What is a function of the integumentary system?
A. absorbs water
B. breaks down chemical bonds in food
C. forms blood clots
D. grows new tissue
A. absorbs water
The function of the integumentary system is to protect the body from external threats, such as bacteria and viruses, regulate body temperature, and help with the excretion of waste products. It includes the skin, hair, nails, and glands. None of the provided options accurately describe the function of the integumentary system.
The integumentary system is responsible for protecting the body from external factors, regulating body temperature, and acting as a sensory organ. To determine the function of the integumentary system among the given options, we can analyze each choice:
A. Absorbs water: This function is not primarily associated with the integumentary system. The process of water absorption mainly occurs in the digestive system.
B. Breaks down chemical bonds in food: The breakdown of chemical bonds in food primarily occurs in the digestive system through processes like digestion and enzymatic reactions. The integumentary system does not play a significant role in this process.
C. Forms blood clots: Blood clotting is a function of the circulatory system, which includes components like platelets and clotting factors. The integumentary system, specifically the skin, covers the blood vessels but its main role is not directly related to clotting.
D. Grows new tissue: The growth of new tissues and the regeneration of damaged or dead skin cells is indeed a key function of the integumentary system. It occurs through the process of cell division and migration within the layers of the skin.
Therefore, among the given options, the function of the integumentary system is to grow new tissue, so the correct answer is D.