name five physical and chemical defenses that prevent pathogens from entering your body?
for physical all i can think of is skin and tears??
ms.sue i need you!!
Sure! Here are five examples of physical and chemical defenses that prevent pathogens from entering the body:
1. Physical Barrier: The skin is the first line of defense against pathogens. It acts as a physical barrier, preventing pathogens from entering the body. The skin is composed of multiple layers of cells that tightly fit together, making it difficult for pathogens to penetrate.
2. Mucous Membranes: Mucous membranes line various parts of the body, such as the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. These membranes secrete mucus, which traps pathogens and prevents them from reaching deeper tissues. The mucus also contains substances that kill or neutralize pathogens.
3. Cilia: Cilia are tiny hair-like structures present in the respiratory tract. They are responsible for moving mucus and trapped pathogens away from the lungs towards the throat, where they can be expelled via coughing or swallowing.
4. Stomach Acid: The stomach produces hydrochloric acid, which helps break down food. This acidic environment also serves as a defense mechanism, as many pathogens are unable to survive the highly acidic conditions. Stomach acid can effectively kill a wide range of pathogens that may be ingested.
5. Immune System Cells: The immune system maintains a complex network of cells that actively fight against pathogens. Cells like macrophages engulf and destroy pathogens, while natural killer cells directly attack infected cells. Additionally, the immune system produces chemical signals, such as cytokines, that help coordinate a response against pathogens.
To get a more comprehensive list or to understand in-depth how these defenses work, it is recommended to consult textbooks or reliable online sources related to anatomy, physiology, and immunology.