inflammatory response. This involves the dilation of blood vessels, increased blood flow to the area, and the migration of white blood cells to fight off potential infection. Inflammation might result in redness, swelling, and warmth around the site of the cut.
4. Cell repair and regeneration: The body begins to repair and regenerate the damaged tissue. Specialized cells called fibroblasts produce collagen, a protein that helps rebuild the structure of the skin. New blood vessels also form to provide oxygen and nutrients to the healing area.
5. Scar formation: As the healing process continues, a scar may form. The scar is formed by the accumulation of collagen fibers, which are different from the original skin tissue in terms of appearance and function.
These processes collectively illustrate the Challenge of Life known as homeostasis. The body recognizes and responds to the disruption caused by the cut, working to restore stability and balance in the form of healed skin.